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Febr
ua
ry 2
014
4.
30IN THE NEWS:
shiny two set to become RAF typhoon squadron
last usaf qf-4 deliveredusaf f-35a basing announced
Vol 15, No 2 | www.combataircraft.netNorth AmericAs Best-selliNg
militAry AviAtioN mAgAziNe
F-16 AT 40 FLY-BY-WIRE F-15SAFLY-BY-WIRE F-15SAFLIGHT TEST
REPORTFLIGHT TEST REPORT
THE MIGHTY VIPER
EXERCISE REPORT:
CRUZEXRUSSIAN AIR FORCE COMBAT AIR PLANS
Sea Harrier FA2s go to war
Glory Days
FROM THE COCKPITUS Marine exchange pilot flies the Typhoon
VIPERCOMBAT AIRCRAFT PAYS TRIBUTE TO THEF-16 40 YEARS AFTER ITS
FIRST FLIGHT
SPECIAL ISSUE FLY-BY-WIRE F-15SA
INDUSTRY REPORT: Kamov Ka-52
IN THE NEWS:
shiny two set to become RAF typhoon squadron
last usaf qf-4 deliveredusaf f-35a basing announced
IN THE NEWS:
shiny two set to become RAF typhoon squadron
last usaf qf-4 deliveredusaf f-35a basing announced
-
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HEADLINE NEWS
Boeing teams with Saab for T-X trainer contest, South Korea
selects the F-35 and USAF F-35A basing plans announced
US NEWS
Last QRF-4C handed over to USAF, P-8A Poseidon heads out on
operational deployment and AH-64E Apache Guardian fielded
Uk NEWS
UK announces fifth operational Typhoon squadron as multi-role
capability arrives at Leuchars
WorLD NEWS
Chinese UAV latest, Korean special mission Tu-154 and Australian
MRH-90 update
EUropE NEWS
A400M Grizzly 1 flies into retirement, Spanish live fire
exercise
news6
8161822
26 EXErCISE rEporT: CrUZEX Marnix Sap and Carlo Brummer go to
Brazil for the latest edition of this fascinating exercise.
Additional reporting by Santiago Rivas
32 TypHooN from THE CoCkpIT The US Marine Corps and Royal Air
Force have exchanged pilots for decades. Maj D. R. Ged Miller
sampled the pride of the RAF when he swapped the cockpit of his
F/A-18C Hornet for the Typhoon
38 rUSSIAN AIr forCE 2025 After countless false starts, in
recent years efforts to provide the Russian air arms with new
equipment have finally begun to bear fruit. Piotr Butowski looks at
the status of the current key programs
64 EXErCISE rEporT: BLUE fLAG The Israeli Air Force Advanced
Training Center at Ovda hosted the international Blue Flag
exercise. Ofer Zidon was there
66 frENCH fIGHTEr TESTErS Gert Kromhout visits the Centre
dxpriences Ariennes Militaires (CEAM) and Escadron de Chasse et
dExprimentation 5/330 Cte dArgent, responsible for operational test
and evaluation of French fighters
72 f-15SA: SAUDI ADVANCED EAGLE In an exclusive first for Combat
Aircraft, Jon Lake presents the most detailed description to date
of the F-15SA and finds the most advanced Eagle flying today
78 rUSSIAS GATor oN THE rISE Alexander Mladenov provides a
briefing on the Kamov Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter, in
squadron service with the Russian Air Forces Army Aviation
branch
88 SACrED CoWS SErVE oN Salvador Maf Huertas examines the Quinta
Escuadrilla (Fifth Squadron)s operation of the oldest aircraft in
the Spanish Naval Aviation fleet, the Sea King
90 GLory DAyS: SEA HArrIEr oVEr THE BALkANS In this second part
of our review of Sea Harrier operations over the former Yugoslavia,
Richard Scott recalls the introduction to front-line service of the
much-modernized FA2 variant, and its impact on the force
96 CUTTING EDGE Combat Aircrafts monthly column reporting from
the front line of aerospace technology, by David Axe
pLUS: Special report on the latest Eurofighter Typhoon news,
Robert F. Dorrs Front Line column and all the latest military
Losses
Whats insideWhats insideVol 15, No 2 February 2014
It seems incredible that the F-16 Fighting Falcon is marking 40
years since its first flight. In this issue, we salute the mighty
Viper. Alexander Golz
SUBSCrIBE AND SAVESubscribe to Combat Aircraft Monthly and make
great savings on cover price. See pages 86 and 87 for details.
It seems incredible that the F-16 Fighting
44 THE mIGHTy VIpEr Lockheed Martins F-16 Fighting Falcon is the
epitome of a military aviation success story. In this issue, we pay
tribute to the fighter that remarkably made its maiden flight 40
years ago. Jon Lake and Jamie Hunter outline the program to
date
52 frIESIAN fIGHTErS Frank Crbas/Bluelife Aviation travels to
Leeuwarden, the capital of the northern province of Friesland, home
to one of the two Main Operating Bases (MOBs) of the Royal
Netherlands Air Forces F-16 squadrons
58 foXES of SoUDA BAy In 2013, 340 Mira celebrated 60 years of
continuous contribution to Hellenic Air Force operations and 10
years of F-16 Block 52+ employment. The squadron is the leading
precision night-strike units in the world, as Ioannis Lekkas
details
SPECIAL ISSUE F-16 AT 40
As 2013 came to an end, Eurofighter celebrated a number of
significant milestones. Jamie Hunter reports. Alenia
Aermacchi/Luigino Caliaro
14 Typhoon comes of age
-
4 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
Combat EdgeCombat EdgeCombat EdgeCONTRIBUTOR PROFILE
FRANK CRBAS
Frank is a highly valued special correspondent for Combat
Aircraft, specializing in Royal Netherlands Air Force
(RNLAF)-related topics. For this issue he gained exclusive access
to Leeuwarden Air Base, which will undergo
some major changes in the future. Frank has a passion for aerial
photography and has notched up flight hours in most RNLAF types. He
lives in Emmeloord in the Netherlands with his girlfriend, and has
three daughters.
In this issue we showcase the mighty F-16 Fighting Falcon. It
seems incredible that this aircraft made its maiden flight 40 years
ago, yet today it is still in demand. Romania is about to trade
its
MiG-21 LancerRs for secondhand Portuguese F-16s, and, Iraq is in
line for brand new examples.
In the US, the ageing Viper community is shrinking all the time,
but the workload hasnt let up. Post-Afghanistan, the F-16 will once
again prove its worth the era will be the successful hunting ground
of a true multi-role fighter. None fits this mould as well as the
F-16 does currently, as an air-to-air fighter, close air support,
tactical strike, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) and
combat-intelligence, surveillance, targeting and reconnaissance
(Combat ISTAR) asset.
Ironically, there are a good few in the US who would be
delighted to see US F-16 procurement re-activated so as to gain
some valuable Block 60 jets. Of course, that will never happen with
every fighter dime going to the F-35.
Id like to thank all of you who have supported Combat Aircraft
in 2013. As we start 2014, we look forward to bringing you more of
the very best in military combat aviation. E-mail:
[email protected]
F-16 at 40
Were you lucky enough to receive an iPad or other tablet device
for Christmas? If you were then Im sure youre enjoying exploring
all the features of your new toy, but did you know that you can
also enjoy each issue of your favorite magazine at your
convenience?
COMBAT AIRCRAFT is just one of a wide selection of titles from
Key Publishing which are available on a range of digital devices.
Why not download our next issue? You could even dive straight into
the digital age with a subscription for a great range of offers,
simply visit www.pocketmags.com today!
Jamie Hunter, EditorE-mail: [email protected]
-
5www.combataircraft.net February 2014
This Month
The mighTy viper
Jamie Hunter
As the F-16 turns 40, we take a look at the core program, and
visit some of the current operators. Ioannis Lekkas
-
6 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews
The USAF is keen to replace the stalwart T-38C Talon with a
platform that better suits the lead-in training requirements for
its F-35A and F-22 fleets. Jamie Hunter
Boeing teams with Saab for T-XClean sheet design planned to meet
USAF training requirements
Boeing and SaaB have signed a Joint development agreement (Jda)
to develop and manufacture an all-new jet training aircraft to
compete for the
US air Forces T-38 Talon replacement requirement, dubbed T-X.
although a formal request for proposals (RFP) has still not been
issued, manufacturers are already vying for the lucrative
350-aircraft project.
Under the new agreement, formally announced on december 6,
Boeing would act as the prime contractor, with Saab as primary
partner to cover design, development, production, support, sales
and marketing, according to the press release.
Boeing Military aircraft President Chris Chadwick commented:
Boeing and Saab form the foundation for what will be the strongest,
most cost-effective industry team. our comprehensive Family of
Systems approach provides a new,
purpose-built T-X aircraft supported by innovative training and
logistics support to offer total-life-cycle cost benefits to the US
air Force and taxpayers.
Saab President and Ceo Hkan Buskhe said: We will invest in
development of this completely new aircraft design over the coming
years. Saab says that this agreement has been in planning for a
considerable amount of time, and that money is already being spent
on the project.
Saab was keen to point out that the new aircraft is (contrary to
recent speculation) not a gripen, nor even a stripped-down gripen
it is an all-new design. Boeing will be keen to exploit Saabs lean
manufacturing know-how to develop the aircraft in an affordable and
flexible manner. The current economic climate within the USaF means
that the aircraft will indeed need to be both affordable and able
to meet the exact parameters that are likely to be found in the T-X
requirement when it is formally released,
probably in 2016 to meet an in-service date of 2023.
