Combat Aircraft Monthly 201310

OCTOBER 2013 4.20

USAF STRATEGIC BOMBERS

USAF SPECIAL ISSUE

FIGHTER FOCUS: SU-30 SUPER-FLANKER

IRANIAN TOMCATSOLD BUT BOLD

B-1B B-2A B-52H

Vol 14, No 10 | www.combataircraft.netNORTH AMERICAS BEST-SELLING MILITARY AVIATION MAGAZINE

MARINE CORPS BATTLE HERCULES

USUSUSUSAAAAUSAUSUSAUSUSAUS F F BBBBOOOOOOMMMBERSBERSBERSBERSBERSBERSBERSBERSBERSSPECISPECISPECISPECISPECISPECISPECIAAAAL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUEL ISSUE

USAF BOMBERSSPECIAL ISSUE

STEALTHY SUPER HORNET FIRST FLIGHT

JOINT RUSSIAN-CHINESE EXERCISE

MARINE MUSCLE: SCARFACE COBRAS MARINE CORPS F-4S PHANTOM II TACTICS

Glory Days

JOINT RUSSIAN-CHINEXCLUSIVE IMAGES

1 Cover c(UK).indd 1 22/08/2013 17:15

72 SAY HELLO TO MY LITTLE FRIEND Dr San Wilson, assisted by Paul Mulligan, visits Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMLA-367) Scarface to sample some Marine Corps Whiskey, and meets the successor to the Super Cobra, the impressive AH-1Z

78 GLORY DAYS: BLIVET TACTICS Lt Col John Scanlan (retd) recounts what happened when two US Marine Corps Phantom crews took on USAF F-16s over South Korea complete with underwing luggage pods

82 EXERCISE REPORT: PEACE MISSION 2013 Combat Aircraft reports on the joint Sino-Russian exercise held in early August that attracted a small but significant Chinese aviation element, with world exclusive images by Dimitry Pichugin

88 FIGHTER FOCUS: FLANKER ASCENDANT In the second of a two-part series, Alexander Mladenov profiles the plethora of Su-30MK sub-versions of the Flanker for export, as well as the thoroughly re-designed Su-35S single-seater, already fielded in experimental service with the Russian Air Force

96 CUTTING EDGE Combat Aircrafts monthly column reporting from the front line of aerospace technology, by David Axe

HEADLINE NEWS

Boeing flies Advanced Super Hornet, South Korea indicates F-15SE has won fighter competition and SABR selected for US F-16 radar upgrade

US NEWS

NASAs third WB-57F flies, C-17 Globemaster III production extended and latest F-35 test news

UK NEWS

BAE Systems in push to sell Typhoons to Bahrain and Puma HC2 on test

EUROPE NEWS

Phinal F-4F flight as Manching test aircraft retires, A400M achieves milestones and France revises Rafale production plans

WORLD NEWS

Exercise Talisman Saber, Egyptian F-16 deliveries are halted and Sudanese Fencer breaks cover.

news68

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PLUS: Special reports on Trial MACE and Colombias F-AIR exhibition, plus Robert F. Dorrs Front Line column and all the latest military Losses

Whats insideVol 14, No 10 October 2013

In this issue we examine the USAF heavy bomber eet, spearheaded by the mighty B-1B Lancer. Jim Haseltine

SUBSCRIBE AND SAVESubscribe to Combat Aircraft Monthly and make great savings on cover price. See pages 86 and 87 for details.

34 A HELLUVA HAWK Ted Carlson discovers how the Harvest HAWK adaptation of the C-130 Hercules is providing Marine Corps leathernecks on the ground with a powerful counter-insurgency capability

42 MAGIC BUFFS Voted the premier squadron in Global Strike Command, Ted Carlson visits the 69th Bomb Squadron Knighthawks, part of the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot AFB, South Dakota one of three wings at two bases that continue to fly the mighty Buff

52 DYESS BONE TEAM Robert F. Dorr enters the world of the B-1B Lancer at the bustling Dyess Air Force Base, home of the 7th Bomb Wing. With exclusive photos by Jim Haseltine

60 FACT FILE: GLOBAL SPIRITS This December the US Air Force will mark 20 years of the B-2 at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Jamie Hunter details where this ultimate symbol of US air power is situated two decades on, and how will it fit into a future air force

USAF GLOBAL STRIKE

66 NINE LIVES OF THE PERSIAN CATS The Islamic Republic of Iranian Air Force (IRIAF) continues to operate three squadrons of the Grumman F-14 Babak Taghvaee describes how the combat-proven Tomcat remains the pride of the Iranian air arm

60Fact File: Global Spiritsp60p60603 Contents C.indd 3 22/08/2013 17:28

Combat Edge

CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

TED CARLSON

Ted Carlson is a professional aviation photojournalist running California-based Fotodynamics.com. With over 1,600 hours of flight time performing aerial photography, he specializes in such work. As a writer, Ted has had hundreds of his articles published worldwide. His material can be found in magazines, books, calendars,

Department of Defense publications and posters, and his images have adorned over 400 covers of various titles. He has flown with all branches of the US military in just about every type of aircraft, and has also flown with various agencies and several foreign air forces. Ted has been a leading contributor to Combat Aircraft for many years.

THE NEWS FROM Seoul that South Korea has probably selected the F-15SE in its FX-III fighter contest comes as a big boost for Boeing. Not only would this secure the future of the F-15 production line at St Louis past 2020, but it also casts doubt

over export ambitions for the Lockheed Martin F-35.Boeing executives have subtly pressed customers,

including the US Air Force, to realise that their advanced Eagle and Super Hornet offerings both provide viable alternatives to the F-35. The push to include stealthy weapons pods on both types, new large area display cockpits, AESA radars and embedded forward-looking infra-red sensors all offer JSF-like capabilities, albeit in much older core platforms, which are not inherently stealthy.

US Air Force pilots have long suggested (off the record) that a Block 60 F-16 on steroids, or new Silent Eagles, would provide capabilities approaching those of the F-35, but with far lower program risks and, as Korea has seemingly illustrated, at a more acceptable and predictable acquisition cost.

In this issue of Combat Aircraft, we are cementing our status as North Americas best-selling military aviation magazine, bringing you all the latest news and features

on the important issues in military aviation. This includes an exclusive report from the incredible Peace Mission exercise in Russia, a rare up-close chance to view the Chinese JH-7A in action.

Jamie Hunter, EditorE-mail: [email protected]

A boost for Boeing

4

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THIS MONTHCombat Edge

PEACE MISSION

5

Boeing appears likely to remain in the F-15 production business well into the next decade. Jamie Hunter

In this issue we bring you extraordinary photographs from Augusts Peace Mission exercise in Russia that featured ve

PLAAF JH-7As. Dimitry Pichugin

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News

6 October 2013 www.combataircraft.net

Stealthy Super BugBoeing test-ies F/A-18F with new features

BOEING HAS COMMENCED the first test flights of its Advanced Super Hornet. The maiden flight of an F/A-18F fitted with new conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) was made

from the companys St Louis, Missouri, facility, on August 5; the initial sortie with both the CFTs and the Enclosed Weapons Pod followed two days later. The tests are intended to demonstrate flight characteristics with the new modifications and also to assess radar cross-section (RCS) reductions compared with wind-tunnel data.

The testing is set to be continued from NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, alongside

the US Navy. It will likely comprise up to 20 individual flights.

The new CFTs add 135nm of combat radius, an attribute valuable to the Super Hornet that has been criticized in the past for not being blessed with long legs. The centerline conformal weapons bay will allow the Super Hornet to operate in a first day of war stealthy mode. It will be configured to accommodate six Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs) and two AIM-120 AMRAAMs, or a pair of 500lb laser-guided bombs and two AMRAAMs.

Other enhancements may also be integrated, such as the new large-area display in the cockpit and the chin-mounted infra-red search and track (IRST) sensor.

Korea selects F-15SEBoeing candidate reportedly successful for F-X Phase III

AS THIS MAGAZINE went to press, reports from Seoul indicated that Boeings F-15SE had won through in the $7.3-billion F-X Phase III future fighter competition.

Yonhap News Agency announced the Silent Eagles success on August 18. The decision was apparently made after the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) found flaws in the bidding documentation provided by EADS, which was promoting its Tranche 3 Eurofighter Typhoon.

A matter of days earlier, the competition had been narrowed down to two candidates

the F-15SE and Typhoon after the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II had been removed from the bidding process on cost grounds. Meanwhile, although DAPA requested proposals based on 45 single-seat and 15 two-seat jets, EADS is reported to have quoted prices for just six two-seaters in order to reduce costs and meet the budget requirements.

Some observers had seen the F-35 as the leading contender for F-X Phase III, which was launched in 2011, and which, after some delays, now aims to field 60 new fighters for delivery between 2017 and 2021. The stumbling block for the Lightning II was

concern about the Foreign Military Sales price guaranteed by the US government. With the company submitting a price exceeding the fixed budget, the F-35 was subject to automatic rejection from contract negotiations, although on paper at least it still remains within the assessment phase of the evaluation.

