[JLRC]

SLAT Torpedo Defence System Validated at Sea and in Production.
 
 
(Source: Thales; issued Oct. 27, 2004)
 
 
 NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE, France --- The EUROSLAT G.E.I.E. (Economic Interest European Group), formed by the WASS, DCN and Thales Underwater Systems (TUS) companies, has successfully conducted the at sea overall qualification trials of the first SLAT torpedo defence system.  
 
These trials, under real operational conditions (surface ship and threats), have allowed validation of the performances of the complete system: detection/classification/localisation, reaction and counter-measures.  
 
The SLAT programme has now effectively entered the serial production phase through the signature of a contract awarded by the Contracting Agency (Service des Programmes Navals – Paris) to the EUROSLAT GEIE with the aim of fitting the first of the 4 French and Italian Horizon frigates.  
 
This contract also foresees a number of conditional batches that will allow the major units of both Navies, such as the French logistics support ships, as well as the French and Italian aircraft-carriers, to be fitted with the SLAT system.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

SUBSAFE Program


(Source: Canadian Department of National Defence; issued Oct. 26, 2004)


Victoria Class submarines and crews form a highly cost-effective instrument for the defence of Canada. Submarines, by their very nature, face unusual and hazardous conditions that present specific risks not associated with surface ships. To counter these associated risks, a Submarine Safety (SUBSAFE) Program has been established. The SUBSAFE Program is an overarching risk-based safety management system covering all aspects of submarine operations, escape and rescue, materiel, crew effectiveness, and operational health and safety.


STRUCTURE

The SUBSAFE Board is an internal DND/CF Board of Directors that is responsible for oversight of submarine safety policies, procedures and issues and advising the Chief of Maritime Staff.

The Command Submarine Safety Office is an independent advisory and review body established to provide advice to the Chief of Maritime Staff and the SUBSAFE Board on all safety related issues in order to achieve SUBSAFE program objectives. This office places a special emphasis on risk management and due diligence.

Authority for SUBSAFE certification has been delegated to Formation Commanders in Halifax and Esquimalt where the submarines are based. These Commanders issue individual submarine operating licenses after an exhaustive certification process. Only certified submarines will proceed to sea, dive, and conduct operations.

Submarine Commanding Officers are responsible for all safety matters in their submarines. They endorse every SUBSAFE certification and co-sign the operational licenses with the Formation Commanders. Once a submarine has been granted a license, the Commanding Officer of the submarine is responsible for the day-to-day management of that license.

Information that flows into the SUBSAFE organization falls into one of the following six pillars:

--Materiel (capability of platform, equipment or system)
--Personnel & Individual Training (occupation and general training)
--Team Training (safety techniques and operating procedures)
--Occupational Health (medical assessment of personnel, training and equipment)
--Occupational Safety (General Safety, Fire Safety, Ionizing/Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety and Ammunition & Explosives).
--Escape & Rescue (preservation of life and safe recovery of personnel in event of accident).


OBJECTIVES

--Submarine operations are to be conducted safely balancing risk against the goals of achieving the mission.
--Submarines will be operationally and weapons certified.
--Submarines will operate with a full, medically fit and trained crew.
--Submarines will be materially certified.
--All personnel onboard the submarines will be aware of all known significant hazards and trained to react accordingly to counter the associated risks.
--An efficient and effective SUBSAFE Program will be maintained.
--In the absence of specific procedures, risk management and due diligence are to be exercised.


CONCLUSION

The Canadian Navy is committed to the safe operation of submarines in Canada. The SUBSAFE Program provides an excellent framework within which to ensure the safety of our submariners and secure Canada’s future for combat-capable submarines.

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[JLRC]

Prithvi III Test-Fired Successfully
 
 
(Source: Press Trust of India; issued Oct. 27, 2004)
 
 
 BALASORE --- India today test-fired a modified naval version of the surface-to-surface Prithvi missile with defence scientists claiming that the launch had achieved all operational parameters to perfection.  
 
The indigenously developed medium range missile, launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea, about 15 km from here had a range of 300 kms.  
 
With the launching of the naval version of the Prithvi III missile, India, it appears, wants to induct both the Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile BrahMos as well as the sub-sonic Prithvi for its new range of indigenous warships.  
 