OpinionThe only reason for building a clean sheet design is so
it can be specifically tailored as a bespoke solution to meet the
USaFs T-X requirements. it may be the only way that the Lockheed
Martin/Kai T-50 can be shoved aside as the ideal F-35 lead-in
trainer, but the big question will be whether Boeing and Saab can
jointly develop and flight-test a new design cheaply enough to be
able to compete on price with the established T-50. a stripped-down
gripen would have allowed Saab to offer a platform that is already
flight-tested and proven, but Saab argues that it would be an
over-match for the requirement, thus damaging its reputation as a
fighter. Speculation has also been around for some time that Boeing
already has a design and may have even built a prototype at its
Phantom Works.
-
7www.combataircraft.net February 2014
Headlines
Penetrating ISR platform revealedRQ-180 may be designation of
stealthy Northrop Grumman UAVAviation Week has revealed the
existence of a Aviation Week has revealed the existence of a
Aviation Weekhighly classified new Penetrating Intelligence,
Surveillance and Reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle. RQ-180 may
be the designation of this new Northrop Grumman aircraft a secret
program that might have assumed the P-ISR mantle. The aircraft
draws upon Northrop Grummans cranked-kite stealthy design, akin to
its X-47B.
Tha magazine says that Northrop Grumman financial reports from
earlier in 2013 acknowledge that an un-named aircraft program had
entered low-rate initial production (LRIP). The major Northrop
Grumman black program is understood to be gearing up for
operational service in 2015, having been tested at both Air Force
Plant
42 at Palmdale, California and the US Air Forces Groom Lake,
Nevada, facility, and is designed to bring back the USAFs
capability to gather intelligence in contested airspace.
The existence of the RQ-180 goes a long way to explaining the
USAFs desire to cancel the Block 30 RQ-4B Global Hawk. The stealthy
RQ-180 now looks to have superseded that platform.
It is thought to be a long-range global strike enabler that is
far more capable than the Lockheed Martin RQ-170 Sentinel, which
was likely developed as a rapid technology-insertion program for a
specific mission.
The new aircraft is likely to represent the desire for a more
balanced fleet of both manned and unmanned platforms in the
post-Afghanistan era that are able to penetrate denied airspace
to collect intelligence on well-defended locations such as North
Korea.
F-35A basing announcedThe US Air Force has announced that it
will base its first operational F-35A Lightning IIs at Hill AFB,
Utah, and the first Air National Guard unit flying the type at
Burlington International Airport, Vermont. The news ends four years
of study and deliberation. Timothy Bridges, deputy assistant
secretary of the Air Force for installations, said of the decision
to choose Hill AFB: The nearby Utah Test and Training Range
provides access to one of the largest and most diverse airspace and
range complexes in the Air Force. Access to high-quality airspace
and ranges is essential for the first operational F-35A wing.
Hill is home to the active-duty 388th Fighter Wing and the
reserve 419th Fighter Wing, and the Lightning II will be flown by
both components. Col Bryan Radliff, 419th FW commander, said:
Flying F-35s alongside our active-duty counterparts is a great
example of the Air Forces Total Force vision.
A total of 72 F-35As will replace the 48 F-16s currently
assigned to the units at Hill. Vermont ANG is expected to receive
18 F-35As beginning from 2020.
Last of the lineFinal QRF-4C delivered to USAF. See US News
RAF starts Puma HC2 trainingUnits work up with upgraded
helicopter. See UK News
Typhoon marks milestonesFirst Storm Shadow flight, 400th
delivery. See our Special Report
Also this month...
F-35 wins in KoreaLightning II only aircraft that fits
requirements On November 22 the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in
Seoul announced their plan to purchase the Lockheed Martin F-35A
Lightning II for Koreas much-delayed fighter competition.
The F-35 had previously been eliminated from the original
$7.2-billion F-X Phase III contest on cost grounds, leaving the
Boeing F-15SE and Eurofighter Typhoon in the running. The latest
decision comes after rejection in September of the F-15SE.
While F-X Phase III originally envisaged the purchase of 60
aircraft, South Korea will initially buy 40 conventional take-off
and landing F-35As via Foreign Military Sale (FMS) channels, with
the potential to increase this order by 20 aircraft in future,
although these latter may not necessarily be F-35s. Defense
Ministry spokesman Kim Min Seok said the F-35 is the only aircraft
that fits requirements set by the military.
The move in favor of the JSF now as a no-bid sole candidate is
seen as a direct response to increasing nuclear and missile threats
posed by neighboring North Korea and meets calls from senior
Republic of Korea Air Force officers for a fighter with high-end
stealth technologies. The next-generation fighter is a key asset of
the kill chain system to respond to North Korea, said JCS spokesman
Eom Hyo-shik. The F-35A will be used as a strategic weapon to gain
a competitive edge and defeat the enemy in the early stage of war
The South Korean military will also use the aircraft to effectively
deal with provocations.
Deliveries of the Block 3 F-35 to the RoKAF are expected from
2018 to 2021,
dependent on a contract signature in 2014. Meanwhile, the
Defense Acquisition Program Administration confirms that military
and budget authorities in Seoul are in the process of
re-negotiating the defense budget to include the purchase. Purchase
of the 20 remaining aircraft will then be dependent upon required
operational capabilities, the security situation, funding, and
technological developments. The remaining aircraft will be
purchased by 2023-24.
The choice has already run into controversy in political
circles, with lawmakers calling for a re-negotiation of the F-35
deal. Politicians are concerned that Korea plans to buy all 40 jets
from US production, in contrast to Japan that will assemble the
majority of its fleet locally, and are demanding similar technology
transfers. This may be difficult considering the FMS regulations.
Furthermore, the cost of the purchase remains uncertain, although
the reduction in aircraft numbers should bring it within the budget
limits that the F-35 previously exceeded.
The last two unsuccessful F-X Phase III candidates, Boeing and
Eurofighter, are now expected to join Lockheed Martin in preparing
new bids related to the indigenous KF-X fighter project. Indeed,
Boeing officials have already identified KF-X as a potentially more
lucrative long-term project than F-X Phase III. Aided by
technological assistance from a foreign partner, KF-X aims to field
a new fighter in the F-16 class after 2020, with a requirement for
at least 120 aircraft. Preliminary research and development will
begin in 2014. Thomas Newdick
Hill AFB will become the first operational Hill AFB will become
the first operational base for US Air Force F-35As. USAF
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8 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews
Phinal Phantom target drone deliveredLast QRF-4C marks the end
of the line for drone Phantom program
The 82nd AeriAl Target Squadron at Tyndall AFB, Florida,
received the finalQF-4 Full Scale Aerial Target (FSAT) when serial
68-0599 arrived on november 19.
The former rF-4C was the last of 314 Phantoms to be converted
into targetsPhantoms to be converted into targetsby BAe Systems at
its facility in Mojave, California. Since replacing the QF-106
inthe FSAT role in 1998 the QF/Qrthe FSAT role in 1998 the QF/Qrthe
FSAT role in 1998 the QF/Q F-4s have flown more than 16,000 manned
and 600unmanned missions, while around 250 of the Phantoms have
been successively destroyed over the Gulf of Mexico and the ranges
near holloman AFB, new Mexico. rF-4C 68-0599 had been placed in
storage at davis Monthan AFB, Arizona, on January 18, 1989 and
after beingre-generated by the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and
regeneration Group it was flown to the BAe Systems facility on
April 17, 2013, for drone conversion.
-
9www.combataircraft.net February 2014
United StatesBACN milestoneNorthrop Grummans Battlefield
Airborne Communications Node (BACN) logged its 5,000th combat
mission over Afghanistan on November 9. The airborne gateway, which
provides an airborne communications link between warfighters in the
air and on the ground, is installed on four E-11A manned aircraft
and three Northrop Grumman Block 20 EQ-4B Global Hawk remotely
piloted aircraft operated by the 430th Expeditionary Electronic
Combat Squadron at Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan and the 380th
Air Expeditionary Wing in South-west Asia respectively. The BACN
was initially deployed by Northrop Grumman to satisfy a joint
urgent operational need and the systems beyond-line-of-sight
capability has been particularly useful overcoming the
communications limitations posed by Afghanistans rugged terrain.
The system has delivered near 24/7 coverage in theater since it was
deployed in 2008.
New call for A-10 fleet cutThe USAF is continuing to push for
the retirement of its A-10C Thunderbolt II fleet.Chief of Staff Gen
Mark Welsh said on December 11 that he still believes cutting
entire aircraft fleets may be the only way to achieve the savings
required under current budget plans.
Welsh said that more than 70 per cent of close air support (CAS)
missions in Afghanistan are performed by aircraft other than the
A-10. The Air Force is once again viewing the Warthog as a target
for cuts as it is a niche CAS platform at a time when there exists
a need to concentrate on multi-role types. Officially the USAF will
replace the A-10 with the F-35A, but few see this as a fitting
replacement for the gutsy Hog.
Speaking in Washington, Welsh said: Do I want to get rid of the
A-10? No. Can I afford to keep everything we have right now and pay
a US $12-billion bill? No.
Ultimately, the A-10 decision will fall to the US Congress, with
many being bitterly opposed to shelving the type.
Galaxy updateLockheed Martin delivered the 13th C-5M Galaxy to
the USAF on November 22 when serial 85-0004 departed Dobbins Air
Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia. It was flown to Dover AFB,
Delaware, where it was accepted by the 436th Airlift Wing. The
fourth C-5B to be built is one of 52 Galaxies that will be upgraded
to C-5M configuration by 2017. It was inducted into the
modification line in Marietta on November 29, 2011.
On December 5, 2013, C-5M serial 86-0017 was flown from Marietta
to Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, where the
105th Airlift Wing will carry out the aircrafts internal paint
restoration. It will be delivered to Dover in January, once that
effort is completed. Although the aircraft is due to be the 14th
C-5M completed, it is the 10th that will undergo refurbishment in
New York.
