Industry News
Farnborough September 1, 2006 - QinetiQ, acting as consortium lead, has successfully delivered the Cursor on Target (CoT) project, a demonstration of network enabled tactical communications between different friendly forces, in a joint networked air-land (NAiL) environment.
This Network Enabled Capability (NEC) demonstration was commissioned by the MOD Capability Manager (Information Superiority), managed by the MOD Air Command and Control Systems (ACCS) IPT and supported by the US National Reconnaissance Office. The delivery partnership also included Front Line UK and NATO Commands, DSTL, General Dynamics (UK), SAIC/VTC and US Allies and linked ‘sensors to deciders and effectors’ to deliver a number of desired tactical combat scenarios. These were played out in real time and included: suppression of enemy air defenses, close air support and air power show of force.
The exercise, with live air and ground military maneuvers, took place on military ranges managed by QinetiQ for the MOD. Not only was a step change increase in in-flight aircrew situational awareness achieved but aircrews also believe that the much improved battlespace situational awareness will reduce exposure to hostile air defense.
Red and Blue Force positional data from US and UK ISTAR assets and tracking systems, including Blue Force situational awareness provided by the UK Bowman system, was datalinked to ground based radio receivers linked into a QinetiQ network emulating the MOD Defense Information Infrastructure (DII). All data inputs were converted to the COT XML standard to enable full ‘machine-to-machine’ information exchange and delivery to battle managers using the in service US Joint Automated Deep Operations Co-ordination System (JADOCS). This system has coalition-proven functionality and is being further evaluated by NATO. Battle managers were then able to 'smart push' a digital target/effects 'mission package' to two Tornado GR4 combat aircraft, for display on their navigator’s display units, enabling them to be made aware of the battle picture and take appropriate action.
By transmitting the UK/US positional data contained within the mission package via a secure NATO standard '9-line brief' data burst message, QinetiQ was able to deliver all the situational awareness the aircrew believed was needed to assess the mission situation. The messages were each transferred in seconds, having been formulated using Variable Message Format (VMF) and digitally encrypted, to the prototype Tornado GR4 Integrated Targeting System via tactical datalink radios. The data remained digital throughout the process from sensing, through integration, to downloading into the GR4 navigation/attack system, which placed the 'Cursor over the Target'. An image of the target/effects area was transmitted to the GR4 aircraft and presented on their tactical displays: a network enabled first.
The Tornado aircrew, using QinetiQ-developed technology, were also able to command a 'smart pull' of positional information when it suited their in-flight mission management and cockpit workload: another key NEC capability goal.
Wing Commander John Cole, CM(IS)' COT Trials NEC Capability Integration Lead said: "Once again, as they have done so consistently at CWID in the past five years, QinetiQ has provided me and the MOD with World-leading network enabled capability integration skills. The COT trials represent a signal event in working with UK and US Front Line Commands, the DPA and other industry partners to integrate existing and emerging equipment capabilities to demonstrate clearly, to an informed audience, the benefits of investment in NEC."
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World Naval News
Ottawa September 1, 2006 - Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Ottawa is heading to the Gulf region, as part of Operation ALTAIR, CANADA’s maritime contribution to the campaign against terrorism. The Halifax-class patrol frigate is expected to join coalition naval efforts in late-September, and will be deployed for six months.
HMCS Ottawa will deploy to the Gulf region with a US Expeditionary Strike Group, and will work with a coalition of naval forces. With her crew of about 225 officers and sailors, and her CH-124 Sea King helicopter detachment, HMCS Ottawa will conduct surveillance patrols and conduct maritime interdiction operations in order to control maritime activity in the region.
"The Navy's participation in Operation ALTAIR represents a portion of Canada's ongoing contribution and commitment to international peace and security, enhancing the security of Canadians at home and abroad," said the Honorable Gordon O'Connor, Minister of National Defense. "It is a demonstration of Canada's continued commitment to its coalition allies and to contributing to global stability."
"This deployment demonstrates Canada's commitment to international security and the campaign against terrorism," said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defense Staff. "Taking advantage of Canadian interoperability with coalition navies, I am confident that HMCS Ottawa will make an important contribution to coalition efforts for stability in the Arabian Gulf region."
HMCS Ottawa is the third ship to deploy on Operation ALTAIR. The first was HMCS Toronto, from January to July 2004, and the second was HMCS Winnipeg, from April to September 2005. This is Canada's 20th naval deployment in support of the campaign against terrorism.
Alameda CA September 1, 2006 - The Coast Guard Cutter Morgenthau, homeported here, returned home Tuesday after a three-month patrol to the Bering Sea.
Morgenthau conducted 32 fisheries boardings to ensure the safety of crews embarked on the many vessels in the Bering Sea fishing fleet, and to protect the abundance of fish in Alaskan waters.
A multi-mission Coast Guard cutter with a crew of 167, Morgenthau quickly responded to distress calls during their three-month deployment, rescuing a total of four mariners and a dog during the patrol.
The Morgenthau also was assigned to protect and assist the Cougar Ace, a 654-foot cargo ship in distress south of the Aleutian Islands. Morgenthau deployed its HH-65A helicopter and small boats to assist salvage teams working to right the Cougar Ace, which was listing 59 degrees. Morgenthau's crew worked to monitor the ship for pollution and maintain a security zone.
ROCN Destroyers Leave for Taiwan
Taiwan recently took delivery of the remaining two Kidd-class destroyers out of four purchased from the United States. Officials predicted the warships would help bolster security in the Taiwan Strait and maintain peace in the East Asian region.
