Russia test launches ICBM from White Sea, hits Kamchatka target
MOSCOW, November 28 (RIA Novosti) - The Dmitry Donskoi Typhoon-class strategic nuclear-powered submarine has carried out another test launch of a Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile, a Defense Ministry source said on Friday.
"The Bulava was launched from a submerged position in the White Sea toward a target located at the Kura test site on the Kamchatka Peninsula," the source said.
He later said it had successfully engaged its designated target on the Kamchatka Peninsula about 6,700 kilometers (4,200 miles) east of Moscow.
The previous test of the Bulava missile was carried out on September 18.
Russia is planning to adopt new Bulava missiles for service with the Navy and commission the first Borey-class strategic nuclear submarine in 2009.
The Bulava (SS-NX-30), developed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology, is designed for deployment on Borey-class Project 955 nuclear-powered submarines.
The first submarine in the series, the Yury Dolgoruky, was built at the Sevmash shipyard in the northern Arkhangelsk Region and is currently undergoing sea trials.
The submarine has a length of 170 meters (580 feet), a body diameter of around 13 meters (42 feet), and a submerged speed of about 29 knots.
It will be equipped with 16 Bulava ballistic missiles, each carrying up to 10 nuclear warheads and having a range of 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles).
International Military Discussion
Re: International Military Discussion
From digg:
Navy retires 40yr old "secret" sub -
http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/11/n ... s_113008w/
Navy retires 40yr old "secret" sub -
http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/11/n ... s_113008w/
Re: International Military Discussion
Russia's Bulava ICBM in full production, next test launch due soon
MOSCOW, December 1 (RIA Novosti) - Russia is to hold another test launch of the Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile this month, while the missile has already gone into full-scale production, a deputy prime minister said on Monday.
"Before the end of the year, another Bulava test [launch] will be conducted, while our defense industry enterprises have already started full-scale production," Sergei Ivanov said.
The latest test of the sea-launched Bulava missile took place on November 28. It was launched from the Dmitry Donskoi Typhoon-class strategic nuclear-powered submarine in the White Sea, effectively engaging its designated target on the Kamchatka Peninsula about 6,700 kilometers (4,200 miles) east of Moscow.
Russia is planning to adopt new Bulava missiles for service with the Navy and commission the first Borey-class strategic nuclear submarine in 2009.
The Bulava (SS-NX-30), developed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology, is designed for deployment on Borey-class Project 955 nuclear-powered submarines.
The first submarine in the series, the Yury Dolgoruky, was built at the Sevmash shipyard in the northern Arkhangelsk Region and is currently undergoing sea trials.
The submarine has a length of 170 meters (580 feet), a body diameter of around 13 meters (42 feet), and a submerged speed of about 29 knots.
It will be equipped with 16 Bulava ballistic missiles, each carrying up to 10 nuclear warheads and having a range of 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles).
MOSCOW, December 1 (RIA Novosti) - Russia is to hold another test launch of the Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile this month, while the missile has already gone into full-scale production, a deputy prime minister said on Monday.
"Before the end of the year, another Bulava test [launch] will be conducted, while our defense industry enterprises have already started full-scale production," Sergei Ivanov said.
The latest test of the sea-launched Bulava missile took place on November 28. It was launched from the Dmitry Donskoi Typhoon-class strategic nuclear-powered submarine in the White Sea, effectively engaging its designated target on the Kamchatka Peninsula about 6,700 kilometers (4,200 miles) east of Moscow.
Russia is planning to adopt new Bulava missiles for service with the Navy and commission the first Borey-class strategic nuclear submarine in 2009.
The Bulava (SS-NX-30), developed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology, is designed for deployment on Borey-class Project 955 nuclear-powered submarines.
The first submarine in the series, the Yury Dolgoruky, was built at the Sevmash shipyard in the northern Arkhangelsk Region and is currently undergoing sea trials.
The submarine has a length of 170 meters (580 feet), a body diameter of around 13 meters (42 feet), and a submerged speed of about 29 knots.
It will be equipped with 16 Bulava ballistic missiles, each carrying up to 10 nuclear warheads and having a range of 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles).
Re: International Military Discussion
Russia building missiles to counter US space defences: military
Russia is developing missiles designed to avoid being hit by space-based missile defence systems that could be deployed by the United States, a top Russian general was quoted as saying Monday.
"Development is now under way on the combat outfitting of missiles whose flight falls outside the range of space-based missile defence systems," Nikolai Solovtsov, the commander of Russia's missile forces, told Interfax news agency.
Solovtsov called the project a countermeasure to what he described as US plans to deploy weapons in space, according to Interfax.
"Judging by an analysis of US work in new weapons development and creation, they truly see space as a potential sphere for armed conflict and in connection with this are not withdrawing from plans to place weapons in space," he said.
He also said Russia was "perfecting the structure and makeup" of its missile forces in response to a planned US land-based missile shield, a controversial project that has provoked furious reactions from Moscow.
Solvtsov said the steps would include deployment of RS-24 intercontinental missiles, designed to overcome systems such as the US missile shield.
In recent months Moscow has sharply criticised Washington's plans to put an anti-missile radar facility in the Czech Republic and interceptor missiles in Poland, despite US assurances that the system is not directed against Russia.
Russia has also reacted warily to US moves that it has seen as contributing to the militarisation of outer space under the hawkish administration of President George W. Bush.
In February, when the US military was planning to shoot down a rogue US spy satellite, Russia's defence ministry said the plans looked like a veiled weapons test and an "attempt to move the arms race into space."
That month Russia and China proposed a new treaty banning the use of weapons in space, but the idea was rejected by the White House.
Russia is developing missiles designed to avoid being hit by space-based missile defence systems that could be deployed by the United States, a top Russian general was quoted as saying Monday.
"Development is now under way on the combat outfitting of missiles whose flight falls outside the range of space-based missile defence systems," Nikolai Solovtsov, the commander of Russia's missile forces, told Interfax news agency.
Solovtsov called the project a countermeasure to what he described as US plans to deploy weapons in space, according to Interfax.
"Judging by an analysis of US work in new weapons development and creation, they truly see space as a potential sphere for armed conflict and in connection with this are not withdrawing from plans to place weapons in space," he said.
He also said Russia was "perfecting the structure and makeup" of its missile forces in response to a planned US land-based missile shield, a controversial project that has provoked furious reactions from Moscow.
Solvtsov said the steps would include deployment of RS-24 intercontinental missiles, designed to overcome systems such as the US missile shield.
In recent months Moscow has sharply criticised Washington's plans to put an anti-missile radar facility in the Czech Republic and interceptor missiles in Poland, despite US assurances that the system is not directed against Russia.
Russia has also reacted warily to US moves that it has seen as contributing to the militarisation of outer space under the hawkish administration of President George W. Bush.
In February, when the US military was planning to shoot down a rogue US spy satellite, Russia's defence ministry said the plans looked like a veiled weapons test and an "attempt to move the arms race into space."
That month Russia and China proposed a new treaty banning the use of weapons in space, but the idea was rejected by the White House.
Re: International Military Discussion
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08147/884904-96.stm
Even working for the military, though, Mr. Sharma realizes the Scout Ball has to be reasonably priced. He hopes to get each unit down to about $3,000 or $4,000, which means 50 of them could be destroyed in action and still not equal the cost of the standard $250,000 life insurance policy on a U.S. soldier.
Re: International Military Discussion
USA will not be able to strike nuclear blow on Russia without response
Russia is developing the new equipment for strategic missiles in response to the USA’s initiative to create the missile shield in space. Colonel-General Nikolai Solovtsov, the Commander of the Strategic Missile Troops, said that the United States was considering an opportunity to set up a missile defense shield in space.
“Judging upon the analysis of the works which the United States currently conducts in the field of development of new weapons, they do consider space as an alternative battlefield. The USA does not refuse from its plans to launch intercepting weapons in space,” the official said.
Russia has been enhancing its strategic missiles since the beginning of the 1990s against the background of a possible strike of US space troops, Solovtsov said.
Russia’s renowned Topol-M missile, for example, was designed to cut the duration and the height of the active part of its flight trajectory, as well as to increase its resistance against the impact of laser weapons owing to the use of special coatings and other features.