Boeing won the previous two F-X contracts that provided the Republic of Korea Air Force with 60 F-15Ks. A final winner will be formally announced in mid-September, but, with both the EADS and Lockheed Martin bids apparently unsatisfactory, the way seems clear for Boeing to continue its success story in Korea. Thomas Newdick

Boeing has completed deliveries of the rst two batches of F-15K Slam Eagles for Korea, with a third tranche of the more advanced F-15SE now appearing likely. Boeing

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Headlines

7www.combataircraft.net October 2013

UK pitches Typhoon to Bahrain Euroghters Gulf sales push continues. See UK News

NASAs third WB-57F returns to the skies Refurbished aircraft makes rst ight in 41 years. See US News

Phinal ight The very last German F-4F ight was marked at Manching on July 30. See Europe News

ALSO THIS MONTH...

Lockheed Martin chooses SABR USAF F-16s to receive Northrop Grumman AESA upgrade

Boeings Advanced Super Hornet above St Louis on August 7, carrying both the

Enclosed Weapons Pod and the conformal fuel tanks. Boeing

LOCKHEED MARTIN HAS selected Northrop Grummans Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) for retrofit to US Air Force Block 30/35/40/45 F-16s under the Combat Avionics

Programmed Extension Suite (CAPES) program. The multi-function airborne fire-control radar was selected over Raytheons Advanced Combat Radar

(RACR). The USAF plans to install the new radar on as many as 300 F-16C/Ds, under a project that forms an element of the Common Configuration Implementation Program (CCIP), managed by Lockheed Martin. The contractor had previously selected SABR for the Republic of Chinas planned F-16 upgrade.

Joseph Ensor, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grummans

ISR and Targeting Systems Division, commented:

SABR will provide

F-16s with unprecedented operational capability, greater reliability and viability in threat environments beyond 2025.

The conclusion of the AESA radar competition marks the next chapter in the Fighting Falcons ongoing evolution the F-16V, said Roderick McLean, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martins F-16/F-22 Integrated Fight Group. Other AESA radars developed by the company are currently flying on the Block 60 F-16, F-22 and F-35 Lightning II.

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NewsWB-57 back in the airNASAs third high-altitude research aircraft returns to the sky

NASA HAS TAKEN a major step towards increasing its fleet of Martin WB-57 high-altitude research aircraft to three following the return to flight of a recently

refurbished example on August 9. NASA currently operates a pair of

WB-57Fs from Ellington Field, Texas. Its new aircraft, serial N927NA, more commonly referred to as NASA 927, started life as a B-57B with the 13th Bomber Squadron and with a serial of 53-3918. In 1964 this airframe was one of 21 that were rebuilt as RB-57Fs by General Dynamics, and was re-serialed as 63-13295. The RB-57F had almost double

the wingspan of the original B-57B at 122ft, and the Wright J65 turbojets were replaced with Pratt & Whitney TF33 turbofans, which provided twice the thrust of the original engines.

63-13295 was retired to the then MASDC (Military Aircraft Storage and Disposal Center) on June 26, 1972. The aircraft was displayed on Celebrity Row at the facility, now called AMARG (Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group), for a number of years, and was pulled from storage and dismantled in May 2011. It was then trucked to the Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) at Centennial Airport, Colorado, in order to be stripped and rebuilt back to flying condition.

Following restoration, the aircraft is now known as a WB-57F, which is simply a re-designation paper exercise completed when these aircraft are transferred to NASA.

N927NA came out of major rebuild on July 30, 2013 to perform engine and system runs for the first time. Taxi runs were performed at Centennial on August 8 and were deemed to be a success, with departure slated for the following day. On August 9, NASA 927 took to the runway for its first flight in 41 years.

There will be further test flights from Colorado Springs before the aircraft is handed over to NASA to join the other two WB-57Fs in the fleet at Ellington Field. Paul Filmer

Moody receives Combat King IIsLockheed Martin delivered the rst HC-130J to the 347th Rescue Group at Moody AFB, Georgia, on July 19. Serial 11-5725 will be operated by the groups 71st Rescue Squadron. A second delivery took place on August 14 when serial 11-5727

made the short ight to the Valdosta base. The Combat King IIs are the rst of nine HC-130Js that will be delivered to Moody AFB. The squadron is due to begin ying missions with the new aircraft in October.

Air Guard unit certied for nuclear operationsThe Missouri Air National Guards 131st Bomb Wing has achieved full operational capability with the B-2A and was certied to conduct nuclear missions after completing a four-day initial nuclear safety inspection. The milestone concludes the units six-year transition from the F-15C to the B-2A. The wing operates the B-2s under a classic association with the active-duty 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman AFB and is the only Air National Guard unit currently cleared to deliver nuclear weapons.

Block 45 training under wayCrews assigned to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing ew the rst training mission with a KC-135R that has been equipped with the Block 45 upgrades

at McConnell AFB, Kansas, on July 22. Two of the wings Stratotankers have received the upgrade, which installs a new autopilot, radio altimeter and an electronic engine instrument display that replaces numerous analog gauges, as well as other minor changes. These aircraft are serving as the prototypes for the project. A further batch of 17 KC-135Rs will be upgraded under the initial production eort.

Keesler Herc move delayedThe USAF has postponed the planned move of 10 C-130Js from Biloxi, Mississippi, to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, until April 2014, at the earliest, and this could be further delayed to October. The transfer of the aircraft from the 403rd Wing at Keesler AFB to the 440th Airlift Wing at Pope Army Air Field had been scheduled to begin in October. The move will result in the inactivation of the 403rd Wings 815th Airlift Squadron, which shares the aircraft with the USAFs 345th Airlift Squadron. Both the 403rd Wing and the 440th Airlift Wing are Air Force Reserve Command units.

USAF UNIT NEWS

WB-57F NASA 927 gets airborne from Centennial Airport, Colorado, on August 9. Paul Filmer

Above: The second HC-130J for the 347th Rescue Group departs Dobbins ARB, Georgia, on August 14. Serial 11-5727 is one of nine HC-130Js that will be delivered to the base. USAF


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United States

F-35 latest

The F-35 Integrated Test Force, along with F-35B test aircraft BF-01 and BF-05, embarked in the USS Wasp (LHD 1) for the second phase of sea trials under the Developmental Test 2 (DT-2) effort from August 12. Expected to last 18 days, DT-2 is the second of three planned tests that will define and expand the F-35Bs shipboard operating envelope and is one of several key milestones required in order for the US Marine Corps to achieve initial operating capability (IOC) with the Lightning II in 2015. DT-2 will test refinements to the F-35Bs integrated propulsion and flight control systems.

Tests will expand the F-35Bs allowable wind envelope for launch and recovery and evaluate the dynamic interface between the aircraft and the ships moving flight deck. They will include initial mission systems evaluations at sea. Just two days after arriving

on the ship, the F-35B conducted the first of eight night launches and recoveries. Lt Col C. R. Jimi Clift conducted the first F-35B night landing aboard the USS Wasp on August 14.

In advance, the Wasp underwent a series of shipyard modifications that improved its ability to accommodate the F-35B. In addition to receiving a new composite deck coating that offers additional heat protection, some lights and sensors were re-located to better support F-35 landings.

Meanwhile, having previously announced its intention to assign the first overseas combat-ready F-35A unit in the Asia-Pacific region, the Air Combat Command and the Pacific Air Forces are now determining the most suitable location for the fighters. Nine facilities are currently being considered but PACAF expects to reduce that number to four by the fall and select its preferred alternative location in early 2014. Likely options include Eielson AFB, Alaska; Kadena and Misawa Air Bases in Japan; and Kunsan and Osan in the Republic of Korea.

The first pilots destined to serve as the initial cadre of instructors with the 61st Fighter Squadron were recently transferred from Eglin AFBs 33rd Fighter Wing to the 56th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB, Arizona. The wing is scheduled to receive the first of a planned fleet of 144 F-35As next spring.

As part of the plan to re-balance US forces in the Asia-Pacific region, the USAF will likely begin rotating fighter and tanker aircraft through RAAF Base Darwin or RAAF Base Tindal in northern Australia in 2015. The commander of the USAFs Pacific Air Forces has revealed that Darwin will support the initial rotations, which may eventually also include bomber deployments.

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 2 (VMAQ-2) departed MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, at the start of a six-month deployment to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, on July 14. The departure of the Death Jesters allowed VMAQ-4 Seahawks to return to Cherry Point from the Japanese base. The latter became the first EA-6B squadron to deploy to Japan in support of the Unit Deployment Program (UDP) since 2006 when it arrived in February 2013. VMAQ-4s Prowlers remained at Iwakuni and were transferred to VMAQ-2.

The USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Carrier Strike Group departed Norfolk, Virginia, on July 22 for a deployment in support of 5th and 6th US Fleet operations that will span eight to nine months.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122) completed a six-month deployment to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, and returned to MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, on July 11. While flying in support of the Unit Deployment Program (UDP) the Werewolves were attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12) as part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. The Werewolves were replaced by aircraft from the Marine Corps Reserves only Hornet squadron. Assigned to the 4th Marine Aircraft Wings MAG-41, VMFA-112 Cowboys arrived at MCAS Kaneohe Bay on Oahu, from NAS JRB Fort Worth, Texas, on July 9.

