Roger. Thanks.

Military to prepare personnel for urban warfare
Thursday November 24, 2011

By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH
newsdesk@thestar.com.my

KOTA TINGGI: The army will conduct military exercise in towns to prepare its personnel for urban warfare, says its chief Jeneral Datuk Zulkifli Zainal Abidin.

He said the exercise was needed as the landscape and terrain of war was constantly changing and the army must be prepared to face such challenges.

“We hope we will be able to perform a military exercise in smaller urban areas next year,” he said after officiating at the closing ceremony of an exercise here yesterday.

He also gave the thumbs up to the Pendekar battle tanks, which were used for the first time in the three-week exercise after they were handed over in September.

“The tanks did not have any problems during the period and were in tiptop condition throughout the exercise. They have proven to be a success and are a great addition to the army's assets,” Jen Zulkifli said.

He added that more than 5,000 personnel from the army, Royal Malaysian Air Force and Royal Malaysian Navy were involved in the first joint coordinated exercise.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=...4455&sec=nation

MALAYSIAN ARMY INTERNATIONAL TATTO AND INTERNATIONAL ARMY RUN 2011

In conjunction with the declaration of Port Dickkson as an Army City, the Malaysian Army will organize a Tattoo from 16 until 18 December 2011. To further celebrate the joyous occasion, the international Army Run will be competed on 17 December 2011. Both events will be conducted in Port Dickson and will be participated by the Armies of ASEAN countries. The location of all events are as follow:

a. Army Tattoo: PUSASDA Parade Square.
b. International Army Run: Cahaya Negeri Beach.
c. Army Static Display and Career Fair: Cahaya Negeri Beach.

The events that will be organized are as follows:

a. 16 December 2011 (Friday)

◦0900 - 1800: Army Static Display and Career Fair.
◦2030 - 2230: Tattoo presentation

b. 17 December 2011 (Saturday)

◦0700 - 1230: International Army Run
◦0900 - 1800: Army Static Display and Career Fair.
◦2030 - 2230: Tattoo Presentation.

c. 18 December 2011 (Sunday)

◦0900 - 1600 Army Static Display and Career Fair
◦2030 - 2230 Tatto presentation

For the International Army Run, participation is open to all local and foreign participants (both military and civillian).

The categories of the run are as follows:

a. Men's Open (18 years to 39 years old) - distance 22 km.
b. Army Men's (closed) - distance 22 km.
c. ASEAN Army Men's / Invited (closed) - distance 22 km.
d. Veteran Open (Open - 40 years old and above) - distance 10 km.
e. Women's Open (18 years old and above) - distance 10 km.

Participation fee for each categories as follows:

a. Men's Open (18 years to 39 years old)
◦RM 60.00 (Local).
◦RM 100.00 (foreign).

b. Army Men's (closed).

c. ASEAN Army Men's / Invited (closed).

d. Veteran Open (40 years old and above).
◦RM 30.00 (Local).
◦RM 60.00 (Foreign).

e. Women's Open (18 years old and above).
◦RM 30.00 (Local).
◦RM 60.00 (Foreign).

All competitors will be given mementoes. Grand prizes will be presented to winner for all categories.

For that purpose, those interested including tourists are invited to participate in the International Army Run and enjoy the events organized. For furter information please contact us at:

•Email: latih_10bgd@yahoo.comAlamat email ini dilindungi dari Spambot. Perlukan JavaScript untuk melihatnya
•Phone: 013-6205722 | 010-2250872 | 013-3940064 | 06-3318528
Others Link: | Introduction | Army Run - Rules & Regulations | Army Run - Route Map | Army Run - Registration Form |

http://army.mod.gov.my/index.php/buletin/200-intorduction

This post has been edited by xtemujin: Nov 26 2011, 12:28 AM

IN FOCUS: Malaysia's fighter contest intensifies ahead of LIMA air show.
12:00 29 Nov 2011 (Tue)

By: Greg Waldron Singapore

Malaysia has a commanding position astride two of the world's most strategic waterways, the Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea. The importance of these sea lines of communication to major powers such as China, Japan and South Korea cannot be overstated. Through these waters flows the lifeblood of their economies. From the west flows oil from the Middle East and from the east flows finished goods bound for Europe.

Although Malaysia and its neighbours have been at peace for decades, it is worth remembering that in 1941 Japan mounted a major campaign on the peninsula with the objective of securing Singapore and establishing a springboard to the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia. Although a major conflict in the region seems unlikely today, in any such contingency Malaysia will be a factor in the minds of strategic planners.