The launch was tracked by several ground stations, including down range stations.  
 
DRDO chief M Natarajan and scientists who designed the missile, witnessed the test launch.  
 
The missile and its sub-system, being developed under the project name K-15, had to undergo a rigorous check up before the actual trial took place, DRDO sources said.  
 
This is for the first time that the missile, which has capability to be launched underwater, was put to trial from an artificially made water base with the help of a specially designed canister, they said.  
 
The single stage ballistic missile could be launched from either a ship or submarine and way capable of destroying land targets.  
 
The missile, about 8.5 metres high and one metre in diameter with latest on-board computer and internal navigation system, could use both solid as well as liquid propellant.  
 
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[JLRC]

76 Super Rapid Gun Arrives in Philadelphia: First Missile Firing Naval Gun Delivered to US From Italy
 
 
(Source: Oto Melara; issued Nov. 1, 2004)
 
 
 PHILADELPHIA --- The first missile firing naval gun system, the “Super Rapid,” has been delivered to the United States from Italy. It is on display at the site of the future Oto Melara facility at the Airport Business Complex adjacent to the Philadelphia International Airport. Later today, Congressman Curt Weldon will help dedicate the new plant, which is expected to open in 2005.  
 
The “Super Rapid” is a fully modular, 76mm gun system equipped with a stealth shield. Able to fire regular ammunition and launch guided missiles. The gun system already is helping to revolutionize naval warfare.  
 
A key feature of the advanced gun is its ability to shoot down cruise missiles. China and Russia are proliferating these missiles, many of which are in the hands of rogue nations and terrorist groups.  
 
This new weapons system will provide a defense shield that can protect vital ocean passageways where oil tankers carry the bulk of the world’s oil flow. The Super Rapid system will defeat attacks by low flying cruise and sea skimming missiles that are proliferating in the Persian Gulf and elsewhere.  
 
After an initial stop in Philadelphia, the Super Rapid gun will travel to Louisville, Kentucky where it will undergo testing by the U.S. Navy.  
 
The new Super Rapid model is a direct descendent of the Oto Melara Mark 75 gun which is used by U.S. Navy frigates and two classes of Coast Guard cutters. The Mark 75-type gun system is deployed globally in 53 navies and is the most successful naval gun ever produced. Oto Melara and the former FMC Corporation in the United States manufactured about 900 of the Mark-75 guns. So far, 100 Super Rapid’s have been produced with another 50 on order.  
 
NATO countries including Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey and others including Japan and Israel are using the Mk75 gun and enhanced versions of the Mark 75 for deep water and coastal protection and in counter-terror operations.  
 
The Super Rapid -- which fires at the rate of 120 rounds per minute or two shots per second, and can launch a new generation of missiles at the same rate of fire, has already been adopted by 18 user countries, including 7 NATO nations. Norway is putting the Super Rapid on its new high-speed stealth patrol vessels, the Sjkold class.  
 
“The delivery of the Super Rapid to the United States is an historic moment,” says Howard Goldberg, the President of Oto Melara Inc. in Philadelphia. “We anticipate invigorating the defense industrial base in the United States with this advanced technology. We expect to create many jobs here, and to help the Navy and Coast Guard advance the state of the art in gunnery technology.”  
 
Oto Melara will soon celebrate its 100th Anniversary producing naval gun systems. “It is fitting,” says Goldberg, “as we prepare to celebrate the success of our technology, that we can also celebrate a new beginning in the United States.”  
 
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[JLRC]

Lockheed Martin UK Equips Merlin Helicopters with Sophisticated Sensor Technology
 
 
(Source: Lockheed Martin; issued Nov. 1, 2004)
 
 
 HAVANT, United Kingdom --- Lockheed Martin UK Ltd is providing new technology to enhance the capabilities of the Royal Navy’s multi-mission Merlin helicopters.  
 
As prime contractor and systems integrator for the RN’s EH101 Merlin Mk1 helicopter fleet, Lockheed Martin UK is providing a sophisticated Electro-Optics and InfraRed (EO/IR) surveillance sensor to give accurate, real-time information and positive identification against small, difficult to detect targets.  
 