DEPLOYMENT NEWS

Exercise Eager LionA pair of Royal Jordanian Air Force F-16s leads a 120th Fighter Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard F-16C and two US Marine Corps F/A-18Cs from VMFA-115 during Exercise Eager Lion in July. US ANG/Sr MSgt John P. Rohrer

F-35B BF-01 prepares to land aboard the USS Wasp (LHD 1) during the

second at-sea F-35 developmental test event on August 12. US Navy

Rescue helicopter contract delayedThe US Air Force has delayed plans to award a $6.8-billion contract for 112 new Combat Rescue Helicopters (CRH) to Sikorsky Aircraft until the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2014. Sikorsky became the only bidder for the project when EADS North America, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman and its partner AgustaWestland all dropped out of the competition in December 2012. Sikorsky offered an updated variant of the UH-60M Black Hawk with its partner Lockheed Martin.

Inset: The 100th Joint Strike Fighter has entered the nal assembly phase at Lockheed Martins Fort Worth, Texas, facility. Known as AF-41, the F-35A will be the rst example delivered to the 56th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB, Arizona, in 2014. Lockheed Martin


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NewsKC-46 makes progressFirst forward fuselage completed as test unit established

SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS ROLLED out the first completed Boeing KC-46A fuselage section at its Wichita, Kansas, facility on July 26. Forward fuselage section 41, which forms the cockpit, was

subsequently shipped to Boeings assembly facility in Washington, where various fuselage sections will be mated together. In addition to the forward fuselage section, Spirit is

responsible for the construction of the strut and nacelle components, and the fixed leading edge, for the KC-46A tanker.

Meanwhile, Air Force Materiel Command activated Detachment 1, 418th Flight Test Squadron at Boeings Seattle facility at King County International Airport/Boeing Field on July 11. The unit will support the developmental testing of the KC-46A tanker and will have around 40 personnel assigned

by next summer when the first aircraft is scheduled to make its maiden flight. The personnel assigned to the detachment will include pilots, refueling boom operators, flight test engineers, logisticians, and engineers. The main body of the 418th FTS is stationed at Edwards AFB, California, and is assigned to the 412th Test Wing. KC-46A development testing is scheduled to run until the end of 2016.

The cabin section for the USAFs rst Boeing KC-46A awaits shipment from the Spirit Aerosystems facility in Wichita. Spirit Aerosystems

Combat Air Forces resume flyingFollowing up last months news, Combat Air Forces units assigned to Air Combat Command (ACC), Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) and US Air Forces Europe (USAFE) that had been grounded since April 9 as a result of the US budget sequestration returned to the air on July 15. The USAFs restored flying-hour program was funded with $208 million after lawmakers allowed it to re-program $1.8 billion that had been allocated to other projects in order to pay for near-term shortfalls in war funding. The

authorization allowed the US Air Force to re-instate critical training and test operations for the Combat Air Forces until the end of Fiscal 2013 on September 30.

Within ACC, the flying hours have been allocated to combat aircraft and crews assigned to operational and test units, including the Air Warfare Centers Weapons School, Aggressors and the Thunderbirds air demonstration squadron, and active-duty pilots assigned to associate Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command

units. In April, Air Combat Command announced it would reduce its flying hours by 45,000 and 17 squadrons would be grounded immediately or upon their return from deployments. The influx of funding means that the squadrons that had stood down will begin to return to full combat mission-ready status. According to USAF officials, if the US Congress does not act to avoid a further round of automatic cuts it could be forced to ground more than half of the Combat Air Forces in Fiscal 2014.


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United States

The Oklahoma Army National Guards Detachment 1, A Company, 641st Aviation held a ceremony to mark the retirement of its last C-23C at its facility at Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City on July 23. While the US Army continues to place all but eight of the National Guards remaining C-23s into flyable storage at Fort Sill, the US House of Representatives passed a provision to the Fiscal Year 2014 Defense Appropriations bill that would halt these moves. As many as 26 of the aircraft are currently being put into storage and the remainder have been scheduled to follow by the end of September. The aircraft had previously been scheduled for a phased retirement that stretched out to December 2014, but the Army began placing the aircraft into flyable storage several months ago in an attempt to save much as $34 million. In accordance with the Fiscal 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, the service is not permitted to retire the aircraft. The amendment reportedly provides funding for the Sherpa fleet, which has served in the homeland mission, delivering relief supplies and personnel in the aftermath of recent hurricanes and other weather events, and regularly supports special operations missions and training.

C-23C serial 93-1328 is towed from the hangar at Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in preparation for its nal ight on July 23. Oklahoma National Guard via Tom Kaminski

Mildenhalls special ops upgradeOn June 24, the 352nd Special Operations Group welcomed the first two of 10 CV-22B Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft (serials 11-0057 and 11-0058) at RAF Mildenhall, UK. The remaining eight Ospreys are scheduled to arrive by the end of 2014, with the next batch of two due in September, followed by another trio in February 2014, and the final three arriving in August 2014. Meanwhile, the MC-130J inventory is scheduled to take up to five years to complete, marking a phase of major expansion at the base.

The 352nd SOG is composed of the 352nd Special Operations Support Squadron, the 352nd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron, the 321st Special Tactics Squadron, the 7th Special Operations Squadron and the 67th SOS, the latter two being the only flying squadrons.

Commander of the 352nd SOG, Col Christopher Ireland, commented: Last summer as we started this growth

transition we had around 780 military personnel; by next summer, two years on, we are looking to almost be around 1,200 total... We are welcoming back vertical airlift to special operations forces in Europe. Its been almost six years since weve had it here in Europe and this modernization of the force improves our efficiency and effectiveness.

The 7th SOS Aircommandos currently operates the MC-130H Combat Talon II and now the CV-22B Osprey. The 67th SOS Night Owls flies the MC-130P Combat Shadow and is upgrading to the MC-130J Commando II. The first MC-130J (serial 10-5714) was delivered to the 67th SOS on June 7, with the second (09-6210) being a loan airframe from Lockheed Martin that is used purely as a ground loading and maintenance trainer. Once all training is complete this example will return to Cannon AFB in New Mexico. Ashley Wallace

The US Navys sixth carrier-based Electronic Attack Squadron recently began its transition from the EA-6B to the EA-18G electronic attack aircraft. VAQ-133s conversion to the Growler left just four fleet squadrons flying the Prowler at NAS Whidbey island, Washington. On July 1, VAQ-140 concluded its final Prowler deployment when it returned from a five-month combat cruise aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Rather than going back to NAS Whidbey Island, the squadrons EA-6Bs were turned over to the US Marine Corps in advance of VAQ-140s switch to the EA-18G. While deployed the Patriots flew 90 combat sorties, and logged over 661 flight hours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

VAQ-209 Star Warriors, the Naval Reserves only Prowler squadron, is also preparing to convert to the EA-18G. The squadron flew its last EA-6B sorties at Joint Base Andrews-NAF Washington in May and will re-locate to NAS Whidbey Island. The Navy continues to transition two squadrons to the Growler annually and the final Prowlers will be retired in 2015. In addition to the carrier-based squadrons, three expeditionary VAQ squadrons also operate the EA-18G. The Navys 2014 budget request includes funding that will be used to establish two additional expeditionary squadrons, which will replace capacity lost when the Marine Corps phases out its EA-6Bs in 2019.

Ashley Wallace

Growler fleet grows

Sherpas retired


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News United States

BOEING HAS ANNOUNCED that it will build as many as 12 more C-17A airlifters using company funds in anticipation of receiving new orders from international customers. It

has already spent $620 million on long-lead parts for those aircraft. The decision could extend production at the Long Beach,

California, facility by more than a year. Boeing already has confirmed orders that will allow it to continue building C-17s into the third quarter of 2014, but, based on current output of 10 aircraft per year and construction of the unsold so-called white tails, production might continue into the fourth quarter of 2015. The manufacturer is reportedly in discussions with several

new and existing customers that likely include India, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Singapore. It will deliver the last of 223 C-17As to the US Air Force in September. According to Boeing, if additional orders are not received, the contractor will decide later this year whether to continue building aircraft at a reduced production rate or shut the line down.

Contractor support for African operationsBerry Aviation has received a $10.7-million contract to provide Trans-Sahara short take-o and landing (STOL) services in support of the US Transportation Command, US African Command and a Joint Special Operations Air Detachment based in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Under this eort the contractor, which is based in San Marcos, Texas, will provide casualty evacuation, personnel airlift, cargo airlift and air-drop services. Work will be performed throughout the numerous countries in North Africa and the sub-Saharan African continent.

Bomber enters mod programThe rst B-52H to receive the Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) upgrade was own from Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, to Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, on July 16. The CONECT updates include software and hardware such as new servers, modems, radios, datalinks, receivers and digital workstations. Installed by the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center, the upgrade will allow B-52 crews to receive and send real-time digital information such as updated intelligence, mapping or

targeting information at a cost of $1.1 billion. Funding has been provided to upgrade 30 aircraft and the service plans to fund 10 additional upgrades annually until the entire eet is upgraded.

