Wednesday, May 29, 2013

MiG 35



The MiG-35 (single seat) and MiG-35D (double seat) are the “4.5+” generation multi-role fighters, exhibiting the further development of the MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2 fighters in the field of the combat efficiency enhancement, universality and operational characteristics improvement.
The MiG-35/MiG-35D main features are the following:
– the fifth generation information-sighting systems integration into aircraft airborne avionics;
– possibility of advanced Russian and foreign origin weapons application;
– increased combat survivability due to integration of airborne integrated defense system.
State-of-the art avionics in combination with advanced weapons allow the MiG-35/MiG-35D fighters fulfill a great number of missions:
– air superiority gaining against four amp; fifth generation fighters;
– interception of existing and being developed air attack means;
– ground/surface targets destruction with high precision weapons without entering the air defense zone day and night in any weather conditions;
– air reconnaissance using optical-electronic and radio-technical equipment;
– participation in group actions and air control over groups of fighters.
The MiG-35/MiG-35D fighters structure is based upon the following achievements obtained on the MiG-29K/KUB, MiG-29M/M2 aircraft:
– increased weapons load stored at nine external stations;
– increased fuel capacity, in-flight refueling and possibility of using as a tanker;
– airframe amp; main systems anti-corrosion protection technology which meets the standards developed for carrier-based aircraft thus simplifying fighters operation in tropical weather conditions;
– significantly reduced radar signature
– three channel fly-by-wire control system with quadruple redundancy.
In the course of the MiG-35 aircraft development the most attention was paid to operational characteristics improvement
– reliability of aircraft, engines and avionics is significantly increased;
– lifetime and service life are extended;
– mean time between overhauls (MTBO) of engines is increased;
– the MiG-35 aircraft flight hour cost is almost 2.5 times lower than those of the MiG-29 fighter;
– the MiG-35 aircraft is intended for the on-condition maintenance.
The complex of technical and technological solutions has been developed for the MiG-35/MiG-35D aircraft which provides for independent operation, like airborne oxygen generation plant.
The power plant includes two engines RD-33MK with increased thrust power, equipped with smokeless combustion chamber and new electronic control system (of FADEC type). Engines are of the module structure and have increased reliability and service life.
Upon customer request the fighters can be equipped with “all aspect” thrust vectored RD-33MK engines ensuring the aircraft superiority in the maneuvering dogfight. The power plant of two thrust vectored engines was tested on the super-maneuverable prototype-aircraft MiG-29M OVT.
The airborne avionics of the MiG-35/MiG-35D aircraft is developed on the basis of the new generation technologies.
The multi-role radar with active phased array provides for advantage over the competitors due to the following factors:
– extended range of operating frequencies;
– increased quantity of detected, tracked and attacked targets;
– possibility of simultaneous attack of air and ground targets;
– extended detection range;
– enhanced resolution in the surface mapping mode
– high jamming protection and survivability.
The IRST system with infra-red, TV and laser sighting equipment has been developed using the space technologies which were not applied previously in aviation. The system distinctive features are the increased range, detection, tracking, identification and lock-on of air, ground/surface targets in the forward and rear hemispheres, at day and night measuring the distance with laser range-finder as well as the formation of target designation and laser illumination of ground targets. The IRST system and new helmet-mounted target designation system are integrated into the armament control system. In addition to the built-in IRST system the MiG-35 aircraft is equipped with a podded one.
The MiG-35/MiG-35D aircraft is provided with a defense system including in particular:
– radio electronic reconnaissance and electronic counter measures;
– optronic systems for detection of attacking missiles and laser emission;
– decoy dispensers to counteract the enemy in the radar and infrared ranges.
In addition to the “A-A” and “A-S” class weapons applied on the MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2 aircraft the advanced aircraft armament, which have not been offered earlier for export, is being included into the MiG-35/MiG-35D aircraft weapons. The long range weapons capable to attack targets without approaching the air defence zone are among them.
Avionics’ open architecture allows installation on aircraft of new equipment and weapons of Russian and foreign origin upon customer’s request.
Both the single and double seat versions of aircraft have the same airborne equipment and weapons as well as the high unification level of structure.
For the MiG-35/MiG-35D fighters the full set of training means was developed including the interactive computer-based training system and a number of simulators including the full-mission simulator with a motion system.br /br /The basic version of the MiG-35/MiG-35D fighter is designed taking into account the international cooperation organization when developing new modifications of aircraft and during serial production. According to Rosoboronexport MIG as built 10 Mig-35s as of 2008.

Russia, India Describe Next-Gen Fighter Plans



The air force commanders of both Russia and India have this month discussed the progress and future schedule of the fifth-generation Sukhoi fighter project. They are keen to have their own pilots evaluate the design so that they can take a decision on further funding for the project.

Russian air force commander Gen. Victor Bondarev said that he expects all four flyable prototypes of the so-called PAK FA (Future Aviation Complex of Frontal Aviation) to gather at the defense ministry’s test base and firing range near Akhtubinsk in Southern Russia, for customer assessment and weapons release trials. By the year-end their number shall increase to eight. If tests are a success, the PAKFA will go into series production in late 2015 or early 2016.
In his turn, Indian air force chief of staff told journalists at the recent Aero India show that he expects arrival of three PAKFA development prototypes in India, the first in 2015, the second in 2017 and the third in 2018. Air Marshall N. A. K. Browne said that the design and development phase of what India calls the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) is proceeding well under “a small-value contract.” When it is completed later this year, India and Russia will sign a new R&D contract “which is the mother of all phases,” he added.
Should India be satisfied with flight performance of the FGFA, it will fund the next phase: creation of a customized version for the Indian air force by a joint team of Russian and Indian engineers. The Indian version would use same airframe, engines and main systems, and differ in mission hardware and software, as well as weapons nomenclature. Series airframes manufacturing would commence at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 2022, Browne added.
At Aero India, United Aircraft Corporation’s president Mikhail Pogosyan said that Russia and India would buy “over 400” aircraft and that the total market would exceed 600. He confirmed that all four prototypes built to date are now in flight test, and said that additional development aircraft will be completed “as necessary, after the two sides sign the full-scale development contract.”
Pogosyan further insisted that both Russian and Indian versions “will be based not only on the same platform, but also have identical onboard systems and avionics.” Indian air force specialists had been involved in working out specification to the aircraft “from the very beginning and through all development phases.” He continued, “It may happen that in future there will be some specific [national] requirements for onboard systems or additional missions, but these would be formally agreed by both customers.” Pogosyan expects the FGFA to follow the Su-30MKI/MKM example, in which “the Indian and Malaysian air forces use the very same platform, with the difference confined to a few avionics items.”



