53295e7e26f36_51

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 51 YEAR 2014ISSN 1306 5998

IT IS EXPECTED TO TAKE A DECISION IN FX PROGRAMME AT NEXT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

DEARSAN HITS THE GLOBAL MARKETS WITH ITS EXPERTISE IN SHIPBUILDING

NIGHT VISION SENSOR TECHNOLOGY TO SUIT USER’S NEEDS

NAVANTIA MOVES UP A GEAR WITH TURKISH LPD PROGRAMME

ITALIAN AND TURKISH AIR FORCES TO ENHANCE MUTUAL COOPERATION

TAF SHOWS OFF FIRST PEACE EAGLE AIRCRAFT

AN INTERVIEW WITH MR.SERDAR DEMIREL, DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARY FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRIES

VOLUME: 8 ISSUE: 51 YEAR: 2014

ISSN 1306 5998

Publisher Companyİmge Co.

Publisher & Editor in ChiefAyşe AKALIN

[email protected]

Editor Cem AKALIN

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Administrative CoordinatorYeşim BİLGİNOĞLU YÖRÜK

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International RelationsŞebnem AKALIN

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Translation Tanyel AKMAN

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Graphics & DesignGülsemin BOLATGörkem ELMAS

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Advisory Board(R) Major General Fahir ALTAN

(R) Navy Captain Zafer BETONER(R) Col. Fevzi BARUTÇU

Prof Dr. Nafiz ALEMDAROĞLUAsst. Prof. Dr. Altan ÖZKİL

Kaya YAZGANPhilipp REUTER

Ali KALIPÇIZeynep KAREL

İMGE Co.Sancak Mah. 596 Sok. 59/7

Çankaya Ankara / Turkey

DEFENCE TURKEYAdministrative Office

Sancak Mah. 596 Sok. 59/7 Çankaya Ankara / TurkeyTel: +90 (312) 447 [email protected]

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No part of publication may be reproduced by any means without written permission.

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DEFENCE TURKEY3ISSUE 51/2014

6 Turkey Commences to Work on a New Sales Mechanism Similar to FMS

12 TAF Shows Off First Peace Eagle Aircraft “KUZEY” “Eyes in the Sky”

18 It is Expected to Take a Decision in FX Programme at Next Executive Committee Meeting

24 Turkish Utility Helicopter Contract Signed Between SSM and Sikorsky

26 Italian and Turkish Air Force to Enhance Mutual Cooperation

36 The Instrumentation Revolution

38 Ground For Reconciliation Sought in the A400M Programme

40 Dearsan Hits the Global Markets with its Expertise in Shipbuilding

46 Turkey Progresses Composite Propellant Technologies

50 Navantia Moves Up a Gear with Turkish LPD Programme

54 Turkey will Have Critical Technologies with KEMENT Program

58 MILDAR will Run Against LONGBOW

62 TAF Progresses State-of-Art Simulation Systems

64 Ares Shipyard; Fast Solution for a Fast Boat

65 Kuwait Upgrades Defences with World’s Most Advanced Air and Missile Defence Technology

65 Rolls-Royce Shared Next Generation Engine Designs

66 TAHSIS – TÜBİTAK’s Tactical Field Communication Systems

66 TÜBİTAK Bilgem; Technology Center of Turkey

68 Göktürk National Crypto Subsystem, is implemented by TÜBİTAK Bilgem Informatics and Information Security Advanced Technology Research Center, National Electronics and Cryptology Research Institute (UEKAE)

68 Bilgem’s Hyperspectral Data Imaging Spectograph FORENSIC XP-4010D in India Now

69 DTM (Data Transfer Medium) Device, Which is Designed by TÜBİTAK Bilgem, Will be Using for A400M Aircraft

69 Quadrant Photodetector - DDA-I

70 New Stage of Turkey and France Defence Industry

71 Roketsan Featured its Missile Systems in Bahrain Air Show 2014

72 Feels Like a Fighter

73 Roll Out for First Italian Built Eurofighter Tranche 3

74 FNSS Participated in the Future Operational Environment and Technology Panel

74 Workshop On “How to do Business with NATO?”

75 President of Pakistan Confers Nishan-I-Imtiaz (Military) Upon General Akın Özturk, Commander Turkish Air Force

75 President of Romania Visited TAI Facilities

76 Defence Industry Firms Meet in the II TSSK Project Market

77 TAI’s T129 ATAK Helicopter Performed Flight Demonstration at BIAS 2014

78 Getac: Leading Innovator of Rugged Computing Solution

81 Aerospace Materials and Autonomy Technologies

82 Night Vision Sensor Technology to Suit User’s Needs

84 Grup Impeks; Remarkable Experience on Military&Security and Police Equipments

85 Finland to Acquire Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank From Netherland

85 Border Management & Technologies Summit 2014

86 DAHRA Striving Hard To Meet Your Needs

87 Finmeccanica: Alenia Aermacchi Signed a EUR 280 Million Contract with Poland for Eight M-346

88 Rolls-Royce and Lockheed Martin Agree US$1bn Deal to Power Future C-130J Aircraft

88 Raytheon Received Contract for Ground Based Air Defence System for Oman

89 Sikorsky Began Safety of Flight Tests on First Prototype CH-53K Helicopter

90 Europe’s Missile Shield Grows with the USS Donald Cook Destroyer

91 Finnish Ministry of Defence Takes Decision on Army Air-Defence System Procurement

91 Harbor Offshore Barriers Features Fixed Barrier Systems in DIMDEX

91 Thales Secured New Support Contract for Sonar 2050 System

92 Thales Begins Development of New Generation Laser Designation Pod

92 Northrop Grumman’s Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) Brings Advanced Capabilities to Global F-16 Fleets

92 Airbus Defence and Space Began Final Assembly of First A400M for Germany

93 Call for Papers: Safety & Regulations for European Unmanned Maritime Systems

93 Boeing Delivered Kuwait Air Force’s 1st C-17 Globemaster III

94 Airbus Defence and Space at DIMDEX 2014

96 U.S. Air Force Selected Lockheed Martin to Provide Software that Integrates Air Operations & Missile Defence Assets

5ISSUE 51/2014

The DIMDEX 2014 exhibition and conference will take place from 25 to 27 of March 2014 in Doha, and is set to be the largest event for the protection of the region’s borders providing the latest solutions for maritime defence and the protection of critical off shore infrastructure. With the new Qatar Naval Base under construction and the MENA naval market predicted to spend up to US $ 50 billion in the next 20 years, DIMDEX provides a critical platform that gathers senior delegations, key decision-makers, experts and buyers from all over the world to discuss the latest naval and maritime security solutions.

Turkey will participate nationally for the third time with Undersecretary for Defence Industries to support Turkish defence industry companies and featured naval platforms and systems in particular in the Gulf Region between 25-27 March. Turkey will participate with 25 firms and a 1,159 m2 area will be leased by Undersecretary for Defence Industries and allocated to Turkish Defence Companies for increase the cooperation with Gulf Region countries.

We are pleased to share with you, an interview with Mr.Serdar Demirel, Deputy Undersecretary for Defence Industries; Italian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Pasquale Preziosa; Mr. Özcan Ertem, Head of TAI Aircraft Group; Mr.Taner Akkaya, The chairman of the Board of Dearsan; Mr. José Manuel Revuelta; The Chairman of Navantia recent developments and news; technical articles related with the products and capabilities geared towards the defence industry.

Enjoy this special issue...

Turkey features Naval Platforms and Systems in DIMDEX 2014

Ayşe AkalınPublisher & Editor in Chief

DEFENCE TURKEY 6 ISSUE 51/2014

Turkey Commences to Work on a New Sales Mechanism Similar to FMSMr. Serdar Demirel, Deputy Undersecretary for Defence Industries assessed expectations within the coverage of 2023 vision, export activities in Gulf Countries, MILGEM-S, TF-2000 programme and LPD programme for Defence Turkey Readers

© Defence Turkey


Defence Turkey: Mr. Demirel, first of all we want to thank you for giving us your time for this interview. Could you please assess 2013 in terms of the projects implemented under the co-ordination of the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries?

We can say in fact that 2013 was a year which ended a period and in which we undertook the first step towards a new period. I mention this from two points. The first is that many projects that had been on-going for a long time and some projects that went on due to problems that took place were completed in 2013 or were finally resolved. In this respect I can say that 2013 was a year when we threw away the shackles and became ready to see a new agenda for 2014. The second point is that 2013 was the year when the question as to whether “Turkey can design its own platforms was a “YES” as an answer.” The answer to this “yes” was due to the successful “Hürkuş,” “Altay” and MILGEM projects and the results that were beyond expectations and not due to us. Parallel to this, the technology acquisition projects that are increasingly gaining momentum during the last decade have begun to attain maturity. Thus, the SSM that tried to prove that Turkey can design and produce its own weapon systems until 2013 has entered a new period in 2014 where the detailed design and production of subsystems of weapon systems down to the details of materials that is completely new has perhaps entered a more assertive new period.

Defence Turkey: According to the 2012-2016 Strategy Plan of the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) one of the key issues that has been emphasized is the consolidation and merger project that the SSM has been working on involving the military ship building sector. What would you like to say on the work and steps carried by your Undersecretariat on this subject?

Our expectations from the military shipbuilding sector that provides a contribution to our national defence as well as to our national economy is not the delivery of required platforms within the coverage of projects but enabling it to be one of the key players in overseas markets in platforms that are produced as well as being able to contribute to the continuous expansion and effectiveness of the

sector. For this reason, specialisation, a sound financial structure and a brand name is of great importance in establishing an entity. Thus, in reviewing the advanced military shipbuilding industry in the world, we note that this type of structuring for the purpose of obtaining the effective use of capabilities and sustainability takes place. In a similar way, bearing in mind our expectations from the industry, the infrastructure, capability and capital strength that have been obtained as of now in military shipbuilding projects that can be used as a whole and work in forming a sustainable structure is still continuing.

Defence Turkey: What would you like to say on the financial size of the programmes implemented in naval vehicles according to 2013 data and on the targets and expectations within the coverage of the 2023 vision?

The financial size of the programmes we are implementing in naval vehicles as of now has exceeded 7 billion dollars and this amount parallel to our Undersecretariat’s mission, aside from the modernisation of the Turkish Armed Forces, has created a great opportunity in the development and sustainability of the military shipbuilding industry. As a result of the projects that have been realised as of now, the performances of platforms that have been put forth and the beginning of exports indicates that this opportunity, in terms of the policies that have been pursued, has been applied correctly. Our next objective is to be able to develop and sustain the gains we have achieved. Towards this end and parallel to our 2023 vision, in addition to the projects

we have successfully accomplished, by realising projects such as the TF-2000 Frigate, the continuation of MILGEM, the New Type Gunboat and the National Submarine and by restructuring our military shipbuilding industry we are aiming to reach a position where all domestic needs are met and where we are a competitor and an exporter in the international arena.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Demirel, between 25th and 27th of March Turkey will participate nationally at the DIMDEX 2014 Fair with our defence industry firms under the leadership of the SSM. How do you see Turkey’s effectiveness in Qatar and the Gulf States with respect to our naval platforms and system solutions?

Within the coverage of activities in increasing our exports of defence industry products in the Gulf region, we are undertaking intense work in that region. As you have indicated in your question, the DIMDEX Maritime and Defence Fair in Doha, Qatar takes place every other year and is the largest maritime systems fair in the region. This year we will participate nationally for the third time with our Undersecretariat between 25-27 March. In supporting our defence industry firms and introducing our naval platforms and systems in particular in the Gulf Region, we will participate with 25 firms and a 1,159 m2 area will be leased by our Undersecretariat and allocated to our firms.

We have achieved very important successes in the last few years in the area of naval platforms and our important platforms have made an

SSM participated DIMDEX 2012 exhibition with official delegations

© Defence Turkey


appearance. These platforms are not just used by our Armed Forces but are carrying out their missions successfully in many countries especially among the Gulf Region nations. Currently the Qatar Naval Forces is successfully using the MRTP-16 and the MRTP-34 that have been produced by the Yonca-Onuk Shipyard. In addition, Yonca-Onuk through joint production has delivered thirty four MRTP-16 boats to the United Arab Emirates. Our Ares shipyard has signed a contract for twelve 18 metre boats with the Bahrain Coast Guard Command and preliminary acceptance has taken place for two of these boats. We are among the most likely candidates to obtain the tenders opened in Oman for our Rapid Response Boats. Additionally, in the Gulf Region our ADIK shipyard with the LCT vessel, our Dearsan shipyard with the New Type Patrol Boat is competing in the tenders of the said countries. Our MILGEM corvette is attracting a lot of interest in the Gulf Region and countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are seriously interested in our MILGEM corvette.

In future years after receiving our LST vessel, the MOSHIP and RATSHIP we will work to increase our activities in the Gulf Region with more platforms.

Defence Turkey: In order for Turkey to further increase its effectiveness in naval platforms and system solutions in the next decade, in particular in the Middle East, the Asia-Pacific region and the Far East and enter among the key players, what path must it follow, in which areas must it increase its depth?

As we all know, with the strategies identified and the successful applications that have taken place, the Turkish defence industry in the last few years has turned into a sector that can develop its own technology and that can export this technology. In our country where the concept of defence industry exports is to a degree very new, in order for us to be among the important players worldwide in the defence sector, primarily an export-

oriented integrated approach must be adopted by all organisations and companies related to the sector. Increasing their effectiveness in target markets, can only be achieved by our firms if all stakeholders undertake this focus and establish the necessary institutional relations as a whole.

Another factor in increasing our competitive strength in the international arena is, in my view, revising our legislation according to the present day and towards the export-oriented needs of the sector. As a first step to this, in providing a sale mechanism similar to the FMS that includes state guarantees and ease of payments of Turkish defence industry products to potential customers, we started work on legislation under the name of Inter-State Sale Law (DAS) last year. In the stage we have reached, work on the draft law in developing the DAS national system has been prepared and co-ordination with relevant organisations continues. With the enactment of the law, we will have taken a very big step in meeting the requirements of potential customers. During this period, our work on the mechanisms to be applied after this law comes into effect continues.

Aside from this, within the coverage of the creation of credit alternatives in supporting potential buyers, a protocol has been signed with the Turkish Eximbank on 11 March 2013 and in the sale of non-weapons and non-weapon system products and systems, the opportunity to use Eximbank credits has been made available. Work on creating alternative credit support for

weapon system products is continuing. Additionally, with the completion

of current work in creating a structure where the infrastructure, capability and capital strength can be used as a whole and that is sustainable for the military shipbuilding sector, I am of the opinion that our effectiveness in overseas markets will increase even further.

Defence Turkey: As one of Turkey’s important programmes, the MILGEM-S project, it was decided in the last Defence Industry Executive Committee (SSIK) to cancel the tender, that the third and fourth ships be built by the Istanbul Shipyard Command and that a new tender be opened for the remaining four ships. What is the latest situation regarding this new tender? Can we obtain your views?

At present, in line with the decision adopted by the SSIK on 26 September 2013, work continues on adopting the existing contracts for the two ships to be built by the Istanbul Shipyard Command. The project model for the first two ships will be adopted for the third and fourth ships and our target is to start the construction of the said ships during this year. Our evaluation of the remaining ships is still on-going and tender work will be realised within the framework of the model to be identified.

Defence Turkey: One of the important programmes that the SSM is implementing is the Air Defence Frigate Project and we know that the feasibility work has been completed for the TF-2000 programme. What are your views on the project model, national participation and technology acquisition that is planned to be put forth in this programme? Would you provide us with information on the latest work carried out on this subject?

The TF-2000 Project has been planned to be carried out in three phases of design, prototype ship

Onuk MRTP- 34 Fast Patrol Boat

F-511 MILGEM Corvette

© Onuk

© DzKK


construction and series production. At present, identifying the project model relating to the design phase and the Request for Proposal preparatory work continues. Within the coverage of the project, by using the capabilities gained, in particular with MILGEM, and the above water military ship projects realised domestically, we are targeting to include a national frigate to our naval inventory with maximum local contribution. In this respect, in order to nationally develop the most important sensor of the frigate, the Phase Indexed Radar, the Multi-Purpose Phase Indexed Radar (ÇAFRAD) Project has commenced and currently design work is continuing. Furthermore, in the boat design and construction work, we will certainly make use of the opportunities and capabilities of our Naval Forces Command.

Defence Turkey: As a result of the delays in the MILGEM-S tender in particular, since the third and fourth ships are to be built by the Istanbul Shipyard Command, is there a possibility of creating constraints in the use of location, capability and qualified manpower in the TF-2000 programme? Would you provide us with information on solutions and a roadmap to our readers?

With the existing opportunities we have available, the project calendars for both MILGEM as well as the TF-2000 are being prepared without disrupting the operational needs of our Naval Forces Command and I think that the projects will be completed without any restrictions. As you know, in completing our projects we benefit from the infrastructure of our military shipyards as well as from our private sector shipyards. Within this framework, bearing in mind the choice of dividing certain labour components among the shipyards, I can say that we will not encounter a problem with the current infrastructure and qualified manpower.

Defence Turkey: One of the most important technological gains in the TF-2000 programme is the ÇAFRAD programme that is planned as the main sensor radar and is targeted to be developed and produced indigenously with domestic contribution. What are your expectations regarding this programme and what would you like to say on the present process that is underway?

The ÇAFRAD programme is a concrete example of the stage our

industry has reached in nationally developing and completing it and again its use in the TF-2000 Air Defence Frigate that is to be nationally realised. The ÇAFRAD and TF-2000 project calendars are being realised in a compatible manner without disrupting operational requirements and the developed ÇAFRAD will be used as the main sensor in the TF-2000 prototype ship. With the step taken in the phase indexed radar as the highest point reached in radar technology, another important step will have been taken in one of the areas involving foreign dependence.

Defence Turkey: Subsequent to the TF-2000 programme, would you provide us with information on the activities relating to the TF-100 programme to be started next year?

Currently a request as a requirement relating to the TF-100 has not reached our Undersecretariat. However, in the event such a need arises, by making use of the output from MILGEM and the TF-2000 projects, the TF-100 project will be realized within the framework of our country’s opportunities and capabilities.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Demirel, with the last SSIK decision it was agreed to commence contract negotiations with Sedef Shipyards involving the Landing Platform Dock (LPD) programme. What would you like to say on the question of the platform to take place in this programme and the process that awaits us in the period ahead?

The LPD Project is actually a project that we attach great importance and a project that we believe will provide a large contribution in representing our naval power in world seas.

Within the framework of the project, the LPD to be acquired based on the

needs of the Naval Forces Command and will be used where necessary within a large geography such as the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. The ship, in addition to the main functions of power transmission and amphibious operations, with its a fully-equipped hospital and operating theatre can also be used for medical support in natural disaster assistance, humanitarian aid and refuge discharge operations.

At the present time, in accordance with the decision adopted by the SSIK on 26 December 2013, contract negotiations have started with SEDEF Gemi İnşaatı A.Ş. as of January 2014. In order to fully meet the needs of our Naval Forces Command with a defined ship, negotiations are continuing in a meticulous manner and subsequent to the completion of contract negotiations, contract signing and construction activities will start immediately.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Demirel, lastly, do you have a message that you would like to forward to Defence Turkey readers?

Today, when the defence industry becomes more important day-by-day, the SSM is realising many projects, as I indicated above, in order to advance our national defence. The importance of these projects on a sectoral basis as well as the experienced changes in the defence industry is very important in informing the public. In this respect, the work of Defence Turkey in informing the public of sector-based projects and activities is important. I want to thank Defence Turkey for their contribution and wish readers that are interested in the defence industry to follow more closely the short and long-term developments in our industry.

Mr. Serdar Demirel, Deputy Undersecretary for Defence Industries met with Ms. Ayşe Akalın,

Publisher of Defence Turkey Magazine

© Defence Turkey

© Aselsan


TAF Shows Off First Peace Eagle Aircraft“KUZEY”

“Eyes in the Sky”The first aircraft “Kuzey” under the “Barış Kartalı” (Peace Eagle) programme that covers the acquisition of four Airborne Warning and Control Aircraft (AWACS) and one ground support centre within the framework of the needs of the Air Force Command, in which the contract went into effect in 2003, entered the inventory of the Air Force after a six year delay. Among the other aircraft to be included in the fleet, “Güney” and “Doğu” will be delivered later this year and “Batı” in 2015. Able to stay airborne for eight hours without refuelling, the AWACS aircraft can scan an area of 400 km from a height of 30,000 feet and approaching aircraft, helicopters, UAVs and ballistic missiles can be identified at an early stage.

The signing ceremony held at the Third Konya Main Jet Air Command was attended by President Abdullah Gül, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Cemil Çiçek, Chief of Staff General Necdet Özel, Turkish Air Force Commander General Akın Öztürk as well as a large number of military and defence officials. Speaking at the ceremony, the Commander of the Air Force Gen. Akın Öztürk said, “Today, only a small number of air forces around the world that have this capability have now been gained by the Turkish Air Force as well. Our Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircrafts have the world’s most advanced and most

modern radar systems.” Stating that only few air forces around the globe have this capability and which has now been attained by the Turkish Air Force Command, Öztürk added, “Our AWACS are equipped with the most advanced and modern radar systems in the world. Turkey is the third country to include the AWACS aircraft that has these features in its inventory after Australia and South Korea.”

Öztürk: “Our airspace can be monitored more effectively”

Indicating that the warning and control activities of the Turkish Air Force up to now had taken place nationwide through radar range, Öztürk mentioned that the AWACS

General Akın Öztürk,Turkish Air Force Commander

© Defence Turkey


would be able to easily see areas that radars on the ground could not and that they would provide the Air Force Command a larger and wider field of vision compared to radars on the ground. “The possibility of AWACS aircraft being affected by the rear of a mountain and land irregularities in the interior of valleys is lower compared to ground radars. The gap that will take place in the event our ground radars are disabled will be swiftly met by AWACS aircraft. Aircraft, helicopters and missiles approaching Turkish airspace will be detected from longer distances with more powerful radar and detection systems and our airspace will be monitored more effectively,” said Öztürk.

Emphasizing that the AWACS aircraft was not just flying radar but that due to its features was a command and control element, Öztürk said, “It can be used in ground-based command and control centre support and where necessary it can be used independently. Our AWACS aircrafts will not only effectively support the

Air Force but also our land and naval forces. The airborne forces will continue to provide a more strengthened and rapid manner of support in the planning, execution and control of joint operations.” Öztürk went on to add that the support Turkey provides to the UN and NATO will further increase with the use of this aircraft.

In his remarks at the ceremony Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said the following, “Today, we really are carrying a different pride. It was late but it has turned out well. Of course it was a serious delay; we had a serious disruption during this process. We took the first step in 2003. Unfortunately, certain difficulties outside of our control brought this process to this day with delays. But in the end, God willing, with deliveries at the end of this year and during next year we will have received our four aircrafts and I believe that our Air Force will have access to an enormous strength.” Stating that the aircraft entering the inventory of the Air Force Command compared to the existing AWACS in the world

included new generation technologies and was at the forefront with its high command and control capabilities, Erdoğan added that they would receive the second and third aircraft later this year with the fourth due in 2015.

Erdoğan: “We signed a 3.5 billion contract in the Utility Helicopter”

Mentioning that Turkey is in a position where it can produce all its military land vehicles and can realise the modernisation of its aircraft through its own means, Erdoğan said, “We have started producing our ATAK helicopters. Today, we have additionally signed a new contract and this was a very, very significant signing ceremony for us. We have taken a 3.5 billion dollar step today with the Turkish Utility helicopters. With this agreement 109 Turkish Utility helicopters will be included to our Turkish Armed Forces.” In his speech Prime Minister Erdoğan indicated that Turkey had taken great strides in aviation and had put forth its own indigenous products and added, “Our unmanned airborne vehicles have


completed the development stages with success; we are launching our national satellites and our naval patrol planes have started their mission. After a long period in the history of our Republic our first national designed aircraft ‘Hürkuş’ is in the sky. Very soon another big project that our country is a partner, as our Air Force Commander mentioned just now, is the first of the A400M transport aircraft that we will receive. We will continue with our defence industry efforts in the coming years with more advanced technology-based projects. On behalf of myself and my nation, I want to express my gratitude to our Defence Industries Undersecretariat that has not let us down in our confidence in them, to private companies and to everyone else that has undertaken a duty in this process. With the on-going and new projects that will commence, God willing we plan to eliminate our foreign dependence in the defence industry near 100 percent in 2023. We see this matter as the most important issue for our future and our independence.”

Following Prime Minister Erdoğan, President Abdullah Gül in his remarks stated that, “As with the F-16 combat aircraft, the AWACS’ have commenced a very important period in Turkish aviation and defence and it has been a very significant phase. Just as the F-16s have raised Turkey’s air force to a more powerful and to a different

field and level, in the same way the AWACS’ have taken the Turkish Air Force’s strength to a higher level.” Gül stated that as a very sophisticated and developed airborne vehicle that only a few countries have, the AWACS were also among the indispensable elements of modern combat technologies and as one of the oldest members from the beginning of the NATO defence doctrine. “AWACS are not just airborne vehicles but a very sophisticated aircraft that sees missiles and all other types of airborne objects that can pose a threat and that eliminates them from being threats, said Gül, and pointed out that the AWACS’ not only have the function of a radar but at the same time each of them carry a command and control identity. Gül said, “With these features it almost carries the nature of a force multiplier and adds to our strength.” Stressing that possessing these sophisticated aircraft, which very few countries have in the world, will not only make the Turkish Air Force stronger but also the Turkish army and the Turkish Republic as well and that it will place Turkey in a more different position among its allies, Gül went on to add, “Let us not forget that from time to time we may use these aircrafts with our allies. In that regard owning these aircrafts is no doubt a source of great pride for Turkey.”

After the completion of the remarks at the official signing ceremony, Turkey’s first AWACS aircraft ‘Kuzey’ was unveiled. The President and his delegation reviewed the aircraft and received information from the authorities.

Murad Bayar: “The cost of the four aircraft to us is 1.4 billion dollars”

The Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar made important remarks to members of the press relating to the Peace Eagle programme delivered after a six year delay. Indicating that the cost of the four aircraft was 1.4 billion dollars, Murad Bayar said that with the 600 million dollars in advances they had paid up to now they would make the necessary payments for each plane that was delivered. Bayar emphasized that due to the delay in the contract calendar, 10 percent of the project cost was applied as a late penalty to the Boeing Company and added, “10 percent of 1.4 billion dollars is 140 million dollars and was applied in 2007

when the planes should have been delivered and because the interest continued from that day for a six-year period, we have reflected this in the amount of 183 million dollars as delay penalty. This amount will be met with goods and services. What does this mean? The support period has increased from two to five years. This whole support will be provided to Havelsan and THY. In addition, it will also entail an additional 32 million dollars to the Turkish Air Force in the spare parts contract. As a requirement of the Boeing contract, 99 percent of the operational needs of the Turkish Air Force will be met. However, there are certain elements that have not been met. When we look at the first contract specifications we note that 59 million dollars is excellence compensation and this we will receive in cash.”