Upgraded Orion deliveredLockheed Martin delivered an upgraded P-3B airborne early warning aircraft to the US Customs and Border Protections Oce of Air and Marine on July 18. The upgrades were completed in just 10 months and the Orion was delivered 78 days earlier than required by the contract. It is the eighth of 14 CBP P-3s that will receive the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) modications and undergo phased depot maintenance at the contractors facility in Greenville, South Carolina.

Presidential Osprey actionA pair of MV-22Bs operated by Marine Helicopter Squadron 1 (HMX-1) conducted the types rst operational mission in support of the President on August 10 when they transported sta, Secret Service personnel and the Presidents dog from Washington DC to Marthas Vineyard, Massachusetts.

IN BRIEF

Boei

ng

Globemaster continuesBoeing extends C-17 production

Spartans retiredThe first C-27J to be retired arrived at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, on July 21. Serial 09-27021, which had been operated by the 186th Air Refueling Wing at Key Field Air National Guard Station in Meridian, Mississippi, will be placed in storage with the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) at the Tucson base.

Although some of the C-27Js could be made available to the US Forest Service, an analysis commissioned by its Fire and Aviation Management determined that the aircrafts fire retardant-carrying capacity will likely not meet the 2,000-gallon minimum required for a medium tanker asset. If the USAF does decide to dispose of the Spartans, in accordance with the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) both the Forest Service and the US Coast Guard have been authorized to obtain the aircraft and the former has first right of refusal over seven examples. US Special Operations Command has also reportedly expressed an interest in obtaining eight.

With budgetary restrictions slowing its recapitalization plans, the Coast Guard is seriously pursuing the purchase of 14 of the Spartans. Obtaining the C-27Js would allow the service to reduce acquisition of its planned fleet of 36 HC-144A Medium-Range Surveillance (MRS) aircraft, saving as much as $500 million.


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News United KingdomEurofighter export targets UK in Typhoon push to Bahrain

BAHRAIN HAS EMERGED as the latest target for BAE Systems as it spearheads the Eurofighter sales

effort in the Gulf region. Having secured orders from Saudi Arabia for 72 aircraft and from Oman for 12 jets, additional orders are being sought. Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain are all thought to be potential customers. Saudi Arabia is also widely expected to place a follow-on order for

Typhoons, with a Bahraini deal possibly being included.

BAE Systems is known to be targeting the six nations of the Co-operation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, leaving the Typhoon well placed to become the fighter of choice in the region.

Officials have been clear to point out that negotiations with Bahrain are at a very early stage, and it is unclear whether Bahrain currently has a formal requirement to replace its F-16C/Ds and/or its F-5E/Fs.

Royal Navy receives Merlin HM2The first AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 helicopters have been handed over to the Royal Navy. The delivery of the initial five helicopters to the Navys Fleet Air Arm allows the establishment of the first squadron to use the mark.

Based at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall, 824 Naval Air Squadron will serve as the training unit, with its Merlins now equipped with a new mission system and avionics suite in an effort led by Lockheed Martin as part of the Merlin Capability Sustainment Programme (MCSP).

The Merlin HM2 features a new glass cockpit and improved aircrew console and avionics, with touch-screen displays, and an enhanced ability to detect and track targets and share data with

other aircraft and ships while airborne.

Lockheed Martin is converting 30 Merlin HM1s to HM2 standard, the upgrade being part of a 750-million contract. The helicopters are expected to be ready for operations by summer 2014.

Cdre Andy Lison, responsible for the Merlin, Lynx and Sea King teams for the Ministry of Defences Defence, Equipment and Support Organisation, said: I am delighted that we are now firmly in the delivery phase of the project. The Merlin Mk2 is a truly exceptional aircraft and the program to develop and build this aircraft has brought together the very best of the MoD and defense industry to future-proof this vital capability.

Puma Two on testRoyal Air Force Puma HC2 serial XW232 was noted in July operating from MoD Boscombe Down, Wiltshire, sporting an orange test probe. The helicopter is part of the test program for the HC2 upgrade, which has been under way since January when

XW216 joined the Rotary-Wing Test and Evaluation Squadron at Boscombe. This photo shows XW232 at work on the Salisbury Plain Training Area, carrying out conned landing operations. Liam Daniels


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GLOOM AND UNCERTAINTY were the themes when the Pentagons chief spoke about the broken-down budget process in Washington and likely forthcoming cuts in the

US armed forces. In his terse, no-nonsense manner, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel talked about problems without defining a solution and spoke not at all about a US Congress that wont fix the budget mess but wont allow Hagel to make key cuts, either.

At a July 31 press conference to discuss the Pentagons Strategic Choices and Management Review, or SCMR, Hagel talked bluntly about a bleak future in which the US armed forces may lose $1 trillion in funding over the next 10 years.

Hagel appeared before reporters at a time when automatic budget cuts, known as sequestration or the sequester, leave US military leaders with no choice but to plan painful cuts in the full knowledge that Congress wont appropriate the money to prevent them but wont allow them to take place. Even before the sequester took effect late last year, the Obama administration had already laid plans to cut $487 billion from defense spending by 2023. The sequester, which results from Congress not doing its job, means the total would double.

The SCMR recommended options and spoke in generalities rather than suggesting steps for the Pentagon to take. The review doesnt have the force of law but it bolsters the credibility of whatever military cuts Hagel ultimately chooses to recommend and makes

it harder for lawmakers to block them on narrow, parochial grounds.

Hagel hinted strongly at coming measures that will be painful for people in uniform involuntary separations, a freeze on military pay, and limits on access to health care for some.

Hagel didnt say which of the SCMR options he would choose. The options listed in the review are many and notably vague but they can be summed up as a choice between technology and numbers or, as Hagel put it, between high-end capability and size. As one senior officer described it to me, We fight smart or we fight big. This officer repeated the widely-held view that the United States succeeded in World War Two not because of advanced technology but because of sheer numbers.

Without ruling out other options, Hagel pointed to expected reductions in the size of the US Army and Marine Corps, of potentially as many as five US Air Force tactical combat squadrons, and of the C-130H Hercules airlifter fleet. He said that, unless the budget environment changes, the US Navys aircraft carrier fleet could be reduced (probably from 10 to eight hulls) and many Navy and Air Force squadrons will cease to exist.

The US defense chief acknowledged difficult trade-offs and strategic choices but didnt bother to mention that lawmakers on Capitol Hill once they return from their five-week summer vacation would be fighting hard to resist any cuts that affect their home districts.

HAGEL DISCUSSES OPTIONS BUT NOT DECISIONS IN A TIME OF TROUBLE

Hagel said that unless the budget environment changes, the US Navys aircraft carrier fleet could be reduced (probably from 10 to eight hulls) and many Navy and Air Force squadrons will cease to exist

Left: Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel answers questions during the Pentagon press brieng on the recent Strategic Choices Management Review on July 31. Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Sta ADM James Winnefeld Jr joined Hagel for the brieng. DoD/Glenn Fawcett

This photo: A pair of F-35Bs on delivery to MCAS Yuma in August. The Joint Strike Fighter has so far evaded any ocial talk of order reductions in the US. Lockheed Martin/Liz Kaszynski


Combat Aircrafts regular column taking a look behind the headlines

by Robert F. DorrContact the author at [email protected]

FRONT

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Air Force inventoryThe SCMR speaks of the minimal risk of reducing the C-130H inventory, something the Pentagon has long wanted to do anyway but Congress has resisted. Some in the Air Staff would like to quickly transition to a fleet consisting entirely of second-generation C-130J-30s, while relegating first-generation H-models to overseas allies or the boneyard. As Brian Everstine reported in the trade journal Air Force Times, last year Capitol Hill lawmakers directed the Air Force to retain 32 older C-130Hs that had been earmarked for retirement, including 22 scheduled to go before September 30. Congress also blocked a plan last year to retire two A-10 Thunderbolt II squadrons.

Its a time of incredible paradox, said a Pentagon officer. Hagel is under orders to make cuts because nobody expects Congress to do its job, enact a real budget, and overturn the sequester. But Congress wants it both ways. Congress wont open the purse strings but it wont allow bases to be closed or aircraft to be retired, either. The gloom and uncertainty beneath all this is exacerbated by the simple reality that no-one in the Pentagon can realistically plan anything.

So if the US Air Force cant retire a small number of C-130Hs, can it take an aircraft type entirely off the boards? Getting rid of at least one fleet of aircraft is what the Air Staff is talking about. Despite its rock-star successes satellite-guided munitions and advanced targeting pods have transformed it into a precision, close air support asset that can remain tens of thousands of feet above the fight and pick off insurgents ruthlessly the

B-1B Lancer, alias the Bone, is at the top of the list of potential retirees because it costs too much to operate.

This isnt the first time somebody in the Pentagon wanted to give the Bone a pink slip. Then-chief of staff Gen T. Michael Moseley wanted to rid himself of all B-1Bs in 2006. Moseley told me the B-1B is a drag on all of us. But that was before its transformation and before it began to appear that a new bomber is being rendered out-of-reach by the budget mess.