The country also faces a unique challenge in that it is divided between two distinct land masses, peninsular Malaysia and the island of Borneo, with the large, resource-rich states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysia also has a claim to the Spratly Islands, which are subject to competing claims by Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines and China. Indeed, China claims the greater part of the South China Sea and is adding the military capabilities to back it up. This is arguably the single most vexing foreign policy issue facing southeast Asia's leaders.

In this context, the Royal Malaysian Air Force faces key decisions about the future of its combat fleet. The main combat strength of the RMAF is a hodgepodge of five types from the USA, the UK and Russia, that offer little or no commonality. It operates eight McDonnell Douglas F/A-18D Hornets, 10 Northrop e_SFlbF/RF-5Es, 14 BAE Systems Hawk 208s, 10 Mikoyan MiG-29s, and 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKMs. The future composition of this force will be the salient element of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2011 to be held in mid-December.

"The biggest strategic challenges facing the RMAF is how it can project airpower over the territorial waters of Malaysia, particularly into the South China Sea," said Richard Bitzinger, senior fellow at the Military Transformations programme at Singapore's Rajaratnam School of International Studies. "This is where the Malaysians perhaps face their greatest potential threats [from China]. On the operational side, the RMAF seriously needs to build a 'holistic' force, including AEW aircraft, AAR, and centralised command and control."

The RMAF's most advanced type is the e_SFlbSu-30MKM, obtained under a 2003 deal. Its other fighters face serious sustainment issues. The F-5s are increasingly expensive to operate and while the RMAF is apparently satisfied with its F-18s, these 1980s-era aircraft are also increasingly expensive to maintain and operate - not to mention being increasingly dated against the threats Malaysia is likely to face.

The highest priority for the RMAF, however, is the replacement of its MiG-29s. These ageing aircraft have reportedly suffered a number of maintenance issues since their acquisition in the 1990s, with several industry sources claiming the fleet is often grounded. The replacement will be addressed by a long-running 18 aircraft requirement that is unfulfilled - and likely to remain so until after Malaysia's next election, expected in 2012 or 2013.

Contenders for the requirement include the Boeing F/A-18 E/F, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Saab Gripen. The Dassault Rafale may also mount a challenge. An industry source confirmed the French company opened a sales office for the Rafale in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year.

As for the timing of a decision, one industry source calls this the "$64 million question". A request for information was issued in April 2010, and a request for proposals in February this year. Given that Malaysia hopes to field the fighters by 2015-2016, a decision could be announced at LIMA in 2013. As for the aircraft itself, Malaysia is calling for a multi-role aircraft for the aerial supremacy, ground attack, and maritime attack roles.

The F/A-18 E/F, Typhoon, and Gripen will all be present at this year's show. The Gripens will come from the Thai Air Force, which has ordered 12 of the Swedish type. Two UK Royal Air Force Typhoons will be stationed at Butterworth air base to perform a flying display. A full-sized Eurofighter mock-up will be at the show, as will a Eurofighter simulator.

Bitzinger suggests Boeing still has the best shot at winning. "The RMAF already operates older F-18s. Also, the Malaysians may wish to reach out to the USA strategically, to complement its recent purchase of Russian fighters. If not the Super Hornet, the Gripen might make a wiser choice as it is cheaper to buy and operate but, then again, countries don't always buy military equipment for their military rationales."

Despite industry consensus there will be no decision until after the next election, Boeing hopes the winner will be announced soon. "By the time LIMA occurs, the RMAF will have done a thorough evaluation of the major competitors," says the airframer. "The RMAF and the minister of defence should be in a position to make a recommendation to the prime minister for the MRCA [multi-role combat aircraft] programme."

Boeing offers a number of reasons for a Super Hornet buy. "The RMAF can expect significantly improved tactical relevancy for their Hornets when operated alongside Super Hornet aircraft. There are cost and efficiency benefits associated with embedded Super Hornet training, support and operations."

Boeing points out that Malaysia has bought and paid for US-built weapons, which can be easily integrated with the Super Hornet platform. The RMAF is familiar with the type's capabilities owing to the near constant presence of US aircraft carrier battle groups in the region. A source in Malaysia says US Navy pilots flying Super Hornets often conduct dissimilar training against RMAF Sukhoi Su-30s.