Murad Bayar: “The aircraft we have received is the best as of now and will serve our Air Force for at least 40 years”

The Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar indicated that the ‘Peace Eagle’ is the best AWACS aircraft in the world today and said that it is only available in Australia, South Korea and Turkey as of now. Emphasizing that the radar mounted on top is an electronic phase array radar, Bayar went on to say that, “Today we are talking about the most advanced radar in radar technology. This aircraft will serve our Air Force for at least 40 years.” Murat Bayar said that many countries were waiting for Turkey’s acceptance to obtain this aircraft with this configuration and with acceptance the market for this aircraft would increase and with this increase the Turkish defence industry firms that took place in this project would have additional tasks.

Murad Bayar: “Local contribution rate since 2003 has increased from 11% to 30%”

Pointing out that the local contribution rate in the programme when the contract was signed in 2003 was around the 11.5 percent rate, the Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar added, “When the project got delayed and work became difficult Boeing gave more work to our companies. The volume of work that Turkish firms have done within

Mr. Murad Bayar, Undersecretary for Defence Industries hold a press meeting in the delivery

ceremony of Peace Eagle

© Defence Turkey


this programme is around 480 million dollars, in other words, the work share that was around the 11.5 percent level during that period is today approximately at the 30 percent level. If we include the offset obligations, the Turkish defence industry has received one billion dollars in contracts from this programme.”

The 1.5 Tonne Mission Radar can Detect 1,500 Targets

Possessing a wider range than ground-based radars, the AWACS aircraft can back-up ground radars with its continuous air communications capability in situations where ground-based radars are disabled from time to time as a result of uneven terrain. The Peace Eagle aircraft can detect, identify, and undertake reconnaissance and surveillance of all elements over Turkey’s airfield and additionally when entrusted with the task can undertake air traffic control operations for civilian air traffic. With the identification friend- or-foe (IFF) feature that is mounted on the mission radars, the Peace Eagle aircraft can recognise all friend and foe elements.

Modernised with the military avionics and systems of the Boeing 737 aircraft, the AWACS aircraft consists of five sub-systems: the Mission Radar, the Friend-or-Foe Detection System, Mission Computers that enable interface to user personnel, the Electronics Support System and the Communications Data-Link.

A synthesis of the additional capabilities of the Boeing 737-700 and the 737-800, the Boeing 737-700 IGW (Increased Gross Weight) Peace Eagle aircraft carries a 1.5 tonne radar. Aside from the increased payload capacity,

the Boeing 737-700 IGW aircraft also possesses reinforced landing gear and Head-Up Display screens as with the F-16 fighter jets in limited visibility conditions. Equipped with the ability to refuel, the Peace Eagle aircraft can jettison its fuel in emergency situations.

Manufactured by Northman Grumman, the mission radar can detect 1,500 targets simultaneously with the help of the mission computers at 360 degrees. The electronic support system, manufactured by the Elta Company, provides detection, diagnosis and the ability to determine location on broadband intervals. The communication and data link capabilities of the Turkish AWACS are provided by Aselsan and Selex companies. Additionally, as the local sub-contractors in the programme, TAI participates with aircraft modifications, Havelsan with software development, Mikes with the EDT system and

integration support and THY with pilot and maintenance personnel training and depot level maintenance work.

Undertakes Airborne Missions for 6-10 Hours with Full Fuel

The Turkish AWACS is able to undertake airborne missions between six and ten hours with full fuel and on longer flight missions can be airborne between 18-20 hours with its ability to refuel in the air.

While the NATO AWACS flight crew consists of 4 personnel, the Peace Eagle AWACS crew is made up of the aircraft commander and first pilot. At the rear is the mission team commander, the hunt allocation controller, the prevention controller, the surveillance controller, the surveillance operator and the EH controller.

One of the important components of the Peace Eagle programme, the Ground Support Centre consists of the Mission Control Centre, the Mission Simulator, and the Software Support Centre. The AWACS team can carry out their mission preparations a day before at the Mission Support Centre. The Centre can provide all the vital infrastructure resources for flight planning prior to operations for the flight commander and the mission team commander. The Mission Simulator, on the other hand, creates all possible scenarios to the flight team since it is not always possible to execute ground exercise tasks with large total participation and enables the opportunity to carry exercises on ground through simulation.

Turkish Peace Eagle AWACS

© TAF

© Defence Turkey


It is Expected to Take a Decision in FX Programme at Next Executive Committee MeetingMr. Özcan Ertem, Head of TAI Aircraft Group enlightened us about latest status of FX/TX Programme, Latest activities performed in Hurküş Programme, Regional Passenger Aircraft programme and other activities

© Defence Turkey


Defence Turkey: Dear Mr. Ertem, first of all I would like to thank you for your time. As TAI Plane Group Head, could you briefly inform us on the studies conducted within your department?

TAI Plane Group is in charge of fixed-wing manned aircrafts that depart our factory by flying. Basic Training Aircraft Hürkuş, F-16s that we are modernizing, C130 transportation planes and T38 training planes constitute some of these aircrafts. Peace Eagle programme, Meltem-2 and Meltem-3 Projects that we execute with our foreign business partners are also within the scope of our Group’s business segment. Our Group also conducts the studies related with our future National Combat Aircraft FX, Jet Training Aircraft TX and Regional Passenger Aircraft Projects.

Defence Turkey: National Combat Aircraft is, without question, one of Turkey’s most prominent programs. What would you like to express about the recent developments on this program named FX and the content of its conceptual design?

We introduced the FX Project in IDEF 2013 for the first time to public opinion within the limits allowed and have accomplished the two-year long conceptual design studies as of the end of last September. At this stage, Air Forces Command presented its operational needs for the next 20 years later in documents and TAI delivered a conceptual design of the aircraft accordingly. With this study we designed, calculated and drew three different types of aircrafts that would meet the future requirements determined. Besides we made a schedule and quotation for the development period and submitted the reports of these studies to the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) and Air Forces Command (HvKK) by the end of September 2013. At the end of the ongoing evaluation period, Defence Industry Executive Committee (SSİK) will make a decision regarding the development phase.

Defence Turkey: You have just mentioned about three models; could you please elaborate these models?

The engineering team we formed assessed that Air Forces’ requirements could be met by three different models. These models have comparative advantages. Speaking of their main features, one of them is twin-engine where other two are

single-engine aircraft. We have shared the sketches at IDEF 2013. One of the single-engine aircraft has conventional tail configuration while the other has canards. We shall see which will be selected during next phase.

Defence Turkey: Do you think a decision regarding this program will be made at the next SSİK meeting?

Actually our expectation is in this regard. The Project arrived at this stage gaining a great impetus. Therefore, if a decision for the continuation of this issue is made at the nearest SSİK meeting, we would be able to move onto the next stage without any interruptions.

Defence Turkey: What will be the process if an affirmative decision is made at the SSİK meeting?

This is a long-term program. FX is an aircraft that is planned to enter into the Air Forces Command’s (HvKK) inventory in 2030s. Its maiden flight is intended to take place in 2023, though the finalization of its armament and getting ready for its tasks will probably be in 2030s. Therefore, as the process is too long, deciding upon its budget and schedule within a single meeting might be difficult. So a decision that encompasses a four or five year period may be made through a progressive approach.

Defence Turkey: Are there any decisions made regarding the engine to be selected within the scope of the FX program? What could you say in this respect?

Two studies related to the engine are ongoing. In the first study, using existing engines or the future by-products of these engines is being taken into consideration. Production of this engine in our country is aimed. In parallel with this study, we are trying to see if we could design a Turkish engine and integrate it to the aircraft in the

future. We shall see the results in time.Defence Turkey: How is the

Turkish Jet Training Aircraft TX program that is simultaneously conducted with the FX program proceeding?

The Training Aircraft that would train pilots for F-35 and National Combat Aircraft is defined in the TX Program. TAI engineers made a conceptual study and are getting ready to finalize and submit their reports.

Defence Turkey: What kind of a model do you intend to present with TX Program? At first, it was supposed to be delivered simultaneously with FX but the process lingered as you previously mentioned, which model is considered?

FX’s operational needs have been prioritized by our Air Forces. Therefore, defining these needs and following the TX program that will train pilots for this program was planned at first. This caused a phase shift. Our government will decide upon the model to be selected. I do not know whether they select a brand new design or purchase a ready platform and modify it according to Turkey’s conditions (engine, avionics, etc.) and put it into service.

Defence Turkey: When will the study regarding the TX be submitted?

The study is planned to be submitted within the first half of 2014.

Defence Turkey: Hürkuş successfully achieved its maiden flight at the end of last August. Could you inform us on the coming flights and test activities of Hürkuş?

Hürkuş accomplished its fifteenth flight on 19 November 2013. We shall continue our tests as long as the climate conditions allow us. I presume the tests for certification will be made within the following 1,5-2

Conceptual Design of FX programme is covering three different models

© TAI


year- period. We aim to complete our activities regarding Hürkuş-A model by the mid or end of 2015 and obtain the certificates both from Turkish General Directorate of Civil Aviation and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

Defence Turkey: Decision for launching the contract negotiations with TAI for the mass production of Hürkuş-B was taken given at the last SSİK meeting. What would you like to say about production and delivery procedures with the signing of the contract?

We are proud of both our SSM’s and HvKK’s confidence and trust in Hürkuş and SSİK’s decree based on this trust. Following the signature of the contract, we shall be putting our orders to our foreign assistant companies. Hürkuş-B shall have the similar appearance with the A model. Only military type avionic systems will be used in the cockpit.

Defence Turkey: What novelties will Hürkuş-B military model have in terms of cockpit and avionics compared with the Hürkuş-A civilian version?

Hürkuş-A model has been designed for the civilian world and therefore it did not bear any military features as it would be certified accordingly. For instance, Hürkuş-A model does not feature the Head-Up Display which is considered as a standard in military aircrafts. Therefore this display will be our priority in Hürkuş-B. Besides each pilot shall have three big monitors in front of them. A single computer shall direct the whole system and all flight indicators, maps could be seen from these monitors. Even the shooting practice trainings could be done from these.

Defence Turkey: So you are preparing the infrastructure for Hürkuş-C in a sense?

Yes, indeed. The avionic solutions for Hürkuş-C model shall be formed in

this way. Hürkuş-C will be our third type with reinforcing the wings with hangers and embedding the proper weapons. We will start such studies immediately within the scope of Hürkuş-B contract.

Defence Turkey: Though it may be too soon to say but do you think a program schedule for Hürkuş-C could be formed?

The primary issue will be the operation concept in Hürkuş-C. “Which tasks are to be done, which weapons should be carried, to what distance they should be carried, how should they be fired” will be the points to be studied. Our engineers will produce solutions for these requirements using the technical capabilities of the aircraft. We assess that this stage is more critical than the mass production and the expectations could be defined through a small budgeted project before the mass production starts.

Defence Turkey: One of TAI’s most important programs conducted with the Ministry of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications is the Regional Passenger Aircraft program. What kind of a model did Turkey form within the scope of the Regional Passenger Aircraft program? What are your comments?

A General Directorate for Aviation and Space Technologies has been established within the Ministry of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications (UDHB) and this Directorate assumed the coordination of the Regional Passenger Aircraft Project. We are supporting the studies together with State Airports Administration and THY Teknik A.Ş. General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM) will certify this new aircraft. Within the scope of this project, issues such as obtaining the sales rights of this new aircraft and its release to the market after being updated are being worked upon. A brand new design could be prepared in 10-15 years’ period and market expectation is generally formed in 5-6 years. Under these circumstances, selecting an existing aircraft and furnishing it with engines consuming less fuel and more modern systems, getting certifications and releasing it to the market seem to be the only sound solution.

Defence Turkey: Which countries and companies are being negotiated within the scope of this Project?

All the airplanes in the world with 120 or less seat capacities have been examined under the coordination of Ministry of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications. Existing platforms of various countries are being evaluated and the main approach is to establish the production line in Turkey, modernizing the plane and acquiring the sales rights.

Defence Turkey: What will be TAI’s role in this program?

Regional Passenger Aircraft Project was presented by our former Minister Binali Yıldırım to the Ministerial Cabinet and forming the main production line at TAI facilities was decided upon. TAI is expected to increase the number of sub-contractors which is currently

Hürkuş Basic Trainer Aircraft

The Static Hürkuş Aircraft subject to several tests with the pulley system in order to verify whether or not the top coat of the aircraft has the required strength.

© TAI

© TAI


nearly 100 and expand the production nationwide. But the civilian airlines market has its unique dynamics. Therefore a management company that would make agreements with airlines and rental companies, direct the financing of the project and provide lifetime support after the delivery of the aircrafts is required while TAI realizes the production.

Defence Turkey: Will Turkey has a Regional Passenger Aircraft before 2023?

Within the framework of the existing studies, renewal of the prototype aircrafts, altering their engines and systems and getting them certified are accomplished in 5-6 years’ time. Production line shall be formed in parallel with these engineering activities and the first aircraft will be ready within the same amount of time. The Regional Airplane Enterprises such as Lufthansa Regional, KLM Cityhopper, Delta Connection, United

Express have to be ready to operate and complete their preparations for passenger transportation in this period.

Defence Turkey: Meltem-3 is one of Turkey’s most important programs. What is your opinion on the studies conducted for this program?

Meltem-3 program has a similar model with Peace Eagle. According to the agreement made by the Italian Alenia company with SSM, six ATR-72 Maritime Patrol Aircraft’s will be renewed at TAI’s facilities. First of these aircrafts arrived at our facilities and we launched the renewal process. Program is being executed in line with the foreseen schedule.

Defence Turkey: Within the scope of Turkish Air Force requirements you have assumed the avionic modernization and certification of

C-130E/B military aircrafts as TAI. What would you like to tell about the studies conducted within the scope of the Program? Also could you inform us on the delivery schedule of the prototypes?

The contract we signed contained the renewal of one C-130E and one C-130B prototype in addition to our engineering activities. Our engineers developed the software that conducts all the systems. The

aircrafts completed their acceptance flights and arrived to Kayseri in 2013. We are currently launching the mass modernization program.

Defence Turkey: What would you like to say about the latest status of the ongoing F-16 Mass Assembly Modernization program within the scope of Turkish Air Force needs?

This project contained 165 F-16s. The intensive period is over. Modernization will be accomplished in 2014 when the kits are provided by SSM.

Defence Turkey: What are your comments on Pakistan Air Forces’ F-16 Block 15 combat aircrafts’ modernization studies conducted in TAI and the delivery procedure of these aircrafts?

Pakistan F-16 Modernization is a project we won under international

competition circumstances. Therefore, this project bears great importance for us. We are modernizing 41 aircrafts of our friend and ally country Pakistan.

Defence Turkey: Dear Mr. Ertem, we would like to express our gratitude for this interview. Are there any messages that you would like to convey to our readers?

An intensive period is awaiting us. We are fully aware of the obligations stemming from these projects which were given to our company with confidence. We have to work more now. Our sub-industry will have to function in our pace and we have to expand the stabilized growth rate we gained in these last eight years to all our aviation industry. We do not consider the products such as “Atak” “Hürkuş”, “Anka” merely as TAI’s products. They should be considered as our country’s products and power. This fills us with pride. We would like to express our gratitude firstly to SSİK, and to the Ministry of National Defence, Undersecretariat for Defence Industries and Turkish Armed Forces and to the Ministry of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications we cooperated in Regional Passenger Aircraft for their trust.

First Aircraft ATR- 72 Maritime Patrol

Aircraft’s will be renewed at TAI’s

facilities under the frame of Meltem-3

programme.

Modernization of F-16

Test Pilot of Hürkuş Aircraft Mr. Murad Özpala, Mr. Cem Akalın, Editor of Defence Turkey and

Mr. Özcan Ertem, Head of TAI Aircraft Group met with Hürkuş Test Flight.

© TAI

© TAI

© Defence Turkey


Turkish Utility Helicopter Contract Signed Between SSM and Sikorsky

Within the framework of the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces, the Turkish Utility Helicopter Project tender started in 2007 was made known by the Defence Industry Executive Committee on 1 April 2011 after a four-year period and the decision was reached to commence contract signing negotiations with Sikorsky that competed with Agustawestland. However, due to disagreements on various issues, the signing with Sikorsky could not be completed. After a 3-year resolution process, with the agreement of both parties, the Turkish Utility Helicopter Project contract came into force.

Negotiations having continued since 2007, the contract for the Turkish Utility Helicopter tender for the production of 109 T70i helicopters by TAI and the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) at TAI facilities with a total cost of 2.5 billion dollars was signed on 21 February 2014.

In the meeting that took place at the SSM, SSM Undersecretary Murad Bayar, TAI Chairman of the Board of Directors Yalçın Kaya, CEO and President of TAI Muharrem Dörtkaşlı and Sikorsky’s VP for Sales and Marketing Bob Kokorda as well as representatives of other sub-contractor firms participated.

To be completely built at TAI facilities, the Sikorsky S-70i helicopters, as a result of being equipped with Aselsan’s own modern avionics systems and TEI’s T700-TEI-701 engines, will become the indigenous T-70i helicopter and will be produced in two separate configurations for seven different users (Land Forces Command, Air Force Command, the Gendarmerie General

Command, the Chief of Staff Special Forces Command, the Chief of Staff Electronics Systems Command (GES), the General Directorate of Security and the General Directorate of Forests) for a total of 109 helicopters. In return for the 109 helicopters produced under the project, Sikorsky will produce 109 helicopters and commits to sell these helicopters to third parties. It is expected that the sales volume will reach 8 billion dollars in the long-term.

First Helicopter Will Be Delivered in 2018

Following the signing of the contract, in order for the programme calendar to come into effect, a 16-month period is foreseen. During this period it is expected that the principal sub-contractor Sikorsky will undertake production under Turkish license and receive export licenses relating to the other components within the coverage of the contract as required by United States legislation. Subsequent to obtaining the licenses, the first T-70i helicopters will be delivered to the General Directorate of Forests during the 55th month under the configuration of the General Directorate and the joint configuration T-70i Helicopter to the Land Forces Command during the 57th month. The commencement of this programme it will provide a stimulus to the Turkish defence industry and many firsts will take place. For the first time multiple mission needs of 6 different users will be consolidated and a joint configuration will be acquired.

The helicopter acquisitions that took place up to now from Sikorsky were direct acquisitions. For the first time with this project these helicopters will be produced under license in Turkey. Within the coverage of the project for the first time production of gear and dynamic systems will be realized in Turkey. Within the coverage of the project, GE’s T-700 Black Hawk engine will be produced in Turkey and under the TEI parts number, the opportunity for overseas sales will take place. One of the most important gains from this project is that Aselsan will realize the design of a cockpit to a foreign company and these Turkish designed cockpits together with the helicopters to be produced will be marketed and sold throughout the globe excluding the United States.

In the helicopters acquired up to now there was no Turkish work share. For the first time with this project 67% of local industry contribution will be realized. Again within the coverage of this programme, the cockpit, cabinet and panels will be produced by TAI, avionic suits by Aselsan, engines by TEI and landing gear and blades by ALP Aviation.

Sikorsky for the first time with this project will provide a Turkish industry work share in international sales. The company has given a commitment to the Turkish side to use local industry capabilities in Turkey. Planned to take place for a 30-year period, the total amount of the commitment is expected to reach 1.4 billion USD.

© Defence Turkey

© SSM


Italian and Turkish Air Force to Enhance Mutual CooperationDefence Turkey Magazine interviewed Italian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Pasquale Preziosa during his visit in Ankara. He provided information regarding the structure, mission activities and programmes of ItAF, Italian and Turkish Air Force cooperation and mutual industrial approach

© Defence Turkey


Defence Turkey General, first of all thank you very much for this interview. Could you give us some information on the achievements and developments accomplished in Italian Air Force in recent years?

The need for the Air Force is to be dynamically adaptable to the changes. It is necessary a transformation, already in progress, in order to be prepared in front of the mutability of scenarios and of consequent, likely options of intervention. With regard to the Italian Air Force (ItAF), the overall concept of its transformation is inspired to an Air Force agile, flexible, interoperable, projectable, highly technological, and, above all, professionally prepared and ethically inspired. An Air Force able to match the fulfilment of the ‘traditional’ tasks, such as the defence of the national air space also towards new threats, with the new expectations and need of security for the Country, which come from the general contest of relations and international alliances. We are achieving this by reducing and concentrating the combat activities on a smaller number of Main Operating Bases (MOB), while at the same time dismissing infrastructures which are no more functional to our core business.

We have reached a high level of joint and expeditionary characterization able to guarantee both the achievement of the institutional tasks and the constitution and employment, in joint and multinational contests, of Air Expeditionary Task Forces (AETF) agile, interoperable, and equipped with an effective system of

Command, Control, Communication, Computer Applications, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (C4ISTAR).

Operations Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector, along with a decade of experience in Afghanistan, have proved the validity of these concepts and testify we are on the right path.

Defence Turkey Could you please inform us about the structure of Italian Air Force?

ItAF organization, headed by the Air Force Chief of Staff (four-star General) is currently based on a General Staff, three Major Commands, Intermediate Commands, Air Brigades and Wings.

The Air Force General Staff (in Italian Stato Maggiore Aeronautica - SMA) is headed by the Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff, a three-star General, and is located in Rome. The Air Staff supports the ItAF Chief of Staff for planning, organizing, coordinating and controlling the activities of the Air Force in all sectors.

The three Major Commands are the Air Force Operational Forces Command, the Air Force Logistics and Materials Command and the Air Force Education and Training Command.

The Air Force Operational Forces Command (in Italian Comando della Squadra Aerea - CSA),located in Rome, is the force provider of Air Power. It operates combat and support aircrafts and also provides command and control, communications and intelligence systems. As Air Force provider, CSA organizes trains and maintains combat readiness of its assets for rapid employment whenever and wherever deemed necessary by the Italian Government. CSA constantly ensures air defence of Italian and NATO skies. For actual missions its units are commanded and controlled by Air Force Operations Command, which is part of CSA.

The Air Force Logistics and Materials Command (in Italian Comando Logistico - CL) located in Rome, provides logistic support and conducts research, development, tests and evaluations necessary to sustain and keep ItAF weapon systems ready to be used. CL delivers indispensable expeditionary capabilities to Air Force, and in a Joint vision, contributes to those of all other Services.

The Air Force Education and Training Command (in Italian Comando Scuole A.M.- CSAM) located in Bari,

recruits, trains and educates airmen to power the Air Force. CSAM holds vital stakes and responsibilities for delivering high skilled personnel who is capable of handling in a very effective and efficient ways not only cutting-edge technologies but, in broader terms, all challenges the Air Force faces.

At the peripheral echelon of ItAF there are Intermediate Commands, Air Brigades, Wings and Squadrons which execute tasks and conduct operations. The Wing is the basic unit for delivering Air Power. It is, usually, composed by one Headquarter, one or two Flight Squadrons, and other Squadrons which provide communication and logistic support.

Defence Turkey: What are Italian Air Force international activities and programs?

Just for citing only a few important international activities:

- Integrated Air Policing

As a NATO member Nation, Italy is contributing to the Integrated Air Policing initiative with its EF-2000 Squadrons. We did it in 2013 protecting skies above Iceland, we are doing it present day over Slovenia and Albania, and we will do it in the Baltics next year.

- Pooling & Sharing

Today, ItAF is a leading Nation with respect to air to air refuelling and airlift

Italian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Pasquale Preziosa visited Italian

Ambassador of Turkey, Mr. Gianpaolo Scarante in Italian Embassy of Turkey, Ankara

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


capabilities thanks to the new KC-767, C130J and C27J fleet, which have been offered to other European Partners as part of the Pooling & Sharing initiative. Italy has also been invited to become part of EACT.

- NRF

Italian Air Force is deeply committed to the process of validating the Joint Force Air Component Command (JFACC) capacity to be offered to NATO NRF rotation 2016.

- Out-of-Area Operations

Following ONU’s Resolutions and NATO’s initiatives endorsed by International Community ItAF is an important contributor to Out-of-Area Operations, mainly in countries like Afghanistan, Lebanon and Balkans.

- Pilot Training Program

ItAF is restructuring its pilot training program in order to increase specialization, while saving money. Our train will focus on the mission our pilots shall accomplish in the future and is twofolded: 1) delivering to the pilots the ability to fly in the new Single European Sky; 2) flying their aircrafts according to Lessons Identified and Lessons Learned in operations.

The pivot of this process is the acquisition of the new, Italian-built M-346 jet trainer, which has already been bought also by Singapore and Israel. The M-346 will be assigned

to the 61st Training Wing (in Italian 61° Stormo), which is located in Galatina, in the south of Italy where sun shines 365 days guaranteeing a perfect environment for conducting flight training the M-346 is part of an Italian-built Integrated Training System optimized for the different phases of the syllabus, which also includes an Academic Training System, a Flight Training Device and a Full Mission Simulator. Thanks to this Integrated Training System, which is capable of further reducing time, increasing security, and improving overall skill capabilities, Galatina Air Base will enhance the quality and the quantity of its training potential, in order to offer it to a greater number of foreign customers, continuing its long tradition of training pilots from other countries.

Looking at programs:

- SF-260TP

SF-260TP is the turboprop variant of the classic SF-260 family which has accumulated thousands flight hours with many Air Forces and several civil operators. SF-260TP offers excellent teaching effectiveness as a fully aerobatic screener-primary training.

- M-345

In the Air Force we live the future and we must plan in advance of it: MB-339 is at the end of its life and M-345 might be the right choice for replacing

it at a low cost of acquisition and operation. M-345 is the new basic-advanced lightweight fast jet trainer with costs comparable to those of turboprop but capable of delivering jet performances. Italian MoD recently signed a “Letter of Intent” with Alenia Aermacchi supporting the Industry for developing and delivering the M-345 in 2017. The Air Force is involved in the development because, in this sector, synergies have become fundamental. M-345 should teach pilots how to fly, and then they move to the M-346, which will teach them how to fight.

- M-346

Today the M-346 is the most advanced lead-in fighter trainer. M-346 is representative of 4th and 5th generation fighters. It’s an integrated training system for forging a new cadre of pilots with a considerable downsizes of the syllabus, capable of delivering to them the required skills of information management and aircraft handling. ItAF will use M-346 for advanced phases of training before final assignment of new pilots to fast jet front lines, namely F-35 and EF-2000. I think M-346 is a great airplane which, maybe along with M-345, will be the backbone of Air Forces of the future.

- F-35

JSF can be considered as the most important program ItAF undertook ever. The F-35 fulfills a huge spectrum


of missions, in confirmation of the remarkable versatility of the aircraft, executing operational tasks of deep projection of the Air Power, suppression of enemy air defences and contribution to the achievement of the air superiority. Moreover, it can offer an excellent close support to the ground forces and execute a decisive action of gathering, elaboration and distribution of data, thanks to its extraordinary sophisticated sensors.

In addition to the necessary acquisition of a 5th generation combat aircraft with innovative planning, constructive and operational characteristics, and the JSF program holds a strategic importance for development of Italy itself. On the Italian Air Force base of Cameri, in fact, it has been built a Final Assembly and Check Out facility (FACO), where also Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul & Upgrade (MRO&U) will be conducted. It is the only one out of the USA and poses Italy as a good choice for other European F-35 Customers for sustaining their fleet.