Today, the bomber inventory has been reduced to just 162 airframes: 76 B-52 Stratofortresses, 66 B-1Bs and 20 B-2 Spirits. In that circumstance, retiring the B-1B would have huge implications for overall readiness.

Fighter forceAlso imperiled by the gloom and uncertainty is the US Air Forces tactical air armada. The inventory currently includes 343 A-10s (down from 502 a couple of years ago); 249 F-15C/D Eagles (down from 500); 229 F-15E Strike Eagles and 1,015 F-16C/D Fighting Falcons (an F-16C of the District of Columbia Air National Guard was lost in a collision over the Chesapeake Bay on August 2; the pilot ejected and was rescued). Hagel said SCMR recommendations include drastically reducing these numbers and/

or slowing down efforts to upgrade some of the types. The updates include installation of AN/APG-63(V)3 active electronically scanned array radar on 150 of the F-15Cs and service-life extension work and avionics improvements for 350 F-16C/Ds.

The elephant in the room that received barely a mention from Hagel was the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. Air Force chief of staff Gen Mark Welsh has repeatedly said his top priorities are a new bomber, the KC-46 air refueling tanker and the F-35. While neither Hagel nor the SCMR said as much, the F-35 program is increasingly viewed in Washington as a prime target for cancellation. Despite some recent improvements, the JSF continues to experience delays, cost issues and technical glitches. The idea of scrapping the F-35 and equipping, instead, with advanced F-15s and F-16s once taboo in Washington was being discussed openly by reporters and staffers when they walked out of the Hagel press conference.

The gloom and uncertainty in the US capital elicited a quip from retired Col Charles Vasiliadis, a Vietnam veteran of combat in the A-1E Skyraider and F-105 Thunderchief. The only answer is to run for Congress, Vasiliadis told me. That way, you can grab a five-week vacation while everybody else is watching everything fall apart.

Despite its rock-star successes, the B-1B Lancer, alias the Bone, is at the top of the list of potential retirees because it costs too much to operate


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XVXVXVSPECIAL REPORT

FROM JULY 1 to 12, aircraft from the UK, Denmark, Poland, Belgium and Spain participated in Trial MACE XV. Running on an ad-hoc basis since 1978, MACE is a series of NATO

aircraft electronic warfare trials, and the aim of MACE XV was to continue the development of radio frequency countermeasures (RFCM) and tactics to enhance aircraft capability, and survivability, in hostile RF environments against both existing and emerging threats.

Week one saw Royal Air Force Chinook HC2, Royal Navy Sea King HC4 and Lynx HMA8 helicopters, together with an RAF C-130J Hercules, operating against threats on the Electronic Warfare Tactics Range at RAF Spadeadam in Cumbria, and at nearby Brunton Airfield. They were joined by Royal Danish Air Force F-16AM Fighting Falcons flying from their home base of Skrydstrup. The second week saw activity ramping up with an influx of aircraft and 140 personnel to RAF Leeming, 60 miles south-east of Spadeadam. The North Yorkshire station hosted Polish Air Force Block 52+ F-16C/Ds, Belgian F-16A MLUs and Spanish EF2000s, each nation deploying three aircraft. Spains C-295M transport aircraft also stayed to participate in the trials and a No 41(R) Squadron Tornado GR4 operated from RAF Coningsby.

Leading the trials was the Air Platform Protection Test and Evaluation Squadron (APP TES), headquartered at the Air Warfare Centre at RAF Waddington, in conjunction with Defence Scientific Technical Laboratories (DSTL), and operating under a NATO banner. Our remit is to conduct mainly trials work

to evaluate aircraft countermeasures and defensive aids systems, whether it is new equipment, improvements to current systems, or new software in response to operational requests, explained Sqn Ldr Paul Sanders, APP TESs Trials Management Officer. We continuously develop our programs to stay ahead of what the other side might be doing with their threat systems and we try to de-risk the future in terms of allowing our aircraft to operate safely when theyre in theater.

Each nation was usually allocated two one-hour slots on the range per day, flying set patterns at high and low altitudes into, and away from, the various threat systems to evaluate their defensive aids suites. RAF Spadeadam offers a mix of real surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems including SA-6s and SA-8s, SAM emulators that mimic real threats, and simple simulators. Each nation came to the trials with its own objectives and a total of 35 analysts and scientists from 13 countries were on hand at Spadeadam to help achieve those aims. In addition to representatives from the flying nations, personnel came from the US, Canada, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Australia. There is a lot of knowledge-sharing going on within the group here, said Sqn Ldr Sanders. Absolutely key is the sharing of best practice. With personnel now flying on other nations aircraft in theater its vital that we understand each others systems. Almost certainly any future operation will involve a coalition and most of those people are here.

Sqn Ldr Sanders said that they dont ask the specifics of what the participants are looking to achieve, but, generically its all

about improving platform self-protection. So, understanding your defensive aids suite better, knowing how your RWR [radar warning receiver] might work better with new software, evaluating new chaff programs and new countermeasure techniques that have been programmed into aircraft systems.

Trial MACE XV was a continuation of September 2012s MACE XIV that also took place at Spadeadam and was the first MACE to be hosted by the UK. The infrastructure at Spadeadam was developed between the two trials to include a semi-permanent analysis network, which has advanced the way data can be shared locally and among the nations. Aircrew could be debriefed almost as soon as they had returned to RAF Leeming. Sqn Ldr Sanders told Combat Aircraft that feedback from the countries involved had been very positive and that they had exceeded their expectations.

Aerospace Capability Group 3 within the NATO Air Force Armaments Group (NAFAG) addresses the survivability of NATO nations aircraft and interoperability within the organization, and Sub Group 2 specifically looks at EW self-protection measures. Sqn Ldr Sanders told Combat Aircraft that the board sits every six months to decide on what the nations want to do in a co-operative way and that, while further MACEs are likely to be held, there are no plans for further trials at Spadeadam in the near future.

This Belgian F-16A MLU carries an ALQ-131 jamming pod on the centerline.

Acknowledgments: Thanks to Wg Cdr Matt Lawrence, Sqn Ldr Paul Sanders, Sgt Jamie Johnson and Mrs Heidi Garstang.

TESTING NATOS ELECTRONIC COUNTERMEASURESTRIAL MACEXVreport and photo: Neil Pearson

SPECIAL REPO

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News

First Dutch F-35 deliveredOn July 15 the Netherlands took delivery of the first of two F-35A Lightning II test aircraft at Fort Worth, Texas. The aircraft will both be put into storage at Eglin AFB, Florida prior to a final decision on the program by the Dutch government. This is the first F-35A conventional take-off and landing variant to be delivered to an international customer. Ordered in 2009, it was intended for use in the operational test phase of the F-35 program. A second test aircraft ordered in 2011 is now undergoing test and acceptance flights. Meanwhile, Saab has again pitched its Gripen NG to the Netherlands as an alternative F-16 replacement. The latest offer includes compensation for possible late delivery.

Germany bids PharewellFinal F-4F Phantom II ight at Manching

ON JULY 30 the last flight by an F-4F Phantom II was conducted at Manching in Bavaria, Germany. The WTD 61 test unit officially marked the final retirement of the type a few days earlier on July 24, when the units two Phantoms were formally decommissioned after 40 years of service within the German military. The F-4F bowed out in style, with a flying demonstration by Lt Col Hierl and Herr Kilian in 37+15, and Lt Col Ritter and Lt Col Geisee in the specially marked 38+13. In keeping with tradition, the air base fire service provided both aircrews with a shower on landing.

Portuguese Persuader flies with SLARThe Portuguese Air Force C-295MPA Persuader has begun flying with the new SSC MSS6000 side-looking airborne radar (SLAR). The new pods are seen here attached to both fuselage sides of C-295MPA serial 16710 (S-063) during a test flight from San Pablo Airport in Seville on July 17. Antonio Muiz Zarageta

Antonio Muiz Zarageta

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Europe

First NFH for BelgiumBelgium received its first NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH) on August 1. The machine is also the initial NH90 to be completed on the German production line at Eurocopters Donauwrth facility. Belgium ordered a total of eight NH90s, comprising four NFHs for the Naval Component of the Belgian Armed Forces, and four Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTHs) for the Belgian Land Component. The aircraft was delivered in Full Operational Capability (FOC) and is identical to the NFH for the Netherlands. Training of Belgian flight and maintenance crews on the NFH began in August, and operations with an initial two aircraft are due to begin in 2014.

A dramatic study of F-4F 38+13 over the

Manching facility on July 4. Dietmar Fenners

Belgium has ordered four NH90 NFHs to succeed its Sea Kings. NHIndustries

Italian F-35A progressNorthrop Grumman has delivered the center fuselage for Italys first F-35 Lightning II. After arrival on board a US Air Force C-5B, the fuselage barrel was handed over at Italys recently completed Final Assembly and Check Out (FACO) facility at Cameri on July 12. The receipt is the first step in the initial assembly of an initial F-35A (AL-1) for Italy. In all, 90 center fuselage sections will be delivered to the Italian FACO facility in order to provide for the full production run of Italian conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) variants of the Lightning II. Work on AL-1s center fuselage began in September 2012 and it is the 115th to be constructed by the contractor on its Integrated Assembly Line (IAL) at Palmdale, California. In related news, Lockheed Martin has been awarded a $70.4-million contract modification to provide long lead-time parts, material and components required for seven CTOL F-35As and one short take-off and vertical landing F-35B for Italy.