The EO/IR pod will be temporarily mounted on an existing weapon carriage pylon on the side of the helicopter in a cost-effective solution, available night and day and in all weathers. “This is an adaptable solution that gets the latest equipment to the frontline,” said Ron Christenson, Group Managing Director of Lockheed Martin UK – Integrated Systems. “Out of our own resources we have funded and inserted this new technology with great speed and low risk. It will lead to a significant increase in capability for the aircraft.  
 
“Naturally rapid equipment fitting is only possible with close teamwork, and the considerable assistance from the RN, the Merlin IPT and the QinetiQ trials team at Boscombe Down has been most welcome. The Merlin has already proven itself as a versatile and successful multi-mission platform from Operation Telic, and this deployment confirms that it is easily adaptable for many additional roles in the future.”  
 
Lockheed Martin UK, a unit of Lockheed Martin Corporation, is a leader in systems integration working on major programmes spanning the aerospace, defence, civil and commercial sectors. In the UK, Lockheed Martin has annual sales in the range of £400-600 million working with more than 75 business partners. Lockheed Martin employs approximately 1,000 people across the UK at facilities including London, Havant, Southampton, Yeovil, Swindon, Hertford, Reading, Bristol and Cornwall.  
 
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion.  
 
-ends-

[valar]

Aqui os dejo algunos links de las ultimas noticias en base a la modernización de la armada española ,se habla de una segunda parte del programa f100 con la construcción de 5 fragatas f110 con sistema aegis capacitado para la intercepción de misiles así como la posible incorporación de misiles tomahawks:

http://www.lavozdegalicia.es/ed_ferrol/noticia.jsp?CAT=122&TEXTO=3170028

http://www.diariodeferrol.com/FE20041103/ferrol/ferrol01.html

http://www.elcorreogallego.es/periodico/20041103/Galicia/N284322.asp

http://www.diariodeferrol.com/FE20041103/ferrol/ferrol02.html

[JLRC]

Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile Test Fired
 
 
(Source: Press Trust of India; issued Nov. 3, 2004)
 
 
 BALASORE --- Brahmos, the supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia, was flight tested from the Bay of Bengal off the Orissa coast today, defence sources said.  
 
The naval version of the missile was test fired from the Indian navy’s destroyer INS Rajput at around 11.18 a.m.  
 
Essentially an anti-ship missile, Brahmos can also hit targets on land, the sources said.  
 
Besides, the missile, which has multi-target capability and enjoys a manoeuverable trajectory, can be fired from a mobile platform on land.  
 
The missile has a striking range of 290 km and weighs about three tonnes. It is eight-meter long and carries a conventional warhead weighing about 200 kg, the sources said.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

Chicoutimi to Be Sealifted Back to Canada
 
 
(Source: Canadian Department of National Defence; issued Nov. 4, 2004)
 
 
 OTTAWA --- The Department of National Defence today made the decision to transport HMCS Chicoutimi by sealift to Halifax for repairs.  
 
“The sealift of Chicoutimi to Canada is the most effective option to repair the boat and return it to operations in a timely manner,” said Vice-Admiral Bruce MacLean, Commander of Canada’s Navy. “By conducting the repairs in Canada, the Canadian Forces will be able to progress Chicoutimi’s Canadianization work concurrently.”  
This decision to conduct the repairs in Halifax will also allow Canadian industry to gain invaluable experience working on the submarines, and will facilitate the transition to long-term Canadian in-service support for the submarines.  
 
In the coming days, the Department will solicit bids and negotiate a contract for the return of HMCS Chicoutimi. The sealift is anticipated to occur within the next several weeks, but will depend on weather and transport vessel availability.  
 
For this sealift, Chicoutimi is expected to be transported on the deck of a purpose-built transport vessel, a proven method for transporting warships and submarines. This process begins by having the transport vessel’s deck submerged and positioned beneath the submarine before being raised and secured for transport.  
 
Based on preliminary discussions, such a sealift would cost approximately $2.5 million. Further refinement will occur during negotiations.  
 