- EF-2000

Italy is a key member of the Eurofighter Typhoon consortium. ItAF uses the Typhoon as the main Nation’s asset for air defence. EF-2000 is a world leading air defence aircraft, a battle proven fighter which delivers highest performances with an invaluable level of interoperability and reliability. Typhoon provides

uncompromised air superiority in any scenario.

- HH-139 – HH-101

The Agusta Westland HH-139 is a new generation helicopter selected by the Air Force to gradually replace the current HH-3F and HH-212. The HH-139 is a solution identified on the market to continue to ensure efficiently the Search and Rescue service, both in favour of crew and military personnel in distress, as an institutional task, and for supporting activities to the community in case of needs. HH-139 allows important synergies – training, logistic and operational – within the joint and interagency environment. In the near future the HH-101 will also enter into service supporting Combat SAR/Special Operation Missions. The HH101 has been developed from the AW101, which is a medium/heavy multi-role platform with extensive operational experience already gained with other Air Services. Its performances coupled with advanced avionics and mission system suite makes it relevant in future scenarios.

- C-27J – C27J JEDI

The C-27J is a truly multi-functional, military aircraft built for tactical transport and to support combat operations. Ordered by ten countries including the United States, the C-27J has been successfully deployed to Afghanistan by ItAF, operating in the most complex and challenging environments, including operations from unpaved runways with excellent results in terms of

technical reliability and operational performance. The C-27J JEDI (Jamming and Electronic Defence Implementation) is an homemade program for Electronic Warfare, part of the more complex Cyber warfare, which has proved to be vital for safety and security of troops on the ground as demonstrated by the experience we are making in Afghanistan. C-27J is great airplane under any aspect and we are investing a lot in this program. Thanks to roll on – roll off equipment the airplane can be easily and quickly reconfigured for different tasks, from airlift to JEDI and Airborne Command and Control capable also of active engage if needed.

- MEADS

The International Program MEADS (Medium Extended Air Defence System), to which Italy has signed with a major share, will in the near future replace the decommissioned system ‘Nike Hercules’, and will provide greater protection for the forces on the ground and flexibility, with a critical structure for national defence against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft and UAV/UCAV1. Its open architecture will provide a configurable air defence according to the mission or national requirements, with significant cost savings.

- ISTAR (Predator, P72)

Ten years ago Italy, first among European Nations, decided to invest in the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles acquiring the MQ-1 Predator, which immediately proved to be crucial for

F-35A Joint Strike Fighter

C-27J Spartan Tactical Transport Aircraft

© JSF

© Alenia Aermacchi


operations conducted on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan where we are currently using the new MQ-9 Reaper.

P72 will be another pillar of the ISTAR capacity. The airplane will mainly deliver Maritime Surveillance capability but, thanks to its sophisticated blend of state of the art sensors, it can operate as an effective and efficient ISR platform. P72 is a program which holds opportunities for important synergies among Turkey and Italy.

- AEW

Airborne Early Warning capacity is relevant to modern operations. Therefore, Italy decided to exploit synergies recently with Israel for acquiring an independent AEW-BM&C2 capacity with the G-550. Thanks to this capacity Italy will contribute in the most effectively in all the foreseeable scenarios from homeland security to Non-Article V Operations.

Defence Turkey: How do you assess Italian and Turkish Air Force military cooperation and activities?

Since the very beginning of NATO, Turkish and Italian Air Force have been cooperating in a very satisfying manner, enhancing mutual confidence and paving the way to better knowledge between our people.

Our Air Forces have been training continuously in many sectors such as Air Defence, Electronic Warfare, and Search & Rescue. Even though recent budgetary restraints reduced

opportunities for sharing training, reciprocal respect, high level of integration and interoperability led to successful exchange and sharing of ideas and doctrines.

Thanks to this durable and fruitful cooperation Turkish Air Force units rapidly deploy and smoothly operate from Italian airbases during critical Operations like those over the Balkans at the end of 1990s and, recently, during Unified Protector. As the same ItAF units have smoothly operated from Turkish airports during important exercises like Anatolian Eagle.

Defence Turkey: Could you inform us about the officers’ exchange programs, training programs and exercises carried out and be planned between two countries?

So far Turkish and Italian Air Force have shared productive

training within NATO contest not yet establishing bilateral exchange programs. But, because the future compels our Countries to better exploit our resources in order to be more relevant for facing threats laying in front of us, while saving money, we shouldn’t lose opportunities for better sharing activities and programs Forces with respect to any type of aircraft, platform or equipment we use.

Defence Turkey: Turkey and Italy have common programs like JSF. How do you assess industrial cooperation within this program between Turkey and Italy?

At the moment there is no established industrial cooperation related to the F-35 multinational program, but there are contacts ongoing to determine whether common activities can be identified in the field of aircraft production

HH-139A medium twin engine helicopter

Italian Air Force Commander

Lieutenant General Pasquale Preziosa met with Ms. Ayşe

Akalın, Publisher of Defence Turkey

Magazine

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and fleet sustainment. As already said, in Italy, Lockheed Martin/Alenia Aermacchi Final Assembly and Check Out facility is already working on both complete wing production and aircraft assembly, in a brand new 125.000 square meters industrial site based at Cameri AFB, where in the future F-35 Maintenance Repair Overhaul & Upgrade (MR&O) will be established to provide the highest quality standards.

Defence Turkey: You met with Turkish Air Commander during your visit to Ankara in early February. What Topics were discussed during the meeting? Did you take any mutual decision on future industrial cooperation and programs?

ItAF is firmly convinced, as are other reference Countries in Europe, that it is essential to involve Turkey’s Defence Administration in high-tech projects, to be developed outside of the usual background of cooperation (i.e. U.S.A., N.A.T.O.). An example

of such involvement could be the participation in the definition and building an exclusively continental anti-aircraft, anti-missile Defence System.

Defence Turkey: As it is well known that Italian Telespazio Company carries out Göktürk Satellite program with Turkish TAI Company in Turkey. Two parts gain experience on joint cooperation within this program. Could this industrial cooperation on space be transformed to a more comprehensive and extensive program between 2 Air Forces?

Cooperation and team work is a key factor. We should never stop searching for cooperation opportunities especially in dealing among Allies operating in the European Mediterranean environment. Common operational requirements may lead to interesting developments for the Turkish and the Italian industries.

Defence Turkey: Finally, would

you like to give any messages to our readers?

Precision of engagement and precision of effects is what we must strive for, to operate in the modern, complex and very dynamic operational environment. NATO needs effective intelligence, quick and reliable information flow, effective and sustainable operational capabilities. Fighters must rely on leading edge technology made available in training and in real operations supported by a strong logistics and fast deployment capabilities.

What we must have, besides technology is, high quality, well-motivated personnel operating interoperable 4th and 5th generation weapon systems to project Air Power where needed to preserve stability and security from the sky and space sharing experiences, resources and capabilities to be more effective at the lowest possible price for tax payers.


Over 60 years ago, the path of technology was changed with the creation of the transistor. This great invention of the twentieth century has impacted all elements in our lives, and has revolutionized instrumentation itself. Currently, engineers, from research to aerospace and defence, are struggling to build customized solutions with compact and comprehensive tools that provide more flexibility, performance and value; a trend depicted by Gordon E. Moore, Intel co-founder in 1965. And so, we face another crossroad in instrumentation, that follows the exponential curve of Moore’s law; the software revolution.

Testing, from hardware-in-the-loop to automated test, was traditionally achieved through box instruments and manual techniques. As systems become more complex, this method is not longer efficient as it does not allow engineers to obtain the level of flexibility required, the time to focus on results, nor to utilize instruments as they are intended to. Engineers and industrialists needed instruments that allow them to make more complex measurements with more automation.

“With NI software and hardware, we created an automated solution to successfully test antenna operations in just five minutes, which is considerably less time compared to the 30 minutes we needed to manually perform a test. This equates to more than 500 hours saved annually with automated testing” - Peter Aschof, Tel Instrument Electronics Corp.

In 1997, National Instruments (NI) was the first to invent and introduce the PXI platform to the market. The platform consists of a comprehensive integration of modular hardware the PXI and open powerful software such as the NI graphical system design software LabVIEW. The PXI platform, optimized for automating measurements, provides a solution to create more powerful yet cost/time-effective systems for applications such as automated product test to high loop-rate industrial control systems, to RF and

Microwave measurements, rather than traditional box instruments. Since this introduction, NI has been continuously executing to bring innovative paradigms, technologies and products to the test, measurement and control markets. Concepts ranging from Virtual Instrumentation to Graphical System Design and utilizations of technologies ranging from PCI Express to

FPGA have helped countless engineers and scientists build their customized solutions. Today, companies in different industry sectors, including aerospace and defence, are shifting to the PXI Platform. For example, Tel Instruments Electronics Corp., was able to reduce testing time of antennas from 30 minutes using traditional instruments, to five minutes when using the NI PXI-based RF devices, saving them more than 500 hours a year:

“With NI software and hardware, we created an automated solution to successfully test antenna operations in just five minutes, which is considerably less time compared to the 30 minutes we needed to manually perform a test. This equates to more than 500 hours saved annually with automated testing” - Peter

Aschof, Tel Instrument Electronics Corp.

The Unprecedented Architecture

A Modular, Off-the-shelf PlatformOf the more than 1,500 PXI products

on the market, over 600 are designed by National Instruments. More than 600 modular instruments based on PXI and PXI Express technology are in the market. These instruments range from DC to 26.5 GHz, including the industry’s highest resolution digitizer with 24 bits of resolution and the industry’s fastest, most accurate 7½-digit digital multimeter (DMM), in addition to the cutting edge RF hardware, the vector signal transceivers (VSTs).

Synchronization and FlexibilityA fundamental component of the

PXI system is the chassis. A PXI chassis incorporates a dedicated 10 MHz system reference clock, PXI trigger bus, star trigger bus, and slot-to-slot local bus,

while a PXI Express chassis adds a 100 MHz differential system clock, differential signaling, and differential star triggers to address the need for advanced timing and synchronization. Through shared timing and synchronization, you can vastly improve the accuracy of measurements, apply advanced triggering schemes, or synchronize multiple devices to act as one for extremely high-channel-count applications.

Embedded ControllersPXI embedded controllers from NI

utilize the latest multi-core processors to provide a high-performance, yet compact embedded computer solution for the measurement system. Integrated with the labview sofware, it presents major benefits for programming multi-core processors and other parallel hardware such as fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGAs).

Fast and Flexible Data StorageA variety of high-speed data-

streaming devices is offered, ranging from in-chassis and portable products to external rack mount solutions with extended capacities to address the needs of various complex applications such as RF record and playback and IF or baseband streaming.

Leading the Instrumentation Revolution

Returning to Moore’s law, and the exponential increase in instruments capabilities, today, one processing technology revolutionizing the way RF instruments are designed, and automated as well as industrial tests are conducted, is the FPGA. National Instruments is again, the first company to incorporate the FPGA in its platforms to deliver tools with unrivaled performance, flexibility and value, that accelerate productivity, innovation and discovery.

The Instrumentation Revolution

Figure 1 - Automated Antenna Testing Using NI LabVIEW Software and PXI Hardware

Figure 2- The PXI Platform


Ground For Reconciliation Sought in the A400M ProgrammeCem Akalın – Editor

The A400M Programme as Europe’s biggest transport aircraft has been on the agenda of Turkey for a considerable time. Turkey was to be the second country to receive delivery of the Airbus after France; however, as a result of disagreements between Turkey and Airbus, delivery that was to take place last November has still not been realised. If we recall the Programme’s history and the process reached as of now, we note that with the participation of Germany, Belgium, France, the UK, Spain and Luxembourg a multi-national programme, Europe’s biggest New Generation Transport Aircraft, the A400M Programme was started with Turkey joining the Programme in 1998. The Programme Board Decision which oversees the relationship between participating nations in the Programme and which administers the management of the project was signed on 22 May 2003 by representatives of the participating nations. The A400M Contract, on the other hand, was signed between OCCAR on behalf of the participating nations and the main contractor AMSL (Airbus Military Consortium) on 27 May 2003 in Bonn. According to the text of the contract that was negotiated by the participants in the Programme, Turkey, based on the needs of the Air Force Command, would receive ten A400M Airbuses. In 2005, Malaysia was included in the Programme and the total aircraft orders reached 174. Roll-out took place in the summer of 2008 and the maiden flight of the Airbus took place in September 2009, one year after it was scheduled. However, during this period certain problems began to appear.

Between 2009 and 2010 the six partner nations came together and revised the contract, set a new calendar and made certain changes in the A400M’s technical features. With these changes that helped the project stand on its feet again a momentum was attained and the first A400M was delivered to the French Air Force in September 2013. According to the Programme, Turkey was to receive the second delivery after France last November but because of technical requests and financial conditions, the two parties could not reach a full agreement and as a result the first Airbus that was to be delivered to the Turkish Air Force in still waiting at the same centre ready for delivery. Production for Turkey’s second new generation transport aircraft, the A400M is rapidly continuing at Airbus Group’s Military Aircraft Final Assembly Centre in Seville, Spain. In the meantime, four teams consisting of eight pilots have received pilot training in Seville. Additionally, 60 maintenance technicians and 8 loading personnel have completed their training in order to carry out maintenance services for the Airbus at the 12th Air Transport Main Base Command in Kayseri. Whereas delivery was expected as scheduled the process one way or other could not be finalised. Nothing was said regarding the delays that occurred for a long period. At the end of February, Airbus Group’s CEO Mr. Tom Enders while in Toulouse, France to announce the 2013 financial results, broke the silence on the process experienced and clarified the dispute that had taken place. Enders stated that, “As a result of the Turkish side not taking delivery

of the aircraft, the whole industry will be negatively effected and added, “I hope that the talks will conclude soon and in a positive way; the situation is grave, the conditions put forth are not acceptable. If a result is not obtained soon this disagreement will affect the whole industry.” Emphasizing that he did not understand why Turkey was delaying taking delivery and that this uncertainty was closely affecting the other countries in the agreement, Tom Enders indicated that other countries were engaged to overcome this problem. The remarks made by the Airbus Group were answered by the Turkish side the following day. Answering questions from members of the press on this issue at the Turkey-France Defence and Industry Day, Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar indicating that Turkey was one of the six partners in the A400M programme and continued by saying, “We have completed the acceptance tests regarding the Airbus’ delivery. Talks continue on the delivery. Of course there is an important matter here. Airbus must primarily focus on the terms and conditions of the contract. There can be no additional bargaining on this matter. Whatever the provisions of the contract says that is it. Even with this revised contract it must provide certain technical features and since in the acceptance tests they were not completely available we had to undertake these meetings. Of course there was a delay in the delivery calendar, because of this delay their will be certain delay compensations. But these are not very important problems. These issues can be resolved and


they are being resolved. I hope that in the near future these meetings will be completed and hopefully we will take delivery of the Airbus in March.”

In the process that started with Tom Enders’ remarks, along with Undersecretary Murad Bayar statement at the Turkey-France Defence and Industry Day, Chairman of GIFAS Mr. Marwan Lahoud in responding to questions from the press made the following remarks, “we hope that both parties will be in full agreement. We believe that all of the issues will be resolved in March and that a complete understanding will take place” which gives the impression that after the short-term tension stemming from the protracted process a solution-oriented constructive process has taken its place.

Murad Bayar: “We are waiting for the software to mature in the JSF project. The first order may take place in 2015”

Answering the questions of the media at the Turkey-France Defence and Industry Day, Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar indicated that after the orders were delayed in 2013 in the JSF Programme, Turkey would definitely arrive at a decision this year and said, “The main agenda item in the last Defence Industry Executive Committee (SSIK) meeting that was postponed was the JSF programme. The decision that the SSIK will take will be very important.

There are two alternatives, there is no third. Turkey is a partner in the JSF programme. We are very near in the acquisition of the jet fighter. We will place the order either this year or in 2015. At the moment it appears that the view is shifting to next year. Here the emphasis is actually Turkey’s assessment; the completion of the software maturity of the jet; the package for the following year will be at the level we want. But this one out of the two alternatives has to be decided by the SSIK.” To the question on the numbers involved in the jet fighter order, Murad Bayar said, “We will give an order for two jets during the first stage, in a decade we will give an

order for 100 jets.”

Murad Bayar: “We have extended the deadline for proposals for the T-LORAMIDS programme to the end of April. We plan to reach a decision in April”

Undersecretary Murad Bayar answering questions on the T-LORAMIDS programme that has been on the agenda for a long period stated that, “Our negotiations with the Chinese side are continuing. We have extended the proposal deadline to the end of April. We hope to reach a conclusion on this subject at the beginning of April.”

The photo shows the aircraft, known as MSN13, which includes major elements from TurkishAerospace Industries (TAI) such as the forward centre fuselage, tailcone, paratrooper doors,

ailerons and spoilers.


Dearsan Hits the Global Markets with its Expertise in ShipbuildingMr. Taner Akkaya, The chairman of the Board of Dearsan assessed their expertise in shipbuilding industry, the latest status in Tuzla Class Patrol Boats, export activities, their business model approach in global markets for Defence Turkey Readers.

© Defence Turkey


Defence Turkey: Mr. Akkaya, first of all we want to thank you for giving us your time for this interview. Dearsan is one of the key players in the Turkish shipbuilding industry. Would you please provide us with information on the structure and area of activities of your shipyard?

Having been active for more than 30 years in Tuzla, Istanbul our shipyard has specialised in the building of sophisticated commercial ships and by succeeding in exporting these ships to European Union members such as Norway, Holland, Belgium and France it has proven its experience. In 2007, in order to assess this know-how in our country’s defence industry projects, a strategic decision was adopted and all investments in infrastructure and human resources were directed towards the building of military ships. Our shipyard’s modernised facilities have merged in a dynamic manner the experience and institutional know-how of retired naval forces personnel with the flexibility of civilian staff. Due to this harmony, the first military warship project built in a private shipyard in our country, the Tuzla Class Patrol Boats were delivered on time and with high user satisfaction. This experience gained and its successful conclusion was met with close attention globally, in particular with the naval forces and coast guard commands of friendly nations. With the attention we have received we have concentrated on our export targets and our work on the type of ships we can present and diversifying the solutions we can provide has accelerated our activities. During the same time we realised the delivery of the first

vessels in the Tuzla Class Patrol Boats series, the signing of the first military ship export contract has rightly made us proud but has also increased our responsibilities. In addition to the 16 Tuzla Class Patrol Boats, we have signed contracts for an additional 39 different class boats and ships and the total orders during the last 7 years have reached 55. During a very short time a total of 45 boats and ships were delivered. In particular, our activities toward the export of existing platforms and those we are developing are continuing in an intense manner and our activities involving the planned sea group tenders of our Undersecretariat for Defence Industries are on-going.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Akkaya, as Dearsan what were you involved with during the previous year that is 2013?

In addition to the delivery programme of on-going projects, with the increase in the number of countries where we undertake publicity and marketing activities, we left behind a very busy year. Additionally, it was a year where important strides were made in our 2013 R&D activities and corporatisation of our company. Despite the fact that we encountered a number of challenges in executing a combination of different processes at the same time, thanks to the tremendous efforts shown by our valuable staff, I can say that compared to previous years we can see our future more clearly.

Defence Turkey: As Dearsan you have an important duty in the Tuzla Class Patrol Boat tender within the framework of the needs of the Turkish Naval Forces. Mr. Akkaya, in creating the concept

of the Tuzla Class Patrol Boats in which you have done the design and building, which needs did you put at the forefront, what would you like to say on the indigenous model and process involved?

In the process of realising the Tuzla Class Patrol Boat project, our Naval Forces, the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries, our universities, Türk Lloyd, our local engineering firms, our suppliers and the shipbuilding supply industry made an extraordinary effort and contribution as a whole. I think that our biggest contribution in the success of the project was in being able to provide a unity of different cultures, disciplines and understandings. From the beginning of the project to its delivery, the most important requirement was to obtain this harmony and in this sense I can state that the Tuzla Class Patrol Boat project was a benchmark.

Defence Turkey: What would you like to say on the use of these platforms by the armies of the world in their present day use? Do you think that these platforms will take place more in the inventories of the naval forces around the globe? © Dearsan

© Dearsan


The trend that is rapidly expanding during the last few years, in particular in naval forces, is towards increasing the inventory number of platforms that cost less, that is built in a short period and where maintenance is more economical and that will undertake duties in the control of seas during peace time. We can observe that this trend is being followed even by industrialised countries and their preference is for more compact platforms rather than high tonnage and expensive ships. At present when we combine the seas that are not under the control of less developed or developing countries with the renewal of their existing ships, the demand for our platforms in the world in general is far above the supply to the world as a whole. For this reason, we have assessed that the interest in our platforms in the near future will increase even further.

Defence Turkey: In terms of the cost factor, mission capabilities

and mission costs of the Tuzla Class Patrol Boats, what, in your view, are their advantages compared to the use of corvettes and frigates?

Since the task areas and capabilities are different from each other, I don’t think that’s a very accurate comparison. Just as it’s wrong to expect the tasks of a frigate from a patrol boat, expecting a frigate to execute the tasks of a patrol boat is like expecting a Ferrari to transport sand. The important thing is to identify the need correctly and to evaluate solutions to this need not only in terms of first purchase but also in terms of mission costs. Today, human trafficking, narcotics trafficking and piracy has become the main issue and the task of the naval forces around the globe. In the execution of these tasks during peace times, the use of more economical patrol boats will not only give more time for naval vessels for their main tasks but will also enable

a wider coverage of patrol areas and provide a longer period of deterrence since with a specific budget more patrol boats will enter the inventory.

Defence Turkey: In the tender opened within the framework of the needs of the Turkish Naval Forces Command, you are undertaking the design, development and building of 16 patrol boats. What would you like to say about the latest situation regarding the delivery calendar and programme?

Twelve patrol boats have started their mission. The remaining 4 boats will be delivered this year in three-month intervals. We hope to realise the delivery of all boats before the commitment date.

Defence Turkey: As Dearsan, by realising the first export of a warship from Turkey, you have scored a great success in terms of the Turkish shipbuilding industry. Can we hear this success story from your side as well?

We received a great honour and were proud, of course. The biggest share in this success belongs to our valued staff, our sub-contractors that undertook a large step in a short time, our Naval Forces and the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries who never withheld their confidence in us because you do not have the chance to export a ship that even your navy doesn’t use. The satisfaction shown towards the Tuzla class patrol boats has been the biggest opportunity in realising this export.

Another important matter is the ability to provide individual, team and

Tuzla Class Patrol Boat

© Dearsan


ship training to ship personnel with the experience our company has gained. When selling our products we provide the best training to the buyer and thereby present a combat ready ship in the shortest possible time.

Our organisational structure and rapid mobilisation ability that enables us to build our ships in almost any country can be considered as a plus.

At the present time, with the patrol boats and related products that are our design, we provide a tried and proven product range with rapid reaction boats in various sizes and speeds, catamaran hydrofoils, fire fighting vessels, and offshore support and logistics vessels as well as training simulators. Since the design is ours we can redesign our vessels during the negotiations stage. The user in general prefers a redesigned, reliable and tested product according to their needs instead of a ready-made product.

Another important aspect is the shortness of the delivery time. With the foresight and guidance of our Undersecretariat for Defence Industries, the partnership agreements that we have entered into with large arms, electronics and machinery manufacturers three years ago has provided us with significant flexibility in price setting and in the presentation of short-term delivery plans.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Akkaya, how do you see the export potential of your Tuzla Class Patrol Boats in particular to the Gulf

Region and South Asia? Both regions are the focal point

and under the close marking of our well-established competitors. Potential projects where we can compete are being closely followed. As a relatively young and new market player we are eager as well as cautious. I can say that during the last few years we have shifted our priority targets to more challenging regions that not everyone goes into. In such regions we can take place in a more assertive manner. Our ultimate goal is one day to build the ships of countries that today are our rivals.

Defence Turkey: Can we learn your approach to the different project models suggested by customers in the international market?

The biggest advantage we have that is prominent in international markets is the opportunity and capability we have in showing all forms of flexibility. In particular, beyond a platform provider, we are highly ambitious on such subjects as extremely important training, logistics, and after sale support. However, we think that the issue that is important and which remains incomplete is the obligation we have in developing joint models with our state relating to project financing.

Defence Turkey: Mr. Akkaya, we thank you for this interview. Lastly do you have a message that you would like to give to our Defence Turkey readers?

Defence Turkey is a magazine

that fills an important gap in its own area. Its readership is made up of expert individuals with a very high know-how. It is a demanding job to prepare a magazine that will address this valuable readership. We are happy with your success. Just as your readership, our target group is also very distinguished. They are the best trained military purchasing agencies and naval personnel in the world with a large accumulation of knowledge. In this situation you and we must love the work we do and it’s necessary to channel this know-how that will make a difference from those that do the same job.

Mr. Taner Akkaya, The chairman of the Board of Dearsan met with Ms. Ayşe Akalın, Publisher of

Defence Turkey Magazine

© Defence Turkey


In the ceremony realised at the SSM, the following projects were signed with the principal contractor Roketsan: The ammonium dinitramite (ADN) Development Project; the Azido Polymer (AZP) Development Project; the Synthetic Jet Fuel (JP-10) Development (EKZO) Project; the Contactless Plug Programming Unit Development Project within the Rocket Fuel and Component Technologies under the coverage of Technology Acquisition Road Map Projects. On the other hand, the projects implemented by the SSM’s Weapon Systems Department where Roketsan is the principal contractor were signed under the coverage of the Technology Acquisition Requirement (TKY) Projects. The projects to be co-ordinated by the Advanced Materials and Energy Group of the R&D and Technology Management Department are the Isophorone Diisocyanate Material Laboratory Scale Synthesis and

Characterisation Studies, the Antioxidant Material Content Determination Studies and the Brushless DC Motor Development Project.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Defence Industries Undersecretary Bayar stated that the said projects were extremely important to the defence industry and indicated that private and public sector collaboration was crucial to the industry. Bayar said the following, “The strength of Turkey will rise from this association. This formulation is very important. As a result of this we are expecting a strong chemical reaction.”

Roketsan’s General Manager Selçuk Yaşar, on the other hand, said that since its founding Roketsan had undergone major changes and made the assessment that, “Today,

this signing ceremony is a leap in our defence industry with projects that will gain a significant depth that started 25 years ago with our adventures in fuel.” Stating that they had seen a large increase in sales during the last 5 years, Yaşar mentioned that 30 percent of their sales were generated from exports. Adding that the defence industry exported products in which the value added was high, Yaşar went on to say that, “By continuously increasing our exports we aim to reach even a higher plateau. Today with these projects, we believe we have further increased our capabilities.” Yaşar also indicated that Roketsan had undertaken large investments in fuel chemicals and that they had come a long way in this regard and that the projects to be signed would complement these achievements.