Main image: QRF-4C 68-0599/AF-416 took off from Mojave on
November 18, 2013, piloted by Jeffrey Percy, director of flight
operations and chief pilot. Current and former employees, USAF
personnel, and officials gathered to be part of this historic event
in Phantom history. Damon Duran
Inset: QRF-4C serial 68-0599, the last of 314 Phantoms to be
converted into full-scale-aerial targets, taxies in at Tyndall AFB
on November 19. USAF
C-5M serial 86-0017 departs Dobbins Air Reserve Base C-5M serial
86-0017 departs Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia, at
the start of its delivery flight on December 5, 2013. The Super
Galaxy was delivered to Stewart ANGB, New York, where interior
paint refurbishment is carried out. Lockheed Martin
-
10 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews
War Eagles deploy the PoseidonBoeing P-8 heads out to Japan on
maiden operational mission
Milestone Herc deliveredLockheed Martin has delivered the 200th
C-130J to the US military. MC-130J serial 11-5735 (pictured left)
was flown to Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, where it was accepted by to
the 58th Special Operations Wing. Two aircraft were included in the
milestone hand-overs, the second being C-130J serial 11-5736 that
was delivered to the 19th Airlift Wing at Little Rock AFB,
Arkansas.
In related news, Lockheed Martin has received a $48.5-million
modification to an existing contract from the USAF that provides
advance procurement funding of long-lead components for five
additional C-130Js.
The US NAvyAvyA S newestmaritime patrol and reconnaissance
aircraft began its first deployment when the first two of six
Boeing P-8A Poseidons assigned to patrol
squadron vP-16 departed NAS Jacksonville, Florida, for Kadena,
Japan, on November 29.The aircraft arrived on December 1. Prior to
deploying, the War eagles completed an Operational Readiness
evaluation (ORe(ORe(OR ) and the squadron was officially declared
prepared for deployment by theCommander, Patrol and Reconnaissance
Group on November 4. Following the departure of the initial pair of
aircraft, the Navy declared that the Poseidon had achieved initial
operational capability (IOC).
The squadron was the first to transition from the Lockheed P-3C
Orion to the P-8A after concluding its final Orion deployment in
June 2012. vP-16s six P-8As will bedeployed along with 12 combat
air crews for a period of six months. They will be followed by
vP-5, which has completed conversion from Orion to Poseidon andis
now executing an Inter-Deployment Readiness Cycle. vP-45 commenced
its transition to the P-8A on July 15 afterreturning from
deployment this past summer.
In preparation for the first deployment, the Poseidon program
successfully completed its initial operational test and evaluation
phase and Boeing had delivered 12 low-rate initial production
(LRIP) aircraft
that are supporting the first three squadrons to convert from
the P-3C to the P-8A. In addition to assisting with the fleet
transition process, vP-30 is also now producing P-8-qualified
replacement personnel who will be directly assigned to squadrons
whoseown conversion to type is complete.
Boeing delivered the 13th production P-8A to NAS Jacksonville on
December 4. The Poseidon, the final aircraft from the second LRIP
lot, arrived ahead of schedule. The initial aircraft from the third
LRIP lot, which is assigned BuNo 168754, made its first Navy test
flight at Boeing Field on November 5. It will be delivered in early
2014. The US Navy has ordered 37 P-8As under four LRIP contracts
and planned production includes 117 aircraft.
P-8A BuNo 168429, flown by VP-16s commanding officer, departs
NAS Jacksonville, Florida, at the start of the Poseidons initial
deployment on November 29. US Navy
Lockheed Martin
-
11 11www.combataircraft.net February 2014
United States
Block 40 Global Hawk flies combat missionNorthrop Grummans Block
40 RQ-4B high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft system
(UAS) made its combat debut recently. The aircraft, assigned to the
69th Reconnaissance Group, flew the mission from its home base at
Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota. The Block 40 version of the Global
Hawk features the AN/ZPY-2 Multi-Platform Dakota. The Block 40
version of the Global Hawk features the AN/ZPY-2 Multi-Platform
Radar Technology Insertion Program (MP-RTIP). The active
electronically scanned array (AESA) air-to-surface radar provides
wide-area surveillance of stationary and moving targets.
Apache Guardian Apache Guardian Apache
fieldedThe 1st Battalion, 229th Aviation achieved Initial
Operating Capability (IOC) with the AH-64E Apache Guardian at Joint
Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, and was designated as the Armys
first unit equipped (FUE) with the services newest attack
helicopter on November 21. The Attack Reconnaissance Battalion
received its first AH-64E in January 2013; since fielding and
individual training were completed in May, the 1-229th has
completed three rotations at the National Training Center (NTC) at
Fort Irwin, California, High Altitude Mountainous Environment
Training (HAMET) in Idaho, and the Operation Rising Thunder
exercise working with Japanese AH-64Ds at the Yakima Training
Center, Washington. The battalion is a component of the Armys 16th
Combat Aviation Brigade.
Located at Fort Carsons Butts Army Airfield in Colorado, the 1st
Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment is currently receiving its
complement of AH-64Es as the second unit to field the aircraft. The
Attack Reconnaissance Battalion is a component of the 25th Infantry
Divisions Combat Aviation Brigade, which is based in Hawaii.
UCAS-D completes carrier operationsThe US Navy concluded another
round of carrier testing with the X-47B unmanned combat air system
demonstrator (UCAS-D) on November 19. The tests, conducted aboard
the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), included deck
Roosevelt (CVN 71), included deck Roosevelthandling, carrier
approaches and landings in differing wind conditions, digitized
ship systems interfaces, and concept of operations development. The
demonstrator was tested in higher winds and differing directions
than on previous tests, providing a more complete evaluation of its
GPS auto-landing capability. During the 10-day test period, which
began on November 9, the UCAS-D performed 26 total deck touchdowns,
21 precise touch-and-goes and five arrested landings, as well as
five catapults, five commanded and two autonomous wave-offs. The
tests marked the first time that both X-47Bs had operated in the
carrier environment simultaneously. One flew in the vicinity of CVN
71, while the second conducted flight operations between ship and
shore.
Tacos re-designatedThe New Mexico Air National Guards 150th
Fighter Wing was formally re-named the 150th Special Operations
Wing at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque on December 1. The move
reflects the units primary mission of training MC/HC-130, CV-22B,
HH-1N and HH-60G 130, CV-22B, HH-1N and HH-60G 130, CVaircrews for
the special operations and personnel recovery roles. Known as the
Tacos, the wing conducts the mission as a traditional associate
unit alongside the 58th Special Operations Wing. The transition to
the new role was announced in 2009 and the 150ths last two F-16Cs
departed in September 2010.
Hercs depart YoungstownAir Force Reserve Commands 910th Airlift
Wing will have its complement of C-130Hs cut to eight during Fiscal
Year 2014 as a result of Air Force structural changes. The unit
reduced its fleet to 10 aircraft on October 1, when the first two
Hercules departed from Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport, Ohio,
for Little Rock AFB, Arkansas. Two more aircraft will be
transferred to other units by March 31, 2014, bringing the
inventory to eight C-130Hs. Six of the eight Hercules remaining
with the wing have been modified to carry out the Department of
Defenses fixed-wing aerial spray mission. They are the only USAF
C-130s configured for that role.
Tennessee Guard plans moveThe Tennessee Army National Guard is
planning to re-locate 21 of its aircraft and its Army Aviation
Support Facility #1 from Rutherford County Airport in Smyrna to
Nashville International Airport. The aircraft would take over
facilities at the Berry Field Air National Guard Base that had
previously supported C-130Hs operated by the 118th Airlift Wing.
Nine aviation units that are currently stationed in Smyrna operate
and maintain 10 UH-60, six HH-60 and four UH-72A helicopters and a
single
fixed-wing C-12U. The Tennessee National Guard had originally
planned to spend $75 million on expanding its operations in Smyrna
but the availability of the facility in Nashville was deemed to be
more feasible. The moves could take place before the end of
2014
Warriors returnMarine light attack helicopter squadron HMLA-167
returned to MCAS New River, North Carolina, at the conclusion of a
six-month deployment to Afghanistan on November 21. While attached
to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) at Camp Bastion in
Helmand Province, the Warriors flew offensive air support, close
air support and medical evacuation missions. The squadrons AH-1Ws
chalked up over 3,700 flight hours and 3,200 sorties; its UH-1Ys
completed more than 3,000 flight hours and 2,400 sorties. While the
majority of the squadron was deployed to Afghanistan, one of its
detachments conducted a Unit Deployment Program rotation in
Okinawa.
CVW-5 returns to AtsugiThe aircraft assigned to carrier air wing
CVW-5s nine squadrons departed from the forward-deployed aircraft
carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) on December 1. The 60
aircraft returned to NAF Atsugi, Japan, following the fly-off,
which marked the conclusion of the ships fall patrol. During this,
CVW 5 participated in Operation Damayan relief efforts in the
Philippines and conducted dissimilar air-to-air training with the
Royal Malaysian Air Force. In support of the relief efforts, MH-60R
and MH-60S helicopters from helicopter sea combat squadron HSC-12
and helicopter maritime strike squadron HSM-77 airlifted more than
3,250 gallons (12,303 liters) of water, 24,900lb (11,294kg) of
food, and 2,600lb (1,179kg) of general supplies, and conducted over
250 personnel transfers.
Unit news
RQ-4B serial 08-2034 is prepared for a mission at Grand Forks
AFB. USAF
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12 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
Combat Aircrafts regular column taking a look behind the
headlines
by Robert F. DorrContact the author at
[email protected]
FRont
PACAF and provocations: US air boss looks at China
Long before China heightened tensions by declaring an air
Defense identification Zone (aDiZ) off the coast of the asian
continent on november 22, hawaii-
based gen herbert hawk Carlisle, the boss at Pacific air forces
(Paorces (Paorces (P Caf), may have contributed to Chinas
action.