Victoria Class submarines are vitally important to the security and defence of Canada, providing deterrence, surveillance and interdiction in our maritime approaches.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

Government of Canada Acquires Six New Training Vessels for the Navy
 
 
(Source: Canadian Department of National Defence; issued Nov. 8, 2004)
 
 
 VICTORIA --- The Government of Canada has awarded a $69.7 million contract to Victoria Shipyards Co. Ltd. for the construction of six training vessels to be used for basic naval training. These vessels, to be designated the ORCA class training vessels will replace the Yard Auxiliary General (YAG) training vessels.  
 
“The ORCA class training vessel will perform a vital role in the training and development of junior naval officers,” said the Defence Minister Bill Graham. “ This project represents a significant investment by the Government of Canada in our domestic shipbuilding industry and is a clear recognition of its value and importance to Canadians. “  
 
“Naval Training activity has been a continuous presence in coastal waters of British Columbia for over fifty years,” said Keith Martin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence. “British Columbia waters have been the training grounds for most of Canada’s Navy. These new vessels will continue this tradition of excellence as well as providing important economic benefits to a number of coastal communities and I congratulate Victoria Shipyards on being awarded this contract.”  
 
“The ORCA class, combined with our cutting-edge simulators, will put Canada’s Navy at the vanguard of modern naval training,” said Vice-Admiral Bruce MacLean, Chief of the Maritime Staff. “While their primary role will be in training junior officers, the new, more robust ORCA class will also provide coastal maritime surveillance and a limited Search and Rescue capability.”  
 
The 33-metre vessels are capable of speeds of nearly 20 knots, and have an endurance of 750 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots. The vessels will be built in Canada to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Code of Safety for special purpose ships, and will meet all the statutory regulations and requirements of the Canada Shipping Act.  
 
Delivery of the first ship is expected in mid-2006, with the sixth and final vessel slated to be delivered in late 2008. The government also holds an option to purchase an additional two vessels.  
 
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[JLRC]

Northrop Grumman Validates Design of X-47B Combat UAV with Low-Speed Wind Tunnel Tests
 
 
(Source: Northrop Grumman; issued Nov. 9, 2004)
 
 
 SAN DIEGO --- Northrop Grumman Corporation has used a series of low-speed wind tunnel tests to successfully validate the aerodynamic design of the X-47B unmanned combat aerial vehicle it is developing for the Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems (J-UCAS) Concept Demonstration Program.  
 
The tests, which used a high-fidelity scale model, were completed ahead of schedule on September 22. They were conducted at Northrop Grumman’s low-speed wind tunnel in Hawthorne, Calif. as part of the company’s $1.04 billion contract for the operational assessment phase of the J-UCAS Concept Demonstration Program.  
 
“The test data we gathered from more than 750 test runs confirmed the excellent low-speed stability and control characteristics of our X-47B design,’’ said Scott Winship, Northrop Grumman’s J-UCAS program manager. “These characteristics are fundamental to X-47B’s success in an aircraft carrier environment that requires frequent catapult launches and arrested recoveries.’’  
 
The low-speed tests were the first in a series of wind tunnel tests planned under the J-UCAS operational assessment program to characterize the X-47B’s low and high-speed flight dynamics and to assess its overall flight performance.  
 
Under Northrop Grumman’s current J-UCAS contract, the company will produce and flight-test three X-47B unmanned demonstration vehicles with associated mission-control stations and logistical support elements. Flight demonstrations are expected to begin in 2007.  
 
The U.S. Department of Defense established the J-UCAS program in the fall of 2003 to demonstrate the technical feasibility, military utility and operational value of developing a network of high performance, survivable, and weaponized unmanned aerial vehicles. These air vehicles will conduct a variety of 21st century combat missions for both the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy including precision targeting and strike; persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; suppression of enemy air defenses; and electronic attack.  
 
Northrop Grumman’s efforts to design, develop and produce an unmanned combat air system that satisfies the operational requirements of both services is managed by the company’s Integrated Systems sector. The X-47B J-UCAS concept builds on the company’s highly successful X-47A Pegasus program, and extensive experience with autonomous flight control systems, including thousands of flight hours by its combat-proven RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned reconnaissance system and the RQ-8 Fire Scout vertical takeoff and landing tactical unmanned system.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

Pentagon Contract Announcement
 
 
(Source: US Department of Defense; issued Nov. 11, 2004)
 
 
 General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, St. Petersburg, Fla., is being awarded an $18,295,337 firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-award-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for both the Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS) and Internally Transportable Vehicle (ITV).  
 