Technology Acquisition Road Map (TKY) Projects

New Generation Composite Rocket Fuel Components – Ammonium Dinitramite (ADN) Development Project

Within the coverage of the TKY Projects, the first project that is planned to be developed is the New Generation Composite Rocket Fuel Components: the Ammonium Dinitramite (ADN) Development Contract. With this project, to be implemented by Roketsan as the main contractor and TÜBİTAK MAM as the sub-contractor, the aim is to realise technology development activities towards the synthesis, characterisation and verification of the critical oxidising fuel component ammonium dinitramite (ADN) that

Turkey Progresses Composite Propellant TechnologiesThe signing ceremony for the Rocket Fuel and Component Technologies of the Technology Acquisition Road Map Projects as well as the Technology Acquisition Requirement (TKY) Projects implemented under the framework of the R&D and Technology Road Map of the Undersecretariat of Defence Industries (SSM), took place with the participation of SSM officials, the principal contracting firm Roketsan and officials of the sub-contractors in the project, TÜBİTAK MAM, METU and the Femsan company. A total of seven projects, four within the framework of the Rocket Fuel and Component Technologies under the Technology Acquisition Road Map and three projects within the coverage of the TKY were signed.

Mr. Selçuk Yaşar, General Manager of Roketsan

Mr. Murad Bayar, Undersecretary for Defence Industries

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


is difficult to obtain from overseas, that is a new generation less smoky/smokeless, insensitive composite fuel and which provides 10 percent more propulsion compared to other oxidisers. Following the signing of the contract, the project is foreseen to be completed in 33 months.

New Generation Composite Rocket Fuel Components – Azido Polymer (AZP) Development Project

With this project that is planned to be completed in 35 months with Roketsan as the principal contractor and TÜBİTAK MAM as the sub-contractor, the aim is the realisation of technology development activities towards the synthesis and verification of the critical energy binding fuel component Azido Polymer (AZP) that is difficult to acquire from overseas, that is a new generation less smoky/smokeless, insensitive and that is required in composite solid fuel formulations. A high energy polymeric binder, azido polymer, in particular, is capable of providing an increase in ballistic performance.

Synthetic Jet Fuel Development (EKZO) Project

The aim of this project, planned to be completed in 33 months with Roketsan as the main contractor and the Department of Chemistry of METU as the sub-contractor, is the realisation of technology development activities towards the synthesis, characterisation and verification of synthetic jet fuel through domestic means that is subject to export restrictions. Within the coverage of this project, work through laboratory scale synthesis and scale-up studies that will provide the characteristics defined under the military standard number MIL-DTL-87107E of the main component of synthetic fuel, the material exo-te t rahydrod icyc lopentad iene , research in other materials in sample products defined in MIL-DTL-87107E as well as work in creating the infrastructure for producing a minimum 1.5 tons/year capacity in jet fuel is planned.

Contactless Plug Programming Unit Development Project

Under this project to be carried

out by Roketsan as the principal contractor, the aim is to develop a Contactless Plug Programming Unit (TTPÜ) for the contactless programming of electronic and electro-mechanic plugs that take place in ammunition, rocket and missile systems that use programmable plug systems. In addition, within the project’s coverage the TTPÜ will consist of the External Plug Adjustment Unit (HTAÜ) and the Plug Top Hardware (TÜD) Unit as well as the use of plugs that require electronic adjustment.

Technology Acquisition Requirement Projects

Isophorone Diisocyanate Material Laboratory Scale Synthesis and Characterisation Work

To be implemented by Roketsan as the principal contractor and the Chemistry Department of METU as the sub-contractor and which is planned to be developed within a 12 month period, this project has the objective of carrying out a laboratory scale synthesis and characterisation work for the material Isophorone Diisocyanate used as a curative in flight engine fuel and primer formulations of OMTAS (Medium Range Anti-Tank Missile. The project covers the identification of the synthesis procedure, identifying and acquiring the necessary raw materials and laboratory scale synthesis equipment, the synthesis of small -scale samples and obtaining a 10 gr./lot product amount.

Antioxidant Material Contents Identification Work

With this project the aim is to carry out work on the content identification and equivalent sample preparation of the antioxidant material (A03105) that is acquired from overseas and which is used in the flight engine composite solid rocket fuel and primer formulations of OMTAS. Expected to be completed in 12 months, this project again has the Chemistry Department of METU as the sub-contractor and Roketsan as the main contractor.

Wireless DC Motor Development Project

To be carried out under Roketsan as the main contractor and the Femsan Elektrik Motorları Sanayi as the sub-contractor, this project objective is the design, development, testing and production of the coreless type Brushless DC engines that possesses high volumetric efficiency, that will replace the conventional DC Servo motors and that will be used mainly for anti-tank and air-defence systems and guided missile propulsion control systems. Additionally, with the design capability to be gained from the project, the domestic development of brushless Servo motors in different sized that may be needed in various platforms and systems in the following years is being evaluated. Planned to be completed in 18 months, according to the project’s calendar the sub-contracting firm will deliver 3 different types of 16 electric motors to Roketsan.

© Defence Turkey


Navantia Moves Up a Gear with Turkish LPD ProgrammeMr. José Manuel Revuelta, The Chairman of Navantia informed Defence Turkey Readers about technical specifications, Turkish companies’ participation, technology transfer issues, process after signing the contact and delivery schedule in LPD Project; their approach to TF 2000 and TF 100 programmes and Navantia’s ongoing programmes in both local and global markets.

© Navantia


Defence Turkey: Could you please enlighten us about your company’s production, investment, R&D and exports activities?

Navantia is a world reference shipyard, providing global solutions in more than 20 countries. The investment in Research and Development is a priority for Navantia. We use state-of-the-art technology and engineering for the construction of latest generation ships with integrated systems, optimizing quality, price and delivery time. And we can develop our own systems, and deliver products integrating complex systems, including ones made by other suppliers.

Defence Turkey: Could you please inform us about your ongoing programmes in both local and global markets?

Our experience of more than 300 years has situated Navantia in all 5 continents. We provide the most innovative products for the Spanish Navy and these products are, themselves, the best promotion all over the world.

Most recently, we have developed frigates for Spain, Norway and Australia, submarines for Spain and India, OPV’s for Spain and Venezuela and LPD’s for Spain and Australia. And we have just landed in Turkey, a country where our designs fit perfectly.

Defence Turkey: With the last decision of the Turkish Defence Industry Executive Committee in 2013, it was decided to commence with contract negotiations with Sedef Shipyards and Navantia on the Landing Platform Dock (LPD) Programme. Within the coverage of this Programme, would you please provide us with information on the collaboration model between Navantia and Sedef Shipyards?

The LPD tender requested proposals from Turkish shipyards, therefore Sedef will be the main contractor for this program and Navantia will act as its technological partner. Navantia’s scope of supply for the LPD has three main groups of activities. The first one is engineering activities; we will provide Sedef with the design of the LPD and the Landing Craft Mechanized (LCM) as well as the Purchase Technical Specifications for the procurement of all materials and equipment. The second group is the support activities; Navantia will provide technical assistance and support to Sedef during the procurement activities as well as the construction of

the vessel until the final delivery. And last but not least, Navantia will deliver some equipment to Sedef: the diesel generators, the turbo generator and the Integrated Platform Management System.

The idea is to work with Sedef shoulder to shoulder throughout the complete duration of the program, we are partners for the LPD and our only joint objective is the complete success of the LPD program,

Defence Turkey: Will the LPD platform presented as a solution between the Navantia and Sedef Shipyards partnership have identical features as the Juan Carlos I platform or will it put forward a more original, a more developed Turkish type model? What will be the ship’s features, would you please inform us on this subject?

The design included in our proposal is based on the Juan Carlos I but includes many changes in order to meet the requirements from SSM. The biggest difference is the Combat Management System (CMS), for the Turkish LPD, the CMS is a derivative of the Genesis supplied by the local consortium Havelsan-Aselsan. There are other changes, like the removal of the ski-jump, the accommodation capacity has been modified, the forward aircraft elevator has been substituted by a hatch, the deck crane has increased its capacity, and many others. Sedef and Navantia will work very hard to include as many Turkish equipment and materials on board of the LPD. The ship’s profile will be very similar except for the ski-jump and the topside.

The Turkish LPD main characteristics are as follows:

› MAIN DIMENSIONS › Length overall: 224.50 m › Maximum Breadth: 32.00 m › Draft at full load end of life 7.08 m

› Design draught: 6.80 m › Maximum displacement: 27430 t Main Characteristics And

Capacities › Full Electric Propulsion 1 GT +2 DDGG

with 2 x POD @ 11 MW › Maximum sustained speed 21 knots › Range 9000 n.m. at 15 knots

(economical speed) › Endurance with troops 50 days offshore

(20 d. transit) › Accommodation capacity 1223

personnel › Dock Capacity (1165 m2): 4 x LCM 1E +

4 x Supercat, or 2 x LCAC 2 x LCVP Mk5 + 1 x commander boat in the flight deck

› Hangar Capacity (990 m2) 12 x NH-90 or 8 x CH-47 Chinook

› Light Cargo Garage (1880 m2) Light vehicles, containers and helicopters

› Heavy Cargo Garage (1410 m2): Heavy vehicles, Containers

› Fight Deck (4750 m2) 6 spots for NH-90, or4 spots for CH-47 or CH-53

› Aft spot capable for V-22 and runway for VSTOL

Defence Turkey: Within the coverage of this Project, with which Turkish firms will you co-operate with? Specific to this project, what is your approach to the matter of maximum local participation rate and in particular on the question of technology transfer?

Obviously, Sedef as main contractor is our most important partner, but it is not the only one. Taking into account that the local construction of the LPD will be performed in Sedef shipyard together with the Havelsan-Aselsan CMS, it is guaranteed that most of the work-share will be performed by Turkish companies.

From our side, Navantia has committed with Sedef to support their purchasing activities in order to maximize the local content. We are also looking for some engineering subcontractors to outsource some

LHD Juan Carlos I on sea trials

© Navantia


of Navantia’s engineering activities locally, and for the Integrated Platform Management System, Navantia has signed an agreement with AYESAS for the local production of the HW, the SW modifications and the on board installation and setting to work of the system.

Our close cooperation with our Turkish partners will ensure a successful transfer of technology that will enhance their capabilities for future opportunities.

Defence Turkey: Has contract negotiations officially started with the SSM and the Naval Forces Command? How long a process do you foresee in order to reach the signature stage?

The negotiation process with SSM and the Naval Forces Command started on February 19th and it is expected to take around 4 to 6 months until all the final aspects have been discussed and agreed in order to sign the final contract. We are hoping to be able to have the contract effective before the end of 2014.

Defence Turkey: How will the process operate after the contract has been signed? Could you provide us with information on the project and the likely calendar for the delivery date?

Once the contract is signed there is some time to fulfil with some formalities for the contract to become effective, this could take 2 to 3 months, and once all the conditions are met the calendar clock will start. As per our proposal, the LPD ship is expected to be delivered provisionally to the Naval Forces Command after 67 months from effective date of contract. After the 12 months guarantee period, final delivery will take place.

Defence Turkey: Given the possibility of a unique platform

that may take place with the coverage of the LPD platform, do you look favourably on the subject of collaborating with Turkey in marketing and exporting to third countries without licence restrictions? May we know your views on the subject?

Navantia is very open to cooperation with the Turkish defence industry for future platforms; in fact we are already cooperating with our partners for local and export tenders. SSM strategy about naval construction in Turkey is very clear and if we want to play a part we will have to do it by the hand of our local

partners.Defence Turkey: In which

overseas armed forces are the LHD and the LPD used excluding Turkey? Could you provide us with information on completed deliveries or on-going programmes?

There are quite a few navies that have LHD or LPD within their fleet, to name a few: USA, Russia, UK, France, The Netherlands, Italy and Spain, among others. At the same time, some

other countries have included the LHD and LPD in their wish list, there are some tenders in the short term for this kinds of ships in India and South Africa, for example.

With respect to Navantia involvement, we have designed, built and delivered 2 LPD for the Spanish Navy, the “Galicia” (1998) and “Castilla” (2000), and one LHD, the “Juan Carlos I” (2010). At this point of time we are at the final stages of a coproduction program for two LHD for the Royal Australian Navy with deliveries on 2014 for “Canberra” and 2016 for “Adelaide”.

Defence Turkey: One of the programmes that take place on the defence agenda of Turkey is the TF-2000 Anti-Air Warfare Frigates with the target of commencing on the design phase of this project in the near future. We know that you are closely interested in this project. As Navantia will you provide a tempting

proposal for this project? Of course we will; the TF2000

program is one of our main objectives for the near future in Turkey. The requirements of the TF2000 are quite similar to the characteristics of our F100 frigate. Navantia has designed, built and delivered 5 units of the “Alvaro de Bazan” class for the Spanish Navy, as well as another 5 units of a derivative design for the Royal Norwegian Navy, the F310 or “Fridtjof Nansen” class. At this moment we are working on a transfer of technology program with the Royal Australian Navy for the design and local construction of 3 units of Anti-Air Warfare Destroyers based on the F100 frigate, the “Hobart” class.

We believe that Navantia has a great experience in this kind of programs and we are really looking forward to be able to participate in the TF2000 by the hand of the Turkish defence industry.

Defence Turkey: The TF-100 General Purpose Frigate is one of the programmes that will be on the agenda in the near future within the framework of Turkey’s requirements. Will you have a solution offer to make to Turkey within the coverage of this project?

Taking into account our experience in the anti-air warfare frigates, we have been working on some designs for some smaller platforms with balanced capabilities in all warfares, basically a multipurpose frigate with a limited displacement. Navantia has been preparing some proposals for Asian countries and we think we can provide a quite competitive solution for the TF100 program based on this design.

Defence Turkey: Lastly, do you have a message to give to the readers of Defence Turkey?

Navantia is not only committed with the technology of our products, but also with the relation with the client. The Turkish Navy needs to know that we are here to stay and cooperate with the local industry. The target is offer the best, but the best for you

Helo exercises on board Juan Carlos I

© Navantia

© Navantia

© Navantia


Turkey will Have Critical Technologies with KEMENT ProgramThe contract belonging to the KEMENT Project that is to be conducted by MeteksanSavunma as the main contractor; Roketsan-TÜBİTAK Sage as the main sub-contractor;Milsoft,TÜBİTAK UAEKE and1st Air Supply Maintenance Command as sub-contractors has been signed and entered into force.

Within the scope of the “Development of a Data Link System Transmitting the Data/Image Required between Air-Air Systems and Air-Ground Systems-KEMENT Project” initiated by the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries acquiring a substantial technology required for developing a data link terminal to be used in national smart ammunition and cruise missiles is aimed. With this Project, commanding and controlling the ammunition used by multiple platforms through a network-based approach with the terminals that will be developed and providing operational activity transfer by target updates while at the air is intended.

This project was launched by the Defence Industry Executive Committee’s Decree in 2005 and then entered into force in 2010 with TÜBİTAK’s resources.Following the issuance of the call for tender in 2012, the evaluation of the proposals was finalized in December 2013 and the signature of the contract phase arrived. Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar, General Manager Murat Erciyes on behalf of Meteksan Defence - the main contractor of the Project, President of the Bilkent University Prof. Abdullah Atalar, representatives of MilSOFT, TÜBİTAK-Sage, TÜBİTAK UAEKE and Roketsan-the sub-contractors of the Project and commanders of the Naval and Air Forces Command attended the signing ceremony held

at the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries’ premises.

Meteksan Defence General Manager Murat Erciyes stated in his speech at the ceremony that the KEMENT Project started in 2005 and their company was involved in the Project later in 2009 and continued,“This Project has been activated within a period of five years. I believe that the program shall contribute greatly to Turkey, stakeholders and platform manufacturers as Turkey will be activating a national data band in a long range. Second important fact is that even though the final configurations may seem to appear different than each other as there are two different platforms, in reality we are speaking of a direct data band for long-range flights in terms of design components. In my opinion this is significant in terms of cost-efficiency and sustainability”. Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar stressed that they demonstrated that system engineering works could

be accomplished in Turkey and said, “Turkey proved that all sorts of land vehicles, naval platforms and unmanned aerial vehicles could be realized in Turkey in terms of system engineering. Yet this is not enough. If we lack to accomplish dominance in critical technologies, we fail to own these platforms. We have a great effort in this path. Our R&D department launched 21 significant projects. An investment of approximately 1 billion US$ has been made in defence industry. We now have brand products and platforms. Yet we still need to acquire critical technologies. This is a brand new stage for us and we have to fully use Turkey’s engineering and academic capacity for success and for providing the technological depth we aim to have”.

First Phase of the Project to be Accomplishedin 38 Months

KEMENT Project that will be executed by Meteksan Defence as

Mr. Murad Bayar, Undersecretary for Defence Industries

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


the main contractor and TÜBİTAK Sage-Roketsan as main sub-contractors shall be conducted in two phases. The total budget of the Project is 26. 549.000 US$ and two different studies namely KEMENT-S and KEMENT-A are to be executed within the first phase of the project that is determined to be accomplished in 38 months. Within the scope of the first study named KEMENT-S, development of2 MVAS

SOM Terminals (MST) that could be integrated to Air to Ground Medium Range Missile (SOM) and 2 MVAS Aerial Vehicle Terminals (MHT) that could be integrated to F-16 platforms is aimed.

KEMENT-A Phase contains the development of an Atmaca Data Terminal (AVT), a Vessel Data Terminal (GVT) and a Relay Data Terminal (RVT) unit that could be integrated to the Naval Surface to Surface

Guided Missile (Atmaca) and to the related platforms included in the usage scenario of Atmaca having the capacity to operate under relative environmental conditions. Within the scope of Phase-1, main contractor Meteksan Defence shall be responsible for the establishment of the network architecture, development of Physical Layer, Antenna, Modem and RF solutions. One of the sub-contractors MilSOFT shall conduct the activities for DLP (Data Link Processor), TÜBİTAK UEKAE crypto module and MHT’s integration to F-16 platform together with the 1st Air Supply Maintenance Command, Roketsan and TÜBİTAK Sage. Following the accomplishment of the first phase, activities within the scope of Phase-2shall be launched if approved by the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries.

KEMENT is going to provide command-control solutions

to different operators with a range from minimum 250km.

With the system developed within the framework of the KEMENT Project, operational efficiency shall be increased via components that areresistant to electronic warfare, encrypted, adaptable to power requirements of the platform its embedded to, compatible with the military standards and NATO STANAGs shall be achieved and updating the data related to the target and command-control information shall be enabled within the air-air and air-ground components’ network structure within a range from minimum 250km. Development of an Ammunition Data Network System (MVAS) that could support the 512kbps data transfer speed and transmit an image of sufficient resolution before the shooting during the ammunition’s terminal stage is aimed.

The Project also includes the development of terminals that could operate on SOM and Atmaca which were developed through national capacities and on platforms that could be used in the command/control of the ammunition (F-16, helicopters and vessels) and design of a network architecture that is specific to the usage concept.

Turkey’s first cruise missile, the high precision guided Stand-off Missile (SOM) displayed at the 100th anniversary celebrations of the Turkish Air Force at Çiğli 2nd Main Airbase in 2011.

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


The contract for the Development of Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar Systems for Air Platforms project (MILDAR II) was signed on 28 June 2013 between SSM and Meteksan Defence. With the protocol signed on 9 May 2013 at IDEF 2013 between Meteksan Defence and TAI, following the agreement reached on the cooperation in analyzing and testing activities, the stage of sub-contract studies arrived. Three sub-contracts were signed between Meteksan Defence and TAI on dates 27th and 30th of December 2013.

Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar, Meteksan Defence General Manager Murat Erciyes and President and CEO of TAI Muharrem Dörtkaşlı signed the agreement in the ceremony held at SSM premises. Regarding the MILDAR II Program, Meteksan Defence General Manager Murat Erciyes said, “MILDAR will increase our helicopters’ Attack and Survival capabilities. We believe this system bears a great export potential. We aim to run MILDAR against Longbow in international market as soon as the project is ready to operate”.

First Phase of MILDAR Project was completed between years 2007-2011

“Development of Millimeter Wave Radar Technics for Land Target Engagements” Project was conducted between years 2007-2011 as TÜBİTAK 1007 Project by Meteksan Defence as the contractor and Bilkent University as the sub-contractor and was accomplished successfully. With this project named as MILDAR I, millimeter wave radar technics for a multi-functional censor system that would contribute to the safe cruise of the air platforms that could meet the ground and air target acquisition and classification, surveillance and engagement requirements within the scope of the task area of a ground platform were achieved. The second Project was activated as a sequel of the first project with the contract signed between SSM and Meteksan Defence on 28 June 2013.

With the “Development of an Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar for Air Platforms” MILDAR II Project and the experiences gained from MILDAR I Project that was completed in 2011,

accomplishment of the following are aimed; benefiting from these experiences in the development of

MILDAR will Run Against LONGBOW Contract of the Development of an Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar for Air Platforms the MILDAR II Project was signed on the same day with KEMENT Project at the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM). Within the scope of the Development of an Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar Project for Air Platforms within the framework of the SSM R&D and Technology Road Map, Meteksan Defence as the main contractor and TAI as the sub-contractor, development of prototypes of fire control radar with the capacity to monitor while scanning for the helicopter platforms, fire control radar capable of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms and Automatic Departing and Landing System (ADLS) that provide sensitive location data for UAVs automatic landing and departing are aimed.

Mr. Murat Erciyes,General Manager of Meteksan Defence

© TAI

© Defence Turkey


the prototypes that could be used in platforms such as helicopters and UAVs, conducting R&D activities on the products of which the conceptual projection have been accomplished and development of prototypes that could be optimized functionally and physically and thus increasing the attack and survival capabilities of the related air platforms.

T-129 and ANKA Hit the Target with MILDAR Radar

First Phase of the Project consisting of three phases, the Helicopter MILDAR Fire Control Radar will enable the T-129 Attack and Reconnaissance Helicopters the ability to trace and track the targets, multi-target engagement to the tracked targets, 360 degrees positional awareness, operational and navigational support under all weather conditions (Land Profile). This land profile development capability could provide data related to the height of the land for the purpose of navigational support in tough land circumstances where the visibility is low. Additionally, the Millimeter Wave Radar could be integrated to the General Purpose helicopters supplied by Turkish Armed Forces.

UAV MILDAR, the second phase of the Project, will be fire control radar with SAR capacity in line with the combatant UAV concept. This radar that is able to make multi-target acquisition, surveillance and classification could be integrated to the low tactic UAV platforms with little effective weight carrying capacities owing to its low weight and volume and could also be used for visualization through the SAR mode.

The last phase of the Program is the Automatic Landing and Departing Radar is designed as a mono-pulse radar that could minimize the risks arising from the operational restrictions or failures of the operators that share the sensitive location data required for the automatic landing and departing of UAV platforms.

With the “Development of an Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar for Air Platforms” MILDAR II Project, the ground and flight tests and analysis activities will be used in the T-129 Attack Helicopter in TAI’s inventory and Pelikan Unmanned Aerial platforms. Moreover, the

demonstration of the Automatic Departing and Landing System will be made with ANKA. The ground and flight tests of the radar system that will be developed for UAV platforms will be made with the S-2E/T platform in TAI’s inventory.

National Critical Technology Acquisition

All three radar prototypes that will be developed through optimization in order to enrich various air platforms will have a common technological infrastructure. Design of the compact and incorporated radar modules for the development of radar prototypes that would cover the demand of low weight, volume and power requirement will be accomplished nationally by Meteksan Defence within the scope of the Project. The system to be developed is expected to meet the demands and criteria regarding the Algorithm optimization, user interface software development and radome designs, consistency with environmental conditions and electromagnetic compatibility and entry requirements. On the other hand, development of RF, electronic and mechanic design are considered among the Project activities. Preparation activities related with the design and certification in accordance with the DO-178 requirements will be realized within the framework of the Project. In the analysis and test activities within the scope of the installment of three

systems developed to the platforms, TAI infrastructure and engineering services will be used. In addition to this Meteksan Defence will take consultancy services from Bilkent University for the program.

The millimeter wave used for military surveillance, reconnaissance, monitoring and guidance has many capabilities. The Millimeter Wave is known as the range of frequencies from 30 to 300 gigahertz (this range is the highest radio frequency band). It enables radar designs with low weight, volume and power requirement, high mobility, high angular resolution, high Doppler bandwidth and low detection. With the MILDAR I Project, in addition to the nationally developed software and indigenous signal processing methods Turkey gained technologies in terms of reduction in volume, high-frequency antenna, RF- microwave design and production capacity, multi-functional radar algorithms in the period 2007-2011. Manufacturing of 1 Helicopter-MILDAR prototype, 1 Automatic Departing and Landing System (ADLS) prototype and 1 UAV-MILDAR prototype are aimed within the scope of the program with a budget of 31,5 million TL. And an additional budget of 10,2 million US Dollars. The delivery of the first prototypes is estimated as follows; Helicopter MILDAR Prototype 44 months, ADLS Prototype 58 months and UAV-MILDAR prototype 72 months.

Bilkent University President Prof. Abdullah Atalar, Mr. Murad Bayar; Undersecretary for Defence Industries, Mr. Muharrem Dörtkaşlı; CEO&President of TAI

© Defence Turkey


TAF Progresses State-of-Art Simulation SystemsWith the TESIM and ARISIM projects a new era started for the efficient training of future pilots by Turkish Air Force Command (TAF). With the signing of TESIM and ARISIM projects taking place on 28 April 2009 between the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) and Havelsan, enabling the complete elementary, basic and jet development trainings via high-fidelity simulator systems for modernized T-38 aircrafts that are already in the inventory and KT-1T basic training aircrafts which entered into Turkish Air Force inventory for supersonic is aimed. Owing to the aforementioned programs, a total of 11 simulators, a Simulator Training Center and an integrated simulator center entered into the inventory of TAF at the 2nd Main Jet Base Command in Çiğli/İzmir.

Commander of the Turkish Air Force General Akın Öztürk, Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar, Commander of Air Training Command Lieutenant General Mehmet Çetin, Commander of the 2nd Main Jet Base Major General Mehmet Özlü, Chairman of the Board of Havelsan-the company in charge of the establishment of the simulation center - Atilla Gürdere, Havelsan General Manager Sadık Yamaç and a great number of military and defence industry officials attended the opening ceremony at the 2nd Main Jet Base Command in Çiğli where the future pilots in Turkey start their first flight trainings in Turkey.

In his speech at the ceremony Undersecretary for Defence Industries

Murad Bayar said, “The simulator project started in year 2009 has been brought to service with an outstanding performance. Beforehand, new aircrafts entering into the inventory, completion of their modernization have been all accomplished according to the planning of our Air Forces. Last year they were taken into actual use and we believe that they would greatly contribute to the training of the pilots. Pilot training in Turkey already has a high standard and this level

would increase via these programs. Simulators for all aircraft systems were made and these systems were developed completely through national

technology. An important number of the actual flights were shifted onto

these simulators and a flight training of 9 thousand hours was enabled”.

Commander of the Air Forces Command General Akın Öztürk said, “I fully believe that these simulators manufactured through national resources shall provide efficient facilities to our pilots for long years. Presently we are witnessing dizzying developments in technology. Grave improvements have been accomplished in training field. Our flights have become multi-functional from the very beginning of the trainings.There is an ever-increasing need for simulators in order to provide efficient training to our future pilots and as Air Forces,these simulator systems became our greatest assistants. We put the most improved F-16 simulators into service with the contribution of domestic firms and today we are

© TAF

© TAF

© TAF


opening the center that took its place among the greatest simulator centers of the world”.