Russia plans to use nanotechnologies for the creation of the intercontinental ballistic missiles, which are to be built before 2020. “These are adaptive measures, and they will be taken in the event the USA deploys its missile shield in space,” the general said.
The official added that the USA would not be able to strike a nuclear blow on Russia and have no responding attack afterwards. The US concept of the uncontested nuclear strike stipulates the destruction of Russia’s all attacking missiles. According to the concept, the majority of Russia’s missile systems will be destroyed on their locations as a result of the so-called preventive counter strike of the US strategic offensive arms. If Russia launches its missiles in response, the USA plans to destroy them with the help of its anti-missile systems.
Solovtsov is certain that such a scenario will never be possible for the United States. “Russia’s strategic forces will be able to strike back no matter how the situation may unfold. Russia’s existing and future preventive system is capable of making a timely detection of a massive nuclear blow on Russia’s territory and transmit the adequate information to the state and military command,” the general said.
"After receiving authorization from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces it will not take our strategic rocket force more than two-three minutes to carry out the task of launching missiles. This means that the strike group of the force is always ready for a strike of reply," he said.
In case of such a strike "most of the missiles will be fired before the warheads of the adversary strike the deployment areas of missile formations," he said.
"This is guaranteed by the high operative and technical readiness for immediate combat use and also the promptness and stability of the combat command in conditions of resisting the adversary," Interfax quoted the general as saying.
Up to 96 percent of launch facilities of the rocket force are in due readiness for launch on a daily basis, he said. "This guarantees the task of striking key targets constituting the core of the military- economic potential of any aggressor," he said.
"However, we are also prepared for the worst case scenario in a nuclear conflict. Thanks to the mobile component of the strike group with enhanced survivability, the Rocket Force has the necessary potential to carry out missions in case of a so-called deep reply strike when missiles are launched after a nuclear strike of the aggressor," Solovtsov added.
"This is not a groundless statement. It is based on the results of simulating various scenarios of the breakout and development of nuclear missile conflicts," he said.
The grouping of advanced RS-12M2 Topol-M and RS-24 missile systems that are expected to be introduced will be highly effective in penetrating the U.S. layered missile defense system, he said.
"In the final account all these factors will guarantee the fulfillment of the combat tasks of the Strategic Rocket Force in various military-strategic conditions," Solovtsov told Interfax.
Russia is developing the new equipment for strategic missiles in response to the USA’s initiative to create the missile shield in space. Colonel-General Nikolai Solovtsov, the Commander of the Strategic Missile Troops, said that the United States was considering an opportunity to set up a missile defense shield in space.
“Judging upon the analysis of the works which the United States currently conducts in the field of development of new weapons, they do consider space as an alternative battlefield. The USA does not refuse from its plans to launch intercepting weapons in space,” the official said.
Russia has been enhancing its strategic missiles since the beginning of the 1990s against the background of a possible strike of US space troops, Solovtsov said.
Russia’s renowned Topol-M missile, for example, was designed to cut the duration and the height of the active part of its flight trajectory, as well as to increase its resistance against the impact of laser weapons owing to the use of special coatings and other features.
Russia plans to use nanotechnologies for the creation of the intercontinental ballistic missiles, which are to be built before 2020. “These are adaptive measures, and they will be taken in the event the USA deploys its missile shield in space,” the general said.
The official added that the USA would not be able to strike a nuclear blow on Russia and have no responding attack afterwards. The US concept of the uncontested nuclear strike stipulates the destruction of Russia’s all attacking missiles. According to the concept, the majority of Russia’s missile systems will be destroyed on their locations as a result of the so-called preventive counter strike of the US strategic offensive arms. If Russia launches its missiles in response, the USA plans to destroy them with the help of its anti-missile systems.
Solovtsov is certain that such a scenario will never be possible for the United States. “Russia’s strategic forces will be able to strike back no matter how the situation may unfold. Russia’s existing and future preventive system is capable of making a timely detection of a massive nuclear blow on Russia’s territory and transmit the adequate information to the state and military command,” the general said.
"After receiving authorization from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces it will not take our strategic rocket force more than two-three minutes to carry out the task of launching missiles. This means that the strike group of the force is always ready for a strike of reply," he said.
In case of such a strike "most of the missiles will be fired before the warheads of the adversary strike the deployment areas of missile formations," he said.
"This is guaranteed by the high operative and technical readiness for immediate combat use and also the promptness and stability of the combat command in conditions of resisting the adversary," Interfax quoted the general as saying.
Up to 96 percent of launch facilities of the rocket force are in due readiness for launch on a daily basis, he said. "This guarantees the task of striking key targets constituting the core of the military- economic potential of any aggressor," he said.
"However, we are also prepared for the worst case scenario in a nuclear conflict. Thanks to the mobile component of the strike group with enhanced survivability, the Rocket Force has the necessary potential to carry out missions in case of a so-called deep reply strike when missiles are launched after a nuclear strike of the aggressor," Solovtsov added.
"This is not a groundless statement. It is based on the results of simulating various scenarios of the breakout and development of nuclear missile conflicts," he said.
The grouping of advanced RS-12M2 Topol-M and RS-24 missile systems that are expected to be introduced will be highly effective in penetrating the U.S. layered missile defense system, he said.
"In the final account all these factors will guarantee the fulfillment of the combat tasks of the Strategic Rocket Force in various military-strategic conditions," Solovtsov told Interfax.
Re: International Military Discussion
Britain delays new carriers for RN by two years due to budget shortfalls.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... tfall.html
Two aircraft carriers delayed for two years to rescue MoD from budget shortfall
Two major aircraft carriers designed to boost Britain's world standing will be delayed for two years as part of a package of measures to rescue the Ministry of Defence from a £1.5 billion budget shortfall.
By Thomas Harding, Defence Correspondent
Last Updated: 5:58PM GMT 11 Dec 2008
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... tfall.html
Two aircraft carriers delayed for two years to rescue MoD from budget shortfall
Two major aircraft carriers designed to boost Britain's world standing will be delayed for two years as part of a package of measures to rescue the Ministry of Defence from a £1.5 billion budget shortfall.
By Thomas Harding, Defence Correspondent
Last Updated: 5:58PM GMT 11 Dec 2008
Re: International Military Discussion
Brazil's nuclear sub ambitions.Its pres. says that it is on track.
http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/g ... 2_6112.php
Brazilian Nuclear Submarine on Track, President Says
Friday, Dec. 12, 2008
Brazilian plans to develop a nuclear-powered submarine should be achieved within "a few years," according to a statement yesterday by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (see GSN, Jan. 29).
(Dec. 12) - Brazil remains interested in building a nuclear submarine, modeled here by the Brazilian navy in Sao Paolo (courtesy Fernando Cavalcanti).
"Agreements to build Brazil's first nuclear-propelled submarine are firming up more every day," Lula said in remarks read by Defense Minister Nelson Jobim. "With this, in a few years Brazil will be part of the select group of countries that possess this crucial element in building an effective deterrent ability" (Agence France-Presse/Spacewar.com, Dec. 11).
Brazil's long-delayed submarine ambitions have been rejuvenated by the discovery of a major offshore oil field which officials have said needs submarine protection. The nation has begun an effort to purchase diesel-powered submarines from France that could serve as prototypes for future nuclear-powered boats.
"We believe that a nuclear-powered submarine is a resource that Brazil, with its considerable coastal waters, needs," nuclear official Arthur Campos said earlier this year in an Agencia Brasil article. "Every day that passes, the wealth and potential of our territorial waters become manifest and this has to be protected. The use of submarines is a resource that guarantees our sovereignty."
Some nonproliferation experts, however, have expressed concern over Brazil's nuclear ambitions.
Domestic discussions of how to protect "Brazil’s vast resources, in particular the Amazon region and huge new Tupi offshore oil deposit, have raised the possibility of a new arms race in South America and highlighted the significance of nuclear technology -- whether for a submarine reactor, uranium enrichment, or nuclear weapons," said Monterey Institute of International Studies analysts Sarah Diehl and Eduardo Fujii in a March WMD Insights article.