The destroyers, to be named Zuoying and Magong after two Taiwanese harbors, left the United States last weekend bound for Taiwan where they will join the ROC Navy, according to agencies.
The four destroyers were sold to Taiwan at a cost of US$800 million after being decommissioned from the US Navy. Transfer of the destroyers was approved in 2001 by US President George W. Bush. Taiwan took delivery of the first two destroyers, the Keelung and the Suao, commissioning them in December 2005.
The 9,600-tonne Kidd-class destroyers--renamed the Keelung-class after handover--sail at up to 32 nautical miles per hour, have radar with a search range of 400 kilometers and surface-to-air missiles with a range of 144 kilometers. The ships will take 30 to 40 days to travel the 12,000 nautical miles to their destination.
According to ROCN Commander-in-Chief Lin Chen-yi, refurbishment of the four warships started in September 2003. An ROCN team was sent to the United States for combat training and to help with reconstruction. The project was completed six months ahead of schedule.
Lin spoke at the ceremony marking the destroyers' departure from Charleston Harbor, South Carolina on August 25. Also present were Marine General John Toolan, principal director of the Asia-Pacific Affairs Office of the US Secretary of Defense, and David Lee, Taiwan's representative in the United States, as well as navy representatives from both sides.
Lin expressed his appreciation to navy staff of both countries. He also emphasized that, following upgrading, the destroyers were able to integrate their air, surface and sub-surface systems for collective use on combat missions. They would thus enable the ROCN to fulfill its responsibility to secure peace in the Taiwan Strait.
Toolan said that sale of the destroyers was a good example of the United States' commitment to help Taiwan maintain sufficient self-defense capabilities as set forth in the Taiwan Relations Act.
"The strength of Taiwan's military has kept the threat at bay, which has allowed the democratic transformation and economic development to take place," he said.
Toolan said, however, that the basis of the United States' lasting relationship with Taiwan went much deeper than provision of defense articles and services, founded as it was upon shared values and common principles. He said that the sale of the warships to Taiwan was an investment in the continuation of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
He called on Taipei to work harder to ensure stability in the strait by continuing with its defense modernization, suggesting that efforts should not be hampered by domestic politics.
Toolan also urged the leaders of Taiwan's ruling and opposition parties to "shoulder a collective responsibility of providing for the security of Taiwan's 23 million people," adding that, in doing so, Taiwan was playing an important role of preserving regional peace and helping keep many more millions across East Asia safe from the horrors of war.
Toolan reiterated that the United States opposes any unilateral change by either side to the cross-strait status quo as well as Beijing's use of force or coercion to compel a resolution of the cross-strait dispute.
Local news reports said that, while the Kidd-class destroyers represent the largest warships in the ROCN and so have boosted the nation's defenses against China, Taiwan still faces a growing military threat from China.
According to a Pentagon report released in May, a significant part of China's military buildup remains focused on Taiwan, with up to 790 ballistic missiles targeting the island. The report to the US Congress also noted that Beijing is engaged in a sustained effort to project its power into the western Pacific so as to interdict US aircraft carriers and other military forces.
Only last week, a Chinese warship passed through the Taiwan Strait, where it was closely monitored by both the ROCN and US Navy, according to a local report.
China currently has 50 submarines, including eight Russian-made diesel-electric subs, and recently was reported to have taken delivery of the last of four Sovremenny-class destroyers from Russia. These destroyers are similar in size to the US Navy's Aegis-equipped missile cruisers and, with an anti-submarine attack capability extending as far as 150 kilometers could pose a significant threat to the Kidd-class destroyers, a Taiwanese weapons expert said.
Islamabad September 1, 2006 (APP) - Pakistan and Canada have underscored the need for closer cooperation in their struggle against the war on terror.
Both the sides expressed their eagerness to harness defense ties during a meeting between Senior Federal Minister and Minister for Defense, Rao Sikandar Iqbal, and the visiting Minister of National Defense of Canada, Gordon O’Connor, here Friday.
The meeting discussed the geo-political situation of the region with special focus on developments in Afghanistan.
The Minister told the visiting dignitary that it was the earnest desire of Pakistan to see peace and stability in Afghanistan. The Minister highlighted the steps taken by Pakistan against fighting the menace of terrorism and extremism.
The Minister told his Canadian counterpart that Pakistan was cooperating with 50 countries of the world in fight against terrorism. He said Pakistan was making all-out efforts to curb the menace.
The Canadian Defense Minister said that Canada wanted to reinforce its ties with Pakistan for the mutual benefit of the two countries.
He briefed the Minister about the developments taking place in Afghanistan. The meeting also stressed the need for exchange of visits by the Military personnel of the two countries so as to benefit each other’s interests.
Earlier, the Canadian Defense Minister called on Secretary Defense, Lt. General Tariq Waseem Ghazi and discussed with him matters of bilateral importance.
The Secretary told the Canadian Defense Minister that a stable Afghanistan was vital for the economic interest of Pakistan as it would help provide access and trade corridor to Pakistan to Central Asian States.
The Secretary emphasized the need for institutionalization of Defense cooperation between the two countries.
Gordon O’Connor also called on Federal Minister for Defense Production, Habibullah Warraich, and discussed with him matters of mutual interest.
Both sides exchanged views on the Security environment of the region.
The Minister told the Defense Minister of Canada that the Government of Pakistan wanted to see peace and stability in Afghanistan.