Carlisle told reporters during a Washington visit last July 28
that the United States plans to encircle China with its most
capable warplanes over the next few years. he said Pae said Pae
said P Caf will rev up the frequency of its exercises at places as
disparate as Changieast airfield, Singapore and Misawa air base,
Japan two locations thousands of miles apart, which, if connected
by an arc,would form a fence astride the Chinese sea coast. The
pace of US activity is growing now and it begs the question of who,
exactly, is being provocative.
Chinas aDiZ declaration is closely linked to long-standing
disputes with Japan overthe Diaoyu/Senkaku islands and with South
Korea over a submerged rock. on December 8, South Korea retaliated
by expanding anaDiZ of its own to overlap with Chinas.
responding three days after the Chinese declaration with what
was clearly meant asa show of force, two b-52h Stratofortress heavy
bombers launched from andersen air force base, guam and entered the
airspace encompassed by the Chinese aDiZ. in news footage, the
mighty b-52s looked powerful and menacing as they trundled
throughthe sky seemingly inviting beijings fighterforce to
intercept them. There was tension on the US side as the flight
progressed, but in the end not much happened. no Chinese fighter
rose to challenge them. China said itobserved the b-52s during the
two hours and 22 minutes they spent inside the aDiZ.
The b-52s were part of the Continuous bomber Presence (CPb)
being conducted by Carlisles command to show the flag. Under way
since 2004, the CPb involves rotating half a dozen heavy bombers
and 300 airmenthrough guam every few months. before he left office
at the end of the year, Pentagon spokesman george Little said, The
b-52 Stratofortress can perform a variety ofmissions including
carrying precision-guided conventional or nuclear ordnance. We will
continue to fly [b-52 missions in the Pacific] as part of our
ongoing actions toenhance our strategic posture in the asia-Pacific
region.
When CPb began nine years ago, b-52, b-1b Lancer and b-2 Spirit
squadrons shared the commitment. Today, the US shared the
commitment. Today, the US shared the commitment. T air
force inventory includes 74 b-52s, 65 b-1bs and 20 b-2s or a
total of just 159 heavy bombers. The b-1b, the only member of the
trio not to have a nuclear mission, becameheavily tasked in iraq
and afghanistan and was taken out of the rotation. The small sizeof
the b-2 fleet and perhaps the february 23, 2008 crash on guam of
aircraft 89-0127, Spirit of Kansas, caused by a sensor failure led
to a decision to remove the b-2 at least temporarily from the guam
rotations. now, the b-52 handles the guam CbP commitment by
itself.
We will continue the CPWe will continue the CPW b, Carlisle said
in a telephone interview with Combat Aircraft on Aircraft on
Aircraft october 15, a month before the aDiZ brouhaha. Carlisle
kept the door open for b-2 Spirit stealth bombers to return to the
US territory of guam. This is our way of recognizing the importance
of the regionand of being serious about our sovereignty. This is a
crucial part of our presence in the region.
Carlisle hangs his hat on the second floor of Paof Paof P Caf
headquarters in building 1102 at Joint base Pearl harbor hickam.
The outside of the building and a portion of theinside are
pock-marked with cannon shell hits from the December 7, 1941
attack, at which time the structure was a barracks nicknamed the
hickam hotel. Theyre daily reminders, Padaily reminders, Padaily
reminders, P Caf Lt Col aaron D. burgstein told CA.
Carlisle is the top US airman in the region and in wartime would
be air commander under the US Pacific Command boss, aDM Samuel J.
Locklear. We are always mindful of China, Carlisle told Combat
Aircraft. China is the number two economy in the
This photo: A B-52H flies past the USS Nimitz with a pair of
F/A-18Cs in tow, Nimitz with a pair of F/A-18Cs in tow,
Nimitzduring a 96th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron deployment to
Andersen AFB, Guam. US Navy
Below left: Below left: Gen Herbert Hawk Carlisle, Gen Herbert
Hawk Carlisle, commander of Pacific Air Forces. USAF
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13 13www.combataircraft.net February 2014
We are always mindful of China. China is the number two economy
in the world and the number one importer of oil. The fact that we
are here in the Pacific region for the security and prosperity of
the United States is obvious Gen Herbert Hawk Carlisle
world and the number one importer of oil. The fact that we are
here in the Pacific region for the security and prosperity of the
United States is obvious. Carlisle cited the size, the amount of
water in his area of responsibility 32 countries in 16 time zones
where everyone is aware of a rough, gruff, rising China.
His command possesses a significant part of the 186-aircraft
F-22 Raptor fleet and will have the first OCONUS out of the
continental United States F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters.
He wants to make use of the technology offered by these advanced
aircraft in the face of the challenge from China and other concerns
in the region, including North Korea. Oh, and hed like to keep what
he has, too. I would not favor retiring the A-10 if we had a choice
about it, he told this magazine.
Nobody is kidding the PACAF boss. He knows the budget stricture
known as sequestration will continue we need to get our debt under
control and PACAF wont be getting any new airfields or people. He
told this magazine there will be more temporary deployments of
small packages of combat aircraft, like the slimmed-down F-22
deployments we described last month. Air power has unique
attributes of speed, range and flexibility and we need to use those
as well as we can.
While the ADIZ thing sorts itself out, Carlisle must decide
where to place a squadron of CV-22 Ospreys, the tilt-rotor aircraft
in use by US Air Force Special Operations Command. On Okinawa,
where the US Marine Corps has two squadrons of MV-22s, the local
community opposes the aircraft. Theres some issues with
Kadena and Okinawa, said Carlisle, who would prefer to locate
the CV-22s at Yokota Air Base on the main Japanese island of
Honshu. PACAF is working through a strategic basing review and
talking with local officials before an Osprey decision is made,
Carlisle continued.
When we went to press, what began as a flare-up of excitement
over Chinas ADIZ was abruptly deflated into a giant let-down, with
every party in the region doing too much talking but no-one
initiating any air-to-air engagements. A member of Carlisles staff
told CA that, after what initially seemed a threatening situation,
Things are calm.
Largely overlooked in the West was the fact that Chinas
declaration of an ADIZ viewed as provocative by Americans was
unquestionably legal and remarkably similar to the way the United
States enforces its own ADIZs. Yang Yujun, Beijing spokesman for
the Defense Ministry, told reporters that, Since the 1950s the
United States and more than 20 other countries including Japan have
enforced ADIZs. Another nation wishing to enter a host countrys
ADIZ is simply expected to provide advance notice not to seek
permission when it enters the zone.
China, Asia and the Pacific will continue to be vitally
important, as Carlisle told us. The ADIZs? Probably not so
much.
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Special REpoRt
14 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
There is a genuine feeling around the eurofighter Typhoon
program that the Typhoon program that the Taircraft is making
strong progress in a number of key areas. The first flight of
the MBDa storm shadow cruise missile on the type has marked a
significantstep up in the Typhoons ground attack capability. Trials
began on November 27 at the alenia aermacchi Flight TestCentre at
Decimomannu in sardinia, italy,and signified the start of an
intensive
18-24-month flight test program. This is commencing with flutter
tests and an air data system large store interference assessment,
using instrumented Production aircraft 2 (iPaPaP 2) updated to the
Phase 1 enhancement (P1e) standard.
Chief executive Officer of eurofighter Gmbh, alberto Gutierrez,
said: The successful start of the flight tests is goodnews for our
program. This is one of a number of enhancements that are coming on
stream and there are many more to come. storm shadow is a major
step forward,
significantly increasing the air-to-ground capabilities of the
eurofighter Typhoon.
Cassidian was also expected to beginflight trials of the similar
Taurus KePD 350 weapon on iPaPaP 7 as we went to press, while Bae
systems is also set to commence active electronically scanned
(aesa) radar trials at the start of 2014.
Two other significant milestones came Two other significant
milestones came Tin the form of the maiden flight of the first
Tranche 3 aircraft on December 2 and the hand-over of the 400th
aircraft on December 4.
The initial Tranche 3 aircraft (c/n Bs116, serial ZK355) is for
the royal air Force. it made its maiden flight from Baesystems
airfield at Warton in the handsof Nat Makepeace. Tranche 3 is the
latest production batch and represents the ultimate Typhoon
standard, configured for conformal fuel tanks and the new aesa
radar.
The honor of the 400th Typhoon fell The honor of the 400th
Typhoon fell The honor of the 400th Tto aircraft serial 31+06
(Gs082) for the German Luftwaffe, handed over duringa ceremony at
Cassidians Military air
As 2013 came to an end, Eurofighter celebrated a number of
significant milestones, as Combat Aircraft reports.
report: Jamie Hunter
tYpHooN CoMES oF AGE
This photo: Alenia Aermacchis two-seat IPA2 during the maiden
Storm Shadow test flight. Alenia/Luigino Caliaro
Inset: Trials of the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile will run
concurrently with the Storm Shadow integration. Jamie Hunter
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15www.combataircraft.net February 2014
Systems Center in Manching, Germany. Chief Executive Officer of
Cassidian, Bernhard Gerwert, said: As a partner in the Eurofighter
consortium, we are proud that we have assembled the 400th
Eurofighter and that today we can hand over to the German Air Force
its 112th aircraft.
Alberto Gutierrez commented: The delivery of the 400th
Eurofighter Typhoon marks a historic milestone in Europes largest
defence programme. Now we must focus much more strongly on export
campaigns in order to win new contracts and new customers for this
outstanding aircraft. Right now, especially in these difficult
times in the defence industry, it is more important than ever that
we stand up and be counted. That is what today is all about.
Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, Gutierrez said that
he predicts the worldwide market for fighters (outside the US) over
the next 20 years to be for 800 aircraft, and that the Typhoon has
the potential to secure 20-25 per cent of these sales.
Top right: The 400th Eurofighter,
serial 31+06 (GS082), at Cassidians Manching facility.
Eurofighter/Bilfinger/Visuelle Medien
Right: Nat Makepeace airborne in serial ZK355, the first Tranche
3 Typhoon. BAE Systems
Bottom right: Eurofighter CEO Alberto Gutierrez addresses guests
during the hand-over of the
400th aircraft on December 4. Jamie Hunter
14-15 Typhoon special report C.indd 15 10/12/2013 15:31
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16 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews United KingdomUnited Kingdom
UK joins C-17 waiting listThe UK has joined a growing list of
nations eager to acquire Boeing C-17 Globemaster IIIs before
production ceases. The interest would mark a move to procure a
ninth such aircraft for the RAF. Boeing officials said in September
that the C-17 line will close in 2015 because US Air Force
production finished in 2013. Remaining aircraft are all for
international customers, with 13 of the remaining 22 C-17s being
funded by Boeing in anticipation of new orders. These 13 aircraft
are slated for three customers, some being protected for a customer
in the Middle East, possibly Saudi Arabia.
RAF commences P1EA Typhoon trainingRAF commences P1EA Typhoon
trainingRAF Typhoon FGR4s from No 1(F) Squadron at RAF Leuchars
have received the first Tranche 2 jets to have been upgraded with
the P1EA multi-role software. The squadron is the lead unit for the
multi-role-capable Tranche 2 jets and will receive a total of six
upgraded aircraft. In 2014, P1EB will multi-role-capable Tranche 2
jets and will receive a total of six upgraded aircraft. In 2014,
P1EB will be introduced to the operational fleet, marking the
arrival of a full suite of multi-role capabilities, including the
full clearance with the Paveway IV precision-guided bomb. Crown
Copyright
ThE UK MInISTRy of ISTRy of ISTRDefence has revealed that no II
(Army Co-operation) Squadron is set to become the RAFs fifth, and
possibly final, operational Eurofighter
Typhoon FGR4 unit. The squadron will Typhoon FGR4 unit. The
squadron will Tdisband as a Tornado GR4 operator on March 31, 2015,
and stand up on the Typhoon the following day.
no II(AC) Squadron is stationed at RAF Marham. It is currently
working up in preparation for its forthcoming tour in
Afghanistan where it will relieve no 617 Squadron
Dambusters.
The news means that, as of next year, the RAF will be reduced to
just two Tornado GR4 squadrons. Tornado GR4 squadrons. T no II(AC)
Squadron will re-form as part of the new Lossiemouth Typhoon Wing,
alongside nos 1(F) and 6 Squadrons.
There had been much speculation regarding the identity of the
RAFs last front-line Typhoon unit. The reduction of front-line
Typhoon unit. The reduction of front-line Tthe UKs fast jet force
means that famous units will continue to disappear.
No II(AC) Squadron will disband as a Tornado GR4 unit in 2015
and become the RAFs fifth
front-line Typhoon squadron. Jamie Hunter
Shiny Two to go Typhoon
Puma HC2 training startsRAF crews from both nos 33 and 230
Squadrons have begun training flights with the upgraded Puma hC2.
Puma Force Commander Gp Capt nigel Colman said: The Puma is a
remarkable aircraft and its ability to operate in urban and harsh
conditions will see it play a key role in any future deployments.
Seven of the 24 Puma hC2s have so far been delivered, with the
remainder to follow over the next two years.
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ILA F_P.indd 1 13/12/2013 12:35
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18 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews
Beijings East China Sea ADIZNew tensions develop in the Far
East
In a surprIsIng move, Chinas Ministry of national Defense
established an air Defense Identification Zone (aDIZ) over a wide
area of the East China sea (ECs) on november 23. This area covers
the
disputed islands known as the senkaku Islands by Japan and the
Diaoyu Dao by China that are claimed by both sides, and which have
led to strained relations between
the two countries. The islands are close to strategically
important shipping lanes, and besides national pride they would
give their legal owners the rights to the rich marine life and
other resources in surrounding waters.
an aDIZ is not unusual, nor a provocative step in itself. There
are several similar zones around the world, including in the us,
Taiwan, south Korea and Japan, extending well beyond the 12nm of
national sovereign
airspace. However, nations cannot claim sovereignty over the
whole area of an aDIZ; they are established for security purposes
and all aircraft entering this airspace will be closely monitored
and intercepted if they fail to comply with the rules set for the
aDIZ. as such, and in contrast to the impression given by several
news stories, an aDIZ is not a no-fly zone, nor an extension of
territorial sovereignty.
The problem here is that the ECs aDIZ covers disputed territory
and that none of the neighbors were consulted in advance.
relatively strict aircraft Identification rules were also
announced, which apply to all flights and not only aircraft en
route to China. all aircraft must provide means of identification
in the form of flight plan, radio, transponder and logo
identification. also, all aircraft should follow the instructions
of the Chinese administrative organ, namely the Ministry of
national Defense. Emergency defensive measures will respond to any
aircraft that do not co-operate in the identification or refuse to
follow the instructions.
unsurprisingly, this decision was immediately condemned by
Japanese officials, and both the us secretary of Defense Chuck
Hagel and secretary of state John Kerry expressed their concern by
stating that: This unilateral action constitutes an attempt to
change the status quo in the East
Chinas East China Sea ADIZ (marked in red), shown in relation to
the existing Japanese ADIZ. Like the Chunxiao gas field, the
disputed Senkaku Islands/ Diaoyu Dao are at the southern end of the
Chinese ADIZ box and therefore also fall within the Japanese
zone.
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19 19www.combataircraft.net February 2014
World
Japans future fighter takes shapeDuring a defense technology
symposium on October 29-30, the Japanese Defense Ministry briefly
unveiled its next-generation fighter study to the public. Two
different proposals are reportedly currently under design, with the
aim of establishing a conceptual three-dimensional digital mock-up
using CAD. The two designs are called 23DMU and 24DMU.
Interestingly, while 23DMU is based on the existing ATD-X Shinshin
technology demonstrator concept, 24DMU features several design
features reminiscent of the Northrop YF-23.
Pentagon approves Viper upgradeThe US Defense Department has
approved a deal under which BAE Systems will upgrade 134 F-16C/D
Block 52 fighters for South Korea. The US Defense Security
Co-operation Agency notified Congress of the decision on November
25. Valued at $200 million, the initial Foreign Military Sale
covers the so-called Phase 1 upgrades, comprising initial design
and development efforts. Combined with the second phase, which will
upgrade the F-16s with new avionics and Raytheon Advanced Combat
Radars (RACR), the contract could be worth around $1.1 billion.
Korea primed for tanker decisionA Republic of Korea Defense
Ministry committee has approved the Defense Acquisition Program
Administrations road map for the acquisition of a new aerial
refueling tanker. After a tender is issued in January, a final
choice on the aircraft is likely to be made before the end of 2014,
with the most likely candidates being the Airbus Military A330 MRTT
and Boeing KC-46. A total of four tankers are required between 2017
and 2019.
Ex-US Army Chinooks for KoreaThe US Defense Security
Co-operation Agency has notified Congress of a possible Foreign
Military Sale to South Korea of 14 CH-47D helicopters. The Chinooks
would be provided as part of a $151-million package to include
T55-GA-714A engines, plus communication and navigation equipment,
spares, technical support and training. The CH-47Ds being
considered for sale are currently operated by the US Army at Camp
Humphrey in Korea. If the sale is approved, the aircraft will be
sold and transferred to Korea incrementally once the US Army in
Korea begins taking receipt of new CH-47Fs, which should begin
around January 2014. According to Boeing, the Republic of Korea
Army currently operates 23 CH-47D/DLR aircraft, and the RoKAF
operates five HH-47Ds.
South Korea
China Sea. Escalatory action will only increase tensions in the
region and create risks of an incident
On its first day of existence, two PLAAF aircraft patrolled the
zone: a special missions Tu-154M/D (Type II) and a Y-8CB (GX-2)
ECM/EW aircraft, both of which were intercepted by Japanese
fighters, as confirmed by Shen Jinke, spokesman for the PLAAF.
Within the following week, the PLAAF scrambled to intercept several
Japanese aircraft including E-767 and P-3 surveillance aircraft and
F-15J fighters, as well as two US P-3C and EP-3 aircraft. The
clearest sign of non-compliance, however, was the flight by a pair
of unarmed B-52H bombers, which flew over a disputed island chain
without informing Beijing. Prior to the sortie by the B-52Hs which
were based at Andersen AFB in Guam, and part of a long-planned
exercise called Coral Lightning US officials had promised that the
US would challenge the zone and would not comply with Chinese
identification requirements. In return, the PLAAF intensified its
operations and the aircraft carrier Liaoning, escorted by two
destroyers and two frigates, was sent on its maiden voyage to the
South China Sea, where China is also embroiled in territorial
disputes with its neighbors. Andreas Rupprecht
Phantom survivor South Koreas F-X Phase III program sought to
replace aging RoKAF F-4 Phantom IIs and F-5 Tiger IIs. Here, F-4E
serial 80-737 from the 153rd Fighter Squadron taxis after
completing a flight demonstration during the Cheongju International
Airport Air Show that took place from October 25-27. Gordon
Arthur
Jordanian gunship fliesJordanian gunship fliesJordanian
ATK has announced that it has begun flight-testing of the CN235
light gunship for the Royal Jordanian Air Force. ATK has been
contracted to modify two CN235s as weaponized special mission
aircraft on behalf of the King Abdullah II Design and Development
Bureau (KADDB).