Of particular concern are the nation's uranium enrichment plans and how nuclear submarines would be fueled. U.S. and Russian submarines use highly enriched uranium in their power plants, and many use greater enrichment levels, even nuclear weapon-grade uranium.
Brazil has been developing a uranium enrichment plant at Resende and has butted heads with international nuclear inspectors over how to monitor activity at the site (see GSN, May 10, 2006). The long-running dispute, apparently resolved for now, triggered the attention of nonproliferation analysts.
"A significant question is whether Resende will ever produce enriched uranium for the Brazilian navy's troubled nuclear submarine reactor," said Sharon Squassoni and David Fite in a 2005 Arms Control Today article. Squassoni was then with the U.S. Congressional Research Service and Fite was a staffer on the House International Relations Committee.
"Although Brazilian naval officials have noted that advanced ceramic technologies no longer require submarines to use 93 percent or more enriched (i.e., weapons-grade) uranium in their fuel, a facility that produced even 20 percent enriched uranium would require significantly more intrusive inspections, containment, and surveillance," they said (Greg Webb, Global Security Newswire, Dec. 12).
http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/g ... 2_6112.php
Brazilian Nuclear Submarine on Track, President Says
Friday, Dec. 12, 2008
Brazilian plans to develop a nuclear-powered submarine should be achieved within "a few years," according to a statement yesterday by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (see GSN, Jan. 29).
(Dec. 12) - Brazil remains interested in building a nuclear submarine, modeled here by the Brazilian navy in Sao Paolo (courtesy Fernando Cavalcanti).
"Agreements to build Brazil's first nuclear-propelled submarine are firming up more every day," Lula said in remarks read by Defense Minister Nelson Jobim. "With this, in a few years Brazil will be part of the select group of countries that possess this crucial element in building an effective deterrent ability" (Agence France-Presse/Spacewar.com, Dec. 11).
Brazil's long-delayed submarine ambitions have been rejuvenated by the discovery of a major offshore oil field which officials have said needs submarine protection. The nation has begun an effort to purchase diesel-powered submarines from France that could serve as prototypes for future nuclear-powered boats.
"We believe that a nuclear-powered submarine is a resource that Brazil, with its considerable coastal waters, needs," nuclear official Arthur Campos said earlier this year in an Agencia Brasil article. "Every day that passes, the wealth and potential of our territorial waters become manifest and this has to be protected. The use of submarines is a resource that guarantees our sovereignty."
Some nonproliferation experts, however, have expressed concern over Brazil's nuclear ambitions.
Domestic discussions of how to protect "Brazil’s vast resources, in particular the Amazon region and huge new Tupi offshore oil deposit, have raised the possibility of a new arms race in South America and highlighted the significance of nuclear technology -- whether for a submarine reactor, uranium enrichment, or nuclear weapons," said Monterey Institute of International Studies analysts Sarah Diehl and Eduardo Fujii in a March WMD Insights article.
Of particular concern are the nation's uranium enrichment plans and how nuclear submarines would be fueled. U.S. and Russian submarines use highly enriched uranium in their power plants, and many use greater enrichment levels, even nuclear weapon-grade uranium.
Brazil has been developing a uranium enrichment plant at Resende and has butted heads with international nuclear inspectors over how to monitor activity at the site (see GSN, May 10, 2006). The long-running dispute, apparently resolved for now, triggered the attention of nonproliferation analysts.
"A significant question is whether Resende will ever produce enriched uranium for the Brazilian navy's troubled nuclear submarine reactor," said Sharon Squassoni and David Fite in a 2005 Arms Control Today article. Squassoni was then with the U.S. Congressional Research Service and Fite was a staffer on the House International Relations Committee.
"Although Brazilian naval officials have noted that advanced ceramic technologies no longer require submarines to use 93 percent or more enriched (i.e., weapons-grade) uranium in their fuel, a facility that produced even 20 percent enriched uranium would require significantly more intrusive inspections, containment, and surveillance," they said (Greg Webb, Global Security Newswire, Dec. 12).
Re: International Military Discussion
Brazil buys 50 helicopters, 5 submarines from France.
Brazil on Tuesday signed contracts worth $12 billion to buy 50 military transport helicopters and five submarines from France.
The submarine deal involves the purchase of four conventionally powered Scorpene attack submarines, and the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine to be built with French cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Rio de Janeiro.
A French official traveling with Sarkozy said the total value of the contracts was 8.6 billion euros ($12 billion ) -- 6.7 billion euros for the submarines, and 1.9 billion euros for the helicopters.
The French government will pocket around six billion euros of that total, with the rest going to private defense firms involved in the contracts.
The contracts involve significant transfers of technology -- a priority for Brazil, which wants to develop an advanced defense industry of its own.
The French president told a news conference his decision to allow the technology transfer was a conscious choice "to help Brazil have a status as a military power in the service of peace."
Lula, at his side, said: "Today, France is closer to Brazil, Brazil is closer to France."
Brazil has said it is looking to use the submarines to patrol its territorial waters which have recently yielded discoveries of massive oil fields.
Brazil on Tuesday signed contracts worth $12 billion to buy 50 military transport helicopters and five submarines from France.
The submarine deal involves the purchase of four conventionally powered Scorpene attack submarines, and the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine to be built with French cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Rio de Janeiro.
A French official traveling with Sarkozy said the total value of the contracts was 8.6 billion euros ($12 billion ) -- 6.7 billion euros for the submarines, and 1.9 billion euros for the helicopters.
The French government will pocket around six billion euros of that total, with the rest going to private defense firms involved in the contracts.
The contracts involve significant transfers of technology -- a priority for Brazil, which wants to develop an advanced defense industry of its own.
The French president told a news conference his decision to allow the technology transfer was a conscious choice "to help Brazil have a status as a military power in the service of peace."
Lula, at his side, said: "Today, France is closer to Brazil, Brazil is closer to France."
Brazil has said it is looking to use the submarines to patrol its territorial waters which have recently yielded discoveries of massive oil fields.
-
Mark Schwartzbard
- BRFite -Trainee
- Posts: 34
- Joined: 29 Aug 2008 17:28
Re: International Military Discussion
Hmmmm, now why does the Indian Scorpene deal look like a bargain. The French are really milking this cow.Vipul wrote:Brazil buys 50 helicopters, 5 submarines from France.
Brazil on Tuesday signed contracts worth $12 billion to buy 50 military transport helicopters and five submarines from France.
The submarine deal involves the purchase of four conventionally powered Scorpene attack submarines, and the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine to be built with French cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Rio de Janeiro.
A French official traveling with Sarkozy said the total value of the contracts was 8.6 billion euros ($12 billion ) -- 6.7 billion euros for the submarines, and 1.9 billion euros for the helicopters.
The French government will pocket around six billion euros of that total, with the rest going to private defense firms involved in the contracts.
The contracts involve significant transfers of technology -- a priority for Brazil, which wants to develop an advanced defense industry of its own.
The French president told a news conference his decision to allow the technology transfer was a conscious choice "to help Brazil have a status as a military power in the service of peace."
Lula, at his side, said: "Today, France is closer to Brazil, Brazil is closer to France."
Brazil has said it is looking to use the submarines to patrol its territorial waters which have recently yielded discoveries of massive oil fields.
Re: International Military Discussion
UK deterrent is basically american
http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/2139/bri ... -deterrent
I think it comes as a shock to most people on either side of the Atlantic when they learn how much the UK depends on the United States for its nuclear deterrent. Even I was a little taken aback during my visit to Aldermaston when Don Cook, the Managing Director of the Atomic Weapons Establishment, began to address us in his flat American accent.
I thought “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot? Couldn’t they have found someone British?”
After a couple of days at the AWE, and a tour of the lovely historical collection, I accepted the reality that, no, the United Kingdom does not in any way, shape, or form have an independent nuclear deterrent.
The UK has executed three designs since Red Snow — Anglicized variants of the B61, the W59 and the W76.
http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/2139/bri ... -deterrent
Re: International Military Discussion
The cow is desperate for some military super power status.Venezuela s build up might be giving its neighbour some inferiority complex.All the same it looks likely Brazilian nuke sub would be version of the scorpene armed with cruise missiles rather than ballistic missiles.That statement should be more like France is closer to Brazil reals , Brazil reals is closer to France.Iam wrote:Hmmmm, now why does the Indian Scorpene deal look like a bargain. The French are really milking this cow.Vipul wrote:Brazil buys 50 helicopters, 5 submarines from France.