The Minister apprised the Canadian Defense delegation about the role played by Pakistan in combating terrorism.
New Delhi September 1, 2006 - Vice Admiral Sureesh Mehta has been appointed as the next Chief of the Naval Staff. Admiral Mehta will take over from Admiral Arun Prakash, who retires on 31 October 2006.
Promoted to Rear Admiral in 1995, he served as Flag Officer Goa Area, Assistant Controller Carrier Projects and Assistant Chief of Personnel. He commanded the Western Fleet, the 'sword arm' of the Indian Navy, during Operation Parakram. In the rank of Vice Admiral, his prestigious appointments include the Chief of Personnel, DG Coast Guard and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff at Naval Headquarters. He is currently the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam.
The Admiral assumed command of the premier Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy on 30 Sep 05. During his tenure, the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has been involved in numerous operational missions in the Bay of Bengal and South East Asia. Also, the first ever President's Fleet Review on the Eastern Sea Board was held in Feb 06, which saw the participation of over 66 ships and 50 aircraft of the combined Indian Fleet.
The Admiral was born on 18 Aug 1947. He is an alumnus of the National Defense Academy and was commissioned in the Indian Navy in July 1967. He is an aviator of the 'old mould', having joined the Fleet Air Arm early and has extensively operated from our earlier aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, flying conventional jets, the Sea Hawk aircraft. The Flag Officer is a graduate of the prestigious Defense Services Staff College, Wellington, and the National Defense College, New Delhi. His earlier important afloat and ashore appointments include the command of the frigates INS Beas and INS Godavari as also the premier Naval Air Station - INS Garuda.
The Admiral was awarded the 'Ati Vishist Seva Medal' in 1995 and 'Param Vishist Seva Medal' in 2005 for his exceptional meritorious services.
New Delhi September 1, 2006 - The Defense Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee leaves New Delhi tomorrow on a six-day official visit to France and Germany. He will be accompanied by senior officials of the Ministries of Defense and External Affairs, the Defense Research and Development Organization and the Armed Forces. The delegation includes Shri S Banerjee, Director General Acquisition, Lt Gen HS Lidder, CISC, HQ IDS, Air Marshal FH Major, AOC-in-C, Eastern Command, Dr. Prahlada, CC R&D, DRDO, Ms Sujata Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry External Affairs and Shri Gautam Chatterjee, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defense.
During the first leg of his visit to France from Sep 03 to 05, Shri Mukherjee will hold discussions with his French counterpart Ms Michele Aliotte - Marie, besides visiting the Center for Planning and Operations Management (CPCO) and the Command of Air Defense and Air Operations (CDAOA) at Taverny. CPCO is the Joint Staff Operations Center of the French Defense Forces. It deals with international operations, plans and execution at Joint Staff level. The delegation will be given an overview of all types of operations being undertaken by the French Defense Forces all over the world. The Minister will also have an interactive round table with CEOs of French Defense related industries. The visit of Shri Mukherjee to France is highly significant, as India is likely to achieve better results in the field of defense cooperation by way of strengthening the defense relations.
Defense relationship between India and France has been fairly robust in the field of supply and production of defense related equipment. The India-France Defense MOU signed in 1982 and Indo-French High Committee set up in 1998 are the landmarks in India-France Defense Cooperation. Cooperation has also increased in the field of joint exercises, security dialogue and training.
Shortly after his arrival in Paris on Sep 03, the Defense Minister will go to Neuve Chapelle to pay homage at the Indian Soldiers' Memorial. The memorial was built in honor of the Army of India which fought in France and Belgium during the First and Second World Wars and in remembrance of those servicemen who have no known grave.
In the second leg of his tour, Shri Mukherjee will arrive in Berlin on Sep 05. The two countries are likely to sign a Defense Cooperation Agreement for strengthening defense relations. Shri Mukherjee is visiting Germany with an aim to enhance Defense Cooperation between the two countries, which is at present not so wide. India is interested in enhancing defense cooperation with Germany in the field of Defense Technology and Training. Both the countries are also interested in cooperation in the field of Joint Naval Exercises and more interaction between the armed forces. Shri Mukherjee will hold bilateral talks with his counterpart Mr. Franz Josef Jung and the German Minister for Economics and Technology Mr. Michael Gloss. He will also meet the captains of German Defense Industries. During his stay in Berlin, the Defense Minister will pay his homage at the Zehrensdorf Indian Cemetery where lie the graves of 206 Indian soldiers, who died as prisoners during the First World War in Halbmond and Windberg Prisoner of War camps near Zossen. The Common Wealth War Graves Commission has rebuilt the cemetery.
New Delhi September 1, 2006 - Vice Admiral Rustom Faramroze Contractor has taken over as new Director General of Coast Guard.
Vice Admiral Contractor was commissioned in the Indian Navy on July 01, 1971. He hails from Nagpur in Maharashtra where he did his schooling at the St. Francis De'sales High School and thereafter joined the National Defense Academy, Kharakvasla, Pune.
Vice Admiral Contractor, a specialist in Navigation and Direction has held various important operational and staff appointments both afloat and ashore. He was the Commanding Officer of the first Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), INS Sukanya, which he commissioned in South Korea. He has held the rare distinction of Commanding INS Rajput and INS Ranvijay as also the Command of the navy's aircraft carrier, INS Virat. Vice Admiral Contractor has also had the privilege of commanding the prestigious Western Fleet of the Indian Navy.