With modifications and ground testing complete, ATK was able to
launch the flight test program to validate the installed weapons
and gun system. Upon successful completion of the test effort, the
aircraft will be delivered to Jordan. Modifications include
installation of electro-optical targeting systems, a laser
designator, aircraft self-protection equipment, a synthetic
aperture radar, and armament including Hellfire laser-guided
missiles, 2.75in rockets, and a side-mounted M230 link-fed 30mm
chain gun.
Among the aircraft used to patrol the new East China Sea ADIZ on
its first day of operation was the PLAAFs special missions version
of the Tu-154M, at least four of which are operated by the 102nd
Air Regiment, 34th Transport Division. via Chinese internet
Iraq orders FA-50s from KoreaIt was disclosed as we went to
press that the Iraqi Air Force has ordered 24 FA-50s (to be
designated T-50IQs) in a deal worth $1.1 billion, according to the
South Korean Yonhap news agency.
The FA-50s will act as lead-in fighter trainers for Iraqs 36 new
Lockheed Martin F-16s, deliveries of which in 2014. The first
FA-50s should arrive the following year.
The Iraqi Air Force pilot training program will consist of an
elementary phase on the Serbian Utva Lasta 95 piston-engined
aircraft, with an advanced element on the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II
turboprop.
As well as serving as a lead-in trainer, the FA-50s will also
serve as valuable force multipliers, able to tackle both the
air-to-air and air-to-ground roles.
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20 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNewsSharp Sword performs maiden flightNew Chinese UCAV takes
to the air
via
Chin
ese
inte
rnet
Taiwan Guardian deliveries continuePart of the second batch of
Apache Guardians for Taiwan, this aircraft (serial 11-00016) made a
night stop at Palm Springs, California on December 3. In November
Taiwan received the first six AH-64Es from 30 on order under a
contract worth over $2 billion. Deliveries are due to be completed
in 2014. The aircraft are shipped from the US to the port of
Kaohsiung, before onward transit to their base in Tainan City. Dan
Stijovich
FollowING ITSUNvEIlING in May 2013, the lijian (Sharp Sword)
unmanned combat airvehicle demonstrator performed its maiden
flight
on November 21. The UCAvon November 21. The UCAvon November 21.
The UCA took off at 13.00hrs, local time, and landed
at13.17hrs.
The lijian is designed by the Design Institute 601 (Shenyang
AircraftIndustry Corporation) and built by the Hongdu Aviation
Industry Corporation (HAIG). It is powered by a modified RD-93
similar to that used in the FC-1/JF-17 multi-role fighter.
Contrary to several reports published in the news media, this
flight did not
take place at Nanchang, where the HAIG concern is based, nor at
Chengdu, but at the GAIC UAvbut at the GAIC UAvbut at the GAIC UA
test base at Anshun/Huangguoshu. This locationseems to have become
established as Chinas premier facility for testing drones from
different design teams and manufacturers. Andreas Rupprecht
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21 21www.combataircraft.net February 2014
World
MRH90 conducts first embarked deployment The Royal Australian
Navys 808 Squadron conducted the first operational deployment of
the MRH90 in the Maritime Support Helicopter role when serial
A40-017 embarked aboard HMAS Tobruk (L50), which arrived in Leyte,
the Tobruk (L50), which arrived in Leyte, the TobrukPhilippines on
November 26. The ship carried a Recovery Support Force as part of
the Australian Defence Forces Operation Philippines Assist. Tom
Kaminski
Tanker squadron re-assignedThe Royal Australian Air Forces No 33
Squadron was formally assigned to No 86 Wing at RAAF Base Amberley
on November 29. The unit operates the RAAFs fleet of five KC-30As
and had previously been a part of the Air Forces KC-30A Transition
Team. It achieved initial operational capability with the type in
early 2013 and is currently cleared to conduct strategic airlift
and air-to-air refueling with its hose-and-drogue refueling system.
Testing of the aircrafts Advanced Refueling Boom System is
scheduled to occur in Australia in late 2014. As the RAAFs heavy
airlift wing, 86 is responsible as well for the C-17As operated by
No 36 Squadron, also stationed at Amberley. Tom Kaminski
First RAAF Spartan assembledAlenia Aermacchi has completed final
assembly of the first C-27J Spartan for the Royal Australian Air
Force at the companys Turin plant. The milestone came when the
aircrafts wing was mated with the fuselage and the engines, landing
gear, and other major components were installed. The aircraft is
currently undergoing equipment installation and functional tests in
preparation for the test flight phase. Alenia Aermacchi is
providing the C-27J to prime contractor L-3 Communications, in
support of a US Air Force Foreign Military Sale to Australia. The
first aircraft is expected to be delivered to L-3 at Waco, Texas in
the first quarter of 2014. Alenia Aermacchi is under contract to
deliver 10 C-27Js to L-3 by 2015.
Australia
Boeing delivers third P-8I On November 30 the third Boeing P-8I
long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare
aircraft for the Indian Navy arrived in India. The aircraft
departed Boeing Field in Seattle for Naval Station Rajali, where it
joined two P-8Is currently undergoing flight trials and testing.
The first P-8I arrived in India in May. According to a contract
awarded in 2009, Boeing is building eight such aircraft for the
Indian Navy.
India retires MiG-21FLOn December 11 the Indian Air Force
retired the last of its MiG-21FL fighters. The final operator of
the variant, the Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) took part in a
ceremonial flypast to mark the withdrawal. Developed to meet an
Indian requirement, the MiG-21FL enjoyed an impressive career with
the IAF, seeing action in the Indo-Pakistan conflicts of 1965 and
1971 and more recently in the Kargil campaign in 1999.
MRH90 serial A40-017 from 808 Squadron arrives at Ormoc Airport,
Leyte, during Operation Philippines Assist on November 28. The
helicopter was embarked aboard the HMAS embarked aboard the HMAS
TobrukTobruk. RANRAN
India Two more Hercules for IsraelOn December 3 the US
Department of Defense announced that the Israeli government has
signed for two additional C-130J-30 Hercules to augment the four
already on order. Lockheed Martin has been awarded an $81.2-million
modification to an existing Foreign Military Sales contract to fund
manufacture of the fourth C-130J. This also includes funding for
long-lead items required for manufacture of a fifth and sixth Super
Hercules, and external fuel tank modification kits. Work will be
completed by July 2016. Israel has requested a total of nine
C-130J-30s. A first aircraft was formally handed over in June 2013,
pending initial deliveries to Israel in 2014.
Israel may lease KC-46AIsrael may lease KC-46AIsrael may
Israel is considering options for leasing a fleet of Boeing
KC-46A tankers in order to replace its current fleet of converted
Boeing 707s. Previously the US government offered to supply three
ex-US Air Force Boeing KC-135Es worth around $200 million, but the
Israeli Air Force rejected these and instead stated that it would
consider a similar package for KC-135s powered by CFM56 engines.
However, officials favor a new-build aircraft and have now turned
their attention to the KC-46.
Brazilian interest in F-16As the F-X2 program to replace the
Brazilian Air Forces Mirage 2000s and F-5s faced more delays,
officials from the air arm traveled to the US to negotiate the
possible purchase of a batch of second-hand Lockheed Martin F-16s
from the US Air Force inventory.
According to internal sources, the Brazilian Air Force is
negotiating the purchase of a batch of aircraft currently in
service, most likely Block 40 or 42 jets, rather than buying
aircraft stored at Davis-Monthan. Block 40/42 F-16s are not only
more modern, but could also be delivered immediately. Brazilian
pilots tested the F-16 during their visit.
The Brazilian Air Force urgently needs a replacement for the
Mirage 2000, retired on December 31, 2013, and still awaits a final
decision on the F-X2 program, in which the Dassault Rafale, Saab
Gripen NG and Boeing Super Hornet are contenders.
A purchase could form part of a deal including the transfer from
the USAF of three KC-135 Stratotankers to replace the Brazilian Air
Forces retired Boeing KC-137s. Santiago Rivas
El Salvador buys additional Dragonflies from ChileTo reinforce
its small combat fleet, the Salvadoran Air Force has signed a
contract for the purchase of 10 Cessna A-37B Dragonflies retired by
the Chilean Air Force some years ago. The deal is worth $8.6
million. The aircraft are expected to arrive in March 2014 and will
be used dramatically to boost the existing Dragonfly fleet, which
comprises only three examples operational at Comalapa International
Airport. Santiago Rivas
Peru selects SpartanFinmeccanica has announced that the Peruvian
Defense Ministry is to buy two examples of the Alenia Aermacchi
C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter. A contract is to be signed as
soon as administrative procedures are completed, and will be valued
at around 100 million including logistic support. The Spartan was
chosen following a selection process that has lasted almost three
years. The aircraft will be delivered in April 2015 and the new
type will replace the Antonov An-32B.
Latin America
Wearing the Boeing test registration N535DS, P-8I serial IN322
arrives at Naval Station Rajali on November 30. Boeing
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22 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
NewsNews
A400M Grizzly 1 following its final flight on November 4. Airbus
Military
Final flight for Grizzly 1First A400M to fly bows out of test
program
M-346 lowest bidder in PolandThe final bids were received for
Polands Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) competition on November 20. The
Polish Defense Ministry confirmed that Alenia Aermacchi offered the
lowest-cost option, with its M-346 Master. The company is in
competition with Lockheed Martin UK (T-50 Golden Eagle) and BAE
Systems (Hawk Mk128). The Polish Air Force requires eight new jet
trainers (with options for four more) as part of a full training
package, including a full-mission flight simulator and task
trainers, to be based in Deblin. A final choice will be made based
on price, the cost of the product life cycle, and performance.