Spanish Mirage F1s continue to fly onThe Spanish Air Force resumed flights with the Mirage F1M on August 8 within the framework of a maintenance program that is intended to keep a number of these aircraft airworthy. The F1M fleet was officially withdrawn from use on June 23, although some aircraft continued to fly additional missions until the last day of June. Since the Spanish government intends to try to sell a number of aircraft to a third country with Argentina being seen at present as the most likely option some aircraft were taken out of preservation status in July for immediate flight testing from August onwards. Roberto Yez

Landing at Albacete on August 8 is Mirage F1M C14-64/14-37, wearing its old Tiger Meet color scheme and with 142 Escuadrn pilot Cdr Salls at the controls. Such check ights last around 40 minutes per aircraft and have been staged regularly following formal retirement of the type in June. Roberto Yez



News

A400M latestFrench Air Force receives MSN7 First Turkish example takes flight

ON AUGUST 2, the French Air Force received the first production Airbus A400M to be formally delivered to a customer.

Arriving from Seville, Spain after a two-hour flight, MSN7 (wearing the French civil registration F-RBAA) landed at Orlans-Bricy at 14.30hrs, flown by a French crew. It had previously been accepted by the DGA (Dlgation Gnrale de lArmement) armament procurement agency, having already flown French President Franois Hollande to the Paris Air Show and taken part in the Bastille Day flypast over Paris prior to delivery. Known as the Atlas in French service, two further aircraft are expected to be delivered to France by the end of 2013. The arrival of the A400M comes at a good time for the Arme de lAir, as its existing C-130 and C-160 transport fleets have become increasingly tired while still being worked hard on overseas operations.

Meanwhile, the German Defense Ministry has countered reports suggesting that delivery of the A400M to the Luftwaffe will be delayed. The news magazine Der Spiegel said that

the existing schedule could be subject to setbacks due to a mistake in the ministrys certification procedures. An initial delivery is planned for November 2014. Der Spiegel uncovered documents from 2003 showing that errors in the original sales contract mean that the chosen commercial certification procedures fail to comply with German military standards, leading to potential delays and cost over-runs. Germany has allocated 9.5 billion for the purchase of 53 A400Ms. In response to the dilemma, the Defense Ministry has moved to establish a new military aviation authority responsible

for the certification of all service aircraft.

In further news, the first production A400M for the Turkish Air Force made its maiden flight on August 9. MSN9 took off from Seville, Spain, at 13.56hrs and returned after a flight lasting 5 hours and 30 minutes. Turkish Air Force pilots, loadmasters and maintenance technicians have already begun instruction at the Airbus Military International Training Center at Seville. Turkey has ordered 10 A400Ms. MSN9s maiden flight was preceded by a simultaneous run of its four engines on July 29.

This photo: Pictured arriving at Orlans-Bricy on August 2, MSN7 will initially be used for continued aircrew training before joining the operational transport eet. Patrick Bigel

Inset: The rst production A400M for the Turkish Air Force made its maiden ight on August 9. Airbus Military



Europe

TF-X cost analysisReports in the Turkish media have highlighted the cost of Turkeys planned ghter purchases. Hrriyet Daily News puts a price tag of $50 billion on plans to build and acquire 200 locally-built TF-X ghters and 100 Lockheed Martin F-35s, plus the cost of engines for the TF-X. The cost of building eight TF-X prototypes is put at over $10 billion. Should Turkey eventually order 200 indigenous ghters, ocials hope to provide a unit cost of $100 million, representing a total expenditure of at least $31 to $33 billion. Added to this are costs of around $16 billion for the Lightning II acquisition. Turkey is hopeful of ying a prototype TF-X by 2020, and TAI is currently working on three dierent design congurations. Whether further development is authorized will probably be decided before the end of the year.

Turkish Navy receives rst ATR-72 TMUAAlenia Aermacchi has delivered the rst of two ATR-72-600 Turkish Maritime Utility Aircraft (TMUAs) to the Turkish Navy, the company announced on July 24. Under a contract signed with Turkeys Defense Industries Undersecretariat on May 8, Alenia is supplying a total of eight ATR-72-600s, comprising two in the TMUA conguration and the remaining six congured as Turkish Maritime Patrol Aircraft (TMPAs). The second aircraft was due to follow in the rst half of August. The rst TMPA will

arrive with the Turkish Navy in February 2017 and deliveries will be completed by 2018.

An-124 renaissance? Russia and Ukraine have begun talks regarding the possible re-opening of production of the Antonov An-124 heavy airlifter. A memorandum of understanding could be signed as early as September, according to reports in the Russian press. In order to provide the Russian Air Force and commercial operators with additional An-124s, Moscow and Kiev are considering joint production of a modied version, likely to feature a reduced load capacity and advanced D-18T engines.

MiG-35 purchase delayedOn August 17 it was reported that the Russian Defense Ministry had delayed signature of a contract to purchase 37 MiG-35 ghters for the Russian Air Force. Originally expected in June, the deal will now be postponed until 2016. The move is apparently intended to save the Ministry some $1.1 billion within its current budget. Another reason cited for the move is cited as delays in drawing up the design. In its place, MiG is hopeful of a possible Russian order for the MiG-29SMT, for delivery by 2016.

Blackjack upgradeThe Russian Defense Ministry has signed a deal worth $103 million with Tupolev and the Kazan Aircraft Plant to upgrade three Tu-160 strategic

bombers. The updated aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Russian Air Force in December 2015. In 2012 it was announced that at least 10 Tu-160s would be modernized by 2020, in order to remain in service until the elding of a successor, under development in the PAK-DA program.

Russia buys An-148sRussias Defense Ministry has bought 15 An-148 regional airliners. The contract between the Defense Ministry and Voronezh Aircraft Production Association (VASO) was announced on July 31. According to Russian press reports, the rst An-148 will be delivered to the Russian Air Force in 2013. Four more aircraft will follow in 2014, another quartet in 2015, three in 2016 and the remaining three in 2017.

Polish helo tender progressesOn July 15 the Polish Defense Ministry opened talks with prospective candidates to supply 70 new helicopters to the Polish military. Warsaw hopes to have decided on a bidder in 2014, followed by initial deliveries in 2016. The program is worth an estimated 1.6 to 2.1 billion. Poland favors local production or assembly of the aircraft, with Sikorsky apparently being the front-runner thanks to its manufacturing facility at Mielec. Other candidates are Eurocopter and AgustaWestland, the latter with established interests at Swidnik.

IN BRIEF

Luftwaffes latest Tornado specialLuftwaffe Tornado IDS 43+01 from Jadgbombergeschwader 33 has received these special markings in honor of the 55th anniversary of the fighter-bomber wing and the re-naming of JaBoG 33 as Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 33 (Tactical Air Force Wing 33) from October 1. The jet was painted at Erding before returning to its home base at Bchel.

Rafale production revisedFrance is likely to halve its purchases of Dassault Rafale fighters in the coming years, it has been revealed. In a bid to reduce defense spending, the government has proposed acquisition of just 26 Rafales over the next six years. In order to keep the Rafale in production after 2016, therefore, Dassault will be reliant upon securing sales in India, as well as winning potential new contracts in Brazil, Malaysia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Previously, Dassault was to supply Rafales to the French military at a rate of 11 per year already considered the minimum necessary to keep the production line open. The latest plan relies upon at least one country placing an order for the Rafale before 2019. Overall, France still plans to acquire 180 Rafales, of which around 120 have been delivered.

Dr Andreas Zeitler


In a world in which the focus of the aviation industry is shifting to new regions, the latest edition of the F-AIR exhibition in Colombia showed that the local market is fast becoming a key concern.

report and photos: Santiago Rivas

BETWEEN JULY 11 and 14, the fifth edition of the Feria Aeronutica Internacional (F-AIR) airshow and exhibition took place at Jos Mara Crdova airport in Ro Negro,

near the Colombian city of Medelln. Perhaps the most significant feature of this latest show was the increased presence of European companies, as in previous editions the event had been dominated by US and Israeli firms. Eurocopter, Thales, MBDA, EADS, Sener and Let were among the European concerns present at Ro Negro. All were trying to break into a difficult market, in which Colombia has traditionally bought US, Israeli or Russian equipment.

On the military side, Canada attracted much attention with its CF-188 demonstration. Two Hornets were taken to

Colombia, escorted by an Airbus CC-150 Polaris tanker.

Another interesting presence was that of the Beechcraft AT-6 Texan II, part of the Raytheon delegation. The model is being offered to the region, despite the Super Tucano dominating the local market. It is difficult to imagine the US model gaining a foothold in Latin America, as all potential operators have so far ordered the Super Tucano or, in the case of Peru, the Korean KT-1. The company also showed for the second time the Beechcraft 350 Special Missions, which is being offered for a variety of duties including intelligence and maritime reconnaissance. The Colombian Air Force and Police already use different versions of the Super King Air for special operations.