The Sukhoi T-50 PAK-FA fifth-generation stealth fighter will start operational testing in 2014
"In 2013 we are expected to wrap up its preliminary tests and start operational testing. In 2014, we are planning to start official state tests," says United Aircraft Corporation president Mikhail Pogosyan. The first stage of those state trials should be completed by 2015.
The PAK-FA developmental flight test phase includes six airframes, but one is a ground test vehicle. "Flight testing this year will go ahead with five aircraft," Pogosyan says.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit




Northrop Grumman is the prime contractor for the US Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. The B-2 is a low-observable, strategic, long-range, heavy bomber capable of penetrating sophisticated and dense air-defence shields. It is capable of all-altitude attack missions up to 50,000ft, with a range of more than 6,000nm unrefuelled and over 10,000nm with one refuelling, giving it the ability to fly to any point in the world within hours.
Its distinctive profile comes from the unique 'flying wing' construction. The leading edges of the wings are angled at 33° and the trailing edge has a double-W shape. It is manufactured at the Northrop Grumman facilities in Pico Rivera and Palmdale in California.
The B-2, after ten years of service, finally achieved full operational capability in December 2003. In the first three years of service, the operational B-2s achieved a sortie reliability rate of 90%. An assessment published by the USAF showed that two B-2s armed with precision weaponry can do the job of 75 conventional aircraft.

AHFM stealth coating

Northrop Grumman has developed a new radar-absorbent coating to preserve the B-2's stealth characteristics while drastically reducing maintenance time. The new material, known as alternate high-frequency material (AHFM), is sprayed on by four independently controlled robots.
In November 2011, the USAF awarded a $109m contract to Northrop Grumman for producing a redesigned aft deck for the B-2 stealth bomber.

B-2 deliveries and bases

21 B-2s have been delivered to Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, the first in December 1993.
A new transportable hangar system has been developed which allows the B-2 to be deployed to forward locations overseas.
The hangars are 126ft long, 250ft wide and 55ft high. The first of these hangars has been erected on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.

On 23 February 2008, a B-2 crashed shortly after take-off from Andersen AFB in Guam, the first crash in the aircraft's history. The two pilots ejected safely from the aircraft, which was not carrying munitions. A USAF investigation into the causes of the crash is underway. The B-2 fleet was grounded pending the results of the investigation but was returned to service in April 2008. A USAF investigation released an accident report in June 2008 which concluded that the crash was caused by moisture in the port transducer units. These sensors sent distorted information to the air data system.Prior to this development, B-2s had to return to Whiteman AFB after missions, for maintenance of the aircraft's stealth features. The B-2 was thus deployed for the first time during Operation Iraqi Freedom in March / April 2003. In March 2005, a B-2 squadron was deployed for the first time to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam in support of the USAF Pacific Command.

B-2 upgrade programme

Northrop Grumman, the B-2's prime contractor, leads an industry team that is working on modernising the B-2. This is done to ensure that craft remains fully mission capable against evolving worldwide threats. A range of upgrade programmes are working on improving the B-2's lethality; its ability to receive updated target information during a mission, and its ability to collect, process and disseminate battlefield information with joint force commanders or other local first responders worldwide.
In June 2007, Northrop Grumman was awarded a contract to develop an EHF satellite communications capability and computer architecture upgrade for the B-2. The upgrade includes a Lockheed Martin integrated processing unit (IPU). Flight testing with the new systems was completed in July 2009.
US Air Force and Northrop Grumman Corporation completed the system design review of the new software and computing architecture during July 2008. The new architecture allows the B-2's new integrated processing unit (IPU) to communicate with the aircraft's processing applications.
This new architecture provides high-speed data handling environment required to implement future B-2 capabilities such as an EHF satellite communications system, and also provides B-2 the ability to destroy moving targets.

B-2 Cockpit

The cockpit accommodates two crew. It is equipped with a colour, nine-tube, electronic flight instrumentation system (EFIS), which displays flight, engine and sensor data and avionics systems and weapons status.
The pilot can choose to activate the appropriate selection of flight and mission equipment for take-off mode, go-to-war mode and landing mode by using a simple three-way switch.

Weapons

The aircraft carries all its weapons internally and is fitted with two separate weapons bays in the centre of the aircraft. The B-2 has the capacity to carry up to 40,000lb of weapons, including conventional and nuclear weapons, precision-guided munitions, gravity bombs and a range of maritime weapons.

The B-2 can also carry the AGM-129 advanced cruise missile, which is a strategic cruise missile with a range estimated at up to 1,500 miles.Each weapons bay is equipped with a rotary launcher and two bomb-rack assemblies. In tests, the B-2 successfully released B-61 and B-83 nuclear and mk84 conventional bombs from the rotary rocket launcher, and mk82 and CBU-87 conventional weapons from the bomb racks. The B61-11 is an earth-penetrating nuclear bomb for use against deeply buried and hardened targets. The B83 is a strategic free-fall nuclear bomb.
16 satellite-guided JDAM (joint direct attack munition) missiles can be carried. Northrop Grumman is converting the B-2 bomb rack assembly to a new 'smart' configuration, which will increase the number of JDAMs which can be carried to a maximum of 80. The aircraft will also be fitted with the joint stand-off weapon (JSOW), joint air-to-surface stand-off missiles (JASSM) and the wind-compensated munitions dispenser (WCMD) and will be able to carry up to 80 115kg small diameter bombs (SDB).
In June 2007, Northrop Grumman was awarded a contract to integrate the Boeing massive ordnance penetrator (MOP) weapon on the B-2. The MOP is GPS-guided, contains 2,400kg (5,300lb) of explosive and is designed to penetrate hardened, deeply buried targets. B-2 is capable of carrying two MOP weapons, one in each weapons bay.
A generic weapons interface system (GWIS) has been fitted as part of the block 30 upgrade. The GWIS is an integrated digital software package, which allows the B-2 to carry different mixes of stand-off weapons and direct attack munitions on a single sortie, enabling the aircraft to attack up to four different types of targets on a single mission.
Under a contract awarded to Northrop Grumman in February 2008, the USAF has begun a programme to give the B-2 the capability to attack moving targets, using precision-guided weapons such as the small diameter bomb II. The contract involves the upgrade of displays and radar modes.