He has held important and challenging shore appointments such as the Commanding Officer INS Jarawa & Naval Officer-in-Charge, Port Blair, Commanding Officer INS Mandovi and Commandant, Naval Academy, Goa, Chief Staff Officer (Operations) at the Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command, Vishakhapatnam, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Information Warfare and Operations) at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi and Chief of Staff at the Headquarters, Southern Naval Command, Kochi. Prior to his present appointment he was the Assistant Controller of Carrier Projects at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi.
He is an alumnus of the College of Naval Warfare, Mumbai and the Royal College of Defense Studies at London, UK. He is a recipient of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Nao Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) awarded by the President of India.
Vice Admiral Contractor is married to Thrity Contractor and has a 21-year-old son and 19 year old daughter.
Islamabad September 1, 2006 (APP) - Canadian Defense Minister Gordon O’Connor Friday lauded Pakistan for doing "fantastic job" in the fight against terrorism and stressed more cooperation between Kabul and Islamabad to effectively counter the menace.
"I really appreciate what Pakistan is doing and they are doing a fantastic job," the Minister said in an interview to APP here after a visit to neighboring Afghanistan.
O’Connor, who served Canada as a military officer for over 30 years and retired at the rank of Brigadier General, acknowledged the difficult job of controlling the long porous border that Pakistan and Afghanistan share.
He underlined the need for both the Pakistan and the Afghanistan government to increase cooperation and have trust in each other.
"The two governments have to cooperate as much as possible; they have to exchange information...more the (two) governments cooperate, it makes the situation better. Show confidence in (each) other," he added.
The Minister appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in fighting terrorism, especially in dealing with Taliban.
O’Connor who visited Kandahar and Kabul before landing in Islamabad agreed there had been a resurgence of Taliban in the last four to five months, particularly in the southern parts of the war-ravaged country.
He was in Afghanistan to meet more than 2,200 troops, most of who are stationed in the southern parts. About 22 Canadian soldiers have been killed since they first landed in the country in 2002.
Given the large number of Taliban in the Kandahar region, the Minister anticipated the new surge in Taliban’s activity to go on for a number of months before it was brought under control.
He noted increasing provocation from the radical militia who were now attacking in a rather bigger group of 30 to 40 Taliban.
But that was also resulting in more fatalities on the Taliban side, he said while adding that there had also been casualties on the coalition forces’ side.
While it was difficult to eliminate insurgency, the Canadian Minister was confident to reduce Taliban activities in the next four or five months.
The Canadian Minister said there had been elements in the local population who supported Taliban. "There had to be a support from the local people, otherwise insurgency could not survive," he added.
However, O’Connor said he gathered from his meetings with the tribal leaders in Kandahar that they desired peace and wanted Taliban to stop their activity to enable the Afghan government carry on with serving the people.
Responding to a question on the security situation in the South Asia region, the Minister said it was in everybody’s interest that India and Pakistan should develop and increase friendly ties.
He said it was important, as both Pakistan and India were "significant countries" which had an effect on the entire region.
On Pakistan-Canada military ties, O’Connor said in his meetings with the Pakistan leaders he would stress to encourage and improve bilateral defense relationship.
He suggested more frequent meetings between the officials of the two armed forces to further strengthen the defense ties.
The Minister informed that the two countries have started to exchange officers at staff college level and were exploring possibilities of more such training.
As Pakistan has a number of defense production capabilities, O’Connor said on his return he would ask to look into the possibility of cooperation in this area.
Appointed to Cabinet in February, 2006 O’Connor was first elected to the House of Commons in 2004 and re-elected in 2006.
Islamabad September 1, 2006 (APP) - Pakistani and US Navy would conduct joint exercise "Inspired Union 06" from September 6. The bilateral exercise would be conducted in the Northern Arabian Sea.
The purpose of exercise is advance maritime interdiction operations, counter terrorism and other wide range of professional exercises. The exercise would be conducted in three phases.
The units participating in the exercise from Pakistan Navy are PNS Shahjahan, PNS Badar, PNS Moawin, PNS/M Saad and USS Nicholas, USS Mcfaul, USS Albuquerque, and USS Enterprise.
Besides special service forces from both sides will also participate in the exercise.
St Petersburg September 1, 2006 (RIAN) - A state-of-the-art gunboat was handed over to the Russian Navy in St. Petersburg Friday.
militaryphotos.net
Built at St. Petersburg's Almaz shipyard, the Astrakhan will be the first in the navy warship to have stealth capabilities and can be armed with various artillery systems previously used only on destroyers.
Attending the ceremony, Navy Commander Vladimir Masorin said, "Our country is still capable of building combat ships without outside assistance and there is no doubt it will be in the future."
He said the Russian Navy was faced with difficulties in funding procurements, which resulted in a lack of ships and funds. He said shipbuilding was growing increasingly expensive, as was technical equipment.
militaryphotos.net
Masorin said the Astrakhan would operate in the Caspian Flotilla.
Almaz is one of Northwest Russia's leading shipyards. It was established in 1901 and has built more than 1,000 missile and patrol boats for the Russian Navy and Coast Guard and foreign clients since then. Sales in 2005 were more than 1.7 bln rubles ($61.46 million.)
London September 1, 2006 - Two survivors from a Greek ferry disaster have completed a charity cycle ride from Lands End to John O' Groats, where the Royal Navy officer who saved their lives greeted them.