This contract is for two separate programs produced by General Dynamics under one contract.  
 
The basic award is for program management & engineering, logistics support, the EFSS, technical publications, ammunition to support developmental testing, and the ITV (with ITV integrated management plan, system engineering management plan, system engineering documentation, logistics management, assessment training, and contractor support during assessment).  
 
This contract contains options, which if exercised, will bring the total cumulative value of this contract to $296,281,243.  
 
Work will be performed in St Petersburg, Fla. (51 percent); St Aubin, France (32 percent); Ocala, Fla. (15 percent); Huntsville, Ala. (1 percent); and Alexandria, Va. (1 percent); and is expected to be completed by September 2005. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Internet, with three offers received.  
 
The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contract activity (M67854-05-C-6014). (ends)  
 
 
 
 GD Awarded Contract for New Marine Corps Weapon System
 
 
(Source: General Dynamics; issued Nov. 10, 2004)
 
 
 ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. --- General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics, has been awarded a contract for the design and development of a revolutionary new weapon system that is transported to the field within the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.  
 
Awarded by the U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) for development of the Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS), the contract has an initial value of $18 million and a potential value of approximately $300 million if initial production and fielding options are exercised. When fielded, the EFSS will provide the Marine Expeditionary Force with quick-response, highly lethal, indirect fire support.  
 
The EFSS supplies accurate and immediately responsive short-range indirect fire coverage at ranges of 7 to 20 kilometers, supporting both of the Marine Corps’ fighting doctrines, the Ship-to-Objective Maneuver and the Operational Maneuver From the Sea.  
 
The Marine Corps envisions the EFSS as the third “leg” of an Indirect Fires triad. The other two legs are the long-range High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), with a firing range exceeding 45 kilometers; and the Joint Lightweight Howitzer M777, providing medium range coverage between 10 and 30 kilometers.  
 
Michael S. Wilson, president of General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, said, “We are very pleased to be selected by the Marine Corps for their EFSS solution and look forward to producing and fielding the entire EFSS system of vehicles, weapons, munitions, fire control and logistics support in full compliance with the MARCORSYSCOM program schedule.”  
 
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems will be the EFSS systems integrator and will coordinate production and deliveries of the overall system from its EFSS partners. These partners include TDA Armaments SAS, a joint venture company of Thales Inc. and the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), for their RT 120 Rifled Mortar System; and American Growler Inc. of Ocala, Florida for all EFSS vehicles. Other General Dynamics teammates include General Dynamics Canada of Ottawa, for the EFSS ballistic fire control computers; and Tec-Masters Inc. of Huntsville, Ala., for integrated and contractor logistics support.  
 
The General Dynamics EFSS solution is comprised of a prime mover vehicle, the RT 120 rifled towed mortar, an ammunition supply vehicle and an ammunition trailer. The prime mover tows the RT 120 rifled mortar, which is capable of firing a full family of 120mm rifled mortar rounds and all US smoothbore 120mm mortar ammunition to the range and deflections inherent in those projectiles. The ammunition trailer, which is towed by the ammunition supply vehicle, holds up to 36 mortar rounds in factory-recyclable steel containers.  
 
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is a world leader in the manufacture of large- and medium-caliber direct and indirect-fire munitions, bomb bodies and Ball Powder propellant. The company also manufactures precision metal components; provides explosive load, assemble and pack services for a variety of munitions, tactical missile and rocket programs; and designs and produces shaped charge warheads and control actuator systems.  
 
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 71,600 people worldwide and anticipates 2004 revenue in excess of $19 billion. The company is a market leader in mission-critical information systems and technologies; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and business aviation.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

The Israel Navy Marks Entry of the Super Dvora MK-III into Operational Service
 
 
(Source: Israel Aircraft Industries; issued Nov. 11, 2004)
 
 
 At a Commissioning Ceremony at the Israel Naval base in Ashdod on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, the Israel Navy (ISN) officially accepted the IAI/Ramta Division Super Dvora Mk-III fast patrol/interdiction craft into operational service.  
 
This next-generation naval craft is the product of a two-year joint development effort between the ISN and IAI/Ramta naval architects and design engineers who worked together to tailor the craft to the exacting requirements of the ISN’s operational needs.  
 