KT1-T and T-38 Aircraft Trainings with Simulators

Turkish Air Force Command gained the capacities required for the efficient and safe training of potential pilots with these TESIM and ARISIM programs. Within the scope of TESIM program, a total of 7 simulators consisting of 2 KT-1T aircraft Operational Flight Training Simulators, 2 Instrument Flight Training Simulators, 2 KT-1T Aircraft Training Device and 1 Aircraft Abandoning Trainer and a Simulator Training Center building have entered into HvKK’s inventory. Four simulators consisting of2 T-38 aircraft Operational Flight Training Simulators and 2 T-38 Aircraft Instrument Flight Training Simulators have been delivered to the Air Forces Command by Havelsan within the framework of ARISIM project.

8 Debriefing systems, database development systems and other support systems exist in the Center. Trainings in the simulator center are provided in parallel with the actual flight trainings. According to the schedule, potential pilots accomplish their first flight trainings in SF 260 type aircrafts and then get trained in KT-1T

aircrafts for the following six months. At the final stage, the trainings take place in jet classT-38 planes. In 2013, 280 pilot candidates were trained for 6 days for 24 hours (a total of 9000 hours) in these simulators. 60 hours of actual flights and 30 hours of simulated flights took place in KT-1T

and T-38 aircrafts within this period. During daily simulator trainings, the faults of the pilots have been shown to the candidates in order to increase the potential pilots’ awareness. Minimizing the flight and maintenance costs of actual flights and providing safe and

efficient training independent from weather conditions are aimed with theSimulator Training Center.

8 Aircrafts to Accomplish Virtual Formation Flights

With the systems built within the scope of TESIM and ARISIM projects, integrated environment that fully meet the requirements of comprehensive pilot trainings covering a wide variety of embarkation and abandoning trainings, simulated ammunition trainings are provided.

8 Aircrafts could accomplish virtual formation flights in the simulation training center in following trainings; internal controls using avionic systems similar or close to the aircraft systems, engine run-up, taxiing methods, controls before take-off and after landing and engine stopping trainings,

take-offs using the global display system that provides high resolution and wide-angled images (270 degrees horizontal and 115 degrees vertical), instrument and pilot navigation, approaching, “touch and go” and landing trainings, aircraft and avionic emergency trainings using more than 150 simulated failure and emergency cases, abnormal cases using aerodynamic simulation models with high similarity, acrobatic maneuvers, stall and virile trainings, night flights using high-end technology imaging systems designed especially for producing realistic night images, instrument navigation/descent/approach and landing trainings and Operational and Instrument Flight Training Simulators with joint functioning capabilities.

© TAF

© TAF

© TAF


Ares Shipyard; Fast Solution for a Fast Boat

Home for Ares Shipyard is on the Southern shores of the Turkish Coast, gently washed by the turquoise blue waters of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Tourism is dominant here, and accordingly the pace of life and culture, is more “measured”, relaxed and calm or so you would think.

This is the location of Antalya, a historic town with a long and rich history associated with trade and the Sea. Situated with easy and ready access to the surrounding countries bordering the Mediterranean, Antalya is just a short trip across to the Suez Canal and from there, the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. Not surprising then, that this is also the location of a Free Trade Zone, intended for the production and export of goods from Turkey.

These lines of contact, transportation, and organisation for production and export make it an easy choice for Ares Shipyard to fix its roots here, for the production and supply of Patrol boats to the Military and Para-Military sectors, in stark contrast to the local demeanour, Ares are busy, very busy.

Moving at a pace unfamiliar to the ship building sector, Ares have been awarded, accepted and built contracts, to the point that they have now expanded their premises three times in the last twelve months, and are in the middle of planning for a fourth expansion.

Having recently completed the successful build and delivery of ten fast patrol boats to the Turkish Coast Guard from Aluminium, they are now in final discussions to build more of the same for a number of new customers.

Ares are in the final throes of delivering six patrol boats to the Bahrain Coast Guard. With two vessels already accepted by a very happy the client, and four remaining under construction, these boats are built from advanced composite materials with carbon enhanced lamination.

Not to rest on their laurels, Ares are also in build with two thirty metre fast patrol boats to the Nigerian Customs Service, which includes a triple engine/water-jet configuration, ballistic protection, RHIB launch/recovery and accommodation for over 19 personnel. Separating these two different types of construction (aluminium & composite) is a given, but spreading the construction over different locations and successfully managing each build according to plan, is a logistics challenge very well accomplished by Ares.

Without pausing for breath however, and at full running pace, Ares are also in build of eight ferry boats for a commercial operation, servicing the soon to be opened, Anantara Island Resort & Spa, located off the coast of Qatar. The first boat was launched at the beginning of March and the others are due to follow, hot on its heels!

In parallel with all this construction, Ares have been invited, and are now working with governments, and their agencies in a number of countries, on several development programs and projects

Ares Shipyard does move at a pace, seemingly never pausing to catch its breath, but success has its own momentum, and “fast” is not just descriptive of the performance of the boats Ares build.

If you need a fast solution for a fast boat, you need to speak to Ares.

© Ares

© Ares

© Ares


Rolls-Royce Shared Next Generation Engine Designs

Kuwait Upgrades Defences with World’s Most Advanced Air and Missile Defence Technology

Raytheon has received a $655 million contract for new-production fire units of the combat-proven Patriot Air and Missile Defence System for Kuwait. These units are an addition to the Patriot fire units Kuwait currently owns to counter current and evolving threats.

Awarded by the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., as a Foreign Military Sale agreement, the contract includes new Patriot fire units with increased computing power

and radar processing efficiency, improved man-machine interface and reduced life-cycle costs.

“We continue to see an increased interest in and demand for the advanced Patriot as the system is called to duty in hot spots around the world,” said Ralph Acaba, vice president of Integrated Air and Missile Defence at Raytheon’s Integrated Defence Systems business. “Kuwait is part of Patriot’s current family of 12 nations that have already selected Patriot as the

cornerstone of their air and missile defence strategy. Their decision to further strengthen their defences with technologically advanced new production fire units reaffirms our strong partnership and their trust in Patriot to protect Kuwait’s people and critical infrastructure.”

Work under this contract will be performed at Raytheon’s Integrated Air Defence Center, Andover, Mass., supported by a global team of Patriot system suppliers

Rolls-Royce shared details of its next generation of engine designs, which could be ready within ten years, featuring technology innovation designed to transform performance.

The company has built a technology leadership position with its Trent family of engines, the latest of which, the Trent XWB, is the world’s most efficient engine flying today. Trent engines will continue in service for decades to come with 2,500 in service and more than 2,500 on order.

Rolls-Royce is continually innovating and, as part of that ongoing process, is looking to build on the success of the Trent family of engines with two new generation engine designs.

The first design, Advance, will offer at least 20 per cent better fuel burn and CO2 emissions than the first generation of Trent engine and could be ready from the end of this decade.

The second, UltraFan™, a geared design with a variable pitch fan system, is based on technology that could be ready for service from 2025 and will offer at least 25 per cent improvement in fuel burn and emissions against the same baseline.

Colin Smith, Rolls-Royce Director -Engineering and Technology, said: “These new designs are the result of implementing our ongoing technology programmes. They are designed to deliver what our airframe and airline customers tell us they need: even better fuel efficiency, reliability and environmental performance.”

Eric Schulz, Rolls-Royce, President -Civil Large Engines, said: “As innovators, we can never stand still, even when we have the leadership position. Our horizons extend into the coming decades and we have amassed a range of new technologies to meet the needs of our customers. I am confident that our engine design strategy will ensure we power the future of global aviation.”

Both engine designs are the result of the ongoing research and development investment, of approximately £1bn a year, which Rolls-Royce makes across its aerospace and non-aerospace businesses.

The designs will feature architecture and technology improvements, all currently at an advanced stage of development, that include:

› A new engine core architecture - to deliver maximum fuel burn efficiency and low emissions.

› A CTi Fan System - carbon/titanium fan blades and a composite casing that reduce weight by up to 1,500lb per aircraft, the equivalent of carrying seven more passengers at no cost

› Advanced ceramic matrix composites -heat resistant components that operate more effectively in high turbine temperatures.

› A geared design, called UltraFan, which will deliver efficient power for high-thrust, high-bypass ratio engines of the future.


TAHSIS – TÜBİTAK’s Tactical Field Communication Systems

TÜBİTAK Bilgem; Technology Center of Turkey

Command and control of elements participating tactical field operations from strategic fields and gathering position feedbacks of those, have been highly essential in operational planning. After World War II, communication became highly important issue because of war elements which have advance maneuverability and widely expanded engagement area. The communication between elements which are able to move to different locations within short time period thanks to their high maneuverabilityhas been a significant problem for combat forces since those days.

For the purpose of addressing these needs, several concepts had been developed, especially during Iraq War; those solutions were employed in the field. Within that period,eventhough, several capabilities were gained such as communication over satellite, microwave, short wave and classic VHF/UHF radio communication, some problemsin the field showed up. Possible ways of communication are decided on, according to the positions of elements present in combat zone. In addition, totally different communication solutions would be required considering the next positions of those elements. For this reasons, destroyers are equipped with several communication capabilities such as satellite, HF, VHF/UHF.

One of the lessons learned from Iraq War is that management of this kind of complex and multiple choice communication systems could not be controlled by especially operators who are under a lot of pressures. Each infrastructure is able to provide communication only within special conditions. Providing communication in the ideal way is almost impossible for an operator controlling the system.

TAHSIS aims to provide tactical field communication solutions for the purpose of figuring out these problems thanks to automation. TAHSIS utilizes the know-how acquired as output of long standing researches and developments about communication technologies within TÜBİTAK and provides innovative, original and national solutions for the problems in the field.

In the context of the TAHSIS, as a beginning there are two concepts which work in tandem with each other. The first one is Barbaros system which provides real time data receiving and transmitting over radio bands with low data carriage capacity like narrow band short wave length.

Barbaros System considers the field as divided into small cells to get ideal receiving conditions. One of the elements present in each cell takes an action as base director of the cell and collects, organizes and processes the data produced by the rest of elements in the cell. Later on, Barbaros sends these data to strategic field. Any other elements present in the field are able to receive the transmitted data by radio communication. Barbaros takes advantage of this fact very well. The radio waves moving in light speed are received by other elements in different times. As an expected result of this fact, background noises are also transferred based on same physic rules. Thus, each element receives separate parts of the data on the basis of their locations. Barbaros combines the different uncorrupted parts of the data acquired by different elements of the cell.

Besides, Barbaros is able to send the combined data to strategic field in a small data package by using effective and private compression algorithm.

Situational awareness and tactical field view are necessary for most of elements in the field. Barbaros is suitable for these kinds of data which are supposed to be sent to and received from almost every node of the field. On the other hand, in conventional systems, those data could be transferred to each node only one by one. By the definition of radio communication, compensation for a loss in received data is a major problem in conventional applications. Thence, for example tactical field view of elements operating naval force could not be possible to share via conventional systems. On the contrary, Barbaros is able to carry out the coordination of elements present in the field and therefore, it collects and shares the real time data through radio communication.

During this process, Barbaros System employs application-

dependent compression techniques aside from Time Division Multiplex (TDM) and Frequency Divided Multiplex (FDM) features. It labels every kind of radio infrastructure present in elements such as; HF, VHF/UHF as a separate cell part, according to location knowledge of the elements. Hence, each radio communication infrastructure is used actively in ideal conditions. Barbaros uses VHF for communication with a cell in close-range, at the same time; it uses short wave (HF) transmission for the long range communication automatically. Data collections, rectification of errors and data transmission are carried out withoutany operator support.

Barbaros System provides DLP for interoperability features. This layer supports currentnational and international transmission protocols such as ACP127-RATT messages and STANAG 5066 communication. Thus, Barbaros is able to work with outdated technologic systems within their capabilities.

Barbaros was developednationally, and it is adaptable to each radio infrastructure. Necessary time information for TDM synchronization is provided by GPS and different time sources could be developed and employed where necessary. System, GPS, receiver and modem components are able to be procured together, or currently installed systems such as radio and GPS infrastructure could be used as well.

Other concept developed as part of TAHSIS is MiS and MiS+ (Messaging Operation System). MiS consists of a standard communication server and terminal application enabling integration into conventional communication infrastructure. It provides formal preparation of massages such as X.400 (STANAG 4406) and ACP-127 likewise, carriage of them via current transmission protocols like STANAG 5066. When fulfilling these tasks, it also supports related standards including TCP/IP package transmission, SMTP and Internet CHAT. Additionally, it also includes assistance application enabling operators to calculate necessary parameters required for message transmission.

MiS was developed to present


infrastructure as a modern solution which is compatible with current systems. MiS is able to work with many environments such as modems, radio controls, satellite, VHF/UHF and HF. It comes to the fore due to this feature. Itsupports all protocols in communication concepts including STANAG 4406, S’5066, S’4538 ALE. For satellite communication,it also provides national protocols supporting satellite operators such as GlobalStar, Inmarsata and Iridium aside from special environments such as X-Band.

MiS+ are also compatible with standard applications. Additionally, it ensures original and national data transmission protocols in order to provide communication opportunities which are not possible over protocols of current standards. By means of that, elements in the field could be used to send the data to the receivers in fastest and most efficient way. Elements which are under similar conditions process the acquired data collectively and receive them successfully. Terrestrial massage centers, for example, gather the data via land lines by means of combining the signals received from antennas.

An additional featureprovided byMiS+ is automatically detecting the best transmissionwayfordata that will be sent to the recipients. Itautomatically determines parameters such asradio infrastructure, antenna, frequency, transmitter power for the bestdatatransmissionway.The System infrastructure can be adjusted automaticallytothese parameters.Theheadquarterorders can be transmitted asfast and safe to the recipient without any intervention ofan operator.

MiS+ automatically uses other receivers as a relay point that is in more advantageous position to transmit data. The receiver can be accessed with terrestrialwire lineorwirelesslines.MiS+has the ability to automaticallyre-transmit the data tothe actualreceiver with the best transmissionway.

MiS and MiS+ systems are able to be scaled from tablet PCs to systems with high computing performance used in message centers.

Barbaros and MiS Systems includes hardware, software and both present global communication protocols and national ones. Barbaros especially is employed with special hardware thanks to TDM infrastructure. This hardware provides synchronous data and voice receiving via single antenna over desired number of channels. It also ensures sensitive timing features

which are suitable for real time data transmission requirements. This system can be integrated to the most ofantenna and radio infrastructure.

MiS and MiS+ systems could be supplied in a manner to provide desired capabilities as a software solution. Besides, they are able to work with hardware providing data receiving features from multiple channels. Required components such as modem and encryption elements could be supplied from current equipment, they could specially be procured with desired hardware as well.

Both Barbaros and MiS+ systems support national and/or standard crypto algorithms for security features. The systems, if required, could be procured with integrated crypto infrastructures and they could be used with NATO, national or similar hardware and software based crypto systems as well.

Barbaros and MIS+ systems use optimized waveforms for their working. Therefore, the most efficient results could be obtained via their internal modem systems. Additionally, they support other modems working with different standard such as MIL-STD-188-110B and STANAG 4539. Working perfectly with other modems is one of the main features of Barbaros and MIS+. The systems having original hardware provide several extraordinary features such as transmitting the data over more than one radio. Hence, wide band and big data transmission is possible over several channels by using narrow band radio infrastructure. On the other hand,

the systems are scalable to support further in progress protocols such as waveforms of HF wide band modem.

Likewise, several and widely used and standard wired and wireless communication infrastructure is supported by TAHSIS systems. For example, fiber and standard copper wired Ethernet, SONET, SDH, several DSL (Frame Relay, ADSL, HDSL etc.) applications, satellite systems like DVB-T, DVB-S, general TCP/IP protocols, 3G/4G/WiMAX/LTE and IEEE 802.x etc. TAHSIS systems especially are suitable for every kind of transmission protocols providing TCP/IP support.

TAGEC is a gateway that automaticallyprovides routing the transmission of strategical and tactical messages without operator intervention. It provides services in application layer, advance routing in transport and network layers, protocol conversion and proxy server. TAGEC is a router and gateway device in which

messaging data can be obtained from different systems. It is designed for network-based environments, providing tactical data communication services as well.

In addition, TAGEC is a radio communication solution which connects mobile and stationary elements in a single network. Following TAGEC’s integration into a network, it allows real-time data transmission throughout the network. It creates a single network where all elements, whose location and communication capabilities are known, cooperated.

Barbaros, TAGEC, MIS and MIS+ are strongest candidate for being widely used standards of today and futureby means of following capabilities;

› working cooperatively with other devices in a present infrastructure

› employing present infrastructure in maximum efficiency

› being totally national


Crypto subsystem of Göktürk Exploration and Surveillance Satellite Project, which is managed by Defence Industry Undersecretary of National Defence Ministry, is developed by TÜBİTAK Bilgem Informatics and Information Security Advanced Technology Research Center.

UEKAE, which is supplying technology to both internal and other country and organization sources including NATO with the experience of more than 40 years, presents a system that is providing the secure management of the satellite and secure transmission of the high resolution images from satellite to ground stations by taking part in a satellite project for the first time.

Communication between satellite and mobile and stationary ground stations is supplied over S-Band and X-Band links. In the scope of the project, crypto and key management

devices are developed for the security of this communication. In this way, security of commands which are to be sent to satellite and images coming from satellite is ensured.

Devices that are developed for the

secure communication are: › For ground station, X-Band National

Crypto Device › For ground station, S-Band National

Crypto Device › Key Management Unit › Key Fill Device › For satellite station, X-Band National

Crypto Device › For satellite station, S-Band National

Crypto Device › Satellite Key Injector › Electronic Ground Support Equipment.UEKAE is an R&D organization

which develops information security and electronic system projects needed by strategic public foundations within the country. Besides crypto devices and systems, UEKAE develops many projects in smart card and identity verification systems, electronic certificate management solutions, and electro-optic and laser systems fields.

The North India (Dharamsala) has its first hyperspectral digital imaging spectograph thanks to the FORENSIC XP-4010D developed by TÜBİTAK Bilgem. Within this scope, on 29th October of 2013, India Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh paid a visit to the Regional Forensic Scince Laboratory (RFSL) to inaugurate the Hyperspectral Data Imaging Spectograph in Dharamshala, India.

TÜBİTAK Bilgem has exported the spectograph to some other countries including China, Holland, Germany, Hungary, Korea, Ireland, Slovakia, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan and theUSA. Moreover, the product has been regarded as unprecedented by many of these countries. In this context, Dr. Surender Kumar Pal, Assistant Director and Media Officer of RFSL, said that Hyperspectral Data Imaging Spectograph has been

bought recently and will be used for large scale document examination. He further added that the laboratory will get training from TUBİTAK Bilgem experts for its operation.

Hyperspectral Forensic Imaging Spectograph uses the highest modern optoelectronical technology and fast digital processing for authenticity determination for revealing some hidden features of the questioned documents. Device performs ink analysis/ink difference, information

on handwritings, currency notes, travel documents, bank cheques etc. Specifically, the device focuses on determination of the sequence of intersecting lines using hyperspectral imaging information. Moreover, with novel 2D/3D processing software, the device represents a new generation of nondestructive tools for authenticity determination of different types of documents and handwritings using hyperspectral digital imaging technology.

Göktürk National Crypto Subsystem, is implemented by TÜBİTAK Bilgem Informatics and Information Security Advanced Technology Research Center, National Electronics and Cryptology Research Institute (UEKAE)

Bilgem’s Hyperspectral Data Imaging Spectograph FORENSIC XP-4010D in India Now


Electronics hardware of A400M military transportation aircraft will be designed by EADS company for eight countries including Turkey. EADS company will use DTM (Data Transfer Medium), which designed by TÜBİTAK Bilgem, for holding and transferring encrypted data between DAC (Defensive Aimed Computer) and PFMSE (Pre-Flight Messaging Service) Figure 1.

DTM will ensure secure communication of A400M with other peripherals. The consortium where Turkey is participating will produce A400M expected to be theFuture International Military Airlifter (FIMA). DTM consists of NATO approved Secure Flash Memory (SIR) and IA (interface Adapter). DTM send and receive confidential flight data to/from DAC (Defensive Aimed Computer) via Ethernet. DTM can securely store saved flight reports on SIR and flight reports can be installed to PFMSE via USB port of SIR. Figure 2.

According to necessities of the European countries that are France, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom,Belgium, Luxembourg and

Turkey, A400M aircraft is designed by EADS. A400M is the first strategical transportation aircraft of Turkey, which Turkish engineers participate in design and production of first international aircraft project.

In addition to information security and electronics system projects, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK)Informatics and Information Security Research Center (Bilgem), National Research Institute of Electronics and Cryptology (UEKAE) has interest in the photo-detector sensors and systems. The quadrant photo-detector designed and fabricated entirely by UEKAE has several applications in both military and public services.

PIN photo-detector (DDA-I) fabrication process was developed by Semiconductor Technologies Research Lab (YITAL) in accordance with the specifications provided by Roketsan These DDA-I sensors developed specifically for Roketsan’s laser-guided missile -CIRIT- have four parallel PIN-diodes on the same silicon substrate.

DDA-I has an active area diameter of more than 10 millimeters, very low dark current (<1nA/cm2), and higher impulse responsivity (0,44A/W) compared to commercially available sensors in its class. These detectors offer low capacitance per quadrant, wide dynamic range, high breakdown voltage, fast response and accuracy compared to similar products on the market.

Semiconductor Technologies

Research Lab (YITAL) specialize in designing and fabricating semiconductor components such as these quadrant photo-detectors that require advanced technology and an innovative approach.

Fabrication process of the photo-detectors start with the device simulation and mask-layout using computer-aided design tools. Using the lay-outs, a set of photo-masks are produced to be used during the lithography steps of the fabrication. Next steps include the fabrication of the detectors, wafer testing, die preparation, packaging, and electrical and optical performance tests, respectively. Moreover, detector fabrication steps include

wafer cleaning, oxidation, deposition, photolithography, dry/wet etching, ion implantation, and metallization. All of these steps from design to packaging and testing are completed using the resources & facilities of YITAL.

Various other photo-detector process development projects for several different applications are currently ongoing within YITAL.

Some of the applications of these photodetectors in several military and public areas are listed below:

› Pulse Detectors

› Optical Communications

› Bar Code Readers

› Optical Remote Control

› Medical Equipments

› High Speed Photometry

DTM (Data Transfer Medium) Device, Which is Designed by TÜBİTAK Bilgem, Will be Using for A400M Aircraft

Quadrant Photodetector - DDA-I

Figure-1 DTM Data Transfer Device

Picture-1 Laser-guided missile - CIRIT

Picture-2 View of several photo-detectors on a silicon wafer

Figure-2 DTM guideline


New Stage of Turkey and France Defence IndustryThe Turkey-France Defence and Aerospace Day took place on 27-28 February in Ankara with the support of SaSaD, METU Teknokent and GIFAS in which defence industry officials of both countries and representatives of Turkish-French defence industry firms participated in the gathering. During the morning of the first day the SSM, DGA and representatives of defence industry firms gave various presentations on Turkish-French relations and on the joint programmes implemented by both countries. The afternoon session was devoted to B2B meetings. Approximately 60 Turkish and French firms participated in the B2B meetings with nearly 550 bilateral talks taking place between various firms of the two countries.

In the opening ceremony, SaSaD Chairman Mr. Kudret Önen, GIFAS Chairman Mr. Marwan Lahoud, Head of DGA Mr. Laurent Collet-Billion, METU Teknokent Vice Rector Volkan Atalay and the Undersecretary for Defence Industries Mr. Murad Bayar gave opening remarks to the attendees.

Head of DGA Mr. Laurent Collet-Billion expressed his satisfaction at being in Turkey on the occasion of the first French-Turkish Industry Seminar jointly organised by the SSM and DGA with the support of Turkish and French industry and provided information to participants on the new period that has started between the two nations since last year. Collet-Billion said, “Our Presidents and our Defence Ministers decided to open a new phase in our relations during their last meetings. With this understanding of mutual benefits, we are in a constructive approach with the objective of a “win-win” situation.

Collet-Billion: “We are working on an armament committee that will direct the armament activities between both nations”

Head of the Direction Generale de Armement, Mr. Laurent Collet-Billion indicated that the SSM and the DGA were co-operating together as the first concrete step in the convergence that has taken place in the area of defence between the two nations since last year. “In order to revive and sustain our relationship in the area of armaments between Turkey and France, we are in close collaboration with the SSM in working out a technical arrangement that will place it within an institutional framework in directing our mutual activities.”

The Annual Sales of the French Defence Industry is 15 Billion Euros

Providing information on the size of the French defence industry Collet-Billion indicated that, “Our defence industry with 165,000 personnel of which 20,000 are skilled personnel and nearly 4,000 defence industry companies has reached an average annual sales of 15 billion euro. Out of this figure 30 percent consists of exports.” Stating that France is among the leading countries in Europe that allocates the most to R&D from its budget, Collet-Billion went on to add that, “We foresee an average annual budget of 730 million euro between 2014 and 2019.” Mentioning that preparatory work for the Military Programming Law of France was continuing and that it had set its 6 year annual budget, Collet-Billion further added that the senior officials of the state see investments in the defence area as compulsory and those countries that are partners with France in armament relations would directly benefit from this arrangement.

France and Turkey are Expanding Their Trade Volume - Target: “20 Billion Euros”

Chairman of GIFAS, Mr. Marwan Lahoud, mentioning his satisfaction at being in this seminar that has been organised with the aim of increasing co-operation between

SaSaD and GIFAS signed MoU to develop mutual cooperation

Chairman of GIFAS, Mr. Marwan Lahoud

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


the two countries in the area of aerospace and aviation said that 60 French defence industry firms and a delegation consisting of 90 members were attending this seminar. Lahoud pointed out that, “In addition to the joint meetings to take place during the three days of the gathering they would be visiting various Turkish defence industry firms” and added that, “In the collaboration that will be carried out in the long run, we are making efforts in working towards forming a sustainable partnership.” Emphasizing that during the meetings of the Presidents of the two nations they had put forth a target on a more effective collaboration in the areas of commerce and economy, Lahoud mentioned that, “Both Presidents in their meetings set a 20 billion euro volume in joint collaborations in the areas of commerce and industry. In order to meet this target we need significant collaboration in the area of defence industry.” Bringing together the capabilities that the two nations possess in exports to third countries and touching on the importance of the collaboration to be established, Lahoud added that the valued collaboration to be formed between DGA and the SSM, in particular in

creating new export markets was crucial.

The Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar in his opening remarks mentioned that the two countries as two NATO nations had very close collaboration and added that they were implementing activities in increasing their collaboration with France in various platforms such as ASD.

Murad Bayar added that this seminar taking place would, he believed, further strengthen the collaboration between the two countries in the area of defence industry.