The Samina Express Ferry crashed into rocks and then sank off the coast of the Greek Island, Paros, in September 2000. Of the 500 passengers, 82 died. Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Invincible, however, played a vital role in rescuing the survivors.
Niki Gibson-Hosking, 33, and Katrina Wallace, 30, were two of those survivors, who, after spending hours stuck on a rock in the middle of the sea were plucked to safety by one of Invincible's helicopters. Six years later, the ship's commanding officer at the time, now Deputy Chief of Defense Staff (Health), Vice Admiral Rory McLean, met the girls he saved, as they finished their 17 day cross country ride at the northern tip of mainland Britain.
Remembering that day in September 2000 Vice Admiral McLean said:
"The rescue of survivors from the ferry disaster was a major event in the life of HMS Invincible during my command and one which I remember with both pride and sadness. Pride because of the marvelous ingenuity, courage and efforts of the crew of Invincible and the other ships and aircraft from the task group who all helped to rescue so many people. Sadness at the memory of the 82 passengers that we were not able to reach and sadly lost their lives."
Niki and Katrina's ‘Pedal for Paros', hopes to raise £5,000 for the voluntary Hellenic Sea Rescue Team, which is based on the island of Paros and was set up as a result of the tragedy.
The islanders of Paros teamed together the night of the tragedy and risked their own lives, setting out in Force Nine gales to rescue as many as they could, pulling survivors off the rocks and tending to those rescued. Niki explains:
"This cause is very personal and close to our hearts. We wanted to give something positive back to the community of Parikia – a resort on Paros. We will be in Paros on the 26th September, the anniversary of the disaster, to pay our respects. It will be emotional but also a positive step forward for us both."
Katrina added:
"The ride and trying to raise money for Paros lifeboats means so much to me as the islanders of Paros did so much for us that night of the 26th Sept 2000, I would like to give something back to the Paros community. By going back there again in September 2006 our first return since the disaster feels a step further in my acceptance of this being part of my life."
"The rescue of survivors from the ferry disaster was a major event in the life of HMS Invincible during my command and one which I remember with both pride and sadness," said Vice Admiral McLean.
The 1,000-mile bike ride was undertaken with two friends of Niki and Katrina; Lianne Hall and Sue Roberts. They set off on 15 August 2006 and arrived at John O' Groats on Thursday 31 August. Niki explained how much work went into the ride:
"When Kitty and I first decided to do this ride we had no idea of the amount of work involved in planning: the route, equipment, web-site and sponsorship. All this has happened through brilliant friendship and teamwork, as Lianne and Sue got right in there with us and have helped with everything – what stars! I want to give a massive thank you to Kitty, Lianne and Sue for riding End to End with me!"
Vice Admiral McLean, meeting the girls in John O Groats concluded:
"Raising funds to help pay for a lifeboat on the island of Paros is a very practical way of trying to ensure such a disaster does not occur again. It is a very courageous undertaking and I would like to offer my very best wishes and support to Niki and Katrina at the end of their journey."
Fourteen personnel in Afghanistan Nimrod crash named
London September 3, 2006 - It is with very great sadness and regret that the Ministry of Defense has confirmed the names of the fourteen British personnel killed following the crash of a Nimrod MR2 aircraft in Afghanistan on Saturday 2 September 2006.
They are:
The Nimrod MR2 was based at RAF Kinloss in Scotland.
On hearing of the incident, Secretary of State for Defense Des Browne, said:
"This is dreadful and shocking news. I know that the people of Britain will join me in sending our deep condolences to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives, and to the British military as it deals with the loss of friends and comrades.
"This is not the time for speculation, as the operation to secure the crash site is ongoing. We will provide further information as soon as there is more to say.
"Everyone will understand that our first priority is to inform and support the families of those on board.
"I can say, however, at this stage all the indications are that this was a terrible accident and not the result of hostile action.
"This tragic incident should serve to remind us all of the risks the British military shoulder on all our behalf across the world every day."
Britain’s most senior Royal Air Force officer, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy, added:
"The loss of the Nimrod MR2 over Afghanistan earlier today is desperately sad and tragic news. Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of the brave and committed aircrew who lost their lives today, and our priority is to provide them all with the support they require at this extremely difficult time.
"As the Secretary of State has said, at the moment there is no reason to believe that the aircraft was lost as a result of hostile action. A Board of Inquiry has been convened to determine the cause of this tragic loss."
The media are asked to respect the wishes of service personnel and their families that the media does not approach them at this very difficult time.
No further details will be released until Monday 4 September 2006.
Norfolk August 30, 2006 - USS San Antonio (LPD 17) completed its Combat Systems Ship Qualification Trial (CSSQT) of the ship’s unique combat systems suite on Aug. 20. The first of the San Antonio-class of amphibious transport dock ships fired RIM 116 Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAMs) and the Mk 46 gun system while exercising the Ship Self Defense System (SSDS).
CSSQT is a comprehensive test and evaluation of new construction ships and their crews, which was orchestrated by a team of 24 engineers and technicians from Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division. While San Antonio had conducted structural test firings and evaluations of SSDS separately, this was an opportunity for the crew to demonstrate their entire integrated combat systems against actual targets and in near realistic tactical scenarios.
RAM is a surface-to-air missile with dual-mode guidance and a proximity and contact fuse. It is an integral element of the ship’s self defense system and requires no shipboard information after launch. During CSSQT, San Antonio fired RAMs from her forward and after launchers while engaging air targets simulating anti-ship missiles (ASMs).