The Super Dvora Mk-III commissioned today represents the first of six vessels procured by the ISN under a contract signed at the Israel Ministry of Defense in January 2002.  
 
The Super Dvora Mk-III is considered the most advanced and capable craft of its class in the world today, and was developed in accordance with the ‘lessons learned’ and experience gained in the ISN over the years, with a “long hard look” and analysis of the future naval threats facing the ISN which have become more numerous and complex as recent events have shown.  
 
The Super Dvora Mk-III provides the ISN with a quantum boost in operational capability by integrating a broad range of performance capabilities in a single platform. Among these capabilities are the ability to intercept sea targets at high-speeds approaching 50 knots; long range for extended missions with the inherent capability for “At-Sea Replenishment” to extend missions and craft endurance beyond a typical four-day endurance; high maneuverability in both the littoral regions and blue water; stable seakeeping in a variety of sea states and very harsh weather; vessel displacements ranging between 58 and 72 tonnes depending on ISN mission decisions; the ability to carry very advanced stabilized precision naval weapon systems and sensors for use in day/night and all weather conditions; advanced human engineering and man-machine interface; and low operating and life-cycle costs over the projected operational life of the craft.  
 
The Super Dvora Mk-III craft was delivered by IAI/Ramta to the ISN on July 27, 2004 and began joint sea trials to test all onboard systems of the vessel, its mission equipment and training of the crew serving onboard. With its official entry into operational service marked by a very moving Commissioning Ceremony held today by the ISN in Ashdod, the Super Dvora Mk-III fast patrol/interdiction craft will begin replacing the venerable Dabur patrol craft now in operational service in the ISN for the past 30 years, and boost the operational fleet capabilities of the later generation Dvora and Super Dvora MK-I and MK-II classes of vessels, all designed and produced by IAI/Ramta for the ISN over the years.  
 
With dozens of these craft in ISN service, IAI/Ramta and its advanced naval craft have long been the “backbone” of the Israel Navy, considered to be one of the most technologically advanced and capable navies in the world. Within the framework of its current contract, IAI/Ramta is to supply six Super Dvora Mk-III fast patrol and interdiction craft to the ISN, with options for an additional five vessels.  
 
Craft length of the Super Dvora Mk-III is 27.4 meters (86 ft.), beam of the vessels is 5.74 meters (18 ft.), and craft displacements ranging between 58 and 72 tonnes. The craft are powered by two Detroit Diesel MTU 12V-4000 series diesel engines driving two state-of-the-art model 16 Articulated Surface Drives (ASD) manufactured by US company, TwinDisc and were specifically selected by the ISN who has successfully used this advanced propulsion technology in its other IAI/Ramta supplied patrol/interdiction craft over the past decade.  
 
IAI/Ramta has successfully adapted this state-of-the-art propulsion technology originally designed for competitive speedboats into its line of naval patrol boats. The ASD system enables the ISN to positively steer the propulsion system screws (propellers) providing the craft with thrust vectoring control similar to the most advanced fighter jet aircraft in use today. In addition, as all external components of the propulsion system extend out the transom (stern) of the boat, rather than beneath its hull, the ASD system provides the ability to operate in extremely shallow water at minimal drafts of 1.2 meters (3.5 ft.) facilitating beaching operations by naval commando in military ops or humanitarian relief to off-load medical and food supplies or evacuate injured persons as was recently demonstrated in the Caribbean due to the many hurricanes which afflicted the region during the summer months destroying infrastructure and port facilities.  
 
In addition to the many features noted above, IAI/Ramta went to great lengths to incorporate advanced human engineering and the man-machine interface of the Super Dvora MK-III and its onboard mission systems. This has been demonstrated by: a spacious and comfortable command bridge; ergonomic displays and controls for systems and mission payloads; easy physical access to all vessel systems and machinery for maintenance and upkeep underway; well appointed air-conditioned officer/crew quarters; spacious mess and work spaces; a modern, fully equipped galley and recreation areas, fully equipped showers and heads (lavatories) for officer and crew; and roomy passageways for ease of movement throughout the boat and access to all spaces.  
 