Subsequent to the opening remarks and presentations, in order to increase the collaboration in the defence industry between Turkey and France and to create new opportunities, the Chairman of the Board of SaSaD Mr. Kudret Önen and Chairman of GIFAS Mr. Marwan Lahoud signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on their collaboration.

Joint company meetings took place during the second session of the day in which 60 Turkish and French companies took part with approximately 550 meetings taking place.

Roketsan Featured its Missile Systems in Bahrain Air Show 2014

Roketsan participated at the Bahrain International Air Show between 16 and 18 January 2014 at Bahrain. During the fair’s three days, Roketsan officials held talks with top level decision-makers that are among the target countries in the defence industry and provided information on the products and capabilities of Roketsan. During

the exhibition, Roketsan’s stand received, among others, the Bahrain Chief of Staff, the Bahrain Naval Forces Commander, Bahrain Air Force Commander and other top level military delegations.

As the only participant in the fair in the area of rockets and missiles, Roketsan exhibited its latest technology products and its stand. The Long-Range Anti-Tank Missile Mızrak-U with a maximum 8 km and a minimum 500 m range, that can undertake duties day and night under all weather conditions and that was integrated to the National Attack Helicopter ATAK as well as the 2.75” Laser Guided CIRIT missile that has the feature of being Turkey’s first national missile was the centre of attention by participants an visitors alike at the fair.

During the Air Show the Medium-

Range Anti-Tank Missile Mızrak-O, the SOM, the Mini Munitions and Low and Medium-Altitude Air Defence Missiles we also exhibited at Roketsan’s stand. Roketsan featured The Long-Range Anti-Tank

Missile Mızrak-U on Atak Helicopter

© Roketsan

© Roketsan

© Defence Turkey


Feels Like a FighterBy Pete Collins

Technical BackgroundThe G 120TP is a development of the

G 120A and retains the same massive bubble canopy, retractable gear and carbon fibre fuselage/wings/tail but with a new nose section to house the Rolls-Royce turbo-prop engine and a completely new, digital, cockpit. The all carbon fibre construction endows the aircraft with light weight, exceptional strength, no corrosion, exceptionally smooth aerodynamic surfaces, easy repair and a quoted structural service life of 15,000 flying hours. Max Take off Weight (MTOW) is 1515 kg (utility)/1440 kg (aerobatic); Max Landing Weight (MLW) is 1440 kg; Basic Empty Weight is 1140 kg. Full fuel capacity is 275 kg which, when combined with an assumed combined instructor + student weight of 200kg, means that the G120TP should not be weight restricted when readied at the start of an ‘instructional day’. Aerobatic limits are +6G/-4G, max operating altitude is 25,000 ft (crew oxygen/unpressurised) with an initial quoted rate of climb of 2855 ft/min at MTOW/MSL/ISA. The aircraft will be cleared for VFR/IFR/Day/Night operations in non-icing conditions.

The new G120TP engine is a Rolls-Royce 250-B17F TP rated at 380 SHP (max continuous power) or 456 SHP (max power/5 min limit). The RR 250-B17F is already widely used in helicopters. The use of Jetfuel eliminates the complexity and expense of using AVGAS. The engine drives a short span, 5 bladed, MT propeller that features reverse thrust (propeller in beta range). Vmo is now increased up to 238 KIAS (0-12,500ft) and Mmo is M0.45 (above 12,500ft). Max range at 10,000 ft is 725 NM. The take off distance to 50 ft is just less than 380 m and the landing distance from 50 ft is just less than 450 m. These are outstanding performance figures for this class of aircraft.

Even more impressive is the digital G 120TP cockpit. These upgrades will include:

› an instrument console that will feature four Cobham Avionics 8x6in electronic flight information system (EFIS) multi-functional displays and a digital (standby) combined flight display, giving a fully ‘glass’ cockpit.

› left and centre EFIS displays will be multi-functional and programmable to display ground moving tactical map, aircraft systems synoptic pages and

electronic checklists. › an individual power lever (to left side of

each seat) acting as a single ‘jet like’ lever.

The quoted performance envelope and the above cockpit upgrades grant the G 120TP a level of tactical sophistication and training potential that is little short of revolutionary in this type of ‘elementary/basic’ training aircraft. The G 120TP is certified to EASA CS-23 regulations.

Evaluation On strap in, the cockpit immediately

felt spacious with the canopy offering an almost 360 deg field of view (FOV) including rearwards over the horizontal stabiliser and fin. The Grob target is to accommodate a 3%-97% pilot percentile range.

Engine power is controlled by %torque (TQ) with approx 90%TQ equating to max continuous power (MCP).

Power response and acceleration on take off was jet like and I noticed virtually no ground swing. With 120 KIAS achieved by the end of the short runway, I banked the aircraft over


sharply in a 70-80 deg wingover whilst maintaining 120 KIAS and climbing at approx 3000 ft/min. My impression during the wingover was that this aircraft immediately felt like a mini-fighter because it was so powerful and yet the power was so linear and jet like in its delivery.

Several 3 turn spins were then conducted from FL90, starting from 80 KIAS. Standard spin recovery showed the aircraft taking one turn to recovery. With recovery from the dive to level flight, a complete 3-turn spin event used just 2500 ft of altitude. I continued to marvel at the power and smoothness of the engine/propeller combination. If height was needed to be regained at medium level for a training event, the aircraft was simply zoomed effortlessly back to the starting altitude, like a jet.

At 500 ft AGL, 90%TQ gave a 210 KIAS cruise with a large power margin in hand and a fuel flow rate of just 2 kg/min!! The low level performance of this aircraft was amazing.

Returning to the airfield, several tight visual circuits were flown to both overshoot and to roll. Typical downwind was 120 KIAS with take off flap and gear selected, turning finals at 100 KIAS with full flap selected for an 80 KIAS final approach. The aircraft exhibits excellent speed stability and

maintaining approach angle/airspeed, very accurately, seemed almost effortless. Going deliberately low on approach could be instantly corrected with a 1 sec burst of power without yaw, power lag or TQ over-swing.

Both sorties were one hour each in flight duration and each used just 80 kg of Jet fuel.

ConclusionIn my opinion, the G 120TP

now renders all of its current single engine propeller competitors in the ‘elementary/basic’ category virtually obsolete. The exquisite matching of the Rolls Royce 250-B17F turbo-prop to its 5-bladed MT propeller and to the Grob G120 airframe is an undeniable success. However, much more than this, I believe the G 120TP represents a ‘systems of systems’ training concept that will revolutionise future military training standards beginning from a student pilot’s first day. The G 120TP concept offers a level of ‘embedded front line simulation’ training capability and sophistication that many front line Air Forces currently do not possess, even at the present ‘advanced/tactical’ stages. The advantages of introducing initial student pilots to a 21st century configured trainer, when they are

selected to fly 21st century front line types in a 21st century Air Force are, to my mind, immense.

I feel that the G 120TP is a natural complement to the higher performance (but more expensive) Pilatus PC-21/Aermacchi M311 FAST (Flight, Attack and Systems Trainer) types and the Aermacchi M346/KAI T-50/Hawk 128 LIFT (Lead-In Fighter Trainer) types. The G 120TP comes with such a low purchase price and minimal direct operating costs (DOCs) but with such high performance and massive training potential for its size, that the complete ‘package’ seems to me, to be simply incredible value for money.

Delivery to Italian Air Force within the first half of 2014

© Grob Aircraft

Roll Out for First Italian Built Eurofighter Tranche 3

The first new standard Eurofighter Typhoon built in Italy has rolled out from the Turin-Caselle Plant. The latest Alenia Aermacchi production Eurofighter Typhoon, known as Tranche 3, represents a major achievement in the evolution of the world’s leading combat aircraft.

The Tranche 3 standard embodies a number of changes that effectively enhance the aircraft’s performance and which allow for future upgrades making it more attractive to current and potential export customers.

The first Italian Tranche 3 has been produced for the Italian Air Force by the Eurofighter Partner Companies and assembled by Alenia Aermacchi. The Italian single seat aircraft no.64 is now ready for engine tests at Turin-Caselle and will be delivered within the first half of this year.

Under the Tranche 3A contract signed in 2009, a total of 112 aircraft have been ordered for the four European partner nations of Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, with 21 aircraft bound for the Italian Air Force.

Alessandra Saroglia, Alenia Aermacchi Eurofighter programme manager, said: “The first Eurofighter Tranche 3 is a major stepping stone in our production programme. The aircraft embodies a number of changes with

respect to previous production tranches making it even more operationally capable and also a series of provisions allowing it to take on additional capability in the future. For example, the Tranche 3 aircraft has been built with power, cooling and electronics to allow for the fitting of the new E-Scan radar.”

Alberto Gutierrez, Chief Executiove Officer of Eurofighter, said: “The Eurofighter programme continues to build momemtum while serving our customers’ air forces. Ours is a story of intelligent evolution built around listening to the needs of our customers and then delivering against those needs. Our Tranche 3 aircraft will be the most potent yet offering unmatched flexibility at a time when every asset has to prove that it can earn its place day in and day out.”

The Journalist, Mr. Pete Collins


FNSS Participated in the Future Operational Environment and Technology Panel

Workshop On “How to do Business with NATO?”

The “Future Operational Environment and Technology Panel” (GEHOTEP) took place on the 10th and 11th of February at the War Academy Command (KHA), the Republic of Turkey’s highest institution in the art of warfare and military science.

Held for the second year with the panel’s topic “command and control,” FNSS Defence Systems along with other leading firms in the defence industry participated in the gathering.

The audience consisting of a large number of participants included the Commander of the War Academy Gen. Yalçın Ataman, the Academy’s Chief of Staff, Commander of the Land Forces War Academy, the General Staff, the Land Forces Command, SSM, TÜBİTAK, representatives of defence industry firms, the faculty members of the war academies and future staff officer candidates.

Conducted by military and civilian experts in five sessions, the presentations in the panel were

under the following main headings in that order:

› Command and Control and Cyber Threats

› Basic Issues and Developments that Effect the TSK Command and Control Architecture

› Force Command and Control Structures and its Evaluation

› Command and Control Systems Technologies

During the second day of the panel, a presentation on “Modern Command and Control Platforms and Future Developments was presented by FNSS’ Electronics and Control Group Unit Manager Serkan Balbay.

Turkish Land Force Military officials gave a plaque all participations in the panel.

The Workshop on “How to Do Business with NATO?” coordinated by the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries and METU Teknokent cooperation took place in Ankara on 21 January 2014 with the participation of over 150 representatives from 80 companies. The main objective of the workshop was to determine the things to be done by Turkish defence companies in order to win more NATO tenders.

With the “How to Do Business with the NATO?” Workshop, the accomplishment of the following is aimed; introducing the NATO supply system and main supply agencies

to Turkish defence companies, explaining the required bureaucratic procedures, enabling the flow of first-hand information on NATO’s two main supply organizations NSPA’s (NATO Support Agency) and NCIA’s (NATO Communication and Information Agency) supply activities, methods of doing business with companies and future projects to our companies by the officials of the agency, enabling exchange of views between Turkish defence companies and personnel employed in NATO supply agencies on how these companies could increase their potential for collaboration with

these NATO supply agencies and determining the measures and steps to be taken in order to increase Turkish defence companies’ share in business opportunities within the scope of NATO supply activities.

Following the presentations of the representatives from the Undersecretariat of the National Ministry of Defence, Undersecretariat for Defence Industries, NATO’s supply agencies and relative companies, the experiences of the Turkish personnel employed at the NATO Support Agency and companies doing business with NATO were conveyed at the Workshop.

© FNSS


Traian Băsescuand his accompanying delegation arrived to Ankara as official invitees of President Abdullah Gül and paid a visit to Turkey’s aviation and aerospace center TAI. Ambassador of Turkish Republic to Bucharest Ömür Şölendil, Ambassador of Romania to Ankara RaduOnofrei, Undersecretary for Defence

Industries Murad Bayar and a great number of senior officials accompanied Romanian President during his visit. Băsescuwas informed on TAI’s products and capabilities in the briefing given by TAI President and CEO Muharrem Dörtkaşlıand left the facilities after his examinations.

President of Pakistan Confers Nishan-I-Imtiaz (Military) Upon General Akın Özturk, Commander Turkish Air Force

President of Romania Visited TAI Facilities

President of Pakistan Mr. Mamnoon Hussain conferred the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Akin Ozturk, Commander Turkish Air Force, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.

The President conferred the award on General Akin Ozturk in recognition of his role and outstanding services for further promoting the already existing close bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Turkey.

The ceremony was attended among others by Air Chief Marshal

Tahir Rafique Butt, Chief of Air Staff, Dr. Nazir Saeed, Secretary Information, Broadcasting & National Heritage and Mr. Abdul Rauf Chaudhry, Federal Tax Ombudsman. Turkish ambassador in Pakistan Mr. Sadik Babur Girgin and

senior officials of Turkish embassy were also present.

The citation read on the occasion said “General Akin Ozturk being an accomplished military leader and a distinguished Aviator, has personally broadened the scope of interaction and played a significant role in promoting and strengthening the bonds of goodwill and cooperation between the Air Forces of Pakistan and Turkey.

In recognition of his meritorious services and contributions towards strengthening the goodwill and

cooperation between the two Air Forces, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been pleased to confer the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Akin Ozturk, Commander Turkish Air Force.”

Later, General Akin Ozturk called on President along with his delegation and discussed matters relating to Pakistan- Turkey bilateral relations particularly defence cooperation between the two countries

The President said that people and Government of Pakistan highly value the fraternal and multifaceted relations with Turkey and that Pakistan was keen to further strengthen trade, investment and defence cooperation with Turkey. The President said that there exist a huge potential to boost and further deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries with focus on enhancing commercial, investment and defence ties.

General Akin Ozturk, Commander Turkish Air Force, thanked the President and government of Pakistan for decorating him with the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) and assured that defence cooperation between the two countries would grow with each passing day.

President of Pakistan Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, Turkish Air Force Commander General Akın Öztürk, Pakistan Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt

© Pakistan Embassy

© Pakistan Embassy

© TAI


Hosted by METU and METU Teknokent and under the leadership of the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM), the II Project Market of the Teknokent Defence Industry (TSSK) that took place at the METU Culture Convention Centre and which brought together many defence industry firms aims to expand the relations between large, medium and small-scale firms in the industry thereby for them to sign more contracts, to use existing resources and to plan correctly the new investments to take place.

The activity which saw SMEs introduce projects that were completely domestically developed defence industry products and which produce high technology solutions was met with great interest by participants. While the number of total registered participants was 300, another 350 individuals visited the activity. Aside from 29 firms from the METU Teknokent and TSSK, the main contractors in the sector Aselsan, Havelsan, Roketsan, TAI and FNSS as well as Bilkent Cyberpark, Gazi Teknopark and Hacettepe Teknopark also participated. The OSSA Defence and Aerospace Clustering, the Eskişehir Aerospace Clustering and the Aerospace and Aviation Clustering located in Izmir found the opportunity to introduce their companies with a stand at the activity that took place. With the co-operation meetings that took place with the stands, firms attending the TSSK II Project Market activity had the opportunity to meet each other.

Speaking at the opening of the gathering, METU Vice Rector Prof. Volkan Atalay touched on the importance of clustering by stating that the slogan, ‘Think Global, Act Global’ is a valid slogan today and mentioned the importance of clustering. On the structure of clustering Atalay said, “In order to undertake a global action we are involved in a local movement and we are trying to create this through local unity.” Atalay mentioned that clustering increased the awareness in opportunities and in a globalised world being close to information is important in the easy access to that information. Continuing his remarks by mentioning the well-known clusterings in the world

Atalay gave examples of the most well-known clusterings such as Silicon Valley and Cambridge. Mentioning that in the METU Teknokent clustering there were 73 firms at the present time, Atalay added that they could receive support for strengthening international competition from the Ministry of Economy.

The General Secretary of the Ankara Chamber of Industry Yavuz Cabbar, stating that they had reached an 8 billion dollar export figure in 2013, mentioned that Ankara had become a defence industry city in advanced technology. Cabbar sad that among the cities that benefitted the most from public sector support was Ankara and indicating that Ankara had new graduate entrepreneur youth and said that in order to continue the visibility all of this must be carried on to a web-based platform. Cabbar added that that this work in particular was necessary in terms of the sustainability of industrialisation Cabbar emphasized that the most experienced city on clustering was Ankara and emphasized that these clusterings would be more effective in the future in carrying industry further ahead.

Deputy Undersecretary for Defence Industries Sedat Güldoğan in his remarks at the gathering said that the most important emphasis in the 2012-2016 Strategy Plan issued by the Undersecretariat under the slogan ‘Technological Superiority’ was two main clusters and that one of these was the sustainability of industry and the other the spreading of technological competence. Mentioning that these projects carried major importance in this plan, Güldoğan said that they assisted in the development of this strategy and said, “Since 2011 we are following the 30 percent SME participation in the supply industry and in the last one to two years the supply industry SME sales increased by 30 percent. We think that the ‘Industry Participation – Offset Guide’ that came into effect in 2011 has an effect on this as well.” In continuing his remarks Sedat Güldoğan said that through a portal they had development they were able to follow the sales increase of SMEs.

Oğuz Şener, Chairman of the Aselsan Technology High Board of Directors, indicated that the supply industry and co-operation with universities were subjects that Aselsan gave importance to and mentioned that, in terms of giving an idea, they worked with approximately 400 local sub-contractors. Stating that the total order to SMEs and sub-contractors up to now was 1.25 billion USD and the 2012 figure was 210 million USD in payment, Şener emphasized that aside from this that they worked closely with many universities and implemented many projects. Şener said, “As Aselsan we use the opportunities provided by METU more easily that the firms that are here but in reality it must be easier for firms to reach them and to use their infrastructure” and added, that this issue can be solved through joint effort.

FSNN Public Relations Co-ordinator Cem Altınışık, started his remarks by providing a general description of FNSS’ activities and

Defence Industry Firms Meet in the II TSSK Project Market

Deputy Undersecretary for Defence Industries Sedat Güldoğan

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


that they had focused on developing design with their own resources and provided information on their land platforms to the participants and added that the land vehicles they had developed up to now were used in many geographies throughout the globe and emphasized that on this subject they had accomplished a considerable headway.

Mustafa Egeli, Director, Procurement and Contracts of Havelsan in his presentation started with a general introduction on Havelsan. Indicating that with the capabilities they had acquired they had signed off on important projects overseas, Egeli while illustrating these projects gave the example of Korea. In addition, Egeli gave information on the organisation of the purchasing and contract directorate for sub-contractors that wish to work with Havelsan for the first time. Indicating that 2013 had been

a very successful year for Havelsan, Egeli said that total sales had reached 565 million Turkish Liras and that 30 percent of this figure was exports.

The sub-contractor manager of Roketsan Şule Arıtaş started her speech by providing information n the mission and vision of Roketsan. Mentioning that the primary target of Roketsan was to meet the needs of the TSK their secondary aim was to export to friendly and allied countries. Outlining the projects being implemented and completed with Teknokent firms, Arıtaş gave examples on the ‘Firing control unit design and production’ and the ‘Power distribution unit design and production.’

Head of TAI Aircraft Group Özcan Ertem in his presentation provided information to the participant on the Opposition Aircraft Project. Ertem indicated that the conceptual design of the aircraft in this project had been completed and that this aircraft would take the place of the F16s in the future. What they wanted said Ertem was for this aircraft to find the solution and that in terms of needs the written air vehicle requirements was written in the 4th Version of the Operational Requirements Document. Within the framework of the project, 1 pair of 2 single engine aircraft was designed added Ertem and went on to add that within 2 years they had undertaken the conceptual design and models and that these 2 aircraft would meet 95 percent of the needs of the Air Force.

After providing an introductions on the sub-contractor requirements of the main contracting firms, their business potential and the technological areas

of purchases made or to be made as well as the current short, medium and long term projects, SME, R&D and innovation capabilities and product and competency were mentioned in short presentations. Activities continued with collaboration meetings at company stands where firms obtained close-hand information of other firms.

The defence industry firms that are members of the TSSK by developing their relations with small, medium and large scale firms obtaining more projects and the correct use of existing resources has the aim of the right planning in the investments to be realised. Starting from this objective, the TSSK Project Market will henceforth take place each year, which will allow the METU Teknokent Defence Industry Clustering companies to meet one another as well as the principal contracting firms while providing the opportunity to increase their joint development and collaboration.

TAI’s T129 ATAK Helicopter Performed Flight Demonstration at BIAS 2014

Participating in Bahrain International Air Show 2014 (BIAS) under the umbrella of the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM), Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc’s (TAI) “T129 ATAK” Advanced Attack and Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopter performed a flight demonstration on the first day of the exhibition. The flight demonstration drew attention by many high level executives as well as the

King of Bahrain HRH Shiekh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

T129 ATAK is the result of the integration of nationally developed high-tech avionic equipment and weapon systems on to the combat proven A129 airframe, with upgraded engines, transmission and rotor blades. Optimized for “hot & high” environments, T129 is the most efficient Attack Helicopter in its class. T-129 Atak Helicopter

© TAI

FSNN Public Relations Co-ordinator Cem Altınışık

© Defence Turkey

© Defence Turkey


Getac: Leading Innovator of Rugged Computing SolutionGetac Technology Corporation

was established in 1989 as a joint venture with GE Aerospace to supply defence electronic products. It has been manufacturing rugged computers for some of the most demanding users in some of the most demanding environments for nearly 25 years. As one of the leading rugged computer manufacturers, Getac offers the most extensive rugged computing product lines including notebook, tablets and handheld computers.

Getac rugged computers are marketed and shipped to nearly 40 countries all around the globe, including the United States, Britain, Germany, Italy, France, Turkey, Australia, Russia, China, Brazil, India, Denmark and many more. Getac products are applied in a wide range of sectors from defence, law enforcement, public safety, emergency services, utility, field service, oil and gas, telecommunications, transportation and manufacturing.

Getac is a pioneer in the rugged computing industry by being the first to offer 5- year standard warranty for most of its fully rugged notebooks and tablets. By extending the industry standard 3-year warranty to 5-year warranty, customers are

able to minimise downtime while maximising profitability, particularly in large utilities and government organisations whose process for requesting and receiving spending approval to repair an out-of-warranty computer is a time-consuming process. Offering the 5-year warranty provides IT

departments with the opportunity to better manage its assets by knowing the projected costs of a computer’s lifespan at the time of purchase. Getac’s 5-year warranty commitment underlines the company’s focus on quality and

customer satisfaction.All Getac fully rugged computing

products are designed and manufactured to meet the MIL-STD 810G and IP65 testing standards, and offer optional features like MIL-STD461F, ATEX or ANSI explosive certified features. They are designed to operate in variety of defence applications such as command and control, maintenance, situational awareness, tactical communication and surveillance, reconnaissance. Getac’s continuous innovation of product technology and quality are being recognized by their international defence customers and have received numerous major government projects over the years, including US Air force, UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), Dutch Army and many others.

One of Getac’s recent moves is to explore more business opportunities in the Eastern European region, and Turkey is one of Getac’s targeted countries as the result of growing demand in the Turkish defence sector.

“Turkish government is taking steps to increase its border security, the demand of rugged computing solutions in Turkey is growing significantly. Over the past year, we have received numerous inquiries

Picture 1: Getac offers the widest range of rugged computing solutions

Picture 2: US Air Force using Getac rugged solution

© GETAC

© GETAC


of rugged devices for border security projects. To reinforce our commitment to the Turkey market, Getac has formed strategic partnerships with some local resellers, VARs, SI, ISV companies that are capable of both sales and service, such as Aybil Bilişim,” said Rowina Lee, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing Centre, Getac Technology Corporation

“By teaming up with our local partners, Getac is able to provide real-time sales and service support to our Turkish customers, providing our cutting-edge rugged computing solutions and services and ensuring a lower total cost of ownership. We will work together with our Turkish partners to win some major projects to grow our business in Turkey”, said Ms.Lee.

Applications Getac offers the industry’s

widest fully rugged product lines, including 3.5” rugged handheld, 7” to 10” rugged tablets and 10” to 15” rugged notebooks. Therefore different form factors, models, and optional features or even customized solutions will be recommended to satisfy military operation requirements. As the military is moving towards cloud computing era, mobile rugged devices with mobility, broadband communication, fast computing performance and ruggedness are essential to the users of defence sector.

Taking Turkish border security control application as an example, the most important mission of the border security is to prevent unauthorized intruders- such as hostile forces, terrorists, smugglers or illegal immigrants to enter into Turkish territory. Therefore, the border security requires complete, accurate and up-to-the-minute situational awareness to detect, track and recognize real-time status of the borders.

For border security, Getac X500 rugged notebooks are recommended for such application by pairing with scanning and observation surveillance system to help monitor border security and detect unwanted intrusions. X500 offers 15.6” display, and possess

fast and superb computing power to handle the most complex tasks. Its advanced connectivity and high-speed graphics processers can transmit radar detection and infrared cameras’ live feeds to the command centre to help defence forces gather intelligence which is ideal for reliable perimeter security and protection.

Another popular application of Getac X500 is for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operations. Field commanders need accurate information from the front lines to make the most informed field decisions at the command post. Special Forces on the front lines are required to provide precise and timely intelligence on which command decisions are based. Therefore UAVs are widely used in surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligent solutions. They need to be programmed accurately and controlled remotely for accurate information gathering. Getac X500, paired with a highly advanced communication system, transmits live video feeds to ground forces to help them investigate life-threating situations. It is also configurable with military data interfaces and secure encryption for protected communication, enabling tactical strategists to thwart dangerous threats from enemy forces and direct operation plans.

In addition to X500, Getac also offers the most secure rugged tablet solution to military operations. Governments are paying more attention to the security and encryption of their devices, in order to protect classified information as cyber-attacks become an increasingly common threat to information security. Getac worked with Becrypt to develop the world’s most secured tablet solution for defence sector and government market.

The Getac Z710 is a 7” tablet equipped with Android 4.1. The hardware is supported by Becrypt’s secure software, which ensures that all device application and user data is protected with FIPS 140-2 compliant encryption. Administrators also have complete control, so they can create separate encrypted user accounts or personas, enforce strong authentication, and manage

different applications and device policies - all of which reduce support and maintenance overheads.

Currently the Z710 7” fully rugged tablet will be deployed in trials as part of Northrop Grumman’s Situational Awareness (SA), and Command and Control (C2) solution, incorporating Soldier Link System (SLS); a key benefit being the tablet’s form factor, which enables a commander to use the device in a vehicle or on foot. When combined with Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Joint Command and Control System (I-JOCCS), SLS provides seamless and scalable SA and C2 capability – complete with decision aids and planning tools - from a large scale static operational HQ to the section commander at the forward edge of the battle.

A successful trial will result in accreditation by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). The Getac Z710 7” Android 4.1 rugged tablet, built with Becrypt’s Titan II encryption platform, provides a fully secure system that can support a range of applications that government and defence markets can use with confidence. Aimed at sectors that require a fully rugged mobile device, the Z710 weighs just 800g, with a battery that gives more than 10 hours of operational time. It is a fully integrated device, which includes a 1D/2D barcode reader and an advanced GPS technology (SiRFstarIV™) accurate to 1.5 metres.