Countermeasures

The B-2 carries a Lockheed Martin radar warning receiver, a Northrop Grumman defensive aids system and the Lockheed Martin AN/APR-50 defensive management system (DMS).

Radar

The Raytheon AN/APQ-181 covert strike radar, operating at J band (Ku band), is a multi-purpose radar with terrain following and terrain avoidance modes. Testing at Edwards Air Force Base has demonstrated reliable terrain following at altitudes down to 200ft.
In April, 2009 Northrop Grumman Corporation delivered to the US Air Force the first operational B-2 Spirit stealth bomber to be equipped with newly modernised radar. The aircraft was officially handed off to the air force on at Whiteman Air Force Base, the operational home of the B-2 fleet and the 509th Bomb Wing.
The updated aircraft will be used by air force to conduct additional field testing of the radar, and the data gathered from these decisions will support future fielding decisions.
The B-2 radar modernisation programme replaces the aircraft's original radar system with one that incorporates technology improvements that have occurred since the B-2 was originally designed in the early 1980s.
In November 2002, Raytheon was awarded a contract to develop a new Ku-band AESA (active electronically scanned array) antenna for the B-2 radar to avoid interference with commercial satellite systems after 2007. Flight tests with new radar began in October 2007 and continued until 2008. Installation of the new antenna on the B-2 fleet is to be completed by 2012.

Navigation and communications

The B-2's navigation suite includes a Rockwell Collins TCN-250 tactical air navigation system (TACAN) and a VIR-130A instrument landing system.

The aircraft have been upgraded with Link 16 communications link.The communications equipment is supplied by Rockwell Collins. A Milstar military strategic and tactical relay satellite communications system is installed in block 30 aircraft.

Engine

The aircraft is powered by four General Electric F118-GE-100 turbofan engines internally mounted in the body of the wings.
The engines have an exhaust temperature control system to minimise thermal signature.
The engines, rated at 77kN, provide a high subsonic speed and a maximum gross take-off weight of 336,500lb. In-flight refuelling gear is installed in the top centre line of the aircraft behind the cockpit.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Indian Air Force UAV Lakshaya-2



Introduction

The Lakshya 2 is a high speed Pilotless Target Aircraft (PTA) being developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of DRDO for use by the Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Indian Navy for air-to-air and surface-to-air targeting by aircraft, ships and missiles.

Lakshya 2 is an improved version of the Lakshya with digital flight controls and state-of-the-art navigation systems that is currently under testing. 

Lakshya 2 is capable of programmed low altitude flight with Autonomous Way Point Navigation using Global Position Satellite updates. 

It is launched from land or sea from a zero length launcher using a JATO rocket motor and recovered  by a dual stage parachute system.

The aircraft can carry two targets on a 1.5 km-cable. 

In case of emergency it can recover automatically. 

The 705 kg drone has an endurance of 50 mins and a maximum life of 10 recoveries. It is powered by a single HAL PTAE-7 turbojet.

Lakshya-1


Lakshya first flew in 1985 and became operational in 2000. It is currently being used by all the three services.

Lakshya is commanded from the ground by telemetry.

So far HAL has manufactured 30 Lakshya-1 UAVs and has delivered to IAF (15), Indian Navy(05) and DRDO (10) during the period from 2006- 07 to 2011-12. [via PIB]

PTAE-7 Turbojet


The PTAE-7 was designed and developed by HAL's Engine and Test Bed Research and Design Center (ETBRDC), the first turbo jet engine developed within the country.

It is a single shaft, light-weight, low cost, sea dunkable turbojet. It has a 4-stage axial transonic compressor driven by an axial turbine, annular combustor, digital electronic fuel control system and power control unit. The engine is rated at 373 daN (380 kgf). It can be refurbished and reused after recovery from sea or land.

The engine has an SFC of 1.15 kg./kg.f/hr, a dry weight of 65 kg, length of 1,270 mm. and a maximum diameter of 330 mm., and weighs 65 kg. The engine is designed with materials and features for protection against seawat

The first trial of the PTAE-7 engine was successful in January 2001. 

The first Lakshya fitted with PTAE-7 engine flew from ITR, Chandipur in May 2002.

December 2010 Trials

Low altitude flight trials of  Lakshya-2 were conducted at Integrated Test Range (ITR), Balasore on December 20 and December 23, 2010. The objectives of the flight trials were.

  1. Digital Flight Control System incorporating Autonomous Way Point Navigation with Global Position Satellite updates. 
  2. Programmed low altitude flight in clean configuration and in Tow body configuration. 
  3. High G maneuvers in both configurations. 
  4. Mobile systems on three high-mobility vehicles in typical user configuration. 
  5. New features of Mobile Ground Control Station (GCS). 

On December 20, 2010, Lakshya-2 was programmed to fly at 25 meter above sea level and the objective was achieved. It flew for a distance of 10 km at 25 meter with average altitude deviation of less than 1 meter. 

On December 23, 2010, aircraft was programmed to fly at 150 meter and the tow body flew at approximately 50 meter altitude. The flight took place for the programmed leg length of 20 Km. 

DRDO is interacting with Armed Forces for Limited Series Production (LSP) order and industries as production partners. 