Brazil on Tuesday signed contracts worth $12 billion to buy 50 military transport helicopters and five submarines from France.
The submarine deal involves the purchase of four conventionally powered Scorpene attack submarines, and the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine to be built with French cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Rio de Janeiro.
A French official traveling with Sarkozy said the total value of the contracts was 8.6 billion euros ($12 billion ) -- 6.7 billion euros for the submarines, and 1.9 billion euros for the helicopters.
The French government will pocket around six billion euros of that total, with the rest going to private defense firms involved in the contracts.
The contracts involve significant transfers of technology -- a priority for Brazil, which wants to develop an advanced defense industry of its own.
The French president told a news conference his decision to allow the technology transfer was a conscious choice "to help Brazil have a status as a military power in the service of peace."
Lula, at his side, said: "Today, France is closer to Brazil, Brazil is closer to France."
Brazil has said it is looking to use the submarines to patrol its territorial waters which have recently yielded discoveries of massive oil fields.
Re: International Military Discussion
IDF channel on YouTube showing clips of PGM strikes in Gaza.
http://www.youtube.com/user/idfnadesk
http://www.youtube.com/user/idfnadesk
Re: International Military Discussion
Aircraft Carrier USS George H.W. Bush to be commissioned Jan 10.
Capt. Kevin O'Flaherty, from Los Angeles, Calif., and a 1981 Naval Academy graduate, will become the ship’s first commanding officer, leading a crew of more than 5,500 men and women, including embarked air wing personnel. George H. W. Bush will be initially homeported in Norfolk, Va., assigned to the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
Construction of the tenth Nimitz-class ship took place at Northrop Grumman-Newport News, Va., starting with the ship’s keel laying Sept. 6, 2003, and christening Oct. 7, 2006. George H. W. Bush towers 20 stories above the waterline, displaces approximately 95,000 tons of water, has a flight deck width of 252 feet, and at 1,092 feet long, is nearly as long as the Empire State Building is tall. This floating airfield has a flight deck that covers 4.5 acres. Bush’s two nuclear reactors are capable of more than 20 years of continuous service without refueling, providing virtually unlimited range and endurance, and a top speed in excess of 30 knots.
The ship will support a wide variety of aircraft, including the F/A-18C Hornet and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet strike fighters, the E-2C/D Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning aircraft, the C-2 Greyhound logistics aircraft, the EA-6B Prowler and the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft, multi-role SH-60 and MH-60 helicopters, and other future carrier-based aircraft.
Last edited by Nikhil T on 31 Dec 2008 22:54, edited 1 time in total.
Re: International Military Discussion
For a moment i was numbed to know an A/C being named after GWB! Ofcourse, its GHWB.nikhil_t wrote:Aircraft Carrier USS George W. Bush to be commissioned Jan 10.
Re: International Military Discussion
Russia stirs itself in restoring its SSBN bases in the Pacific,to counter China too..
http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htsub/ ... 90105.aspx
http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htsub/ ... 90105.aspx
Re: International Military Discussion
Strategypage is absolute rubbish. Debka is more reliable than them.
Re: International Military Discussion
KSS-II: South Korea Orders 6 More U-214 AIP Submarines
SoKo is on a massive naval build up. From commissioning Sejong the Great and Dokdo to this and everything in between. They are in a hurry to build up naval muscle...
SoKo is on a massive naval build up. From commissioning Sejong the Great and Dokdo to this and everything in between. They are in a hurry to build up naval muscle...
Re: International Military Discussion
Nice promotional video of the Japanese AEGIS Destroyer "KONGO"
http://jmilitarydvd.com/Maritime/Maritime_frame.html
http://jmilitarydvd.com/Maritime/Maritime_frame.html
Re: International Military Discussion
Tricks and traps in urban warfare
Extract: The Israeli Army has also come prepared for a battle both sides knew was inevitable. Every soldier, Israeli officials say, is outfitted with a ceramic vest and a helmet. Every unit has dogs trained to sniff out explosives and people hidden in tunnels, as well as combat engineers trained to defuse hidden bombs.
::
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To avoid booby traps, the Israelis say, they enter buildings by breaking through side walls, rather than going in the front. Once inside, they move from room to room, battering holes in interior walls to avoid exposure to snipers and suicide bombers dressed as civilians, with explosive belts hidden beneath winter coats.
::
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The Israelis say they are also using new weapons, like a small-diameter smart bomb, the GBU-39, which Israel bought last fall from Washington. The bomb, which is very accurate, has a small explosive, as little as 60 to 80 pounds, to minimize collateral damage in an urban area. But it can also penetrate the earth to hit bunkers or tunnels.
::
::
Israeli intelligence officers are telephoning Gazans and, in good Arabic, pretending to be sympathetic Egyptians, Saudis, Jordanians or Libyans, Gazans say and Israel has confirmed. After expressing horror at the Israeli war and asking about the family, the callers ask about local conditions, whether the family supports Hamas and if there are fighters in the building or the neighborhood.
::
::
A new Israeli weapon, meanwhile, is tailored to the Hamas tactic of asking civilians to stand on the roofs of buildings so Israeli pilots will not bomb. The Israelis are countering with a missile designed, paradoxically, not to explode. They aim the missiles at empty areas of the roofs to frighten residents into leaving the buildings, a tactic called “a knock on the roof.”
::
::
Israel has also managed to block cellphone bandwidth, so very few amateur cellphone photographs are getting out of Gaza.
Extract: The Israeli Army has also come prepared for a battle both sides knew was inevitable. Every soldier, Israeli officials say, is outfitted with a ceramic vest and a helmet. Every unit has dogs trained to sniff out explosives and people hidden in tunnels, as well as combat engineers trained to defuse hidden bombs.
::
::
To avoid booby traps, the Israelis say, they enter buildings by breaking through side walls, rather than going in the front. Once inside, they move from room to room, battering holes in interior walls to avoid exposure to snipers and suicide bombers dressed as civilians, with explosive belts hidden beneath winter coats.
::
::
The Israelis say they are also using new weapons, like a small-diameter smart bomb, the GBU-39, which Israel bought last fall from Washington. The bomb, which is very accurate, has a small explosive, as little as 60 to 80 pounds, to minimize collateral damage in an urban area. But it can also penetrate the earth to hit bunkers or tunnels.
::
::
Israeli intelligence officers are telephoning Gazans and, in good Arabic, pretending to be sympathetic Egyptians, Saudis, Jordanians or Libyans, Gazans say and Israel has confirmed. After expressing horror at the Israeli war and asking about the family, the callers ask about local conditions, whether the family supports Hamas and if there are fighters in the building or the neighborhood.
::
::
A new Israeli weapon, meanwhile, is tailored to the Hamas tactic of asking civilians to stand on the roofs of buildings so Israeli pilots will not bomb. The Israelis are countering with a missile designed, paradoxically, not to explode. They aim the missiles at empty areas of the roofs to frighten residents into leaving the buildings, a tactic called “a knock on the roof.”
::
::
Israel has also managed to block cellphone bandwidth, so very few amateur cellphone photographs are getting out of Gaza.
Fire kills Russian sailor in aircraft carrier in Turkish por
The Russian Navy is on fire [quite literally]
Fire kills Russian sailor in aircraft carrier in Turkish port
ITAR-TASS does not mention Turkish port
Sailor died in fire on Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier that is on military drills in Mediterranean
first the subs and now the AC - Bad bad PR image for the Russians
Line diagram of the Cavour class AC
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... f21da3.gif
Some pictures of the Cavour (550)
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... eeb776.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... d86885.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... 50d87a.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... b4874e.jpg
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... ba4bd1.jpg
Some GIF animation thingy of Aircraft takeoff off the Cavour
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... 628db7.gif
Fire kills Russian sailor in aircraft carrier in Turkish port
ITAR-TASS does not mention Turkish port
Sailor died in fire on Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier that is on military drills in Mediterranean
first the subs and now the AC - Bad bad PR image for the Russians
Line diagram of the Cavour class AC
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... f21da3.gif
Some pictures of the Cavour (550)
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... eeb776.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... d86885.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... 50d87a.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... b4874e.jpg
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... ba4bd1.jpg
Some GIF animation thingy of Aircraft takeoff off the Cavour
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_wjLSOEl0BZk/S ... 628db7.gif
Re: International Military Discussion
Mystery aircraft/UFO damages UK windmill on windfarm and crash site,with debris sealed off!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... d-off.html
'UFO' wind turbine crash site sealed off
The wind farm where UFO hunters believe an alien aircraft struck a 290-foot wind turbine has been sealed off.