“The Getac Z710 is the ultimate Android rugged tablet solution for government, military, defence and public sector personnel. Combined with Becrypt’s industry-leading security capabilities, we are proud to offer a powerful device that will significantly enhance military operations in the field,” said Ms.Lee.

Getac: Rugged Computer Shields IED Blast

Military investment in rugged technology is usually targeted at protecting equipment from harsh conditions and extreme environments.

But a recent incident in Afghanistan has seen the Dutch Army witness first-hand the benefits of rugged protection.


During a routine patrol an army unit was exposed to an IED attack just several metres from an off-road vehicle. The IED explosion shot a rock though the vehicle window and hit the team’s Getac rugged laptop, cracking its case and leaving about a five-centimetre puncture. The notebook, which was on the vehicle dashboard at the time, bore the brunt of the force and saved the solider inside from serious injury – and the computer remained operational.

“Rugged mobile computer equipment is essential for troops stationed in Afghanistan, and they’ve worked to deliver to the exact requirements of the Dutch Army. Its personnel need to be able to quickly and easily communicate with each other to gather information on danger zones and battlefield strategies”,

said Rowina Lee, Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing Centre, Getac Technology Corporation. “Tactical air control parties work in the frontline and conduct targeting for close air support, often using rugged communications equipment outside the safety of a vehicle,” Ms Lee said. “The software that forces use must be able to run properly in brutal environments, and proper data transmission is vital.”

In this instance, the unit was mounted on the off-road vehicle’s dashboard. The magnesium alloy casing that surrounds all Getac notebooks and the shock-mounted hard drive inside ensured that the unit survived the shrapnel blast and remained fully functional.

“This is important, as many military vehicles were not originally built with notebooks in mind and many are retrofitted with mounts that do not always protect the computers in the optimal way, Ms Lee said.“ “It shows the importance of investing in cutting edge ruggedized equipment. Getac

notebooks are built to work under extreme temperatures, and in the case of Afghanistan, this can also mean temperature fluctuations from the severe desert heat to below -10°C, which our units can handle.”

“Another key concern for equipment operating within the desert environment is dust. Getac’s rugged computers are IP65 sealed against dust and water. For further field durability the unit was specified with glove-use touch pad and rubberised, full-sized keyboard, with backlight keys for night use. And the notebooks’ unique fan-free design and sealed caps and doors further protect crucial data from becoming victim to the elements.”

The Dutch technical air control received the first batch of Getac rugged computers, and based on positive reviews from that initial order, more were purchased for several other troops. The units are

now used in both Afghanistan and the Netherlands.

Although the Dutch troops do not use Getac notebooks as their main satellite GPS tool because of military regulations, they have discovered they can use them as a secondary GPS.

“We’ve had army feedback saying they’ve found the Getac GPS system is very quick to respond and offers a truly viable option to the primary GPS,” Ms. Lee said.

“Frontline forces need to know they can rely on their kit. All Getac fully rugged computers have passed MIL-STD 810G and IP65 test to ensure the products are water and dust proof, providing drop, shock and vibration protection, and operate in extreme weather conditions or extreme temperature environments. We are proud that Dutch army has discovered they can reply on Getac”.

Picture 2: Dutch Army

vehicle on mission in

Afghanistan

Picture 1: Getac V100 survive IED

explosion, case cracking and has a 5cm puncture.

© GETAC

© GETAC

© GETAC


Aerospace Materials and Autonomy TechnologiesThe technology acquisition roadmap projects started by the R&D Department of the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries commenced with seven projects under the heading of Aerospace Materials and Autonomy Technologies.

The signing ceremony was attended by the Undersecretary for Defence Industries Murad Bayar, FEMSAN General Manager Ertuğrul Ülker, VIC METAL General Manager Vedat Güngören, GÜR METAL General Manager Gürsel Yardımcı, DOWAKSA General Manager Mithat Okay, MIR ARGE General Manager Ibrahim Mirmahmutoğulları, TEI General Manager Mahmur Akşit, TAI General Manager Muharrem Dörtkaşlı, METU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Volkan Atalay, Koç University Rector Prof. Dr. Ümran İnan, Atılım University Rector Prof. Dr. Abdürrahim Özgenoğlu and many guests.

Speaking at the ceremony Undersecretary Murad Bayar expressed the view there was a need for engineers with a doctorate and indicated that, “This does not happen without a need. Our defence industry got promoted from a labourer to a technician to an engineer. It is now being promoted to technology and even science.” Mentioning that they followed R&D work, Bayar said: “Each of our projects is important, we monitored each one as to where it was going. No R&D project is conducted for the sake of doing R&D and that is related to research on it. We know where all of them are going. Each one will serve a purpose. We want the research so that our specialised companies can produce, that they give it to the main contractors and after assembly that they put it inside an engine and after that we put it in an aircraft. All of this is integration work, a plan, a road map. All of the work we undertake is in the end provided in order to revamp our Armed Forces; the objective is this and is at a world standard.”

The Technological Depth of Turkey is Expanding

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Prepreg with Thermoplastic Resin Development Project used in the Aerospace Industry

The project to be realised from the business partnership made up of TAI and DOWAKSA İleri Komposit Malzemeler

Sanayi Ltd. Şirketi targets the verification testing of prepreg material development and production; material and design verification testing and the realisation of small-scale static testing of an aircraft structure (“Anka” beam component). With the project, structural carbon fiber reinforced prepreg and non-structural carbon fiber reinforced prepreg glass materials will be developed. The carbon reinforced prepreg material will be of three types: plain weave, fivefold satin weave and one-way weave. Thanks to its high strength and corrosion resistance, it provides a longer lifespan in the air platforms it is used. With the realisation of the production of domestic prepreg material, the elimination of foreign dependence in the acquisition of material that are of crucial importance in the aerospace industry and acquiring knowledge and technology know-how is targeted.

Magnesium Casting Technology Development Project used in the Aerospace Industry

With the programme to take place with TAI as the principal contractor and Vig Metal as the sub-contractor, the acquisition of magnesium alloy casting technology and process to be used in helicopter platforms is planned for the production of light gear box body parts and the verification of the casting process. The project, by using verification processes through experimental work and engineering methods, covers the production of the ATAK helicopter’s upper body of the female box with indigenous design and casting process and with the identification of the design parameters of the magnesium casting process covers the preparation of the Technical Data Package (TVP).

Super Plastic Forming Process for Titanium Alloys Development Project

With this project through the business partnership between TAI and TEI and Atılım University as consultants, the capability in super plastic processing for titanium alloys for aircraft body parts as well as aircraft engine parts is targeted to be gained for Turkey.

Titanium Casting Technology Development Project used in the Aerospace Industry

In the project to be realised by TAI as the principal contractor and Gür Metal as the sub-contractor, the local production of titanium alloy parts with the vacuum precision casting method is targeted.

Nickel Alloy Additive Manufacturing Technology Development Project used in the Aerospace Industry

With the project to be realised with TAI as the principal contractor and Koç University as the consultant, the acquisition of additive manufacturing technology that is seen as the manufacturing technology of the future by the leading aerospace companies of the world is foreseen. By gaining a critical capability for the Turkish aerospace industry, this project is planned to obtain one of the additive manufacturing technologies, the selective laser melting as well as direct metal laser sintering, laser casing etc. for our country’s aerospace sector.

Servo Motor Development ProjectTo be carried out with the

collaboration of TAI and FEMSAN Elektrik Motorları, the project aims to develop servo motors and accelerators for ANKA UAVs and the strategic UAV platforms that are likely to be produced through national means.

© Defence Turkey


PHOTONIS is the worldwide leader in night vision sensors and is continuously innovating to comply with end-user’s needs. PHOTONIS has a global approach consisting in selecting the most advanced technologies to develop them into products meeting the always evolving requirements of end-users.

Night Vision Sensor Technology to Suit User’s Needs

Since the start of use of night vision equipment, the evolution of the technology has followed the trend provided by governments and geopolitics. Over the last decade, military doctrines changed drastically and reinforced considerably the benefits of use of night vision equipment. Indeed night vision fight capability became a “must have” on the field. This is now one of the key elements for armies to overcome threats or at least to avoid capacity disadvantage in front of fully equipped armies.

Recent conflicts have altered traditional views on combat though, reducing the emphasis on the battlefield, and placing a greater importance on the role of the individual soldier. In modern warfare, individual operations under the cover of darkness underscore the tactical and operational importance of superior night vision capabilities.

As the need for night vision equipment is obvious for the warriors on the field, the question comes to the solution suppliers on how to improve the performance and the efficiency of such devices. The importance of fitness-for-use is crucial.

Incremental improvements on Image Intensifiers (I²) in an era where technology life cycle is getting shorter than its functional life are driving up tubes specifications. Therefore indigenous manufacture

of I² tubes is crucial and allows the country to remain independent and ensures its sovereignty in the night vision domain. Through its constant innovation drive, PHOTONIS is a key partner permanently anticipating on user requirements.

Image Intensification Technology by PHOTONIS

To suit a variety of applications facing today’s modern armies, including desert, aviation and urban and under a wide variety of lighting conditions including dynamic lighting, PHOTONIS has been improving direct view technology solutions over the years along the main axis dealing with human perception: Physiological performance (Auto-gating and phosphor adaptation), and increased optronic performances by the introduction of XD-4 and XR5 high performance tubes.

One of the most revolutionary advancements in night vision technology is the XR5 auto-gated filmless tube. In addition to improvements in image resolution and clarity as well as low-light level performance, the XR5 offers Auto-Gating, which allows continuous operation in dynamic light conditions. XR5™ is one of the most recent Image Intensifier Tubes in service in NATO.

© PHOTONIS

© PHOTONIS


Each type of operations requires a different Night Vision Device and Technology

Going deeper into the technology of Image Intensification which is the “engine” of every night vision device, it appears that different types of operation and environments (bear land, lush vegetation, desert, mountainous areas) require different kinds of Night Vision Devices and technology.

The focus of Special Operation Forces for instance is to see without being seen (See First, Act First) which corresponds to an image allowing fast recognition and identification. Meanwhile air platform pilots are facing the threat of suspended electric wires while traveling at high speed and switching from very dark ground scenery to bright urban lights.

Different phosphors for highest performance and image quality in all situations

To meet all these varying needs, PHOTONIS continuously innovates its Image Intensifier Technology

focused on the broadband sensitivity and the reaction speed of the phosphor screen, converting electrons into visible photons directly displaying the image to the eye of the warfighter: these various phosphor types are known as P22 (green image for better contrast for ground application/operation), P43 (green-yellow; faster decay time for avionic application) and P45 (black & white image for better detection and identification).

PHOTONIS is able to provide the different types of phosphor screens to its customers. Depending on the applications and concepts of operations, different colours for I2 tube displays can be used. P22 phosphor displays have the particularity to smoothen the image. Indeed thanks to its decay time of about 7.5ms, the image noise is considerably smoothened. This type of phosphor is very well fitting to ground army as movements are essentially set by head movements. In contrary jetfighter pilots usually prefer P43 based I2 tubes that offer faster image display with the disadvantage of providing noisier images.

Saving warfighter lives with Auto-Gating

When exposed to bright light sources, such as a sudden illumination of a room, explosion or car headlights, the resolution and the contrast of the image will drop severely. A direct result is the temporary “blindness” of the user. The PHOTONIS Auto-Gating function available on the most modern Image Intensifier Tubes fitted in night vision devices was designed to keep the best resolution and contrast at all times. It is particularly critical for Aviator’s Night Vision goggles, operations in urban areas or for special operation Forces. The Auto-Gating principle is a unique feature that maintains the optimum performance of the Image Intensifier Tube, continuously revealing mission critical details, safeguarding the Image Intensifier Tube from damage and protecting the user from temporary blindness.

The benefits of Auto-Gating can easily be seen not only during day-night-day transition, but also under dynamic lighting conditions when rapidly changing from low light to high light (above 1 lx) and allowing war fighters to continuously maintain “eyes on the target”, literally saving their life.

Small halo to match high quality goggles

Using high quality goggles, it became obvious that Image Intensifier technology is needed that generates the smallest halo possible. When operating in dynamic light conditions, night vision images have a tendency to show “halos” around the brightest spots in the scene. For example: street lights or car headlights are typically surrounded by round bright areas, disturbing the overall image quality and ‘whiting out’ part or the entire image. Due to the Auto-Gating principle PHOTONIS Image Intensifier Tubes show very little halo (< 1 mm) and therefore creates the best possible image quality. Turkish Forces can now be equipped with the most advanced Image Intensifier technology matching the high quality goggles available from the industry.

© PHOTONIS


Grup Impeks and Foreign Trade Ltd. Company was established at 1991 as a Foreign Trade company. By the time we reach to year 2004 we have seen the lack of Military products supply at our region, close east and Africa market with efficiency and quality of Turkish management output.

When Grup Impeks Ltd. first started, we were working with a few factory to manufacture of military textile needs of Sudan Army as well as the needs of the Sudan Army’s own sewing factory for raw materials. Through continuous creative and innovative works, consultation of experts, strategic collaborations and completed projects over last decade allowed Grup Impeks Ltd. to a growth of wide range of products to be exported not only to Sudan market but to Middle East countries of Saudia Arabia, UAE and Qatar and also to extend to Africa; Sudan, Nigeria, Angola & Libya and then to Southern Europe; Macedonia, Albania, Croatia and Germany, and Russia with the full range of Military, Security and Police equipment & textile, quick consumption products, retail, industrial machinery & spare parts, dry food and turnkey projects. Grup Impeks Metal Industry are in service of to satisfy our clients fully with logistic requirements and after sales follow-up with warranties.

Grup Impeks Import activities are mostly from Russia to supply Paper, Machinery and Military Equipment into Sudan and Petroleum Products into Turkey. In near future, our company is aiming to import some raw materials – of food products; such as sesame, arabic gum and peanuts for supplying to food and beverage manufacturers.

To accommodate its rapid growth, Grup Impeks, Ltd. relies on its manufacturing partners and agencies both locally and internationally with trustworthy companies at Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in order to attain a competitive edge in the Defence Industry Market. Grup Impeks have extended our

presence with branch office in Khartoum, Sudan and a contact office in UAE and Russia; and yet our thriving Import & Export business is opening new and different markets.

Today, Grup Impeks, Ltd. is a primary and whole supplier of military & police equipments and tactical solutions, as well as all kind of dry foods for military needs to our valuable clients with remarkable experience and prestige but more important we are the only supplier company in Turkey which saves valuable times and efforts of our clients for facing with difficulties of purchasing from multiple suppliers against their various conditions.

In 2013, Grup Impeks Ltd. was awarded the internationally acclaimed ISO 9001certification as well as recorded Among Top 1000 Exporters of Turkey.

Also Grup Impeks are founder member of Turkish Defence and Aerospace Industry Exporters Association which was founded in 2011.

Grup Impeks is widening its foreign trade activities and services of food and non food products by being only supplier of SenaMart- Super Market chain- based in Khartoum, Sudan. Grup Impeks Metal Industry are aiming to be a FMCG sector bridge to African markets with known Turkish Suppliers and Brands. By supplying dry food

needs of Sudan Army until today, we had the motivation to extend our range of products also by supplying foods and nonfoods with known brands.

Grup Impeks Ltd. is familiar with the requirements of the market, experienced and sensitive to the objective needs and cultural aspects of our customers and is keen to establish long term relationships with customers based on quality, trust and friendship.

Grup Impeks are the candidates to be team mates of our clients to understand their needs and help them to achieve their missions with our service, quality and support in every possible way we can.

Grup Impeks aim to be the supplier in the growing market of Defence Industry with utmost innovations while providing the highest quality to our valuable clients.

Grup Impeks have our thanks to our existing customers for priceless support and feedback. Your demands for highest standarts are what lead us to our standing today. Grup Impeks Metal Industry promise to continue our dedications for the highest and most innovative standarts for your needs.

As the military forces around the world become increasingly sophisticated and the defence industry is a key strategic sector which constantly grows and bodes well for our country’s future, we are and we will always proud to be part of it.

Grup Impeks; Remarkable Experience on Military&Security and Police Equipments

© Grup Impeks

© Grup Impeks

© Grup Impeks


The Finnish Ministry of Defence (MoD) will acquire second-hand Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks (MBTs) from the Netherlands, Finland Minister of Defence Haglund and Dutch Minister of Defence Hennis-Plasschaert signed an agreement on the acquisition of 100 used Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tanks for the Finnish Defence Forces The main battle tanks will be purchased from the Netherlands and they will be delivered to Finland over the period of 2015-2019. The value of the purchase is EUR 199.9 million. The acquisition is expected to secure the Army’s strike capability well into the 2030’s.

This acquisition does not require any extra financing but is included in the budget planned for the defence administration. Other options for this acquisition would have been to upgrade the life cycle for the Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks that the Finnish Defence Forces use today or to buy new main battle tanks. The cost for a life cycle upgrade of the Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks to Leopard 2A6 level would have been approx. 5 million

Euro per tank and for acquiring new Leopard main battle tanks approx. 10 million Euro per tank.

The used Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks that will now be acquired were modernized between 2000 and 2006 and their performance is considerably better than the performance of the main battle tanks now in use by the Finnish Army. The new main battle tanks have greater fire-power, better

developed ballistic protection and a system for the leader to independently act in the dark as well as an inside splinter protection.

The main battle tank acquisition also includes spare parts for ten years, inside simulators, maintenance simulators, special tools, testing equipment and personnel training as well as ammunition.

Leopard 2A6 main battle Tank

Border Management & Technologies Summit 2014

Finland to Acquire Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank From Netherland

Border Management is a major topic in the Balkans and Middle East with many governments in the region looking to invest heavily in securing their international borders. Many refugees and migrants pass through the region to enter Western Europe and with increased pressure to limit this governments are reacting by investing in the latest border management technologies.

Reasons to attend this great international event:

› Listen to in-depth presentations from the regions governments

› Analyse the latest developments in

biometric technologies › Hear border management case studies

from the Balkans and Caucasus Regions & Turkey

› Review the IBM developments and roadmap in the region

› Develop your understanding of the ABC roll-out across Europe

› Understand the recent investment by the Turkish Government on their border controls for the new International Airport in Istanbul

› Network with senior government decision makers from across EMEA

Some of the confirmed participants so far: Ministry of Refugees and

Repatriation (Afghanistan), Ministry of Migration and Displacement (Iraq), Ministry of Internal Affairs (Kosovo), Emirates Identity Authority (Emirates ID), Ministry of Internal Affairs (Georgia), Immigration and Citizenship Department, Turkish National Police, Border Police (Kosovo), Department of Security and Public Safety (OSCE Mission in Kosovo), Border Police (Albania), Police Directorate, (Montengro), Border Guards (Finland), Ministry of Interior, (Macedonia), OSCE Office (Tajikistan), Identity Counsel International

2nd annual Border Management & Technologies Summit will take place in Istanbul, Turkey on the 10th to 13th June 2014.


DAHRA Striving Hard To Meet Your Needs

Over Ten years of Existence and operations, Dahra is a proven local partner, trusted supplier and offers international standards in the fields of Defence and home land security. The world class support and services it delivers to the Defence forces, security agencies and the leading Defence agencies throughout the world, Dahra will continue to be a key local player in GCC and beyond.

With a humble beginning as Defence Logistics Company in Oman, today DAHRA has grown as credible local company capable of providing customized complete solutions and a value added partner for leading international companies. Dahra Engineering & Security Systems LLC has established itself as a specialized company, supporting the Aerospace, Defence, and Security sectors in the GCC and beyond. The company has been supporting key projects through local knowledge, proven logistic support, close liaison with local governmental agencies, technical assistance by well trained and qualified personnel and in-depth domain knowledge in defence equipment systems and solutions. The company with a pool of well qualified and experienced senior retired local as well as international officers is well suited and placed to offer valuable operational and strategic overview and guidance in all key defence project through our offices in Dubai, Doha and Bahrain apart from head office at Oman.

Dahra’s basic approach is to go beyond expectations, change the face of after sales support and serve our customers sincerely, honestly and with transparency. We are an ISO 9001:2008 certified company, holding TRACE (Transparency International) certification and Aviation Supply Association (ASA) membership. We are also a certified broker company by the US State Department. Dahra stands out today, not only for its success in spreading its operations globally, but also for its distinctive concept of quality.

Dahra offers total Defence solutions to its customers through its three divisions which are

› a. Equipment and maintenance › b. Training & Simulations › c. Systems & Solutions The company has undertaken

numerous projects for various Armed forces and other security services in Oman and in GCC. Dahra thus can contribute enormously in ensuring the smooth and timely implantation of the program thus saving cost of

implementation and increasing the customer satisfaction. Dahra has a proven Logistics infrastructure with well-established supply chain management system which has made Dahra as a leading logistics provider to Armed and the paramilitary forces of Oman and in the GCC region. This expertise ensures in minimizing the program risk and cost reduction.

Dahra already operates and has a full fledge mobile technical and logistic support team setup which is presently providing timely and round the clock support to the

ongoing projects. This support has been very effective for the project to ensure customer’s confidence and satisfaction. Excellent track record of Dahra in providing round the clock customer Support Desk has been highly appreciated by the customer as well as the international partners.

Keeping with the vision of the founder member and the CEO of the company who himself being an Ex-Oman Air force officer, Dahra is moving ahead in a path of transformation to develop its own capabilities and enhance its footprint in the GCC and the adjoining areas. Dahra is striving hard to enhance the depths of its activities, establish own expertise in Defence Training & Simulations, offer complete security solutions and enhance core competency through inducting national and international subject matter experts.

The Defence requirement and the market are steadily growing in the Gulf and the adjoining areas. There is a big need to have local companies who can offer quality services through its own capabilities, bringing in International practices through its partners to develop local industry and expertise. Dahra has a vision to fullfill this requirement by pooling in local expertise; developing capabilities by collaboration with international partners and offering greater value add and customized services to its customers.

Dahra over the past ten years in Oman and in GCC has undertaken various defence projects and over time, this has enable Dahra to gathere invaluable experience in identifying possible pitfalls and forecasting corrective measures to ensure smooth implementation of project from concept to execution. Thus Dahra is capable to offer valuable and timely course corrections during program conception and management resulting in overall cost savings. This makes Dahra as the natural choice for any international companies to partner for business in the region.


Finmeccanica: Alenia Aermacchi Signed a EUR 280 Million Contract with Poland for Eight M-346

Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica company, has signed a contract with the Ministry of Defence of Poland to supply eight M-346 Master. The contract – signed after the aircraft was selected, as already announced – is worth EUR 280 million.

In addition to the eight aircraft, the provision also includes logistic support, a training programme for pilots and engineers and a ground-based training system with dedicated classrooms and educational materials.

After Italy, Singapore and Israel, Poland is the fourth customer to order the M-346, considered the most advanced/lead-in fighter trainer aircraft currently available on the market and the only new-generation trainer specifically designed to train pilots to fly high-performance latest generation military aircraft. The Polish contract raises the number of M-346 aircraft ordered to date to 56.

M-346 New Generation Military Aircraft

The M-346 has low acquisition and operation costs and adopts innovative design solutions: it is an aircraft with full authority quadruplex Fly-by-Wire control system that, thanks to the optimization of the aerodynamic configuration, allows it to remain fully controllable at angles of attack

of over 30 degrees. This, combined with the twin-engine configuration, the duplication and redundancy of the electric and hydraulic system and the choice of state-of-the-art equipment, makes the M-346 the most modern pre-operational tactical training aircraft in the world.

The M-346 is equipped with a digital avionic system, fully modeled on those of new generation military aircraft such as the F-16 Block 52+ currently in service with the Polish Air Force, and is well-suited for every phase of advanced and pre-operational training, enabling fewer required flight hours on the more expensive frontline

aircraft.The M-346 integrates the

ETTS (Embedded Tactical Training Simulation), a function that has the ability to simulate a complete suite of sensors, countermeasures and armaments, and also to create a virtual tactical scenario, simulating air, naval and land forces, enemy or friend, interacting in real time with the aircraft during the training missions.

Alenia Aermacchi’s Integrated Training System (ITS) includes, together with the M-346, an exhaustive Ground Based Training System (GBTS), enabling student pilots to learn and rehearse the entire aircraft syllabus and all training objectives on the ground, before replicating them in flight.

Alenia Aermacchi’s GBTS for Poland includes flight simulators with different degrees of complexity (Full Mission Simulator, Flight Training Device and an Emergency Procedure Trainer). Additionally, at Deblin Air Base, where the Polish Air Force’s M-346 will be based, Alenia Aermacchi will build fully equipped classrooms with Computer Based Training for pilots and ground crew and will provide further didactical tools and systems including a Training Management Information System allowing for overall management of the Integrated Training System.

M-346 New Generation Military Aircraft

Signing Ceremony of M-346 Aircraft

© Alenia Aermacchi

© Alenia Aermacchi


Rolls-Royce and Lockheed Martin Agree US$1bn Deal to Power Future C-130J Aircraft

Raytheon Received Contract for Ground Based Air Defence System for Oman

Rolls-Royce has completed a long-term agreement with Lockheed Martin worth up to US$1 billion to deliver approximately 600 engines to power future C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.

The agreement secures the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 as the engine of choice for all variants of the C-130J to 2025. The engine agreement will service US Government and International contract requirements between 2014 and 2018.

The AE 2100 powers all C-130Js, while the Rolls-Royce T56 engines power the legacy C-130 fleet. The global C-130J fleet has surpassed 1 million flight hours, and Lockheed Martin recently announced its intent to obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration for a new civil variant – the LM-100J.

Tom Bell, Rolls-Royce, President Defence, said, “Lockheed Martin and Rolls-Royce have partnered for decades to produce thousands of the world’s leading medium transport aircraft. Our new engine agreement secures that relationship for years to come, enabling operators to continue to enjoy the versatile, powerful and fuel efficient aircraft they have come to appreciate through 1 million flight hours and counting.”

George Shultz, Lockheed Martin, Vice President and General Manager, C-130 Programs, said, “This agreement is a very important step in providing our customers the most affordable airlifter in the world. The C-130J Super Hercules has proven the ‘value of the power’ as the Rolls-Royce AE 2100 propulsion system allows the Super Hercules to perform any mission, anywhere, any time.”

The agreement will ensure the continued success of the versatile and proven C-130J military transport aircraft and its powerful, reliable and fuel-efficient turboprop engines. More than 300 of the four-engine transports have been delivered to customers in 16 countries, across 16 different mission types.

Rolls-Royce has already delivered more than 1,500 AE 2100 engines to Lockheed Martin’s Marietta, Ga., facility. AE 2100 engines are manufactured, assembled and tested in Indianapolis, US.

Raytheon has received a direct commercial sales contract from Oman for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The award, valued at $1.28 billion, includes ground support equipment, a full training package, and technical assistance. NASAMS is the trusted system that protects critical assets in six nations, including the U.S. National Capital Region.

The contract, which was awarded in the fourth quarter of 2013, was announced in Oman at a signing ceremony attended by Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi, Secretary General at the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Matar bin Ali al Obaidani, Commander of the Royal Air Force of Oman, the US ambassador to the Sultanate, the US Military Attaché and Tom Kennedy, Chief Operating Officer, Raytheon Company.