September 2011 Trials

IAF and ADE personnel successfully test flew a Lakshya 2 on Monday, September 12, 2011 for over 30 minutes at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) off the Orissa coast.

Earlier both the sea and land recovery versions of the PTA have been test flown successfully.

More trials are planned in the days ahead.

January 2012 Trials


During trials on January 25, 2012,  in a flight lasting over 30 minutes, the Lakshya was made to dive down from an altitude of around 800 m to just 12 m and maintained required altitude for the specified time before demonstrating auto climb-out. The entire flight was pre-programed and was totally successful. 

The aircraft demonstrated its ability to fly in way point navigation mode while carrying 2 tow targets.

 During the flight one of the tow targets was released and the other was deployed while way point navigation was on.  

This was the 10th flight of Lakshya-II PTA and this was the first time that the ultimate capability of the Lakshya-II, was demonstrated achieving all the user’s objectives. 


SOURCE: IDP SENTINEL

PAKDA a Russian Stealth bomber




The Russian Air Force PAK DA is a fifth-generation strategic bomber intended as the replacement of aging Tu-95MS, T-22M3 and Tu-160. The PAK DA is being developed by Kazan Aircraft Production Association of Russia. The PAK DA stands for Perspektivnyi Aviatsionnyi Kompleks Dalney Aviatsyi which means “long-range future aviation complex” for Strategic Air Forces.
The PAK DA is going to be heavily based on Russia’s current supersonic bomber Tupolev Tu-160 and is expected to have it’s maiden flight by 2015. However it was also speculated that the PAK DA would be similar to the stealthy design of the America B-2 Spirit bomber.
Currently, the Russian airforce has Tu-95 and Tu-160 strategic bombers, as well as long range Tu-22 bombers. They can carry bombs and cruise missiles. The aircrafts of these type are currently undergoing modernization. There have also been reports stating that this new bomber will have stealth characteristics.
The Russian Air Force has made tactical and technical requirements for new generation strategic bombers, as reported by Interfax. This strategic bomber would be used in both conventional and nuclear conflicts using high-precision weapons. According to Russian Air Force commander Aleksandr Zelin, Work on the new bomber has already begun. “The requirements are formulated, and many firms are now implementing plans” – said Zelin.
Russian Major Gen. Anatoly Zhikharev has stated that the new bomber will replace both the turboprop-powered Tupolev Tu-95 and the supersonic Tupolev Tu-160. The PAK DA concept relies on the ability to fly at stratospheric altitudes (50,000 meters) with stealth features to avoid enemy air defenses.


Mirage Upgrade




Introduction

India and France in July 2011 entered into a contract to upgrade IAF's Mirage 2000 fleet. The contract had been under negotiation since 2007.

India signed separate contracts with M/s Thales and M/s Dassault Aviation France, and M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the upgrade. 

Cost of Contract

The cost of the contract for upgrade of the Mirage 2000 with M/s Thales and M/s Dassault Aviation is Euro 1470 Million, while the cost of the contract with M/s HAL is Rs.2020 crore. The cost of the contract for procurement of the missiles from M/s MBDA, France, is Euro 958,980,822.44. 

The entire upgradation of the Mirage aircraft is scheduled to be completed by 2021. Delivery of MICA missiles is scheduled between 2015 and 2019. 

Scope of the Upgrade

The contract envisages upgrade of the IAF aircraft to Mirage 2000-5 standards and an extension of their life by another 20 years. 

The entire airframe will be stripped to extend its life and to re-wire and re-equip the aircraft with new avionics, mission computers, glass cockpits, helmet-mounted display and electronic warfare suites to support a contemporary weapon suit.

The aircraft will be fitted with the Thales RDY2 multimode radar and the MPDU mission computer (fitted on the Rafale), as well as new navigation and electronic countermeasures. 

High Cost of Upgrade Questioned in Parliament

On March 4, 2013 defense minister AK Antony told Parliament that the upgrade cost for each Mirage 2000 was Rs 167 crore. 

The last lot of the aircraft contracted by India in 2000 cost just Rs 133 crore apiece. 

In a written reply, Antony explained, "Applying an escalation of 3.5% per annum as per the pricing policy review committee, to the contracted cost of the year 2000, it works out to be Rs 195 crore at 2011 levels. Thus, the upgrade has been undertaken at 85% of the aircraft's escalated cost." 

the Rs 167-crore unit cost does not give the full picture. 

The overall cost of the upgrade program is Rs 17,547 crore, including the purchase of MICA missiles, which works out to Rs 344 crore per aircraft. [via TOI]

Terms of the Contract

Under the contract, Dassault will upgrade two IAF Mirages in France within 44 months. Next, Dassault and HAL will jointly upgrade another two Mirages in Bengaluru over the next 14 months. HAL will then upgrade the rest.

The entire upgradation of the Mirage aircraft is scheduled to be completed by 2021. Delivery of MICA missiles is scheduled between 2015 and 2019.

Contract Progress

As on January 4, 2012, two aircraft were in France for upgrades. [via Hindu]

Contract History

On November 18, 2011, Air Chief Browne told the press that the first two aircraft will fly out to France next week.

GOI and the French firms Dassault and Thales signed the upgrade deal on July 29, 2011.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh cleared the $2.4 billion deal on July 13, 2011 after nearly five years of negotiations.

The total value of the deal could be $4 billion, with $1 billion for new weapons and another $500 million for creating upgrade facilities at Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Under the deal, the French firms will help in upgarding the avionics, navigation systems, mission computers, electronic warfare systems and radars bringing the aircraft to the Mirage-2000-5 standards.

India will first send two Mirage 2000s to France for upgrades; the rest of the Mirage fleet will be upgraded at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited facilities in New Delhi.

The deal will mandate an offset investment of over $900 million (30% of the deal value) in the Indian defense, civilian aerospace or homeland security sectors by French defense companies. The offset clause is applicable to foreign vendors bagging deals over Rs 300 crore.

The protracted negotiations, involving French companies Dassault Aviation (aircraft manufacturer) and Thales (weapons systems integrator), initially remained mired over the Rs 13,500 crore ($2.9 billion) price sought by the French companies.