Contract signature is expected in the first quarter of 2014.
Maiden flight for HammerHeadThe Piaggio Aero P1HH HammerHead
unmanned aerial vehicle made its maiden flight from the Italian Air
Force base at Trapani on November 14. The twin-turboprop was
controlled from a ground control station as part of the
demonstration and validation phase of the program. It flew over the
Mediterranean Sea for approximately 12 minutes, testing the
navigation system and verifying maneuvering
capabilities in both manual and automatic flight modes. The
aircraft reached an altitude of 2,000ft and a speed of 170kt,
flying at 12 miles from the base. It is planned to achieve
operational readiness of the HammerHead UAV by the end of 2014. The
HammerHead employs a mission management system developed by Selex
ES, and is designed for patrol and ISR missions.
French Army Caman at seaFrench Army Aviation (ALAT) has begun
testing the NH90 TTH Caman aboard a naval vessel, the French Navy
amphibious warfare ship Tonnerre. The Camans maximum take-off
weight was uprated to 10.6 tonnes. Further tests are planned for
March 2014, leading to clearance for shipboard operations.
Initial
operational capability is planned for mid-2014, when four Camans
will be available for operations. On December 12, three ALAT Camans
and their operational crews departed the training center at Cannet
des Maures to join their new unit, the 1er Rgiment dHlicoptres de
Combat based at Phalsbourg.
THE FIRST AIRBUS Military A400M prototype, known as Grizzly 1,
made its final flight from Toulouse on flight from Toulouse on
flight from TNovember 4. First flown at Seville on December
11, 2009, in the hands of the same crew who undertook its last
flight, MSN1 will who undertook its last flight, MSN1 will
be placed on public display. It made 475 flights totaling 1,448
hours 25 minutes, the final sortie being used to validate
procedures for landing with the ramp and door failed in the open
position.
A400M MSN3 has meanwhile been placed in long-term flyable
storage. Although not planned to be flown again, Although not
planned to be flown again,
the aircraft could be returned to flight-test duties if
required.
The French Air Force, as initial operator of the A400M, recently
conducted operational trials for loading and unloading equipment at
Orange air base. The tests on December 3 involved a long-wheelbase
variant of the French Army VBL light armored vehicle. French Army
VBL light armored vehicle.
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23 23www.combataircraft.net February 2014
EuropeEurope
NATO Global Hawk takes shapeNorthrop Grumman has commenced
production of the first Block 40 Global Hawk unmanned aerial
vehicle destined for the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS)
initiative. Production began on December 3 at the companys Moss
Point, Mississippi, Unmanned Systems Center. The aircraft is
the first of five Global Hawks that will be delivered to the
alliance. The NATO AGS system will be equipped with the multi-mode
AN/ZPY-2 Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Program
(MP-RTIP) airborne ground surveillance radar that also equips the
US Air Forces Block 40 RQ-4Bs.
Alberto Mocchetti
Italian Air Force Master markingsSeen at Venegono, home of the
Alenia Aermacchi plant, this is the second Italian Air Force T-346A
jet trainer, now wearing the codes and insignia of the 61 Stormo at
Lecce. Force T-346A jet trainer, now wearing the codes and insignia
of the 61 Stormo at Lecce. CSX55154 will subsequently receive the
service serial MM55154. Italy has placed orders for six T-346s,
from an overall requirement for 15.
Praetorian under testThe MC-27J multi-mission gunship prototype
was recently photographed landing at Alenia Aermacchis Venegono
facility. As reported last month, the Italian Air Force has become
the launch customer for the type, of which an initial three
examples are under contract for conversion. An additional three
aircraft will also be modified to accept the gunship equipment.
Appropriately, N359PL (c/n 4126) recently received a fin flash in
the Italian national colors.
Netherlands choose ReaperDutch Defense Minister Jeanine
Hennis-Plasschaert has announced selection of the MQ-9 Reaper
unmanned aerial vehicle to fulfill Royal Netherlands Air Force
medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) requirements from late 2016.
By the end of 2017, the system will be fully integrated into the
armed forces. The Dutch will purchase four MQ-9s and a ground
station. The Reapers will be procured through Foreign Military
Sales channels, and a budget of up to 250 million has been
earmarked for the acquisition. The aircraft will be based at
Leeuwarden with 306 Squadron, traditionally the reconnaissance
squadron of the RNLAF, but most recently decommissioned as an F-16
training unit in Springfield, Ohio, some years ago.
Dutch squadron activatedThe Royal Netherlands Air Force
re-activated 302 Squadron at Robert Gray Army Airfield at West Fort
Hood, Texas on November 25. The unit replaced the Joint Netherlands
Training Detachment, which was disbanded. The squadron, a component
of the Air Forces Defense Helicopter Command, will continue to
train with the 21st Cavalry Brigade (Air Combat) at Fort Hood.
Dutch personnel began training on the AH-64D at Fort Hood in 1996
and a permanent contingent was established in 1998. The squadron
provides training for both the AH-64 and CH-47 at Fort Hood. Five
times a year 302 Squadron provides a joint Air Assault training
campaign for helicopter crews from Defence Helicopter Command and
ground units of 11 Airmobile Brigade. Chinook crews and loadmasters
also complete Initial Mission Qualification Training twice a year.
Tom Kaminski
Netherlands
Russian Navy receives carrier fightersThe Russian Navy has taken
delivery of its first four series-produced MiG-29K/KUB
carrier-based fighters. The initial delivery comprised two
single-seaters, now designated as MiG-29KRs, and two twin-seat
MiG-29KUBRs. The Russian Defense Ministry signed a contract with
RAC MiG in February 2012 for delivery of 20 MiG-29K and four
MiG-29KUB fighters by 2015.
Su-30SM sent to SiberiaIn early December it was announced that
the first operational Su-30SM fighters for the Russian Air Force
had been delivered to Domna air base in Siberia, where the initial
operational unit is standing up. The first three examples arrived
at Domna in November, and the base is due to receive 10 Su-30SM
fighters by the end of the year. A further 10 will be delivered
next year to complete the establishment of an aviation
regiment.
Russia
Alberto Mocchetti
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24 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
News EuropeEurope
A Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) Anka unmanned aerial
vehicle crashed on December 6 in south-east Turkey. The UAV went
down during a daylight flight, for reasons as yet unknown. The Anka
is currently conducting operational test flights at Batman in
south-east Turkey. Thomas Newdick Four soldiers, two pilots and two
civilians were injured when UH-1H serial 940 crashed in Leyte
Province while attempting to make an emergency landing
following
an apparent engine failure on December 6. The Huey, which had
been operated by the Philippines Air Force, went down around
15.45hrs, local time while conducting relief operations in the town
of La Paz. Two unidentified helicopters of the Nigerian Air Force
were reportedly destroyed in an Islamic terrorist attack at
Maiduguri air base in Borno, Nigeria on December 2. Boko Haram
militants carried out the attack, which occurred at around
03.00hrs, local time. Three MiG-21 fighters
that were no longer in service were also reportedly destroyed.
An unidentified Afghan Air Force helicopter crashed while
conducting an anti-narcotics operation in the Haidar Khan area of
eastern Nangarhar Province on November 25. A remotely piloted
aircraft crashed on a range outside of Creech AFB, north-west of
Las Vegas, Nevada on November 14. The unmanned US Air Force
aircraft went down at about 15.45hrs, local time.
LossesCompiled by Tom Kaminski
Exercise DardoSpanish Air Force live-firingSpanish Air Force
live-firing
Croatias overhauled MiGs begin testsOn November 28, Croatian Air
Force and Air Defense (Hrvatsko ratno zrakoplovstvo i protuzrana
obrana HRZ i PZO) test pilot Col Ivan Selak commenced testing of
the first second-hand MiG-21bis fighter to have been purchased and
overhauled in Ukraine.
Under a 13.9-million deal, the Ukrainian Aircraft Repair Plant
at Odessa is to overhaul four Croatian MiG-21UMD two-seaters and
three MiG-21bisD
single-seaters, plus five newly-purchased single-seaters
previously destined for Yemen. All will be brought up to Croatian D
(Doradjen) standard with NATO- and ICAO-compatible communications
and navigation equipment.
The first three overhauled and upgraded MiGs were to be
delivered to Zageb-Pleso air base in mid-October, but the delivery
was postponed to December. Antonio Prlenda
Austria requests UH-60MsThe US Defense Security Co-operation
Agency has notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to
Austria of three UH-60M helicopters. The Black Hawks are part of a
package valued at around $137 million, also including T700-GE-701D
engines and AN/AVS-9 night vision engines and AN/AVS-9 night vision
engines and AN/Agoggles. The Austrian Air Force currently operates
nine S-70A-42s.
Ant
onio
Mu
iz Z
arag
eta
Ant
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Mu
iz Z
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DURING NURING NURING OVEMBER 11-15, OVEMBER 11-15, OVEMBERMorn
air base hosted the Spanish Air Forces ExerciseDardo 2013. This is
a live-firing campaign that involves use of both missiles and
cannon, and fighters from all relevant Spanish
Air Force units. A total of 14 Typhoons from both Morn (Ala 11)
and Los Lanos (Ala 14) were involved, including C.16-26/11-06 from
Ala 11, seen here toting live AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles. EF-18
Hornets were provided by Ala 12 at Torrejn, Ala 15 at Zaragoza, and
Ala 46 at Gando.
-
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26 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
ExErcisE REpoRt
The producT of some 15 months of preparation, exercise cruZeX
flight 2013 saw the majority of the combataircraft and crew
operating out of Base Area de Natal in
the state of rio Grande do Norte. refueling, rescue and
reconnaissance assets flewfrom Base Area do recife in the state of
pernambuco some 100 miles south of Natal, while a small radar and
rescue contingentwas located at caic.