-ends-

[JLRC]

Small Combat Ships and the Future of the Navy

Source: Center for Strategic & Budgetary Assessments

Ref: no reference

Released Oct. 30, 2004

The US Navy is preparing to introduce a new ship design, the Littoral Combat Ship, which in essence aims to be the Swiss army knife of future naval battle networks. Despite its intuitive attractiveness, there remain some real questions about the LCS concept itself and certain of its design characteristics.
Because of such lingering questions, the best next step would be to conduct a series of operational squadron tests using the already contracted prototypes. These tests would aim to determine the best way to employ the LCS and to exploit its modular, multipurpose design. Based on test results, next-generation ships could then be either modified versions of the prototypes, a different design altogether, or even a family of small combatants.
This would mean delaying the planned production run for a year before finally deciding whether either, both, or neither of the current designs meet the needs of the fleet. However, such a measured approach would improve the likelihood that the Navy’s new 21st century small network combatant would be the best one for future naval battle network operations. The Navy should build the four prototypes, and Congress should insist on a well-constructed and executed fleet operational test before committing to a large production run.

-ends-

[JLRC]

Austal Unveils New High Speed Military Support Vessel Designs
 
 
(Source: Austal Ships; issued Nov. 17, 2004)
 
 
 Austal unveiled a new series of high speed military support vessel designs at the Euronaval international naval force equipment exhibition held in Paris in late October. These purpose-designed high speed aluminium vessels enhance the speed at which militaries of all sizes can respond to current and emerging threats.  
 
Theatre Support Vessels (TSV) such as the 101 metre Austal catamaran "WestPac Express" have already proved a highly reliable method of transportation that is faster and more versatile than existing sealift and airlift while simultaneously reducing capital and operating expenditure.  
 
Based in Okinawa, Japan, "WestPac Express" was contracted in July 2001 for operations throughout the Western Pacific supporting the Third Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) of the United States Marine Corps. Capable of transporting a complete battalion of more than 950 Marines and up to 550 tonnes of vehicles and equipment in one lift the vessel covers approximately 75,00 nautical miles annually under rigorous military service conditions and through waters that are often beset with typhoons and tropical storms.  
 
Drawing on its unrivalled experience in high speed aluminium vessels including purpose-designed naval craft, Austal is extending the TSV's impressive logistics attributes to create multi-role vessels that precisely meet Commanders' latest needs for capacity and capability.  
 
"These vessels are derived from well-proven technology that has seen constant evolution through in-service experience in both ferry and military applications," said Austal Sales and Product Development Manager, Mr Glenn Williams.  
 
"As a result they simultaneously deliver a low risk, high performance solution to a variety of operational challenges faced by both defence forces and other government agencies, making them a truly national asset."  
 
By incorporating a range of additional features Austal has enhanced the basic TSV to meet requirements for high speed platforms that are able to undertake and support an even wider range of military operations. In addition to being able to rapidly deploy troops and military hardware, the capabilities of these multi-mission platforms include:  
 
--Deployment and support of helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for reconnaissance, combat, search and rescue, vertical replenishment, special warfare support, airborne mine countermeasures and other military activities  
--Amphibious assault operations using small boats and amphibious vehicles  
--Co-ordination and command of other vessels including Unmanned Underwater and Surface Vehicles (UUVs and USVs)  
--Reconnaissance, surveillance and patrol duties  
--Afloat support of smaller vessels including connected replenishment  
--Deployment of police and customs teams and their supporting vehicles and logistics  
--Disaster and humanitarian relief operations including the provision of medical facilities, supplies and evacuation of personnel and equipment  
 
"While large high speed vessels have changed the face of transportation for United States forces, nations with other demanding requirements can also derive immeasurable benefits from the use of vessels based on the same proven Austal technology," Glenn Williams said.  
 
Recognising that not all countries have a requirement for vessels capable of transporting tanks and whole battalions in a single lift, Austal offers high speed military vessels across a broad range of capacities and capabilities.  
 
"Austal will custom design and build the vessel to meet the specific requirement – from transporting a small special forces unit and its equipment through to ships able to deploy in excess of 1000 troops, vehicles and helicopters," Glenn Williams said.  
 