Malaysia's ties to the UK, which is leading the Eurofighter campaign in Malaysia, also run deep. In early November, the Royal Air Force sent four Eurofighters to Singapore to participate in a Five Powers Defence Arrangements exercise between the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore. Two of these aircraft remained in Malaysia for the month leading up to LIMA.

Of the competitors, the Eurofighter is perhaps the best aircraft for the air-to-air combat role, as this was the primary driver behind its design. The company's campaign director for Malaysia, Ian Malin, says the aircraft has yet to be cleared for a maritime attack weapon since this is not an RAF requirement, but given the timeframes involved in the competition this should not be an issue.

Earlier this year, Eurofighter appeared to receive a boost when Malaysian defence minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was quoted as saying the Eurofighter was the best aircraft for the country. Some industry sources, however, have said his comments may have been politically motivated and not based on an objective assessment of the aircraft.

Perhaps more important than the merits of the aircraft will be the industrial participation rivals are willing to offer. After strong growth in the 1980s and early 1990s, Malaysia has struggled to move up the value chain from manufacturing to true technological innovation and production. Its government is acutely aware the country risks getting stuck in a "middle-income trap", and will look to leverage the MiG-29 replacement programme for maximum industrial benefit at home.

"Boeing continues to support the ongoing growth of Malaysian industry through our partnerships with local industry such as Asian Composites Manufacturing and placement of BCA work packages with other local companies - SME Aerospace and Composites Technology Research Malaysia Aero Composites," says Boeing.

Eurofighter and Saab will also offer attractive offset packages. "Offsets are certainly a major consideration," says Bitzinger. "Who can give the best deal and help the local defence industry with technology and jobs for national industrial development? Next they will look at what buys help with strategic relationships, and here the USA probably has the inside track."

While small compared with other fighter campaigns such as those in India, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, big defence aerospace companies are committed to slugging it out for Malaysia's 18-aircraft fighter requirement. The contenders will be going all out at this year's LIMA.

Contenders to replace the RMAF's Mig-29s include the Boeing F/A-18 E/F, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Saab Gripen. Thai Gripens will visit Lima.

Greg Waldron supplies rolling commentary on news from the Asian military aviation sector at flightglobal.com/asianskies

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/...ir-show-365079/


This post has been edited by xtemujin: Nov 30 2011, 08:36 PM

Indonesian Army Eyes Shopping Spree in Europe 

Indonesian Minister confirms plans to purchase European surplus equipment

06:33 GMT, Monday November 28, 2011 defpro.com |

According to Indonesian media reports, the Minister of Defence of Indonesia, Purnomo Yusgiantoro, recently confirmed plans to purchase military equipment from various European countries. The minister, in particular, highlighted the government’s intent to buy Leopard 2 main battle tanks from the German Army, as well as Apache attack helicopters.

The reports emphasise that Indonesia is taking advantage of the difficult budget situation faced by European armed forces, seeking to purchase surplus equipment at favourable prices. This may include weapons systems from France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and Spain.

INDONESIAN ARMY SEEKS PRIORITY ROLE IN DEFENCE MODERNISATION

Although the Defence Minister did not confirm a specific amount allocated to the government’s procurement plans, the Indonesian Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. Pramono Edy Wibowo, announced in mid-November that the Army would receive more than IRP 14 trillion (approx. $15.3 billion; €11.6 billion) over the next three years.

In light of Indonesia’s efforts to modernise the inventory of its Armed Forces, Pramono told the Jakarta Post that “the President has decided, after four Cabinet meetings, that the Army should receive priority.” As the Defence Minister recently explained, the Ministry is currently waiting for wish lists from the country’s Army, Navy and Air Force.

The final budget to be allocated for weapons purchases will depend upon the equipment required by the individual branches, according to Purnomo. However, the Defence Minister emphasised that it would not exceed the targeted budget.

As the Jakarta Post reported, the Army already has a very precise idea of its procurement priorities: Pramono said that, among other planned purchases, the Army is particularly interested in buying 100 Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks from the German Army for some $280 million, along with eight Apache helicopters valued at $25 million. As the head of the Indonesian Army confirmed, these purchases are expected to be complete by 2014.