As always, the Colombian Air Force was the main exhibitor, with most types in use being shown. As usual, especially interesting

were the relative rarities: the Rockwell OV-10 Bronco, the Basler AC-47T Fantasma, the Cessna T-37C and the IAI Kfir C10 and C12 this time including an example that took part in the recent Red Flag exercise. The latest version of the Calima trainer, the T-90C, was also on view, with changes that include a new instrument panel, landing lights, new wing with different leading edge, and other modifications. The Corporacin de la Industria Aeronutica Colombiana (CIAC) has delivered 11 Calimas from a total of 24 ordered.

Also on display were the two newly-received Boeing 737-400Fs and the last Airbus Military C-295 received by the Colombian Air Force.

The forces interest in the F-16 as a replacement for the Kfir fleet is growing. Lockheed Martin sent two US Air Force two-seaters to be exhibited, and in particular

2013


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SPECIAL REPORT

to carry high-ranking Colombian officers on familiarization flights. The company also brought an F-16 simulator and showed a model of the jet in Colombian colors. Colombian Air Force officers announced that a contract could be signed very soon and that the aircraft might arrive in two to three years. Most probably, a deal will involve modernized second-hand jets.

The flying display was less spectacular than at the previous F-AIR, but the presence of four Broncos flying together was perhaps the most interesting item. Currently, the air force has just six OV-10s operational and a seventh is being returned to service. As well as the four specimens flying, a fifth was shown in the static display.

The Sikorsky AH-60L Arpa was arguably the star of the programme, this time with two examples performing an impressive aerobatic

display. Another was present on the ground, together with a UH-60 Angel, used for combat search and rescue operations. During the demonstration, another UH-60, not modified to Angel standard, performed a CSAR demonstration escorted by an Arpa. In total, the air force has three Angels, which are Black Hawks modified with a FLIR turret and cameras and equipped with extra fuel tanks, a hoist and self-protection equipment.

A new version of the Arpa was also announced, which could include anti-tank missiles, improved avionics and multi-function displays among other changes. The plan is to modernize all examples to bring them up to this definitive standard.

The Colombian Air Force also exhibited its Boeing Scan/Night Eagle tactical UAVs, used by the Grupo de Proteccin de Infraestructura Vital to search for guerrilla forces around major

military and strategic civil facilities. Another innovation was the XMT-14 door gunner simulator, developed by the Comando Areo de Combate 14, which includes a simulated

This photo: Four of Colombias seven remaining OV-10 Broncos perform a ypast at F-AIR.

Right top to bottom: A Colombian Air Force Boeing 737-400F transport.

A Basler AC-47T Fantasma gunship.

Inset right: This model of an F-16 in Colombian markings reected growing interest in the type locally. Many expect a deal to be forthcoming soon.



Huey or Bell 212 helicopter cabin and which can be equipped with weapons including GAU-17 and GAU-19 Miniguns.

Other forcesColombian Army Aviation put on show its first recently-delivered Sikorsky S-70i, a major advance over the earlier models in use with the force. In total, there are now more than 50 Black Hawks of different versions in Army service. The service also participated with the Mi-17 veteran of the famous Operacin Jaque rescue mission, which has been present at every F-AIR since 2008.

Naval Aviation brought its third and final CN235MP Persuader, another recent newcomer in service. Plans were announced to buy three more, for a total of six: two based in the Caribbean, two on the Pacific coast and a final pair in maintenance and reserve. Furthermore, the Navy is ordering four Bell 412 helicopters for interdiction operations, to operate on the Almirante Padilla-class frigates. It intends to buy a bigger and more capable helicopter, preferably the H-60 Seahawk, to fly from the future frigates, and to offer more capacity and range. For the show, the Navy sent a Bell 212, equipped with a GAU-17 Minigun, an M240 machine gun and a Barrett .50 sniper rifle, the latter being used to destroy the engines of the go-fast vessels used by drug traffickers in the Caribbean Sea.

From its impressive inventory, the National Police provided one of its medevac Fairchild Metros, an Air Tractor used in the past for the eradication of illegal plantations (now employed for ground training after being replaced by the Turbo Thrush) and a Huey II armed with a GAU-17. The Police Basler BT-67 was missing from the exhibition.

The challenge for the next F-AIR, in July 2015, is to keep showing new products and to develop a more interesting aerial demonstration. On the military side, an increased Navy, Army and Police presence would be welcome. The Colombian market, together with the entire region, is growing fast and becoming a very attractive area for companies from around the world.

Above: The Sikorsky AH-60L Arpas are already in line for a further upgrade to bring them up to a denitive standard.

One of ve new Colombian Army Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawks was on show. Delivered in March, the ve aircraft were built in Mielec, Poland, and were then custom-equipped in the USA to meet Colombian requirements.

Below: A pair of upgraded Kr C10s in the static display at F-AIR.



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593 CAM Digi Iss.indd 25 21/08/2013 10:48

News

EXERCISE TALISMAN SABER is a large-scale exercise held every two years involving Australia and the US, with the objective of improving interoperability

between the armed services of both nations. This years exercise, the fifth and largest in the series, was held between July 15 and August 5, and was conducted mainly on land, water and airspace around Queensland. The US committed almost 20,000 personnel, along with 15 ships and significant aviation elements drawn from the US Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, which trained alongside their counterparts from the Australian Army, Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Australian Navy.

TS13 marked the debut of a number of aircraft types, notably the MV-22 Osprey from the Dragons of VMM-265

(Reinforced), as part of the USS Bonhomme Richards Expeditionary Strike Group. Other than the Ospreys, VMM-265 (Reinforced) comprised CH-53Es, UH-1Ys and AH-1Zs detached from other USMC squadrons and deployed to Futenma, Okinawa under the Unit Deployment Program (UDP). The helicopters were augmented by another UDP detachment of AV-8B+ Harrier IIs from VMA-214 Blacksheep. However, if one combat aircraft type dominated the skies at TS13, it was the Super Hornet. RAAF F/A-18Fs were heavily committed during TS13, with flights of four to eight aircraft completing up to two sorties a day between RAAF Base Amberley and Shoalwater Bay. They were joined by their US Navy counterparts from Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) on board the carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), contributing four

more squadrons of Super Hornets. CVW-5 also included the EA-18G Growlers of VAQ-141 Shadowhawks, which joined Japan-based CVW-5 in early 2012. The Super Hornets mostly flew offensive and defensive counter-air (OCA/DCA) missions, and also supported ground forces working with Joint Terminal Air Controllers (JTACs).

Meanwhile, in the first operation of its kind, USAF C-17s conducted tactical supply air-drops alongside RAAF C-17s of No 36 Squadron. For the supply drops, all the C-17s operated from Amberley. Special operations-related aircraft that were sighted operating out of Australian airfields during the exercise included HH-60H Seahawks of HSC-85 Firehawks, S-70A-2s of the Australian Army, and USAF Special Operations Command MC-130H/Ps and Dornier C-146As. Mike Yeo

Talisman Saber 2013Australian-American combined arms exercise

A trio of RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornets formates on a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) o the coast of the Australian state of Queensland prior to refueling. Mike Yeo


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World

Rapid progress for RomeoOn July 24 the rst Royal Australian Navy MH-60R arrived at the Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training facility in Owego, New York. Here, the Seahawk will receive its digital cockpit and integrated mission systems and sensors.

The rst ight of an Australian MH-60R on June 26, followed by its acceptance on June 29, occurred only two years after contract signature and six months ahead of the original schedule as approved by the Australian government in 2011. An initial mission-ready aircraft is to be delivered to the Australian Defence Force in December. Sikorsky has three additional aircraft for the RAN in various stages of assembly at its Seahawk completion line in Stratford. Those will be handed over to the US Navy in August and September for completion by Lockheed Martin in early 2014. Australia is expected to take delivery of all 24 MH-60Rs by late 2016 via the US governments Foreign Military Sales program.

RNZAF NH90s on exerciseThree Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90s undertook an intensive ying training program around Waiouru in July. The exercise was designed to evaluate the helicopters ability to deploy in a more austere environment, and involved around 90 Air Force personnel and 30 Army personnel. It was the rst time that the NH90 had carried fully equipped NZ Army troops, as well as the rst occasion that low-level formation ying had been undertaken away from the NH90s home base at Ohakea. Two A109s were also deployed to Waiouru and trained alongside the NH90s as part of this types operational test and evaluation.

Australasia

Egyptian F-16 deliveries haltedAs civil unrest continues in Egypt, Washington has put a stop to arms transfers to the country. US officials announced that delivery of the latest batch of four Block 52 F-16s, due to arrive with the Egyptian Air Force on July 23, has been halted. US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel informed Egypts military chief, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, of President Barack Obamas decision to stop the delivery. According to available information, the first batch of EAF F-16s from the latest order was delivered in January 2013 and consisted of four aircraft. The next quartet was noted passing through Lajes in April. The third group of aircraft comprised those that were due to be delivered on July 23. An additional batch of eight F-16s was set to follow in December, competing the 20-aircraft Peace Vector VII contract.