This seventh cruZeX saw delegations from canada, chile,
colombia, ecuador,the uS, uruguay, and Venezuela coming ruguay, and
Venezuela coming ruguay, and Vtogether in the largest exercise
organized by the fora Area Brasileira. While each nation had its
own specific training objectives,the opportunity to build
relationships with the members of other countries forces is a
significant benefit of participation.
Inspired by the french odeX exercises, previous editions of
cruZeX were
organized every two years from 2002. except for 2002 and 2006,
all took place at Natal.
Located in the north-eastern corner ofBrazil, Natal air base is
co-located with Augusto Severo International Airport and normally
home to 2/5 Grupo de Aviao (GAv) Joker operating the A-29 Super
Tucano in the combat training role, as well as 1/11 GAv Gavio
flying the h-50 esquilo in which student pilots take the curso de
especializao operacional de Asas rotativas (operational helicopter
training course).
Being a training base, Natal has therequisite structure for
exercises of this scale. The vast expanse of airspace at its
disposal covers the states of rio Grande do Norte, cear, paraiba
and pernambuco, as well as the Atlantic ocean.
Although france and Argentina had participated in the initial
and final planningconferences for cruZeX flight 2013, both were
notably absent, Argentina officially
cancelling just days before the start of the exercise. france
had indicated that due to operational commitments it was unableto
join, while Argentina had to admit that it stepped down at the last
minute since congress had not authorized its participation.
This was disappointing for the fuerza Area Argentina as it was
very keen to bringsome six A-4Ar fightinghawks plus a single Kc-130
hercules TanqueroTanqueroT to the exercise. This gap was quickly
filled by the Brazilian Air force, which sent additional aircraft
to Natal as substitutes.
Noveltiescontrary to previous form, this years cruZeX was
focused purely on the air combat training element of the exercise.
Thisdistinction started in November 2012 when cruZeX VI was
exclusively dedicated to command and control, with troops
trainingin a virtual environment to practice their
CRUZEX 2013South Americas premier multi-national air combat
training exercise, Cruzeiro do Sul (CRUZEX) Flight 2013 took place
from November 4-15 and saw record participation by 92 aircraft,
nine helicopters and more than 3,000 military personnel.
report and photos: Marnix Sap and Carlo Brummer
Above: A Venezuelan F-16A from Grupo Areo de Caza 16 Dragones
with special markings for the 30th anniversary of the Viper in
Venezuela.
Right: Six A-37 Dragons from the Fuerza Area Colombianas
Escuadrn de Combate 311 made the long journey from their home base
at Malambo to Natal. The aircraft had been modified to carry GBU-12
Paveway II LGBs, while their pilots also used tablet computers for
mission information.
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27www.combataircraft.net February 2014
C2 capabilities. To underline the difference between the two
versions of the exercise now in place, the word Flight has since
been added to the name.
2013 also saw the introduction of combat search and rescue
missions involving Brazils Esquadro Aeroterrestre de Salvamento
(Airborne Rescue Squadron), or PARA-SAR. These Air Force
specialists were either air-dropped by C-130 or C-105 Amazonas
aircraft or inserted with the support of Brazilian Air Force
UH-60Ls to carry out forward air controller (FAC) as well as combat
rescue missions. They also performed several partnership jumps with
US and Canadian special forces. Making their debut, two AH-2
(Mi-35M) Sabres and one spare operated by 2/8 GAv made the long
journey from Porto Velho to provide rescue escort (RESCORT). In
addition, a range of aircraft comprising examples of the F-5EM,
F-2000 Mirage, R/A-1 Falco, A-29, K/C-130H, E-99, C-105 Amazonas,
SC-105
Pelicano, H-1H Iroquois/Sapo, H-60 Black Hawk and H-34 Super
Puma took part, making the Brazilian Air Force the largest force
contributor.
One of the technical novelties was the introduction of a small
portable GPS. Easily fitted in a pilots pocket, its use introduced
the possibility of shot validation for the first time. In an
exercise like CRUZEX, the launch of missiles is only simulated, and
in the past it was difficult to assess whether a kill was made or
not. Often the result was defined by shouting it out. Now, with the
introduction of these portable GPS devices, the process works as
follows. In Recife, air traffic controllers from the 3rd Integrated
Center for Air Defense and Air Traffic Control (CINDACTA III)
monitor the fight as it evolves, using the radar network in the
region. This enables them to make the initial validation of the
virtual shots as the pilots call them. After landing, this ATC data
is cross-referenced with information
collected from on-board aircraft systems and the data downloaded
from the portable GPS devices. Once processed, all the pilots who
participated in the mission will meet for a second validation,
evaluating their mission by watching an animation that re-creates
every moment of action based on all data collected. As in a video
game, it is possible to see on screen where each aircraft was at
every moment, as well as their altitude and the trajectory of the
shots.
Another novelty was the participation of the Fuerza Area
Colombiana. The Colombian Air Forces Escuadrn de Combate 311
operating the A-37 Dragon prepared itself extensively by
participating in two large-force employment (LFE) exercises in
2013. Monitored and evaluated by the Colombian Air Force as a last
check prior to attending CRUZEX, the latest exercise was run in
September at Malambo air base and involved some 30 aircraft
including Kfir, A-37B, A-29B, OV-10, AH-60
26-31 Cruzex C.indd 27 13/12/2013 10:01
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28 February 2014 www.combataircraft.net
and Huey II as well as AC-47T, KC-767, C-130 and C-295.
Before their departure to Brazil, Colombian A-37 aircrews had on
two separate occasions practiced long-endurance flights aided by
air refueling, mimicking the long non-stop journey from Manaus to
Natal, covering some 1,500nm or close to five hours of flight.
After departing their coastal town of Baranquilla, each of the six
Dragons had to be air-refueled five times before reaching Manaus in
the heart of the Brazilian Amazon for a night stop, and five times
more before making Natal, totaling some 60 connections with the
Colombian KC-767 MMTT Jupitertanker operated by Escuadrn de
Transporte 811. Colombias KC-137 Zeus was also Zeus was also
Zeusscheduled to participate in CRUZEX, but it was decided that it
would remain in Colombia in support of national security
operations. In a similar way, the absence of the Dragons was
resolved by temporarily deploying some Kfirs and Super Tucanos to
the CACOM 3 area of operation.
Without doubt Canada had to travel the longest distance to
participate for the first
time in a CRUZEX Flight exercise when it deployed two of its
CC-130J Hercules and more than 40 members of the Royal Canadian Air
Force from 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario, 3 Wing Bagotville, Quebec, and
1 Canadian Air Division, Winnipeg, Manitoba, as well as personnel
from the Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre, Princess Patricias
Canadian Light Infantry and the 3rd Battalion, the Royal Canadian
Regiment.
Taking part for the first time in an air exercise with Brazil
since the 1970s, debutant Ecuador brought three of its digi-camo
A-29Bs and some 34 pilots and technicians to CRUZEX Flight 2013.
Operated by Escuadrn de Combate 2313 Halcones in the border
surveillance and training role, the Ecuadorian Super Tucanos
operated alongside those from the Brazilian Air Force.
Another new development was the appearance of the first
modernized A-1M (serial 5520) that was delivered to the Brazilian
Air Force on September 3, 2013. Equipped with the initial version
of the BR2 datalink, this aircraft is the first of 43 to be
This photo: Performing the defensive counter-air role, two
F-5EMs from 1/1GAvCa Jambock from Santa Cruz are pictured. The
nearest aircraft is toting an MAA-1 Piranha missile.
Below left to right: Ecuador was making its first CRUZEX
appearance with three Super Tucanos from Escuadrn 2313 Halcones of
Ala de Combate 23.
The three Uruguayan Pucars deployed for the exercise taxi behind
the Colombian A-37s. The Uruguayan Pucars had just received new
color schemes, with the previous hogs head markings removed from
their noses. Santiago Rivas
26-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd
2826-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd
2826-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd 2826-31 Cruzex C.indd
28 13/12/2013 10:0113/12/2013 10:0113/12/2013 10:0113/12/2013
10:0113/12/2013 10:0113/12/2013 10:0113/12/2013 10:01
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29 29www.combataircraft.net February 2014
refurbished and upgraded. Sixteen airframes have been inducted
for conversion so far. In due course, all F-5Ms, A-29Ms and A-1Ms
as well as the upgraded E-99s should share the same avionics suite,
allowing these aircraft to exchange large amounts of data and even
images in a secure way.
It was the US Air Forces second visit since its inaugural CRUZEX
participation in 2010, but considering the budget sequestration of
2013 its presence was significant. More than 150 US airmen were
involved, including two pararescue members and an MC-130 pilot from
the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffet Field to exchange best practices in
airlift and airdrop operations. A single KC-135R Stratotanker from
the Arizona Air National Guards 161st Air Refueling Wing and six
F-16 Block 30Fs from the District of Columbia Air National Guards
113th Wing went down to Brazil too.
Known as the Capital Guardians, the 113th Wing normally operates
18 aircraft and is also responsible for the 113th Aerospace Control
Alert (ACA) Detachment, assigned the task of providing air
sovereignty to defend the nations capital and the National Capital
Region (NCR). The ACA Detachment at Andrews AFB is one of 16 units
nationwide where fighters sit ready to defend Americas airspace it
is one of the busiest, exceeding 4,000 alert events, more than the
other 15 ACA units combined, since Operation Noble Eagle started in
September 2001. Bringing this vast experience to the exercise, in
CRUZEX Flight 2013 the US F-16s filled the role of offensive
counter-air (OCA). Only in one scenario did US F-16s support the
defensive counter-air role (DCA).
Combined air