In July, 2009, before Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left for Paris on a state visit, TOI reported that the two sides had arrived at a price settlement.

‘‘The two sides have now arrived at a reasonable price around Rs 10,000 crore. The first four to six Mirages will be upgraded in France, with the rest 50 or so being upgraded in India by Hindustan Aeronautics under transfer of technology,’’ said the source.

Mirage 2000 in IAF

The IAF initially purchased 40 Mirages in the mid-1980s and later followed up with 20 more. 

The current IAF inventory of the aircraft is 51 with the aircraft equipping 1 (Tigers) and 7 (Battle Axes) sqns, both based in Gawalior.

The Mirage 2000 is considered the most potent combat proven aircraft in the IAF inventory after it gave an excellent account of itself during the 1999 Kargil conflict, with its precision bombing from high altitudes using laser guided bombs.

The Su-30MKI is probably more potent than the Mirage 2000 but has yet to be fielded in combat.

Before the MMRCA project crystallized, the IAF, impressed by its existing Mirage 2000 fleet, was keen to order Mirage-2000-Vs to replace its ageing MiG fleet.

Breakdown in Negotiations

In October 2009, Business Standard reported a breakdown in negotiations with Dassault Aviation. Senior IAF sources told the magazine that the Ministry of Defense (MoD)  found the Rs 196 crore ($41 million) upgrade price per aircraft exorbitant, considering that the airframe and engines would not be changed, but Dassault wouldn't go any lower.

In comparison, the projected per aircraft price tag of MMRCA was Rs 400 crore ($87 million), including transfer of technology. 

MoD believes it will make more sense for the IAF to continue with its existing M2000 fleet and procure an additional two squadrons of MMRCA using the Rs 10,000 crore ($2.1 billion) it would otherwise spend on M2000 upgrade.

The IAF's enthusiasm for M2000 upgrade has waned as Dassault has steadily hiked the price of spares in what the service considers as arm twisting.

Israeli Offer

Israel reportedly offered to upgrade the Mirage-2000 fleet for half the price being quoted by Dassault. The MoD, however, didn't accept that offer.

During his visit to India in December 2009, Israeli defense services chief, General Gabi Ashkenazi, was reported to have presented Israel's Mirage 2000 upgrade proposal to the top brass, including the chief of air staff, Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik.

General Ashkenazi's visit was the first ever by an Israeli defense services chief.

Jaguar Upgrade




Introduction

MOD has signed a Rs.3113.02 crore contract with HAL for upgrade of IAF Jaguars by December 2017.

Need for Upgrade

The IAF currently operates 120 Jaguar strike fighters powered by Rolls-Royce Adour-811 turbofan engines. The aircraft, which first entered squadron service in the early 80s, is considered under-powered at medium to high altitudes making it suitable for hostile airspace penetration only at low levels. 

Based on a fatigue analysis, the IAF estimates that Jaguars could remain operational till 2030. The service has drawn up an upgrade program under which the aircraft will be re-engined and re-equipped with fourth-generation cockpit and mission avionics, and self protection suite.

Upgraded Jaguars will feature all weather precision attack capability with enhanced weapon load.

Upgrade Features

The planned upgrade includes

  1. More powerful engines.
  2. Higher capacity alternators.
  3. Multi-mode radar.
  4. Glass cockpit with DARIN-3 navigation and attack avionics suite HOTAS controls.
  5. An Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (IDAS) being co-developed by the DRDO’s Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE) and Cassidian (formerly EADS Defense Electronics).

Darin III Avionics

The Darin III avionics upgrade incorporates new avionics architecture including Mission Computer (MC), Engine and Flight Instrument System (EFIS), Solid State Digital Video Recording System (SSDVRS), Solid State Flight Data Recorder (SSFDR) and additional functions in inertial global positioning system (INGPS), autopilot, radar and RWR. 

The upgrade covers modern navigation, EW and weapon delivery system with INGPS using primary and reversionary modes, near glass cockpit with two smart multi function display and head-up display.

Auto Pilot

Integration of autopilot on Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force is underway in two phases. As in August 2012, procurement of autopilot for 55 Jaguar aircraft had been completed and commercial discussions for repeat procurement of additional 95 autopilots were under progress. [via PIB]

Weapon Fit Upgrade

Jaguar avionics are being upgraded to  employ 'smart' or 'advanced' weapons like the Joint Standoff Weapon, Maverick missile, Paveway precision-guided munition and AIM-9M Sidewinder air-to-air missile.

IAF contracted Raytheon to develop a Munitions Control Unit (MCUs) that would allow its Darin II equipped Jaguars to use the smart weapons with minimal to no modifications to aircraft wiring and the flight or stores management software.

Raytheon developed an MCU measuring 13 by 6 by 3 inches that weighs roughly 6 pounds. It's compact enough to be fitted in a weapons pylon or Jaguar's avionics bay, from where it interfaces between "smart" weapons and the existing software of a legacy aircraft.

Orders are now being placed for the MCUs.

Engines Procurement for Upgraded Jaguars


On Monday, October 15, 2012, the IAF  issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Honeywell for 270 F-125IN engines to upgrade its Jaguar fleet of 125 aircraft.

The IAF is seeking a two phase contract. In Phase 1, expected to be completed by 2015-16, Honeywell will modify two Jaguar aircraft to use its F-125IN engines. 

During Phase 2,expected to be completed by 2023, HAL will re-engine the remaining Jaguars using technology transferred by Honeywell.

The contract was estimated to be worth $700 million in 2011.

Engine Procurement History

In November 2010, the IAF issued an RFP for the supply of 280 turbofans (including 40 spare engines) for re-engining IAF Jaguars. 

In response, Rolls-Royce offered its Adour MK-821 engine, an upgraded version of the Adour-811, and Honeywell its F125IN Turbofan engine that currently powers  Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation-built Ching-Kuo Indigenous Defense Fighter. 

The Honeywell F125IN has a max thrust of 43.8kN, and the Rolls-Royce Adour Mk811, 32.5kN.