For surface targets engagements, San Antonio utilized her two Mk 46 guns against high-speed craft running attack profiles. This system is the shipboard version of the Marine Corps Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle’s gun, a stabilized weapon that can fire up to 250-rounds per minute. During CSSQT, the ship’s crew fired the gun remotely from the Combat Information Center, using low light television camera and a laser range finder with a closed-loop tracking system to optimize accuracy. Hundreds of rounds of Armor Piercing and High Explosive 30mm ammunition were fired at targets as small as jet skis. CSSQT also included a demonstration of the gun weapon systems’ success against air targets.
SSDS provides San Antonio with a potent self-defense capability designed for a cluttered littoral conflict environment, where reaction times are exceedingly short. SSDS integrates ship radar systems with anti-air weapons for both hard kill (RAM) and soft kill (countermeasures) capabilities. SSDS synthesizes sensor inputs from the ship’s three dimensional air search, horizon and surface search radars to enhance target tracking and to form a composite track with engagement quality data. San Antonio is the first ship to fire their RAM BLK 1A missiles out of a MOD 3 launcher in auto-engagement mode in accordance with their SSDS doctrine.
The ship’s completion of CSSQT reflects steady progress since commissioning and Hurricane Katrina a year ago. In fact, with the completion of CSSQT, San Antonio’s post delivery test and trial testing will pause as the ship’s crew begins intensive Unit Level Training. This training will qualify the crew to Amphibious Surge Ready status before resuming additional ship testing later in the year. When testing completes in 2007, San Antonio will be one of the most intensively tested and evaluated amphibious ships ever built.
Washington September 1, 2006 - The Navy will commission the USS Texas, second ship of the Virginia attack submarine class, Saturday, Sept. 9 during a 10 a.m. (CDT) ceremony at the Port of Galveston piers in Galveston, Texas.
As the Navy's next-generation attack submarine, the Virginia-class submarine is the first class specifically designed to counter post-Cold War threats, providing the Navy with the capabilities required for safeguarding the nation’s interests in the 21st century.
Texas has improved stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that enable it to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements. With a modular design, Texas along with its other sister submarines of the Virginia-class will be able to accommodate technology upgrades throughout its life.
Sen. John Cornyn of Texas will deliver the ceremony’s principal address. Laura Bush, first lady of the United States, serves as the ship’s sponsor. In the time-honored tradition of commissioning US naval ships, she has been invited to give the order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"
This is the fourth ship of the Navy to carry the name Texas since the original ship was commissioned in 1895. The second USS Texas was a battleship, which took part in both World Wars. The most recent ship named Texas was a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser, which was decommissioned in 1993.
Texas can attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters and other sea forces. Texas also has superior anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare capabilities, is able to provide Special Forces delivery and support, and can conduct mine delivery and minefield mapping. With enhanced communications connectivity, Texas will also provide important joint task force support and full integration into strike and expeditionary group operations.
Capt. John Litherland, a 1982 graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle, will become the first commanding officer of the ship, leading a crew of approximately 134 officers and enlisted sailors. Texas will be homeported in Groton, Conn., as a unit of the US Atlantic Fleet.
Texas is 377 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 34 feet, a navigational draft of 32 feet, displaces approximately 7,800 tons submerged, can dive to depths greater than 800 feet, and can sustain speeds of more than 25 knots when submerged.
The ship is also designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time.
The superior capabilities of Texas and other Virginia-class submarines will help ensure the Navy maintains undersea dominance well into the 21st century.
Washington September 1, 2006 - Submarine Team One (ST1), Team Submarine’s cross-organizational group tasked with reducing submarine maintenance costs, has continued its efforts by pushing for the removal of bore sand from Ohio Class submarine's main propulsion shafts during availabilities. In previous Ohio Class maintenance availabilities, the propulsion shaft was removed from the submarine, restored by the shipyard, refilled with bore sand, and then reinstalled. Refilling the shaft with sand is a costly and time-consuming process so ST1 used USS Nevada as a test platform for leaving the shaft empty. Sea Trials following Nevada’s refueling overhaul showed no change in the acoustic signature and the initiative was deemed a success Aug. 10.
"We should realize a cost avoidance of around $185,000 on future Ohio Class submarine shaft refurbishments by not refilling the shaft with sand," said Capt. A.J. Mullarky, Naval Sea Systems Command's (NAVSEA) program manager for Strategic and Attack Submarines.
"We are very excited that this initiative worked," said Mullarky. "Due to the hard work of everyone in ST1, especially those on our hull, mechanical and electrical team, and in NAVSEA’s Directorate for Ship Design, Integration and Engineering."
ST1 consists of Commander, Naval Submarine Forces; Commander, Submarine Forces Pacific Fleet; NAVSEA Deputy Commander for Undersea Warfare; the Submarine Maintenance Engineering, Planning and Procurement Activity; NAVSEA Deputy Commander for Industrial Operations; NAVSEA Naval Nuclear Propulsion; Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion, and Repair in Groton and Norfolk; and the Naval Shipyards.
Washington September 1, 2006 - The Virginia Class submarine construction program is in full swing as North Carolina (SSN 777) reached a major milestone on Aug. 31 with the completion of her pressure hull. This key event marked the completion of final welds that join sections of the cigar-shaped hull into a single unit that protects the crew and equipment from sea pressure.