By Stephen Adams
Last Updated: 8:09AM GMT 12 Jan 2009
One of the turbine's 65-foot blades came off and another was damaged at the site Photo: PA
Security guards have been sent to protect the wind farm site in Conisholme, Lincs, following last week's incident.
One of the turbine's 65-foot blades came off and another was damaged at the site, on the same night that local residents reported seeing orange-yellow spheres in the sky, which some described as trailing octopus-like "tentacles".
Ecotricity, the company that owns the wind farm near Louth, has yet to find an explanation for the damage.
But managers are believed to be concerned UFO enthusiasts will scour the site for debris, so have decided to restrict access.
Dog patrols have been sent to ensure no unauthorised people can enter the site.
Nick Pope, a UFO expert, told The Sun: "There may be something they don't want people to see."
However, foreign debris was found at the site during an initial search.
More rational explanations include the possibility that a secret military aircraft such as a stealth bomber might have hit the turbine during a test flight, or that the turbine blade simply fell off, damaging the other one in the process.
Mr Pope said: "If a stealth aircraft struck the turbine, it may be made of some material which is itself top secret."
UFOs spotted 'by hundreds' at wind turbine site
UFOs have allegedly been seen by hundreds of witnesses close to the wind turbine that many suspect was hit by an alien spaceship.
By Chris Irvine
Last Updated: 12:16AM GMT 10 Jan 2009
Previous1 of 2 ImagesNext A British Aerospace spokesman said development of Taranis, the unmanned demonstrator aircraft, was progressing at pace, but it had just started final assembly of the first prototype and was some way off making its maiden flight Photo: BAe systems
The wind turbine at the centre of the mystery Photo: NEWSTEAM
Residents claimed to have seen bright flashing spheres in the skies near Louth, Lincolnshire, where the 290ft turbine was mangled in a mystery collision.
Ministry of Defence insiders have reportedly said the UFOs could be unmanned stealth bombers on test flights.
The black delta-wing craft, called Taranis, is understood to have been making test runs on the coastal bombing ranges at Donna Nook and North Coates, which are right next to the site of the wrecked wind turbine.
Taranis is about the same size as the Hawk jet trainers used by the Red Arrows at nearby RAF Scrampton - it is being developed by BAe Systems to deliver bombs in battlefields.
Some witnesses have said an octopus-shaped UFO was seen flying through the air hours before the turbine was destroyed.
One woman said she saw an object fly towards the wind farm, while others described the lights as being linked by "tentacles", leading locals to dub it the octopus UFO.
Dorothy Willows, who lives a mile and a half from the crash site, said: "The lights were moving across the sky towards the wind farm. Then I saw a low flying object. It was skimming across the sky towards the turbines"
Eric Goring, 61, told The Sun that he has had so many sightings that he began thinking aliens were trying to abduct him.
Speaking of one encounter in September, he said: "I saw one come from the fields. I almost walked under it as it was just hovering 200ft above me. I didn't want to go too near it as I was worried they might beam me up."
A Ministry of Defence insider said: "We have to log all reports of UFOs. But in virtually all the cases there is a simple explanation - and test flights are a common one."
More mundane theories for the cause of the damage – from a block of frozen urine dropped by a passing plane, to simple mechanical failure - have been suggested, but none has yet proved conclusive.
Other explanations for the incident include vandalism from teenagers, a Russian spy plane, or fireworks from a local's birthday party.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... -site.html
Related Content
More on How about that?
Forensic tests on 'UFO' turbine
'Tentacled UFOs' at turbine site
VIDEO EMBED: UFO expert
140 years of UFO sightings - Part I
UFO turbine mystery: the theories in full
UFOs 'on Earth since 1947'
MoD's secret UFO files
US jet 'ordered to fire at UFO over East Anglia'
UFO sightings: sketches and reports
UFO archive release: The best pictures on file
'Flying saucer' can plant bombs
How close are we to an encounter?
Astronaut: Nasa hides aliens
Dale Vince: UFOs, alternative energy and money
Wind turbine destroyed after 'octopus UFO' seen in sky
UFO blamed for destruction of wind turbine
MoD sees light on UFOs
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... d-off.html
'UFO' wind turbine crash site sealed off
The wind farm where UFO hunters believe an alien aircraft struck a 290-foot wind turbine has been sealed off.
By Stephen Adams
Last Updated: 8:09AM GMT 12 Jan 2009
One of the turbine's 65-foot blades came off and another was damaged at the site Photo: PA
Security guards have been sent to protect the wind farm site in Conisholme, Lincs, following last week's incident.
One of the turbine's 65-foot blades came off and another was damaged at the site, on the same night that local residents reported seeing orange-yellow spheres in the sky, which some described as trailing octopus-like "tentacles".
Ecotricity, the company that owns the wind farm near Louth, has yet to find an explanation for the damage.
But managers are believed to be concerned UFO enthusiasts will scour the site for debris, so have decided to restrict access.
Dog patrols have been sent to ensure no unauthorised people can enter the site.
Nick Pope, a UFO expert, told The Sun: "There may be something they don't want people to see."
However, foreign debris was found at the site during an initial search.
More rational explanations include the possibility that a secret military aircraft such as a stealth bomber might have hit the turbine during a test flight, or that the turbine blade simply fell off, damaging the other one in the process.
Mr Pope said: "If a stealth aircraft struck the turbine, it may be made of some material which is itself top secret."
UFOs spotted 'by hundreds' at wind turbine site
UFOs have allegedly been seen by hundreds of witnesses close to the wind turbine that many suspect was hit by an alien spaceship.
By Chris Irvine
Last Updated: 12:16AM GMT 10 Jan 2009
Previous1 of 2 ImagesNext A British Aerospace spokesman said development of Taranis, the unmanned demonstrator aircraft, was progressing at pace, but it had just started final assembly of the first prototype and was some way off making its maiden flight Photo: BAe systems
The wind turbine at the centre of the mystery Photo: NEWSTEAM
Residents claimed to have seen bright flashing spheres in the skies near Louth, Lincolnshire, where the 290ft turbine was mangled in a mystery collision.
Ministry of Defence insiders have reportedly said the UFOs could be unmanned stealth bombers on test flights.
The black delta-wing craft, called Taranis, is understood to have been making test runs on the coastal bombing ranges at Donna Nook and North Coates, which are right next to the site of the wrecked wind turbine.
Taranis is about the same size as the Hawk jet trainers used by the Red Arrows at nearby RAF Scrampton - it is being developed by BAe Systems to deliver bombs in battlefields.
Some witnesses have said an octopus-shaped UFO was seen flying through the air hours before the turbine was destroyed.
One woman said she saw an object fly towards the wind farm, while others described the lights as being linked by "tentacles", leading locals to dub it the octopus UFO.
Dorothy Willows, who lives a mile and a half from the crash site, said: "The lights were moving across the sky towards the wind farm. Then I saw a low flying object. It was skimming across the sky towards the turbines"
Eric Goring, 61, told The Sun that he has had so many sightings that he began thinking aliens were trying to abduct him.
Speaking of one encounter in September, he said: "I saw one come from the fields. I almost walked under it as it was just hovering 200ft above me. I didn't want to go too near it as I was worried they might beam me up."
A Ministry of Defence insider said: "We have to log all reports of UFOs. But in virtually all the cases there is a simple explanation - and test flights are a common one."
More mundane theories for the cause of the damage – from a block of frozen urine dropped by a passing plane, to simple mechanical failure - have been suggested, but none has yet proved conclusive.