According to Honeywell, F125IN is 267.6kg (590lb) lighter than the Adour-811 currently fitted on the Jaguar. The F125IN has 17% and 40% higher thrust that will allow the Jaguar to carry an additional 2-tons.

Rolls-Royce says its Adour Mk-821 will be a lower-risk upgrade that will offer 90% commonality with the Adour Mk951 turbofan fitted on BAE Systems/HAL Hawk Mk132. The upgraded engine will off er 20% increase in thrust

Both engines feature  Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC)

However, Rolls-Royce pulled out of the competition in March 2011 creating a single vendor situation and forcing cancellation of the tender.

Upgrade Progress

On November 28, HAL conducted the maiden flight of a Jaguar aircraft  equipped with Darin III upgraded avionics. 

“This is significant moment for HAL as the upgrade will result in major operational improvement with regard to all weather air to ground, air to sea and air to air capabilities through incorporation of multi mode radar”, said Dr. R. K. Tyagi, Chairman, HAL. 

Darin III upgrade, with re-engining and change over to higher capacity alternators would make Jaguar a more potent aircraft and extend its useful life-span.

The total design from system requirement capture, specification preparation, software, hardware, electrical, mechanical design and development has been done indigenously by HAL at its Mission & Combat System Research & Design Centre (MCSRDC) and aircraft trial modification is done by HAL’s Overhaul Division. The fleet compliance will also be carried out by HAL. 

SDI of IAF is the design partner for display software development and Aircraft System Testing Establishment (ASTE) takes care of system specification preparation, data analysis and flight testing along with Flight Test Centre of HAL.

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Boeing C-17 Globemaster


Introduction

India is purchasing 10 C-17 Globemaster III heavy lift tactical aircraft from the US Government through FMS under an agreement signed in June 2011.

The purchase is of 10 C-17 Globemaster III Block 18 aircraft is valued at $4.1 billion, including logistics support.

The agreement includes delivery of 45 F117-PW-100 engines (40 installed and 5 spare engines), missile warning systems, spares and repair parts, repair and return, flares, other explosives, aircraft ferry and refueling support, crew armour, mission planning system software, training and training equipment, publications and technical data.

The deal is the largest single military purchase from the US by India, surpassing the $2.1 billion purchase of eight Boeing P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft (MRA) in January 2009 and the $962 million acquisition of six Lockheed Martin-built C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft in March 2008.

Boeing will support India's C-17 fleet through the C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership, a multinational Performance-Based Logistics program. The GSP "virtual fleet" arrangement ensures mission readiness by providing all C-17 customers -- with varied fleet sizes -- access to an extensive support network for worldwide parts availability and economies of scale when purchasing materials.

The Globemaster III  is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. It can perform tactical airlift and airdrop missions and can also transport litters and ambulatory patients during aeromedical evacuations when required.

The aircraft capable of conveying combat units and their equipment up to a distance of 4,200 km - 9,000 km with a load of 40 Tons - 70 Tons in a single hop. This coupled with a short turnaround time and modern avionics allows it to be deployed rapidly to any place within India's areas of interest. 

Procurement Progress

In a press release dated January 22, 2013, Boeing announced that it had delivered the first of 10 C-17 Globemaster III airlifters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The aircraft, which had first flown on January 11, has now entered a U.S. Air Force flight test program at Edwards Air Force Base in Palmdale, Calif.

Boeing is on track to deliver four more C-17s to the IAF this year and five in 2014.

On June 6 2011, the Indian government's Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the purchase of 10 C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.

Boeing announced on June 15, 2011 that the Indian government had signed an agreement with the U.S. government to acquire 10 Boeing C-17 Globemaster III airlifters under FMS, approved by the U.S. Congress in May 2010.

According to the agreement, India will take delivery of its C-17s in 2013 and 2014.

Procurement of Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 engines 

On December 19, 2011, Pratt & Whitney announced that it had received a contract to produce the first four F117-PW-100 engines that will power the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III for the Indian Air Force. The engines will be delivered in second quarter of 2012.

Offset

Under the GOI's offset policy, Boeing is required to invest 30% of the total value of the deal in the defense or homeland security segment of Indian industry.

Under the offset program, Boeing will reportedly invest approximately $500 million in setup a wind tunnel to test jet engines in collaboration with DRDO. 

In June 2011, the Air Chief told IANS that the wind tunnel project will go a a long way in helping Indian scientists develop jet engines.

History

Boeing is reported to have briefed the IAF on the aircraft in October 2007. 

In 2008 India sent Boeing a Request For Information to which the company responded. The aircraft gave impressive flying demonstrations during Aero India 2009 in Bangalore.

In June 2009, the IAF projected a requirement for 10 aircraft to the government. 

The Globemaster III is more capable than Il-76 in terms of payload and range. It can carry 70 tons of cargo with a crew of 3, against the 45 tons carried by an IL-76 with a crew of 6. 

On November 6, 2009 it was reported that that Indian MOD is negotiating the purchase of 10 C-17s under a $1.7 billion deal under Foreign Military Sales (FMS).

The Globemaster participated in the joint air exercise between the USAF and IAF held in Agra between October 19-23, 2009 at Agra.

Letter of Request

On January 8, 2010, Aviation Week and Space Technology (AW&ST) reported that MOD has sent a letter of request to the US Government for purchase of 10 Globemaster C-17s under FMS.

According to the magazine, India wants deliveries of the aircraft to be stretched over the years, something Boeing had a problem with earlier because of limited orders. With over three years of orders at a production rate of 15 per year, Boeing is now reported to be in a better position to accommodate the request.  

Boeing later confirmed the development.

"Boeing is pleased that the Indian government has expressed interest in acquiring C-17s to modernise its airlift capabilities and we look forward to working closely with them," said Vivek Lal, vice-president and India country head for Boeing Defense, Space and Security.


Indian Defense Minister Confirms Procurement

Defense Minister A.K. Antony told the Indian parliament on March 10, 2010 that a letter of request has been issued to Washington.