“The Sultanate of Oman’s competitive selection of Raytheon’s National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) validates the superior performance, system adaptability and overall security that NASAMS provides,” said Dan Crowley, president of Raytheon Integrated Defence Systems (IDS). “Raytheon is committed to delivering the exceptional defence capabilities of NASAMS to Oman.”

Raytheon, along with its long term partner KONGSBERG, will supply the system to The Sultanate of Oman. Work under this contract will be performed by Raytheon at the Integrated Air Defence Center in Andover, Mass. and in Kongsberg, Norway.

As part of Raytheon’s integrated air and Missile defence portfolio, NASAMS works seamlessly with the Patriot Air and Missile Defence System and the Hawk Air Defence system. In addition to the U.S. National Capital Region, NASAMS is operationally deployed in Norway, The Netherlands, Spain, Finland and one additional country.


Sikorsky Began Safety of Flight Tests on First Prototype CH-53K Helicopter Sikorsky Aircraft has powered up the engines and spun the rotor head on the first prototype CH-53K heavy lift helicopter — designated the Ground Test Vehicle (GTV). The January 24 event continues the “Bare Head Light Off” phase of testing — so named because it was conducted without rotor blades — that began under auxiliary power in December with safety-of-flight test pilots at the aircraft’s controls.

“GTV main engines powered ‘on’ is a significant step for the CH-53K helicopter program,” said Mike Torok, Sikorsky’s CH-53K Program Vice President. “Having independently tested the aircraft’s many components and subsystems, including electrical and avionics, hydraulics and flight controls, landing gear, propulsion, transmissions and rotors, now we have begun testing these critical functions as an entire system powered by the GTV aircraft’s three GE 7,500 shaft horsepower class engines.”

Sikorsky delivered the GTV into the test program at the company’s West Palm Beach, Fla.-based Development Flight Center in late 2012. Now anchored to the ground at its remote outdoor test site, the 44,000-pound GTV aircraft is outfitted at more than 1,300 points with sensors that will measure and verify the ability to operate safely under its own power. The GTV will undergo ground testing for approximately two years with both Sikorsky and U.S. Marine Corps test pilots at the controls.

Once Bare Head testing is completed, Sikorsky will mount seven main rotor blades and four tail rotor blades onto the GTV. During this second test phase, Sikorsky will conduct extensive aircraft system checks leading to a formal Pre-Flight

Acceptance Test required to clear the first flight aircraft for flight testing.

Four additional test aircraft are being prepared for flight test, commencing in late 2014. During the three-year flight test program, Sikorsky will continue to evaluate the GTV for long-term endurance of the engines and dynamic components, survivability, and maintenance practices.

”We have entered a much anticipated phase in this developmental program,” said Col. Robert Pridgen, U.S. Marine Corps Program Manager for Heavy Lift Helicopters. “We have

experienced significant learning at the sub-system and component level, which continues to build our confidence in the capabilities of the 53K. We look forward to the initial validation and discovery at a full system level.”

Sikorsky leads an industry team developing the CH-53K heavy lift helicopter for the U.S. Marine Corps. The aircraft’s 88,000-pound (39,916 kg) maximum gross weight is designed to triple the external load carrying capacity of the CH-53E SUPER STALLION aircraft to more than 27,000 pounds over a mission radius of 110 nautical miles under “high hot” ambient conditions.

The U.S. Department of Defence’s Program of Record remains at 200 CH-53K aircraft with a U.S. Marine Corps Initial Operational Capability in 2019. Eventual production quantities would be determined year-by-year over the life of the program based on funding allocations set by Congress and the U.S. Department of Defence acquisition priorities. The Marine Corps intends to stand up eight active duty squadrons, one training squadron, and one reserve squadron to support operational requirements.

CH-53K Helicopter

© Sikorsky

© Sikorsky


Europe’s Missile Shield Grows with the USS Donald Cook DestroyerThe arrival in Spain of a US guided missile destroyer marks a key stage in building up Europe’s protection against ballistic missile threats.

The USS Donald Cook, which arrived at Rota Naval Station, Spain on 11 February, is the first of four ballistic missile defence (BMD)-capable destroyers that will be stationed at the base.

The ships are capable of tracking and shooting down ballistic missiles in flight, using their Aegis radar system and SM-3 interceptor missiles. These capabilities will make the destroyers a key component of NATO’s missile defence shield for Europe.

They also are able to simultaneously track up to 200 targets at distances of more than 200 nautical miles, provide long-range surveillance and tracking of intercontinental ballistic missiles, and can work with other US BMD elements to provide advance warnings.

“With the USS Donald Cook in Rota and three other ships arriving, we have four ships and the two systems ashore permanently stationed in Europe; that is quite an impressive capability to protect European populations,” said Robert Bell, Secretary of Defence Representative, Europe and Defence Advisor at the US Mission to NATO. “With these ships stationed in Rota, we can project a missile defence capability much more immediately and responsively in this region,” he added.

The USS Donald Cook will be joined by the USS Ross, USS Porter and USS Carney over the next two years. The destroyers will patrol the Mediterranean on four-month rotations under US command and control, but can be put under NATO operational control if threat conditions warrant.

During these tours, they will also carry out a full range of maritime security operations, bilateral and multinational training and exercises, and involvement in NATO missions and deployments (including NATO missile defence), if tasked.

Improving interoperabilitySpain already operates the first

European ships equipped with the Aegis system, with its four F-100 Álvaro de Bazán-class Aegis frigates. This means Spanish and US ships will

be able to expand joint training and exercises.

“The Spanish ships are compatible with the US ships,” said Col Juan Jose Martin, Defence Advisor at the Spanish Delegation to NATO. “We are fully interoperable with them as we use the same Aegis system.”

As well as new hardware, the US move will be bringing people to bolster the US presence in Rota. Some 1,200 sailors and 1,600 family members will move to the base at Rota over the next two years, according to a US senior defence advisor.

Tracking and destroying missiles The USS Donald Cook’s

deployment is part of a US programme known as the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA) and represents a US contribution to the wider NATO Missile Defence plan that currently includes one Aegis ship, a radar system in Turkey and a command centre in Ramstein, Germany. Going forward, land-based interceptor batteries in Romania (expected in 2015) and Poland (expected in 2018) will significantly improve this capability.

“The next milestone for NATO would be to declare an initial operational

capability,” said Roberto Zadra, Head of the Ballistic Missile Defence Section at NATO Headquarters. He added, “NATO BMD is moving forward.”

NATO’s missile defence system is a good example of Smart Defence, which enables NATO nations to share capabilities by pooling resources to respond better to common security challenges.

NATO’s long-term goal is to merge individual Allies’ missile defence assets into a coherent defence system, providing full protection for NATO European populations, territory and forces against ballistic missiles threats.

The system should reach full operational capability in the first half of the next decade.

The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Donald Cook

© U.S Navy

© U.S Navy


Harbor Offshore Barriers Features Fixed Barrier Systems in DIMDEX

Harbor Offshore Barriers, Inc. is the major worldwide supplier of security fixed and floating barriers for the protection of port operations, military bases and Oil/Gas/Nuclear/Energy facilities against terrorist attack originating from the water.

Harbor Offshore Barriers, Inc has successfully designed and installed

security barrier systems in France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Guam, Japan, numerous locations in the United States as well as two projects in the Persian Gulf.

No other security barrier system in the world designed for the prevention of attack from the water has been subjected to more testing

and has been in service longer than the barrier systems offered by Harbor Offshore Barriers, Inc

Harbor Offshore Barriers patented fixed and floating barriers systems, for military or civil use, are the only ones to have been extensively tested, enhanced and approved by US Navy and other Military Navies.

Finnish Ministry of Defence Takes Decision on Army Air-Defence System Procurement

Finnish Minister of Defence Carl Haglund made a decision on the procurement of a very short-range air-defence system for the Army. The procurement deal will be concluded with the US Government and the system will be delivered by Raytheon Company. The total value of the procurement is €90m, VAT excluded.

The procurement includes newly restored Stinger RMP Block 1 missiles, firing equipment, infrared seekers and training equipment, i.e. field training exercise equipment and classroom simulators. The

procurement also includes all necessary training, support materiel, spare parts, the documentation required for use and maintenance, user and quality assurance services as well as maintenance control and life-cycle management.

Deliveries of the system will take place between 2014 and 2017. The procurement is part of a larger very short-range air-defence project that will contribute to the overall development of the Defence Forces’ air defence capability. The project was started in 2009 and is included

in the Defence Forces’ budgetary framework.

The Very Short-Range Air-Defence system will be part of the ground-based defence and air defence system of territorial troops and strategic targets. The training of very short-range air-defence units will begin in Karelia Brigade in 2015.

The procurement will partly replace the over 50-year-old anti-aircraft capability of ground-based air defence units.

Thales Secured New Support Contract for Sonar 2050 System

Thales has signed a five-year contract with the UK’s Ministry of Defence to provide support for the Sonar 2050 anti-submarine sensor used on the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigate fleet.

Sonar 2050 is a medium-range bow sonar currently fitted to thirteen Type 23 frigates and is the Royal Navy’s primary hull-mounted antisubmarine warfare sensor. It also provides the ship with passive

detection capabilities at lower frequencies. Under the contract, Thales will provide physical support of Sonar 2050 for operational defect rectifications, a worldwide 24/7 helpdesk support service, dry dock and afloat support, and test equipment and handling.

Thales was awarded the contract in a competitive process by offering a value for money, low-risk support solution, providing innovative

solutions that can reduce support costs and improve the availability of the equipment.

Eight Type 23s are also fitted with the Thales Sonar 2087 towed array system in the stern, which enables warships to hunt submarines at considerable distances and locate them beyond the range from which they can launch an attack.


Northrop Grumman’s Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) Brings Advanced Capabilities to Global F-16 FleetsSABR to Provide Fifth-Generation Fighter Radar Capability to F-16 Fleet.

The French defence procurement agency DGA has awarded Thales with the contract to develop the New Generation Laser Designation Pod (PDL NG). This latest milestone is a follow on from the risk reduction phase led throughout 2013 and series production is expected to begin in 2018.

Airbus Defence and Space Began Final Assembly of First A400M for Germany

Thales Begins Development of New Generation Laser Designation Pod

The Airbus Defence and Space A400M final assembly line (FAL) in Seville (Spain) has begun working on the first A400M new generation airlifter for the German Air Force. With the

arrival of the fuselage for this aircraft, known as MSN18, all major structures of the first of the 53 A400Ms for Germany are now being assembled in the FAL. The German Air Force will take

delivery of its first A400M in November 2014. The photograph shows MSN18 fuselage and nose in the A400M FA

Thales will develop the PDL NG that will provide the French air forces with new day/night imaging and engagement capabilities in complex theatres of operations. The PDL NG will be designed to integrate with both the Rafale and Mirage 2000D fighter aircraft.

The risk-reduction phase, the first step in the development of

any programme, confirmed the system’s architecture, its high level of functional integration, reliability and the development schedule.

The awarding of this development contract confirms the importance of optronics in future air combat systems and acknowledges the technical and operational expertise that Thales has acquired on laser reconnaissance and

designation systems over the past 40 years.

Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) will help bring advanced capabilities to existing global F-16 fleets, keeping them formidable beyond 2025, according to the head of the company’s Combat Avionics Systems business unit.

Northrop Grumman Vice President Jeff Leavitt provided a detailed SABR update to reporters in a briefing at the Singapore Air Show. This included the radar’s development progress, along with information about successful flight demonstrations and the upgraded capabilities SABR brings to the F-16.

Northrop Grumman was chosen by prime contractor Lockheed Martin as the radar provider for the U.S. Air Force and Taiwan F-16 radar modernization and upgrade programs, which aim

to keep the F-16 viable in future threat environments and to improve system reliability, maintainability and affordability.

Since the SABR active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar was selected for the U.S. Air Force and Taiwan modernization and upgrade programs this past July, the system has completed three major development and design reviews. Several engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) systems are now in production, with the first to be delivered to Lockheed Martin before the end of 2014.

“We will deliver EMD units this year and the assets we deliver are anticipated to be identical to the production deliveries we will be making for Taiwan,” said Leavitt.

SABR features Big Synthetic Aperture Radar (Big SAR), which allows for broad area all-environment precision mapping and location, and improved situational awareness. Air-to-air and air-to-surface modes have substantially increased ranges and can be operated simultaneously, resulting in improved situational awareness and survivability.

“We are providing SABR with robust electronic protection, including proven software directly reused from the F-35’s AN/APG-81,” said Leavitt. “We have over seven decades of experience in RF systems. We have applied that deep understanding of EP to SABR, increasing survivability in dense RF environments against present and future threats.”


Boeing Delivered Kuwait Air Force’s 1st C-17 Globemaster III

Call for Papers: Safety & Regulations for European Unmanned Maritime Systems

Boeing delivered Kuwait’s first C-17 Globemaster III airlifter, an aircraft that will expand the Kuwait Air Force’s capabilities in military and civilian operations, including humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

“The C-17 meets the unique airlift requirements of the Kuwait Air Force,” said Col. Abdullah Al Foudari, Deputy Commander Kuwait Air Force. “With this airlifter we can more effectively participate in the operations we choose, transporting large payloads across long distances, flying at high altitudes in hot climates such as ours, and landing on short, unpaved runways.”

A custom paint design distinguishes the Kuwait C-17 from the 259 others that have been delivered to customers around the world.

“When this C-17 arrives to deliver humanitarian aid or disaster relief anywhere in the world, people in need will know that the aid came from Kuwait,” said Col. Abdullah.

“We welcome Kuwait to the global C-17 fleet with the knowledge that this aircraft elevates the Kuwait Air Force’s airlift capabilities and also further strengthens Boeing’s relationship with Kuwait,” said Nan Bouchard, vice president and C-17 program manager. “We will support this C-17 long after today’s delivery.”

Boeing will support Kuwait’s C-17 fleet through the C-17 Globemaster III Integrated Sustainment Program, a proven multinational Performance-Based Logistics program.

Boeing has delivered 260 C-17s, including 223 to the U.S. Air Force, and a total of 37 to Kuwait, Australia, Canada, India, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability initiative of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations.

The European Defence Agency in cooperation with the working group on Safety and Regulations for European Unmanned Maritime Systems (SARUMS) calls for papers to be presented at the workshop “Exploring Safe Design and Operations for the European Unmanned Maritime Systems”. The workshop will take place on 26-27 March 2014 in Brussels.

The workshop will be a major forum focusing on the discussion of latest developments and on the exchange of recent experiences in the field of safety of Unmanned Maritime Systems. It will bring together end users and various stakeholders from industry, research institutes and governmental organisations.

The workshop is supported by European Defence Agency and SARUMS working group whose aim is to provide European navies with a best practice framework for the handling, operations, design and regulations of Unmanned Maritime Systems. The contributions to the workshop will be taken into account in the work of the SARUMS group.

The workshop covers three main topics relevant to both military and civilian Unmanned Maritime Systems:

› UMS legislation, assurance, liability Applicable rules, regulations (COLREG), experience and best practice

› UMS safety related to operationSystems, procedures, experience to achieve safe operations

› UMS safety related to designSystems, products, technology, research needed to accomplish safe unmanned systems


Airbus Defence and Space at DIMDEX 2014

At DIMDEX 2014, it’s the first time that Airbus Defence and Space - a new division within the Airbus Group – is publicly present with all its four business lines at an exhibition in the Middle East region. The division has been formed by combining the business activities of Cassidian, Astrium and Airbus Military. At previous DIMDEX shows just Cassidian was present with its defence and security portfolio.

Airbus Defence and Space is Europe’s number one defence and space enterprise, the second largest space business worldwide and among the top ten global defence enterprises. It employs some 40,000 employees generating revenues of approximately €14 billion per year.

Within this new organisation Airbus Defence and Space is reinforcing its capabilities to service the customers better with a one-stop-shop offering an integrated portfolio based on one sales organisation under one strong brand, continue to build on a strong and reliable partnership with one known face to the customer and present the integrated and innovative product and services portfolio at competitive prices. The new Division started operating at executive level as of 1 January 2014.

Airbus Defence and Space is composed of four business lines: Military Aircraft; Space Systems; Communication, Intelligence & Security (CIS); and Electronics. It brings together a wide portfolio to continue to meet the complex needs of its customers across the world.

The business line Military Aircraft will showcase the Airbus C295 in Maritime Patrol version. The aircraft is the market leader in the medium-size maritime patrol aircraft / anti-submarine warfare (MPA/ASW) sector with an endurance of up to 11 hours, excellent low-level flying characteristics with up to 3g manoeuvrability and a cruise speed optimised for persistent surveillance and wide area coverage. It benefits from wide field-of-view bubble windows and safe low-speed flying characteristics. And it has special anti-corrosion treatment for the maritime environment, contributing to its low lifecycle costs. The C295 is normally equipped with the Fully Integrated

Tactical System (FITS), a proprietary system of Airbus Defence and Space, providing up to four operators with an advanced interface with the sensors to ensure maximum operational effectiveness. The system processes the data from sensors including: radar, electro-optic/infrared, acoustics, MAD, automatic identification system, IFF, communications and electronic intelligence. Communications include satcoms, HF/VHF/UHF, and Link 11 and Link 16 datalinks. In the ASW, role it features sonobuoy and armament inventory management with launch pattern control. The C295 ASW has been in service, and armed with Mk46 torpedoes, since 2010.

The tactical Unmanned Aerial System TR-170 KZO is a combat proven aerial artillery observer and surveillance drone. It has been designed to enhance the commander’s situational awareness and provide highly stabilized and precise target coordinates, fully integrated into the artillery C4I system. A jamming resistant datalink, independence from GPS and IR/radar stealth capabilities allow operations even in a challenging environment.

TR-170 KZO can be launched even in stormy weather due to it’s rocket-assisted takeoff. When landing, it measures wind conditions and performs a high-precision parachute landing, being operational again in less than an hour. Developed to be operated by land forces soldiers, the mission plan and flight path is calculated automatically based on reconnaissance tasks, reducing training costs. The system has full tactical mobility and can be operated directly from the field. The full system, aircraft and ground vehicles, is fully certified according to German certification regulations. TR-170 KZO has been operated from 2009 - 2012 by the German Army in Afghanistan. The UAS is avaible for export customized or as it is.

The business line Space Systems will showcase the submarine rescue system RESUS. It ensures rapid surfacing of submarines in an emergency situation: RESUS will empty the Main Ballast Tanks (MBT) of the submarine at all diving depths within a

very short time, working independently form other on-board systems. RESUS consists of a number of gas generators and electronic components to activate the system as well as to control and test the system integrity. The gas generators (GG) are installed in the forward and aft MBTs. Remote starting devices are located at several positions along the boat. Thus RESUS can be put into operation without any delays. The gas generators produce a hot gas that is cooled and guided to the top of the MBT. This provides enormous buoyancy, stabilising the submarine attitude immediately and raising the boat safely to the surface. The gas generators in the aft MBT stabilise the boat when surfaced. The gas generators are activated from the control and test unit by release of a pyro valve (liquid fuel generator) or electrical pulses (solid fuel generator). RESUS has been standard equipment on board all German submarines for over 20 years. RESUS has been installed on many submarines of classes 206A, 209, 212A and 214.

SCOTPatrol is a next generation naval terminal designed to extend satcom capabilities to smaller ships such as Mine Counter Measures and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) or larger ships with smaller data requirements. SCOTPatrol is manufactured from carbon fibre making it the lightest ever naval satcom terminal of its type. The reduced top-weight,

© Airbus Defence and Space


together with a compact footprint above and below decks makes for easier integration on smaller vessels such as OPVs, a reduced magnetic footprint, exceptional strength to withstand shock, vibration and harsh operating environments, through-life performance benefits from easier logistics and materials handling. With the capability to transmit large volumes of data over Ku, Ka and X bands, SCOTPatrol can act as a beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) relay for video, multispectral and radar imagery, from intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) assets such as helicopter UAVs. SCOTPatrol incorporates much of the performance and functionality found. Nearly 200 SCOT terminals (more than 300 antenna assemblies) operating in various frequency bands have been delivered to 11 navies, making it one of the most widely fitted naval milsatcom terminals in the world.

DeckFinder is a local navigation system, designed to enable automated operations of manned or unmanned aerial vehicles. The system enables the calculation of precise relative position – independent of Global Navigation Satellite Systems. DeckFinder’s core applications lay in the navigation of helicopters and helicopter UAVs i.e. fully automatic take-off and landing on fixed or moving ground like oil and gas platforms or ships and trucks. It assists manned helicopter landings under difficult conditions. There are numerous further fields of application and the system can adapt to a wide range of requirements and challenges.

Several communications satellites based on Eurostar E3000 are already in operation for the Middle East. This product covers a wide range of civil and military applications with a payload

power of between 4 and 15 kW and has a capacity to operate more than 100 transponders for more than 15 years. It can be easily customised to meet specific customer requirements.

The business line Communication, Intelligence & Security (CIS) is providing the Nationwide Security System to Qatar. This integrated system provides Qatar with surveillance and command and control of land borders and its coastal region. High performance sensors and state-of-the-art IT tools to secure more than 900 km of Qatar‘s coastline, land borders and the Qatar Area Of Responsibility. The system is destined for the Qatari border guard, coast guard and Navy for the exclusive economic zone. It is intended to allow monitoring of the territory, secure communications and speedy decision making to counter potential intruders. It will also include several layers of command and control centres interconnected with each other and with all surveillance stations through a high performance secured and encrypted communication network to transmit and transfer live data and picture to the concerned command and control centres. The network is a civil security system

which covers sensitive sites, including offshore platforms operated for Qatar Petroleum. The system is designed to allow action by the Qatar Armed Forces on any identified threats. For instance, the naval radars are required to detect and identify a fast boat approaching an oil platform and to give the authorities time to decide how to respond to the potential threat. Related products are shown at the NSS partner booth.

The business line Electronics will show a new generation of naval radars with unprecedented capabilities for the surveillance of sea areas and countering asymmetric threats: TRS-4D is the innovative step from conventional radar into a “new dimension” of operational capability. It enables ships from patrol vessels to frigate size to exert the different detection tasks of a ship-borne medium range surveillance and target acquisition radar, in blue waters and also in complex littorals with high target densities. It performs faster, more accurate and against a wider scope of targets than conventional radars. TRS-4D provides navies and coast guards with the benefits of solid-state based AESA technology, which up to now has been available to highly expensive systems only. A non-rotating variant with four fixed array panels is under production for the new F125 frigates of the German Navy.

Also on display is TRSS (= Tactical Radar for Surface Surveillance), a new naval X-Band radar optimized for the detection of extremely small objects and countering asymmetric threats. Based upon the latest AESA radar technology (AESA = Active Electronically Scanning Array), TRSS substantially increases the detection capabilities, and thus the protection level of navy ships and coast guard vessels. TRSS is able to detect and distinguish small objects precisely at close ranges, e.g. individual swimmers.




U.S. Air Force Selected Lockheed Martin to Provide Software that Integrates Air Operations & Missile Defence AssetsSoftware Planner Correlates Disparate Data into One Dynamic Battlespace Picture

Lockheed Martin is developing a software planner that integrates air operations and missile defence systems, giving the Air Force the ability to “see” and better understand dynamic global situations. The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth approximately $8 million to provide an air and missile defence planner that will be integrated into the U.S. Air Force Air Operations Center.

“This planner offers an unprecedented capability to analyze multiple sources of information to support rapid and efficient deployment decisions,” said Rob Smith, vice president of C4ISR for Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Solutions. “Our goal is to enhance situational awareness and facilitate collaborative planning for all combatant commands.”

Lockheed Martin’s planner will link dissimilar weapon and sensor data with map-based planning tools and decision aids that will allow AOC operators to collaboratively plan missions with greater speed and higher confidence. By integrating the missile defence data sources on to a common visualization platform, operators can easily generate and publish planning tactical operations documents to support creation of an area air defence plan. In addition, the planner incorporates an open, non-proprietary software infrastructure that will allow the Air Force to rapidly introduce new capabilities. This open architecture also facilities integration with legacy systems and ultimately helps lower total ownership costs.

Lockheed Martin leveraged years of expertise gained developing air operation

and missile defence systems such as the Command, Control, Battle Management & Communications (C2BMC) system, which integrates multiple standalone ballistic missile defensive weapons systems; the Theater Battle Management Core System, which plans and executes air order taskings for Air Operations Centers, and the Integrated Space Command & Control (ISC2) system which unites data from approximately 40 U.S. Air Force air, missile and space command and control systems.

The customers for this integrated air and missile defence planner are the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center located at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts and the Air Combat Command located at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia.

These features give ship operators an optimal overview of the situation, e.g. against terrorist attacks, and enable ships to monitor movements on land.

SPEXER 2000 (TRGS) is a security radar for surveillance of border areas or sensitive industrial installations with unprecedented performance. The radar which has been sold as part of a huge border protection system in the Middle East forms the nucleus of a whole product family of security radars named SPEXER. It is the worldwide first security radar using the newest radar technology of Active Electronically Scanning Array (AESA). By electronic guidance of the radar beam this technology enables the sensor to fulfill several tasks at the same time while increasing the detection capability substantially. Therefore, one SPEXER 2000 can replace two or more conventional radars.

About Airbus Defence and Space Airbus Defence and Space is a

division of Airbus Group formed by combining the business activities of Cassidian, Astrium and Airbus Military. The new division is Europe’s number one defence and space enterprise, the second largest space business

worldwide and among the top ten global defence enterprises. It employs some 40,000 employees generating revenues of approximately €14 billion per year.

Military Aircraft, headed by Domingo Ureña-Raso, designs, develops, delivers and supports military aircraft and is the leading fixed-wing military aircraft centre in Europe and one of the market leaders for combat, transport and tanker aircraft world-wide. Key products include the Eurofighter, A400M, A330 MRTT and C295/CN235 as well as the development of unmanned aerial systems.

Space Systems, headed by François Auque, covers the full range of civil and defence space systems with its unique expertise. Its satellite system solutions for telecommunications, earth observation, navigation and science include spacecraft, ground segments and payloads. As the European prime contractor for launchers, orbital systems and space exploration, its key systems include Ariane launchers, the French deterrent force and European space cargo vehicle, the ATV.

Communication, Intelligence & Security (CIS), headed by Evert Dudok, is the new “one-stop-shop” for

satellite and terrestrial communication, intelligence and security services and solutions. The customer base encompasses both the government sector – notably defence and security forces – and commercial sector including transportation (maritime, airport, metro), energy (oil, gas and electricity), mining and agriculture. Key services and solutions include: military and commercial satellite communication services, professional mobile radio communication, emergency response centres (such as 9-1-1/112), border surveillance systems, command & control (C4I) systems, cyber security solutions and services and observation satellite based geo-information services.

Electronics, headed by Thomas Müller, provides high-performance equipment for system integrators serving both Airbus Defence and Space within the Airbus Group as well as external customers worldwide. Products are mainly for civil, defence and security markets covering ground, maritime, airborne and space applications. Key products include radars and IFF systems, electronic warfare devices, avionics, space platform electronics, space payload electronics as well as optronic sensors.

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