"Completing the pressure hull is a significant milestone during submarine construction," said Capt. David Johnson, Virginia Class Program Manager. "The ship looks more like a complete submarine, which gives a definite sense of progress and sets the stage for final construction, test and outfitting and delivery of the ship."
General Dynamic’s Electric Boat (GDEB) and Northrop Grumman Newport News (NGNN) jointly build Virginia Class submarines. Each shipbuilder constructs sections of the ship, while final assembly, outfitting, test and delivery are alternated between them.
GDEB has already delivered USS Virginia (SSN 774) under the co-production arrangement and will deliver Hawaii (SSN 776) this coming winter. NGNN delivered Texas in June 2006 and is scheduled to deliver North Carolina in the spring of 2008 when it will become the fourth submarine of the Virginia Class to join the fleet.
"Virginia Class submarines are bringing needed capability to the fleet and the Global War on Terror," stated Rear Adm. William Hilarides, Program Executive Officer Submarines. "As we build these ships, we will continue to look for production efficiencies that will make them more affordable. Along with our shipyard partners, we are getting the learning curve down and working together to find ways to meet our challenge of two submarines a year for $4 billion, in 2005 dollars, by 2012."
The Navy has six other Virginia Class submarines under contract, and all are in various phases of construction. The Navy plans to build a total of 30 Virginia Class attack submarines to replace the aging Los Angeles Class submarines.
Washington September 1, 2006 - Navy and Army officials held a contract signing ceremony at the Army’s Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. Aug. 28 to signify the cooperation between the services in the joint procurement of the Netfires Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS).
The Navy is procuring the NLOS-LS for use on Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) surface warfare mission module. "The NLOS-LS system brings considerable capability to the Littoral Combat Ship Surface Warfare Mission Package, allowing precision engagement of multiple moving sea targets at ranges of up to 40 kilometers," said Capt. Walt Wright, program manager, Littoral Combat Ship Mission Modules (PMS 420), Program Executive Office Littoral and Mine Warfare (PEO LWM).
Netfires LLC of Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded a cost-plus-incentive-fee contract Aug. 25 for $54.8 million as part of an estimated $1.15 billion contract to procure the Non-Line of Sight Launch System Naval Littoral Combat Ship Integration, System Development and Demonstration. The work will be conducted in Tucson, Ariz., and Baltimore. It will be completed by Aug. 31, 2010. The US Army Aviation & Missile Command is the contracting activity.
The Navy version of the NLOS-LS consists of the Raytheon-built Precision Attack Missile (PAM) and Lockheed Martin's joint Container Launch Unit (CLU). The PAM is a low-cost direct attack missile that is seven inches in diameter and weights about 117 pounds. It has a variable thrust rocket motor, dual-mode uncooled infrared/semi-active laser seeker, and a multi-mode warhead.
Two-way data links on the PAM allows the missile to be re-tasked in flight and to downlink images of targets. The CLU contains 16 missile tubes in a 4 by 4 configuration. One missile tube is used for command and control and the other 15 tubes contain missiles.
The LCS will have a modular weapons bay built into the ship that will contain four CLUs for a total of 60 missiles. Once all missiles are expended, the CLUs can be removed and new units can be installed to replace them.
"The joint procurement of this system by the Army and Navy will result in better interoperability, command and control and mutual support between land and sea forces in the littorals. It's a win for both services," said Wright. "As we deliver the first LCS Mission Packages and embark on a spiral development process to meet future requirements and improve warfighting capability, PMS 420 will continue to actively seek economic efficiencies through the potential use of other Army (and Air Force) systems that fill our mission needs."
Mina Salman, Bahrain September 2, 2006 - USCGC Baranof (WPB 1318) got underway Sept. 1, to rejoin the Australian-led Combined Task Force 158 in the North Persian Gulf.
Homeported out of Miami, Baranof has been forward deployed to the US Navy's 5th Fleet region for the past three years in support of maritime security operations (MSO).
"Our primary mission is to protect the oil platforms off the coast of Iraq," said Baranof's Commanding Officer, Lt. Kate Higgins, a native of Washington, D.C. "They're completely vital to the economic recovery of Iraq.
Baranof is one of several Coast Guard patrol boats assigned to Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA's mission is to train, equip, deploy and support maritime forces conducting operations in support of MSO, Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in the Naval Forces Central Command's area of responsibility.
"Our job is to establish normalcy into the region by performing Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations each day and patrolling the waters," said Higgins. "MSO allows the merchants and fishermen to pursue their livelihood."
MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Persian Gulf and protect Iraq's sea-based infrastructure, to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.
Higgins said the key to the ship's ongoing success is the crewmembers' high morale.
"Our morale and skill sets have allowed us to have a huge impact on MSO in the AOO [area of operations]," she said. "It has allowed us to perform our job at a moment's notice."
The importance of keeping spirits high is felt among the crew, as well. Coast Guard seaman Joseph Cuzynski, an engine mechanic aboard the patrol boat, has been in the Coast Guard for one year and already understands how morale affects the entire crew.
"It's important to encourage and pick each other up, whether performing maintenance on the engines, patrol boats, or conducting Khawr Abd Allah (KAA) river runs with Iraqi marines," said Cuzynski, a native of Alta Loma, Calif. "When it comes right down to it, we know we have to keep it calm, cool, and collected because we're in a war zone."
Higgins says she couldn't have handpicked a better team.
"The crew chose to come to this ship and this region," she said. "That says a lot about them as individuals. I'm blessed to have such a motivated crew."