"The proposal to procure C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from the U.S. government to meet the strategic airlift requirement of the Indian Air Force was approved by the Defence Acquisition Council on Oct. 19, 2009," he said. "The letter of request was issued to the United States government on Jan. 1."

Notification to US Congress

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency formally notified Congress on April 22, 2010 of the possible foreign military sale (FMS) of 10 Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft to the Indian Air Force.

The notification lists the potential value for the deal as $5.8 billion. The actual value will be finalized following negotiations and would depend on the package sought by the IAF, which besides the aircraft could also include training for air crew and maintenance personnel and training equipment, spares, test and ground-support equipment, technical assistance, engineering services, specific modifications and logistical and technical support.

User Trials

The IAF conducted flight trials of the aircraft in June 2010 operating from short strip in Himachal Pradesh and Leh in J&K.

Details of C-17 Globemaster III purchase

Block 18 aircraft

Boeing is offering the latest Block 18 aircraft. The aircraft would be configured to IAF requirements.

Delivery

During DefExpo 2012, Patrick Druez, business development (mobility) at Boeing Defense, Space & Security.said delivery of IAF ordered C-17 aircraft will start in June 2013 and be completed by end 2014.

“The test flight of the first C17 for India will begin in January [2013]. The certification will be done by May and the delivery will start in June. The training of IAF representatives will begin from May this year.” 

Delivery of the ordered aircraft would be completed by August 2014. [via Business Standard]

During the Singapore Air Show in February 2012 a Boeing official said that five of the 10 aircraft ordered would be delivered by next year and the other five in 2014.

As per the contract, delivery is to begin 24 months after contract signing.  


Basing

The IAF plans to base the aircraft in Agra.

Follow-Up Order

On February 14, 2012, during the Singapore Air Show, Paul Lewis, Director of International Communications for Defense, Space and Security for Boeing told the press, "Indian Air Force has expressed interest for six more C-17s." 

In June 2011, IAF Chief PV Naik told IANS that the was likely to order more than 16 Globmasters, since the IL-76 would need to be replaced in another 10 years.

Following user trials in July 2010, it was reported that the IAF will procure six additional C-17 Globemaster III aircraft under the FMS program, bringing the total procurement to 16.


IAF's Transport Fleet

The IAF's transport fleet currently comprises of 17 IL-76MD, 104 An-32s and 6 C-130Js.

India signed a $400 million contract with Ukrainian military export agency Ukrspetsexport to upgrade its AN-32 aircraft.

The C-17s will replace the 17 Il-76 transports, which have a max payload of 50 000 kg, compared to the C-17’s maximum of 74 000 kg. Both aircraft have a similar range, but the C-17 overall has better performance. At more than US$250 million per aircraft, it is far more expensive than the Il-76.

C-17 Globemaster III Characteristics

Boeing warrantees for the C-17 include a aircraft mission completion success probability rate of 92 percent, only 20 aircraft maintenance man-hours per flying hour, and full and partial mission availability rates of 74.7 and 82.5 percent, respectively. 

The C-17 measures 174 feet long (53 meters) with a wingspan of 169 feet, 10 inches (51.75 meters). 

Powerplants

The aircraft is powered by four, fully reversible, Federal Aviation Administration-certified F117-PW-100 engines (the military designation for the commercial Pratt & Whitney PW2040), currently used on the Boeing 757. Each engine is rated at 40,440 pounds of thrust. The thrust reversers direct the flow of air upward and forward to avoid ingestion of dust and debris. Maximum use has been made of off-the-shelf and commercial equipment, including Air Force-standardized avionics.


Crew

The aircraft is operated by a crew of three (pilot, copilot and loadmaster), reducing manpower requirements, risk exposure and long-term operating costs. Cargo is loaded onto the C-17 through a large aft door that accommodates military vehicles and palletized cargo. The C-17 can carry virtually all of the Army's air-transportable equipment.




Maximum payload capacity of the C-17 is 170,900 pounds (77,519 kilograms), and its maximum gross takeoff weight is 585,000 pounds (265,352 kilograms). With a payload of 169,000 pounds (76,657 kilograms) and an initial cruise altitude of 28,000 feet (8,534 meters), the C-17 has an unrefueled range of approximately 2,400 nautical miles. Its cruise speed is approximately 450 knots (.76 Mach). The C-17 is designed to airdrop 102 paratroopers and equipment.

Runway requirement

The design of the aircraft allows it to operate through small, austere airfields. The C-17 can take off and land on runways as short as 3,500 feet (1,064 meters) and only 90 feet wide (27.4 meters). Even on such narrow runways, the C-17 can turn around using a three-point star turn and its backing capability.

The U.S. Air Force has transported a brigade of men, tonnes of equipment and 400 vehicles over five nights, flying 17 shifts, he said, explaining the ability of the workhorse.

Boeing Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopters for IAF


Introduction

Boeing (AH64 D Apache Longbow) and Mil (Mi 28 Havoc) competed to supply 22 attack helicopters of 2.5t class to the IAF. The Mi 28 did not meet IAF requirements during flight trials. Boeing is currently the only contender in the field. The contract is estimated to be worth $550 million.

Procurement History

A $550 million-tender procure 22 attack helicopters to replace IAFs ageing Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack helicopter fleet was issued in 2008.

India scrapped the tender  on March 25, 2009 because none of the three companies still in the fray met the qualitative requirements.

A fresh tender was floated in mid 2009 and seven companies were invited to bid. The contract, estimated to be worth $600 million, stipulates aircraft in the 2.5t-class and envisages an optional delivery of additional 22 helicopters. 

Qualitative Requirements

The qualitative requirements are as follows

    * Twin engine
    * High maneuverability
    * Anti armor capability
    * All weather capability
    * All terrain capability 

The IAF wants these gunships to be highly-agile, have good armor protection and a 20mm caliber turret gun, as also be capable of firing 70mm rockets with a 1.2-km range and missiles with at least 7-km range. 

The helicopters are likely to be equipped with an electronic warfare and self protection suite developed by EADS and India's Defense Avionics Research Establishment.

Contenders

Of the seven companies invited to bid, only one remains in the fray as detailed below.

    * Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow
    * Eurocopter Tiger
    * AgustaWestland AW129 
    * Bell AH-1Z SuperCobra 
    * Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk 
    * Mil Mi-28
    * HAL's Light Combat Helicopter 

Eurocopter reportedly opted out of the race because the Tiger is undergoing upgrades and will not be available for trials in mid 2010 as required by the IAF.
Bell opted out of the race because its helicopter is still undergoing evaluation by the US Marine Corp.
HAL's Light Combat Hircraft, which is still underdevelopment, first took to the air in 2010.
Agusta Westland pulled out due to technical reasons
Sikorsky pulled out due to time constraints and procedural bottlenecks within their country.
Mil's Mi-28 did not make the cut during flight trials

Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow

Apache Longbow AH-64D
General characteristics

Crew: 2 (pilot, and co-pilot/gunner)
Length: 58.17 ft (17.73 m) (with both rotors turning)
Rotor diameter: 48 ft 0 in (14.63 m)
Height: 12.7 ft (3.87 m)
Disc area: 1,809.5 ft² (168.11 m²)
Empty weight: 11,387 lb (5,165 kg)
Loaded weight: 17,650 lb (8,000 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 23,000 lb (10,433 kg)
Powerplant: 2× General Electric T700-GE-701 and later upgraded to T700-GE-701C (1990–present) & T700-GE-701D (AH-64D block III) turboshafts, -701: 1,690 shp, -701C: 1,890 shp, -701D: 2,000 shp (-701: 1,260 kW, -701C: 1,490 kW, -701D: 1,490 kW) each
Fuselage length: 49 ft 5 in (15.06 m)
Rotor systems: 4 blade main rotor, 4 blade tail rotor in non-orthogonal alignment

Performance

Never exceed speed: 197 knots (227 mph, 365 km/h)
Maximum speed: 158 knots (182 mph, 293 km/h)
Cruise speed: 143 knots (165 mph, 265 km/h)
Range: 257 nmi (295 mi, 476 km) with Longbow radar mast
Combat radius: 260 nmi (300 mi, 480 km)
Ferry range: 1,024 nmi (1,180 mi, 1,900 km)
Service ceiling: 21,000 ft (6,400 m) minimum loaded
Rate of climb: 2,500 ft/min (12.7 m/s)
Disc loading: 9.80 lb/ft² (47.9 kg/m²)
Power/mass: 0.18 hp/lb (0.31 KW/kg)

Armament

Guns: 1× 30 × 113 mm (1.18 × 4.45 in) M230 Chain Gun with 1,200 rounds
Hardpoints: Up to 6 pylon stations on stub wing
Rockets: Hydra 70 air-to-ground rockets
Missiles: combination of AGM-114 Hellfire, AIM-9 Sidewinder, and AIM-92 Stinger


Trials

Competitive trials of the helicopters were held in Ladakh and Rajasthan and also in the US and Russia.

Boeing AH-64D Selected

India announced on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 that Boeing AH-64D had been selected to meet the IAF requirement.

An Indian Defense Ministry source said, “We decided not to choose the Mi-28 for technical reasons. Our experts believe that the Mi-28N did not meet the requirements of the tender on 20 positions, while the Apache showed better performance.” 

In August 2012, TOI reported that India was poised to sign a $1.4 billion deal for the purchase of the 22 helicopters as also the supply of 812 AGM-114 L-3 Hellfire Longbow missiles, 542 AGM-114 R-3 Hellfire-II missiles, 245 Stinger Block I-92 H missiles and 12 AN/APG-78 fire-control radars. [via Economic Times]

Boeing AH-64E Capabilities

The IAF is getting the Block III version of the Apache AH-64D. The US Army has renamed the AH-64D Block III the “AH-64E,”

The helicopter is a fine example of where attack helicopter technology is headed.

The Apache is powered by two turboshaft engines, has a top speed of 296 kph, range of 520 km, and carries laser-guided precision missiles, 70 mm rockets and 30 mm automatic cannon.

Some of the outstanding features of the helicopter are:

  1. Mast Mounted Radar
  2. Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS)
  3. Target Acquisition and Designation Sights (TADS)
  4. Pilot Night Vision System (PVNS)
  5. Ground Fire Acquisition System (GFAS). 

Mast Mounted Radar

A mast mounted radome on the Apache AH-64D houses the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar. Its millimeter-wave sensing improves performance under poor visibility conditions, and is less sensitive to ground clutter. The short wavelength also allows a very narrow beam-width, which is more resistant to countermeasures while guiding the helicopter’s missiles to their targets. 

Block III will extend the radar’s range, or give commanders the option of trading it for an Unmanned Aerial Systems Tactical Common Data Link Assembly (UTA) that’s mounted in the same place on the mast.

Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS)

The AH-64 introduced the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS). The pilot can slave his chin mounted gun to the helmet display.

Target Acquisition and Designation Sights (TADS)

The TADS on the AH-64 is a combined sensor and targeting unit comprising stabilized electro-optical sensors, a laser rangefinder and laser target designator.

Pilot Night Vision System (PVNS)

The PVNS on the Apache AH-64 comprises an infra-red camera slaved to the head movement of the pilot.

Ground Fire Acquisition System (GFAS)

GFAS cameras and infrared sensors detect the muzzle flash from ground fire, classify the firing weapon, and move the information through an Aircraft Gateway Processor into the cockpit. Pilots immediately see the enemy icon on their display screen, integrated with Blue Force Tracking maps. 

News

Boeing AH-64D Bid Detailed

Flight magazine reported on January 4, 2011 that the US government had approved a direct commercial sale of the AH-64D Block III to India.

A notice issued by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 27 December estimates that a direct commercial sale of 22 AH-64Ds, plus weapons, sensors, spares and training would cost about $1.4 billion.

According to the DSCA the sale will include 50 General Electric T700-701D engines, over 1,350 Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, 245 Raytheon Stinger missiles, 12 Lockheed/Northrop Grumman APG-78 fire control radars and 23 Lockheed modernised target acquisition designation sight/pilot night vision sensors.

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