Other explanations for the incident include vandalism from teenagers, a Russian spy plane, or fireworks from a local's birthday party.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... -site.html
Related Content
More on How about that?
Forensic tests on 'UFO' turbine
'Tentacled UFOs' at turbine site
VIDEO EMBED: UFO expert
140 years of UFO sightings - Part I
UFO turbine mystery: the theories in full
UFOs 'on Earth since 1947'
MoD's secret UFO files
US jet 'ordered to fire at UFO over East Anglia'
UFO sightings: sketches and reports
UFO archive release: The best pictures on file
'Flying saucer' can plant bombs
How close are we to an encounter?
Astronaut: Nasa hides aliens
Dale Vince: UFOs, alternative energy and money
Wind turbine destroyed after 'octopus UFO' seen in sky
UFO blamed for destruction of wind turbine
MoD sees light on UFOs
Re: International Military Discussion
Two sub major orders.
Brazil inks massive sub deal with France-including a nuclear sub worth $12 billion,including 50 large helos.
http://www.domain-b.com/defence/general ... rance.html
Brazil, France sign $12-billion deal for submarines, helicopters news
08 January 2009
France and Brazil have finalised a two-part defence agreement worth a cumulative €8.8 billion ($11.9 billion). While one part of the agreement covers the purchase and manufacture of 50 military transport helicopters the second part involves the manufacture of four conventional diesel-electric submarines, as well as a nuclear-powered submarine.
The contract for helicopters involves the formation of a consortium of Eurocopter and Brazilian firm Helibras, which will locally produce 50 EC-725 military transport helicopters. The second portion of the defence agreement, involving leading French shipbuilder DCNS and Brazilian engineering and construction giant Odebrecht concerns the construction of four conventional diesel-electric and a nuclear-powered submarine. These subs will be built at a new yard to be created at Rio.
Both contracts involve significant transfers of technology.
The 50 EC-725 helicopters will be built various versions for Army Aviation (16), Naval Aviation (16) and the Air Force (18). Deliveries are expected to commence in 2010. Once the orders are completed Brazil will become the largest operator of the EC-725 model.
Helibras, 45% owned by Eurocopter, will carry out the assembly work at its Itajuba factory, in Minas Gerais state. The turboshafts will be manufactured at Turbomeca's facility in Rio de Janeiro.
The agreement also ensures that a substantial part of the avionics will also be built in Brazil.
Eurocopter announced that, at $2.6 billion, this is the biggest helicopter contract ever signed in South America.
''This is an important achievement for Eurocopter, Helibras and the Brazilian government,'' announced Eurocopter president Lutz Bertling. ''This contract is the result of the close industrial partnership and the long-standing relationship that we have with Brazil, and we are particularly proud that the EC725s will be produced in this country. This contract heralds a new era for Helibras, which will become an outstanding centre of aeronautical excellence in South America.''
Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, Eurocopter's parent company, added: ''EADS considers Brazil as a priority country in its long term partnership strategy. Our group has been developing its different activities there for many years: Airbus, ATR, military transport aircraft, space and security equipments. This major contract is fully in line with our strategy''.
The EC725, the latest addition to the Cougar family, is a twin-engine helicopter with a five-bladed main rotor in the medium-lift category (11 metric tons). It has an exceptional fuel capacity and boasts a flight endurance of five-and-a-half hours. It has been designed to perform various missions, including combat search and rescue, long distance tactical transport, emergency medical services, logistics support, and naval assignments.
Prior to the signing of this contract, 96 EC725 and EC225 helicopters (civil version) had been ordered by 17 different countries.
The $9.3 billion naval contract, along with submarines, also covers the establishment of a new shipyard in Rio. DCNS will manage the yard until completion of the programme, after which control will revert to the Brazilian authorities.
The yard will be entrusted with two distinct programmes:
- Four diesel-electric submarines, to be designed by DCNS based on the Scorpene type and incorporating the specific requirements of the Brazilian Navy. The first submarine in the series will enter active service in 2015;
- DCNS will act as prime contractor for the four conventional-propulsion Scorpene type submarines to be built by the Joint Venture to be set up by DCNS and Brazilian partner Odebrecht. The submarines will be designed in cooperation with Brazilian teams under DCNS design authority to meet the Brazilian Navy's specific needs. DCNS will produce key advanced-technology equipment in its own plants.
As for the nuclear-powered attack submarine, DCNS will provide design assistance to the Brazilian Navy's design agency for all non-nuclear elements of the Navy's first nuclear submarine. Also, the entire nuclear power plant will be designed and built in Brazil.
DCNS will also be the prime contractor for the construction of the naval shipyard that will build these five submarines and also serve as a naval base for the Brazilian Navy.
It is also being speculated that the massive dual contract for helicopters and submarines may also influence the outcome of the ongoing FX-2 competition for the procurement of 36 new-generation multi-role fighters. This order is likely to include options for another 40. The Dassault Rafale fighter was shortlisted in October 2008 along with the Boeing F-18 E/F Super Hornet and the Saab Gripen NG, and a decision is expected later this year.
It would appear that with this strategic contract for helos, subs and a shipyard already in the bag, the Rafale may be the most likely choice for the FX-2 contract, though defence minister Nelson Jobim has emphasised that the choice will be impartial.
http://www.lloydslist.com/ll/news/hdw-i ... 605765.htm
HDW inks supply deal for submarine orders
Patrick Hagen, Cologne - Thursday 8 January 2009
GERMAN shipbuilder HDW, part of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems group, has signed a contract to supply equipment for six fuel cell-powered submarines for South Korea.
The vessels will be built by Korean shipyards. Design and major components, such as the fuel cell, will be provided by HDW. A spokesperson for TKMS declined to comment on the value of ...
Brazil inks massive sub deal with France-including a nuclear sub worth $12 billion,including 50 large helos.
http://www.domain-b.com/defence/general ... rance.html
Brazil, France sign $12-billion deal for submarines, helicopters news
08 January 2009
France and Brazil have finalised a two-part defence agreement worth a cumulative €8.8 billion ($11.9 billion). While one part of the agreement covers the purchase and manufacture of 50 military transport helicopters the second part involves the manufacture of four conventional diesel-electric submarines, as well as a nuclear-powered submarine.
The contract for helicopters involves the formation of a consortium of Eurocopter and Brazilian firm Helibras, which will locally produce 50 EC-725 military transport helicopters. The second portion of the defence agreement, involving leading French shipbuilder DCNS and Brazilian engineering and construction giant Odebrecht concerns the construction of four conventional diesel-electric and a nuclear-powered submarine. These subs will be built at a new yard to be created at Rio.
Both contracts involve significant transfers of technology.
The 50 EC-725 helicopters will be built various versions for Army Aviation (16), Naval Aviation (16) and the Air Force (18). Deliveries are expected to commence in 2010. Once the orders are completed Brazil will become the largest operator of the EC-725 model.
Helibras, 45% owned by Eurocopter, will carry out the assembly work at its Itajuba factory, in Minas Gerais state. The turboshafts will be manufactured at Turbomeca's facility in Rio de Janeiro.
The agreement also ensures that a substantial part of the avionics will also be built in Brazil.
Eurocopter announced that, at $2.6 billion, this is the biggest helicopter contract ever signed in South America.
''This is an important achievement for Eurocopter, Helibras and the Brazilian government,'' announced Eurocopter president Lutz Bertling. ''This contract is the result of the close industrial partnership and the long-standing relationship that we have with Brazil, and we are particularly proud that the EC725s will be produced in this country. This contract heralds a new era for Helibras, which will become an outstanding centre of aeronautical excellence in South America.''
Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, Eurocopter's parent company, added: ''EADS considers Brazil as a priority country in its long term partnership strategy. Our group has been developing its different activities there for many years: Airbus, ATR, military transport aircraft, space and security equipments. This major contract is fully in line with our strategy''.
The EC725, the latest addition to the Cougar family, is a twin-engine helicopter with a five-bladed main rotor in the medium-lift category (11 metric tons). It has an exceptional fuel capacity and boasts a flight endurance of five-and-a-half hours. It has been designed to perform various missions, including combat search and rescue, long distance tactical transport, emergency medical services, logistics support, and naval assignments.