Persian Gulf September 2, 2006 - Following a two-month maintenance overhaul, the mine countermeasures ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13) joined sister ship USS Ardent (MCM 12) in getting underway Sept. 1, from the Mina Salman pier in Bahrain.
The 80-member crew of the Avenger-class mine warfare ship will test newly installed equipment and recently improved systems while conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf.
"Being underway is always a special time for a ship. Although we were in port for some maintenance challenges, the professionalism and determination of the crew remained high," said Lt. Cmdr. Scott Curtis, Dextrous commanding officer. "We worked together as a team."
Deputy Commander of US Naval Forces Central Command, Rear Adm. John Miller, praised the crew on their effort during the maintenance period.
"You conducted yourself in a most professional manner, with enthusiasm and a willingness to get the job done. You should be proud of your training and your hard work."
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/FMF) David Edwards of Corpus Christi, Texas, was one of many Sailors who expressed great pride in the crew and the opportunity to participate in the Navy’s mission in the region.
"As the ship’s corpsman, I have the privilege to work on a daily basis with the entire crew. I am proud to be associated with this ship. We are energized and excited to be underway once again."
Damage Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Ivory Griffin of Greenville, Miss., credited the intensive training of the crew with the ship’s success.
"We are constantly training on all aspects of the ship, from in-rate and professional training to leadership," Griffin said. "We are ready to go."
Coalition forces conduct maritime security operations under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.
San Diego September 3, 2006 - The Minority Staff Director from the House Appropriations Committee, David H. Morrison, toured the guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) at Naval Base San Diego, Aug. 31.
In an effort to help Congress understand the need to fund future spending plans involving the Cruiser Modernization Program, Morrison was guided throughout the ship, including reviewing the ship’s steam systems, visiting the central control station and the galley.
"The Cruiser Modernization Program will take Bunker Hill from being the oldest of the [Ticonderoga] class to the most modern," said Capt. Chuck Gaouette, commanding officer of Bunker Hill. "There are a number of things that are part of the modification we were able to show Mr. Morrison."
The Cruiser Modernization Program will upgrade most combat systems, all mechanical and electrical systems and replace steam systems with electrical systems.
"We spend a lot of time chasing steam leaks, and I spent about $1 million of our repair money last year fixing problems with our evaporators and other portions of the steam system," said Gaouette. "Not only does it cost a lot, but the unseen cost is all of the man hours our crew expends fixing these steam-related problems. So, taking steam off the ship is going to be huge for morale."
In addition to Bunker Hill, which doesn’t begin upgrading until February 2008, Morrison also went aboard USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) to view some of the new modifications already completed for comparison.
"The visit will help Congress and the Navy come to grips and connect the dots between cruiser modernization," said Lt. Cmdr. Darren McPherson, executive officer of Bunker Hill. "Bunker Hill was the before-look and Mobile Bay is the after-look."
The Cruiser Modernization Program will require approximately $269 million in funding.
"It’s one thing to present a paper or show slides and pictures; it’s quite another for [a representative] to come down, see the ship and talk to the Sailors," said Gaouette. "We believe the 22 Ticonderoga-class cruisers are important for the present Navy and the Navy to come. Cruiser modernization is the best way to ensure they are relevant for the next 20 or 30 years."
Washington September 1, 2006 - NOAA’s National Weather Service will conduct a limited communications test of the Tsunami Warning System in the coastal areas of California, Oregon, and Washington on Wednesday, September 13, between 10:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time.
The West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center, located in Palmer, Alaska will disseminate a special test tsunami warning message. The message will be clearly labeled as a test. Upon receipt of the test message, National Weather Service offices responsible for western coastal areas will broadcast a brief message via NOAA Weather Radio, describing the purpose of the test, using the "Routine Monthly Test" (RMT) code. The actual Tsunami Warning code (EAS code TSW) will not be used for this test.
The general public can participate in the test by monitoring NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards. Media outlets responsible for relaying emergency information may relay the test information.
Officials will evaluate the success of the test and correct any problems. To assist in this process, people in coastal areas should monitor their NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards during the test and provide feedback online at:
http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/tsunamitest.phpIf there is excessive seismic activity on September 13, the test will be cancelled.
Units that receive the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards signal are available at many electronic retail stores, marine supply stores, mail order catalogs and the Internet. Prices vary by model and available options, but typically range between $20 and $80.
In 2007 NOAA, an agency of the US Commerce Department, celebrates 200 years of science and service to the nation. Starting with the establishment of the US Coast and Geodetic Survey in 1807 by Thomas Jefferson much of America's scientific heritage is rooted in NOAA. The agency is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and information service delivery for transportation, and by providing environmental stewardship of our nation's coastal and marine resources. Through the emerging Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS), NOAA is working with its federal partners, more than 60 countries and the European Commission to develop a global monitoring network that is as integrated as the planet it observes, predicts, and protects.
Colombo September 2, 2006 (PTI) - At least 80 Tamil Tigers were killed by the Sri Lankan Navy after a six-hour battle with a flotilla of rebel boats off the island's northern coast early today, the Defense Ministry said.
The boats of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were heading towards the northern port of Kankesanthurai at the northern edge of the Jaffna peninsula in an attempt to attack it, the ministry said in a statement.
Naval gunboats intercepted the Tiger boats leading to the battle which lasted for six hours, it said.
"Twelve Sea Tiger craft, including five suicide boats, were destroyed killing over 80 Tiger terrorists and injuring many others on board," the ministry said. "The remaining craft left the area."
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