At present, in terms of heavy armoured vehicles, the Indonesian Army relies on its large fleet of ageing French-built AMX-13 light tanks and a significantly smaller fleet of FV101 Scorpion armoured reconnaissance vehicles. To protect its vast territory,[1] in particular on its main islands Java, Sumatra, Borneo (shared with Brunei and Malaysia), and New Guinea (shared with Papua New Guinea), the Army needs to modernise its inventory.

INDONESIA INTERESTED IN GERMAN LEOPARD 2A6

The Leopard 2A6 has been in service with the German Army since March 2001, after upgrading existing Leopard 2 tanks of the A5 and A4 configuration. As yet, Singapore is the only Asian operator of the Leopard 2. In mid 2007, Indonesia’s neighbour introduced 102 German-surplus Leopard 2A4s into its service.

Despite Indonesia’s ambitious purchase plans and the German Armed Forces’ challenging budget situation, the deal could be overshadowed by German domestic political issues. Under the influence of the so-called Arab Spring uprisings in Northern African and Middle East countries, German politicians were entangled in July 2011 in a heated debate on arms export regulations, when the news of a major deal with Saudi Arabia for the purchase of 200 Krauss-Maffei Wegmann-built Leopard 2A7+ tanks emerged.[2]

Although it might be an entirely different case, the announcement of a possible export of Leopard 2 tanks to Indonesia could come just a little too early after that debate, and future negotiations could be accompanied by political clamour in Germany.

However, considering the German Defence Ministry’s plans to fundamentally restructure its Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), which will require significant investment, and the Army’s long-standing experience in transferring surplus tanks to foreign partners, a possible agreement between Berlin and Jakarta is not likely to encounter any serious obstacles.


----
By Nicolas von Kospoth, Managing Editor

[1] With some 1.9 million km², Indonesia is the 15th-largest country in the world. The archipelagic country extends more than 5,100 kilometres from east to west and more than 1,700 kilometres from north to south. All ocean routes from Eastern Asia into the Indian Ocean run along or through its territory, including the Strait of Malacca and the Sunda Strait.
[2] OpEd: Germany’s Shallow Remorse of Selling Big Guns - Report of major Leopard 2A7+ deal with Saudi Arabia splits German politicians,

http://defpro.com/daily/details/921

This post has been edited by xtemujin: Dec 1 2011, 10:36 AM

30 November 2011 (Wed) - 18H43

Switzerland picks Gripen jets over Rafale, Eurofighter

AFP - The Swiss government said on Wednesday it will purchase 22 Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets to replace its ageing F5 fighter fleet in an estimated 3.1 billion Swiss franc (2.5 billion euro) deal.

"The Federal Council has decided to acquire 22 Saab Gripen fighter planes to replace the obsolete F5 Tiger," a statement said.

The planes were selected over the French Dassault Rafale and the EADS Eurofighter, also being considered for the multi-billion Swiss franc contract.

The candidates had been subjected to a robust evaluation lasting several years, the government said, and by opting for the Gripen had chosen a jet which "fulfils military demands" while being financially sustainable.

The planned purchase will be put to parliament as part of the government's 2012 arms programme.

During its last session the Swiss parliament charged the government with launching the acquisition process for new planes by the end of the year.

"This decision allows us to acquire a high performance plane without compromising other military branches or their essential equipment," said the government.

During a press conference in Bern, Swiss Defence Minister Ueli Maurer described the model as "technically excellent" while estimating the cost of the deal at up to 3.1 billion Swiss francs -- said to be the cheapest of the three options.

Saab shares rose in Stockholm after the announcement, gaining 9.6 percent to 119 kronor (13 euros/17.6 dollars).

The choice came as a relative surprise in Switzerland after media reported several days ago that the Swedish plane had not fully passed technical tests. A Paris-based analyst specialising in the air defence industry said the Rafale option was considerably more expensive and had little chance of winning the contract however.

Saab admitted it made "huge concessions over the price to ensure it got the contract", the analyst said, while adding that the deal could still be put to a referendum if there was sufficient opposition.

Saab said Wednesday it was "proud and delighted" over Switzerland's decision.

"Given that Switzerland is known globally for applying (the) highest procurement standards and requesting state-of-the art technologies, Saab is both proud and delighted that Gripen has been chosen as the Swiss Air Force's future multirole fighter aircraft," Saab said in a statement.

The Swiss selection "confirms that Saab is a market-leader in the defence and security industry and that Gripen is a world-class fighter system that provides the best value for money", Saab CEO and president Haakan Buskhe said.

http://www.france24.com/en/20111130-switze...ale-eurofighter