Prior to the signing of this contract, 96 EC725 and EC225 helicopters (civil version) had been ordered by 17 different countries.
The $9.3 billion naval contract, along with submarines, also covers the establishment of a new shipyard in Rio. DCNS will manage the yard until completion of the programme, after which control will revert to the Brazilian authorities.
The yard will be entrusted with two distinct programmes:
- Four diesel-electric submarines, to be designed by DCNS based on the Scorpene type and incorporating the specific requirements of the Brazilian Navy. The first submarine in the series will enter active service in 2015;
- DCNS will act as prime contractor for the four conventional-propulsion Scorpene type submarines to be built by the Joint Venture to be set up by DCNS and Brazilian partner Odebrecht. The submarines will be designed in cooperation with Brazilian teams under DCNS design authority to meet the Brazilian Navy's specific needs. DCNS will produce key advanced-technology equipment in its own plants.
As for the nuclear-powered attack submarine, DCNS will provide design assistance to the Brazilian Navy's design agency for all non-nuclear elements of the Navy's first nuclear submarine. Also, the entire nuclear power plant will be designed and built in Brazil.
DCNS will also be the prime contractor for the construction of the naval shipyard that will build these five submarines and also serve as a naval base for the Brazilian Navy.
It is also being speculated that the massive dual contract for helicopters and submarines may also influence the outcome of the ongoing FX-2 competition for the procurement of 36 new-generation multi-role fighters. This order is likely to include options for another 40. The Dassault Rafale fighter was shortlisted in October 2008 along with the Boeing F-18 E/F Super Hornet and the Saab Gripen NG, and a decision is expected later this year.
It would appear that with this strategic contract for helos, subs and a shipyard already in the bag, the Rafale may be the most likely choice for the FX-2 contract, though defence minister Nelson Jobim has emphasised that the choice will be impartial.
http://www.lloydslist.com/ll/news/hdw-i ... 605765.htm
HDW inks supply deal for submarine orders
Patrick Hagen, Cologne - Thursday 8 January 2009
GERMAN shipbuilder HDW, part of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems group, has signed a contract to supply equipment for six fuel cell-powered submarines for South Korea.
The vessels will be built by Korean shipyards. Design and major components, such as the fuel cell, will be provided by HDW. A spokesperson for TKMS declined to comment on the value of ...
Re: International Military Discussion
Sukhoi Chief Mikhail Pogosyan To Assume Leadership of MiG
financal help, debt, loss of algerian deal. more bad news for Mig-35 in MMRCA.MOSCOW - Mikhail Pogosyan, general director of Russia's flagship fighter jet maker Sukhoi, assumed the leadership of once-rival RSK MiG Corp., the government-controlled United Aircraft Corp. (UAC) said in a press release Jan. 12.
RSK MiG remains one of the biggest Russian aviation entities that has not yet become part of the UAC, into which the Russian government has consolidated national aviation enterprises. The company had debt of almost $1.5 billion at the end of 2008. Its financial situation was further aggravated by Algeria's decision last year to return MiG-29 fighters ordered earlier for more than $300 million.
Also, in the past several years, MiG fighters have not been procured domestically. The government has earmarked $500 million for financial help to MiG in 2009.
Pogosyan said at the meeting with MiG managers that in 2009, there will be state defense orders posted with MiG and also promised more contracts from foreign customers.
Set up in 1939, MiG employs 14,000 people and has an order backlog of about $4 billion.
Re: International Military Discussion
Mig-29s rejected by Algeria to be inducted into Russian Air force
MOSCOW, January 13 (RIA Novosti) - Russia's Air Force will receive later this year 34 modern MiG-29 SMT and MiG-29 UBT fighter jets that Algeria refused to accept under an earlier contract, a Russian Defense Ministry source said on Tuesday.
Russian arms export monopoly Rosoboronexport had signed a $1.3 bln contract to deliver 29 one-seat MiG-29SMT fighters and six two-seat MiG-29UB fighters to Algeria in March 2006 as part of an $8 billion military cooperation agreement.
However, after receiving 15 MiG fighters, Algeria refused further deliveries in May 2007. It then froze all payments under contracts with Russia in October 2007, requiring that Moscow first take back the 15 MiG-29s due to their "inferior quality."
The aircraft were eventually returned to Russia last April.
Re: International Military Discussion
The Algerians subsequently asked Rosoboronexport to deliver 35 Sukhoi 30 MKs instead!ajay_ijn wrote: Mig-29s rejected by Algeria to be inducted into Russian Air force
Re: International Military Discussion
cross-posting from Pakistani military doctoring thread
Khalsa wrote:Slightly off topic but where was the Avro Vulcan based ? Its a bomber and I would be intrested to know where it was operating from.
Surely not UK ? Fishy ?!?!?!
Re: International Military Discussion
Excellent new pics of Israeli warships with the "Typhoon" gun also fitted with Spike ER missiles in manner similarl to the Kashtan CIWS sgun/missile system.The Spike missiles ahve been used in the ongoing Gaza conflict and the link has a video and pics of the same.
Israel's Navy Debuts Employment of Precision Guided Missiles integrated with Typhoon Weapon System
The Israeli Navy also participates in the attacks on Gaza, targeting coastal targets and boats formerly operated by the Palestinian police. Records of the attack, published by the Israeli Navy indicate for the first time the Israelis have equipped their naval vessels with Spike ER electro-optically guided missiles. Two missiles fired at coastal targets are seen in the video below.
(more...)
The video depicts the attacks by the Typhoon remotely controlled gun, and the firing sequence of the two missiles, one targeting a small patrol boat and the other hits right through the window of a building on the coastline.
These Spike ER missiles, with a range of eight kilometers were known to have been used from helicopter, vehicular and ground positions, but are apparently employed from naval gun boats, most probably Super Dvora fast attack crafts mounting Rafael's Typhoon stabilized gun mount. Other videos from the attack show firing by the boat's Typhoon gun scoring precision hits despite the high roll caused by the high sea.
http://www.defense-update.com/newscast/ ... .html#more
Israel's Navy Debuts Employment of Precision Guided Missiles integrated with Typhoon Weapon System
The Israeli Navy also participates in the attacks on Gaza, targeting coastal targets and boats formerly operated by the Palestinian police. Records of the attack, published by the Israeli Navy indicate for the first time the Israelis have equipped their naval vessels with Spike ER electro-optically guided missiles. Two missiles fired at coastal targets are seen in the video below.
(more...)
The video depicts the attacks by the Typhoon remotely controlled gun, and the firing sequence of the two missiles, one targeting a small patrol boat and the other hits right through the window of a building on the coastline.
These Spike ER missiles, with a range of eight kilometers were known to have been used from helicopter, vehicular and ground positions, but are apparently employed from naval gun boats, most probably Super Dvora fast attack crafts mounting Rafael's Typhoon stabilized gun mount. Other videos from the attack show firing by the boat's Typhoon gun scoring precision hits despite the high roll caused by the high sea.
http://www.defense-update.com/newscast/ ... .html#more
Re: International Military Discussion
just wanted to know what is bag like thing on top of the Isreali troops helmet??
Re: International Military Discussion
Excellent comparison between capabilities of F-22 and F-35.
Page-9 has a picture on how the F-22 and F-35, might be used against Iran.
http://www.afa.org/ProfessionalDevelopm ... arison.pdf
Page-9 has a picture on how the F-22 and F-35, might be used against Iran.
http://www.afa.org/ProfessionalDevelopm ... arison.pdf
Re: International Military Discussion
Its part of their Camo..The Headgear cloth disrupts the outline of a Soldiers Head/Helmet. The Israelis have developed that after years of Experience in that part of the world. only military i see who do that (apart from snipers) but i guess it must work for them.just wanted to know what is bag like thing on top of the Isreali troops helmet??
Re: International Military Discussion
MOre on the "close encounter" at the UK winmdfarm,where an alleged UFO "trailing tentacles" damaged a wind turbine.The RAF has now been ordered to "shoot down" UFOs!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... -UFOs.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop ... -UFOs.html
Last edited by Gerard on 31 Jan 2009 05:40, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: edited - copyright
Reason: edited - copyright
Re: International Military Discussion
The art of the cut!