Sudanese Fencer breaks coverThe Sudanese Air Force has been confirmed as the latest operator of the Su-24M fighter-bomber. Delivery of four former Belarusian Air Force aircraft occurred in April 2013. It was initially rumored that the Fencers had been transferred to Yemen, until photographs emerged of the Su-24s at Wadi Sayyidna air base near Um Dorman in Sudan, together with Belarusian personnel and crews.


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News

Brazilian ghter developmentsThe Brazilian Air Force commander, Lt Brig Juniti Saito, recently attended an open meeting with the Congressional commission responsible for defense and foreign aairs. The talks concerned the current status of the Brazilian ghter eet and the retirement of the Mirage 2000s, now planned for before the end of the year. Saito announced that the Mirages will be replaced by upgraded F-5EMs currently deployed in four Brazilian Air Force squadrons. They will be augmented by former Jordanian Tiger IIs as soon as a modernization program for these aircraft is completed.

September is the deadline for the current proposals presented by the F-X2 contenders. If any one of these is selected, the rst ghters should arrive within a timeframe of four to six years. Saito declared a preference for the Super Hornet, although the recent revelations by Edward Snowden concerning US espionage in Brazil may make the acquisition of F/A-18E/Fs problematic. During the meeting Saito stated that the best ghter is the one which can made by ourselves, words that were interpreted by some as a reference to the Gripen NG, since the Brazilian

manufacturer AKAER is involved in the design and production of certain parts of the aircraft, including the wings. Srgio Ricardo

Modernized Skyhawk iesThe rst prototype of the modernized A-4KU Skyhawk (locally named AF-1) ew for the rst time at Embraers Gavio Peixoto facilities in So Paulo state on July 17. The new model, designated AF-1B and C (for the single- and two-seat versions, respectively) is now beginning its ight tests after development of the new version started in 2009. It is planned to deliver the rst of 12 modernized jets in March 2014, while the remaining 11 aircraft will be used for spares.

The Skyhawks will receive new radar and avionics, including MFDs and a new HUD for the cockpit, using most of the systems already installed on the Brazilian Air Forces upgraded F-5EMs. Santiago Rivas

Brazilian police to receive Air Force helosThe Brazilian Air Force is to deliver two UH-1H and four Esquilo helicopters to the Rio de Janeiro Civil Police. The aircraft are currently stored at the Parque de Material Aeronutico

dos Afonsos (PAMA-AF), in Rio. They will reinforce the force, which lost an Esquilo last May, and will be used to provide security in the city during the 2014 World Cup and the Olympic Games in 2016. The helicopters to be transferred are UH-1Hs FAB 8695 and 8688, and Esquilos FAB 8811, 8816, 8818 and 8819. The Brazilian Air Force UH-1Hs are being supplanted by Black Hawks and Super Cougars, while the Esquilos of the Poti Squadron were succeeded by the Mi-35. Santiago Rivas

Chile interested in Indra P2006TWith the intention of replacing its Cessna O-2As, which are being withdrawn from use, the Chilean Navy is studying the purchase of a batch of up to eight Indra P2006T MRI small maritime patrol aircraft for coastal patrol and search and rescue duties. The Cessnas were used extensively to patrol Chiles coasts for the past 20 years but are still considered to not be well-suited to the mission. The intention is to eld a new aircraft that can also supplement the force of P-3 Orions and P-295 Persuaders that are already in service, and which could also be used to replace the EMB-111 Bandeirulhas.

Latin America

First Omani C-295M appears in full markingsThe first Airbus Military C-295M for the Royal Air Force of Oman, serial 901 (c/n S-100) is seen with full markings during a test flight from San Pablo Airport, Seville on July 29. This aircraft is the 100th C-295 built, and although it was displayed at the Paris Air Show earlier in the year it was exhibited there without full markings, with the tail markings covered up. Antonio Muiz Zarageta

Indonesian Hercules rolled outFormer RAAF aircraft provided as gift

Antonio Muiz Zarageta


26-31 World News C.indd 28 23/08/2013 10:14

World

The P2006T MRI uses the Selex Galileo Seaspray 5000E scanned array radar and other systems in order to operate at night and in adverse weather. The aircraft sends the information obtained by its sensors to a ground station in real time, making it possible to y with only a pilot and a co-pilot. Santiago Rivas

Chilean Navy to modernize OrionsInstead of buying more P-295 Persuaders, the Chilean Navy has decided to extend the service life of its three remaining Lockheed P-3A Orions to retain them in service until 2030. They are the last from a total of eight received 20 years ago from the US Navy, while a fourth is used for transport. The aircraft will receive new wings, and new avionics, making them capable of deploying AGM-84 Harpoon missiles, while the engines and airframes will be overhauled. Two of the P-3As recently received new equipment in New Zealand, including Elta EL/M 2022A scanned array radars. Santiago Rivas

Colombia moves closer to F-16The Colombian Air Force is negotiating with Lockheed Martin for the provision of a batch

of F-16 Fighting Falcons in order to replace the Kr C10 and C12s currently in service. Air Force ocials expect to receive the rst ghters in two or three years. Although not ocially announced, the negotiations concern a batch of second-hand jets, most likely Block 30 or 40 examples, which will receive some degree of modernization. The quantity under discussion is 12 to 24 aircraft, perhaps in two separate batches. Santiago Rivas

Additional Bell 412s for Colombian Navy The Colombian Navy will receive four new Bell 412s before the end of the year, to increase its eet of helicopters used on interdiction, assault and transport missions. The Bells will mainly serve on board the Almirante Padilla-class frigates against the go-fast vessels used by drug trackers. They will be equipped with GAU-17 Miniguns and Barrett sniper ries.

The force is also interested in buying a larger helicopter to be used on a future class of frigates, which will have a larger ight deck. The Navy is especially interested in the H-60 Seahawk. Santiago Rivas

THE FIRST OF four C-130H Hercules that will be transferred from Australia to the Indonesian Air Force was recently rolled out of the maintenance hangar at RAAF Base Richmond, New South Wales, where Qantas Defence Services conducts heavy maintenance on the RAAF Hercules fleet. The aircraft, which formerly wore the RAAF serial A97-006, will be delivered to Indonesia in October wearing serial

A-1330. Australia retired its C-130H fleet in November 2012 and subsequently announced that it would provide four of the aircraft to Indonesia as a gift. Qantas will upgrade the three remaining C-130Hs under a $58-million contract signed in July 2013 and the aircraft will be delivered in April, August and October 2014. Indonesia subsequently agreed to purchase five additional C-130Hs, a simulator and associated equipment from Australia at a cost of $13.9 million. Tom Kaminski

Second C-17 for IndiaBoeing has delivered the second C-17A Globemaster III to the Indian Air Force. The airlifter was handed over at the companys Long Beach, California facility on July 22, a month after the IAFs rst C-17 arrived in India. Boeing will deliver three more C-17s to India this year and ve in 2014, thus providing the full complement of 10 aircraft.

India launches carrierIndias rst Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC), the Vikrant (P 71), was launched at the port of Kochi on August 12. The 37,500-tonne vessel is due to enter service in 2017. The previous Vikrant, Indias rst carrier, was decommissioned in January 1997. The new carrier is equipped for short-take o but assisted recovery (STOBAR) operations, with a ski jump ramp. Design and construction of the IAC was approved by the government in January 2003 and the keel was laid in February 2009. In addition to MiG-29K and Tejas ghters, the Vikrant is intended to operate Ka-31 and Dhruv helicopters. The next phase of construction will see the outtting of the ship, tment of various weapons and sensors, and integration of the propulsion system and the aircraft complex. The carrier is due to be handed over to the Indian Navy in around 2016-17.

In related news, the Indian Navy aircraft carrier Vikramaditya began a series of ight tests recently. It departed the Russian port of Severodvinsk on July 3 for sea trials in the White Sea. In early August the Vikramaditya proceeded to the Barents Sea to begin trials of the MiG-29K carrier-borne ghters and related maintenance equipment.

Kaveri dropped for TejasAfter numerous setbacks, Indias Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has nally abandoned plans to use the indigenous Kaveri engine to power the HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). Design and development work on the Kaveri began in 1989, but the engine has consistently failed to generate the required thrust for combat aircraft applications. While the Tejas will rely on the General Electric F404 and F414 engines, a non-afterburning version of the Kaveri is intended for use in the Indian Unmanned Strike Air Vehicle (IUSAV).

IndiaThe second C-17A for the Indian Air Force departs Boeings Long Beach facility during its delivery ight on July 22. Boeing

ADF


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News

First flight for RoKAF C-130J Lockheed Martin receives boost in Korea

THE FIRST C-130J-30 Hercules for the Republic of Korea Air Force completed its maiden flight at the Lockheed Martin production facility adjacent to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia, on August 14. C-130J serial 5730 is scheduled for delivery to the RoKAF in 2014.

Meanwhile, ockheed Martin has received a $223-million contract to supply South Korea with Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) systems for the nations AH-64E Apache helicopters. The contract includes 36 M-TADS/PNVS systems and spares, with production being due to continue into 2018.

North Korean Candid camouage Spotted recently in North Korea is this Il-76TD wea

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Combat Aircraft Monthly 201310