"That process extends well beyond simply reconfiguring a commercial ferry platform with different layouts, equipment and systems. These vessels are engineered from the keel up to ensure they meet the specific rigours and performance requirements of military operations, which are clearly different to those of a standard fast ferry application."  
 
To this end designs unveiled at Euronaval range from a 45 metre catamaran with capacity for 285 troops and six utility vehicles through to a 127 metre, 38 knots, trimaran complete with flight deck, helicopter hanger, command and control spaces, berthed accommodation for 100 crew, seats for 260 transit personnel and a 1900 square metre deck for vehicles and cargo.  
 
In addition to designing vessels of all sizes, Austal offers platforms based on both catamaran and trimaran hullforms. The catamaran platform dominates the commercial fast ferry market and Austal's highly developed hullform is recognised as the market leader. The more recently developed trimaran has been applied to both ferry designs and the US Navy's major Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program.  
 
Consolidating the best seakeeping qualities of monohulls and catamarans, the trimaran offers improved operability in high sea states. This is particularly relevant where long open water transits or operations involving the launch and recovery of vessels or aircraft in exposed conditions are envisaged. Both hullforms provide low resistance, excellent strength and durability and greater deck space than monohull alternatives.  
 
Regardless of its size or hull configuration the vessels can offer a choice of medium speed diesel engines, gas turbines or combination arrangements. Each vessel is provided with sufficient fuel capacity for ocean transits and, where required, can be equipped for replenishment at sea.  
 
The various designs have a number of common features that are considered central to the majority of military applications.  
 
Chief among these is the mission deck which, depending on vessel size, provides space for a range of military hardware including wheeled vehicles, tanks, amphibious vehicles, helicopters and small boats. Ship based ramps enable fast and efficient loading and discharge of this deck even in the most basic of ports and also facilitate the launch and retrieval of amphibious vehicles at sea. A separate boat launcher is used for small boats and unmanned underwater and surface vehicles.  
 
Throughout the complete range of vessels troops are provided with Business Class-style reclining seating with armrests and tray tables to ensure comfort in transit and thus operational readiness. To suit the changing needs of Mission Commanders seating can be quickly removed to make way for temporary berths required for long haul transport. A dedicated galley and servery ensures the troops are well catered for en route to the fight. A first aid room, showers and storage for personal equipment provides comforts far removed from the traditional troop transport aircraft.  
 
For the ship's crew permanent cabins, mess and recreational areas, showers and laundry facilities are provided, as is an office for administration and planning. Command and control spaces are configured according to user needs.  
 
All the new designs also have an aviation capability. On the TSV style vessels this is limited to a vertical replenishment deck while the larger multi-mission platforms can fully support helicopter operations with a full flight deck and hangers for two aircraft. In each case cargo delivered to the vessel by helicopter can be transferred to the mission deck using cranes. These cranes are also used for over-side cargo handling.  
 
Glenn Williams stressed that the capability and capacity available to military organisations was not limited to the specific characteristics of the designs unveiled at Euronaval.  
 
"These designs represent the great benefits our high speed vessel technology has to offer in defence and related roles, but our product offering is certainly not limited to the few configurations we have released. They are intended to provide a starting point for discussions with prospective customers so that together we can develop a solution to their particular operational needs," he said.  
 
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[JLRC]

Defence to Test New Underwater Vehicle Technology in Portland
 
 
(Source: Australian Department of Defence; issued Nov. 17, 2004)
 
 
 The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) will demonstrate its latest research technology for undersea navigation and mine warfare capability by trialling an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) called Wayamba at Portland (Victoria) from 19 to 21 November 2004.  
 
The trial will involve Navy Reserve divers placing dummy sea mines at known positions in the Portland Port area to enable the Wayamba to hunt these objects.  
 
The Portland area has been chosen for the depth and clarity of water, which makes it an ideal location for conducting the trials.  
 
Wayamba is a research vehicle to test concepts of operation and technologies for future Autonomous Underwater Vehicles.  
 
These vehicles will play a major role in future to enable Defence personnel to be separated from areas of extreme danger yet undertake military missions that are dangerous, delicate, dirty and dreary.  
 
They could be used to support amphibious operations by undertaking rapid environmental assessment, to detect underwater mines and other maritime hazards, and to conduct hydrographic surveys.  
 
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