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/5098/
Argentine TR-1700 submarine cut and opened in local shipyard
Recovery of submarine maintenance and construction techniques
07:50 GMT, January 26, 2009 Buenos Aires | In a special ceremony that took place in the Almirante Storni shipyard, Buenos Aires, Argentina, the hull of class TR-1700 submarine ARA San Juan was opened in front of the Defense Minister, Nilda Garré, the chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Jorge Godoy and other high rank officers and press media. The submarine needs to be cut in order to replace the biggest machinery on board such as diesel generator. It is expected that in twelve months the hull will be welded again and the boat put to sea trials returning to service six months later.
The cutting procedure was entirely done by Argentine Navy personnel qualified and certified by the local Instituto de Tecnología Industrial (INTI) following NAVSEA standards for HY-80 steel. The cutting of the hull demanded an in depth laboratory study to determine the optimal cutting conditions in order to minimize the heat affected zone. Highly trained specialists were involved in the whole process that resulted in a successful operation. It is worth mentioning that this is the second time a TR-1700 is cut open in South America. The first time was in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during 1999-2001 when the submarine ARA Santa Cruz was overhauled in the AMRJ shipyard. In that occasion Argentine Navy personnel adapted the technique used in the cutting of Type 209 submarines in Brazil. The thicker hull wall of the Tr-1700 implied significant modifications of the cutting procedure.
With this act the Argentine Navy has recovered a technological capability lost since the 90s when the then Domecq García submarine shipyard was closed and deactivated. The shipyard was re-opened in 2003 and since then a number of technological capabilities have been restored and others such as the recovery of battery units (with the technical support of Varta) have been recently acquired, providing a firm base for the local integral overhauling, maintenance and construction of submarines.
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/5098/
Argentine TR-1700 submarine cut and opened in local shipyard
Recovery of submarine maintenance and construction techniques
07:50 GMT, January 26, 2009 Buenos Aires | In a special ceremony that took place in the Almirante Storni shipyard, Buenos Aires, Argentina, the hull of class TR-1700 submarine ARA San Juan was opened in front of the Defense Minister, Nilda Garré, the chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Jorge Godoy and other high rank officers and press media. The submarine needs to be cut in order to replace the biggest machinery on board such as diesel generator. It is expected that in twelve months the hull will be welded again and the boat put to sea trials returning to service six months later.
The cutting procedure was entirely done by Argentine Navy personnel qualified and certified by the local Instituto de Tecnología Industrial (INTI) following NAVSEA standards for HY-80 steel. The cutting of the hull demanded an in depth laboratory study to determine the optimal cutting conditions in order to minimize the heat affected zone. Highly trained specialists were involved in the whole process that resulted in a successful operation. It is worth mentioning that this is the second time a TR-1700 is cut open in South America. The first time was in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during 1999-2001 when the submarine ARA Santa Cruz was overhauled in the AMRJ shipyard. In that occasion Argentine Navy personnel adapted the technique used in the cutting of Type 209 submarines in Brazil. The thicker hull wall of the Tr-1700 implied significant modifications of the cutting procedure.
With this act the Argentine Navy has recovered a technological capability lost since the 90s when the then Domecq García submarine shipyard was closed and deactivated. The shipyard was re-opened in 2003 and since then a number of technological capabilities have been restored and others such as the recovery of battery units (with the technical support of Varta) have been recently acquired, providing a firm base for the local integral overhauling, maintenance and construction of submarines.
Re: International Military Discussion
Faced with increasing responsibilities around the globe in the various western wars,the British faced with less Brits wanting to join the army are now planning to import more Johnny Gurkhas!The inferior treatment to Johnny Gurkha by the British Army has been a huge embarrassing scandal in recent times.Faced with no alternative but to import Gurkhas (like east Europeans into Britain to do all the menial work) to fight their adventurist wars instead of making British natives die for their country,by getting the Gurkhas to die for them instead!
Britain opens door to 36,000 Gurkha veterans after policy U-turn
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/p ... 607207.ece
Britain opens door to 36,000 Gurkha veterans after policy U-turn
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/p ... 607207.ece
Last edited by Gerard on 31 Jan 2009 05:39, edited 3 times in total.
Reason: Bliss to include URL and avoid copyright infringement
Reason: Bliss to include URL and avoid copyright infringement
Re: International Military Discussion
X Posting from Keypubs
Interesting Article on Iskander
Interesting Article on Iskander
“Effective range” of Iskander is a conditional notion. Most likely, the ballistic range of Iskander-E would be equal 500 km approximately, because it is a derivative of the Soviet “Oka” of 1980s, and somewhat longer for more advanced Iskander-M.
But in fact Iskander is “quasi-ballistic” missile (or “exoatmospheric cruise missile”) which is controllable during all flight time and can change trajectory arbitrarily. Naturally, each deviation from the ballistic trajectory spends energy and diminishes the practical range. It is artificially reduced to 280 km for the export Iskander-E and can vary between 400 km and 500 km for “interior” Iskander-M
In the boost phase Iskander almost vertically ascend to the altitude 12-15 km and reach the velocity of 2100 m/s (about M=8).
In the midcourse phase Iskander takes the due direction and further ascends to the “working altitude” of 50 km, with some zigzag maneuver. “Working altitude” is chosen to diminish effectiveness of exoatmospheric ABMs like THAAD (its minimum effective altitude is evaluated as 30-40 km, and the 50-km altitude is still inconvenient for its seeker; note that the maximum flight altitude for 300-km ballistic range would be 84 km).
The velocity of Iskander during the flat midcourse part of trajectory is about 1300 m/s (about M=4); it has stealthy shape and anti-radar covering, and can change direction in flight, i.e. make turns.
The midcourse trajectory is calculated by on-board computer so that the missile would duly exhaust energy by the end of planned range and fall vertically on the target. The fall from 50 km altitude is accomplished as a spiral maneuver with occasional amplitude and g-load=20-30. The maneuver brakes the missile and allows: a) initiate cluster warhead properly (at the altitude about 1 km); b) avoid point-defense endoatmospheric ABMs like Patriot PAC3, Arrow etc. which need precalculating the path of intercepted missile (note that they are effective only up to the altitude of 25-30 km, and can not intercept Iskander during its mid-course phase). Besides, the intercepting ABM must sustain g-load=50 at least, or rather 60, which is near the limit of existing SAMs.
Iskander is fully autonomous during all flight, i.e. ground operator enters only coordinates of launching and target. The flight path and characteristics of maneuvers are chosen by the on-board computer absolutely independently and arbitrarily, i.e. the path of missile is unpredictable even for launching team. This makes the standard version of Iskander inherently unjammable: it doesn’t radiate anything and doesn’t accept any flight commands.
Iskander-E has INS (inertial navigation system) for mid-course flight and electronic-optical seeker for final homing. INS provides CEP=50 m for 280-km range. EOS has CEP=5-7 m. EOS compares the distinctive points of visible terrain with the preloaded map. It can be used in the day and night time and even in moderate cloudiness, but not in really bad weather.
If necessary, GPS/GLONASS navigation can be added optionally. Designers consider GPS/GLONASS vulnerable to jamming, but it can be useful in the conflicts of low and medium intensity, as providing cheap all-weather capacity.
Reputedly Iskander-M uses active radiolocation seeker (ARS) of the company Fazotron instead of EOS of TSNIIAG. Its prototype was exhibited in 1999 with claimed CEP=2 m, but later this matter has been classified.
The weight of warhead of Iskander-E is 482 kg (i.e. the same as for Tochka-U), for Iskander-M – reputedly 700-750 kg (in fact the weight of various warheads can differ). Warheads can be “special” (i.e. nuclear or chemical) or conventional of 7 types: 3 unitary (HE-Frag, HE-Incendiary, Penetration) and 4 cluster (Fragmentation, HEAT-Frag, Anti-tank with IR-homing, FAE bomblets). Note that the cluster warhead with homed submunitions (MOTIV-3M or GNOM) can be used against moving targets (tank columns etc.).
It can be said without boasting that Iskander is the most advanced among all existing short-range ballistic missiles, and certainly the hardest to intercept.