orko_8Interesting development, certainly good for the Turkish Army. Do you have a source for this?
YEs but in Turkish, official press release of Defense Industry Executive Committe meeting from Undersecretary of Defense Industries web site: http://www.ssm.gov.tr/TR/duyurular/basinaciklamalari/Documents/20070330.pdf
Some other major news are:
– Turkish main battle tank project: Winner is Otokar (producer of Land Rover, Cobra and Akrep APC’s), with technical assistance from KMW of Germany
– Escort Jammer project cancelled. The project covered development of 16 escort jamming systems to be deployed on F-16D aircraft (probably Peace Onys IV F-16D Block 50+)
– Acquisiton of Litening III targeting pods cancelled. The pods were to be procured for F-4E 2020 Terminator aircraft. On the other hand local development of AselPod targeting and navigation pods by ASELSAN is underway.
By the way, Turkish attack helicopters are named as “T-129”, T standing for Taarruz, “Attack” in Turkish. They are most probably to be equipped by indigenously developed mission computers, ASELSAN AselFLIR-300 FLIR’s, ASELSAN MFD-268E MFD’s, ASELSAN HMDS and Rafael Spike ATGM’s with an option fro Roketsan medium/long range ATGM’s in the future.
orko_8Newsflash: A-129 Mangusta from Agusta of Italy has been chosen as the winner of the attack and tactical reconnaissance helicopter project known as ATAK.
The project covers production of 50 + 41 helicopters in TAI facilities. In addition it is being rumored that about 10 helicopters from Italian army may be leased to Turkish Army for urgent requirement + training.
orko_8HMS Grafton becomes Chilean Navy’s “Almirante Grafton”
Former Type 23 frigate HMS Grafton was delivered Wednesday in Portsmouth to the Chilean Navy and renamed “Almirante Lynch”, according to a release from the Chilean Embassy in London.
Chilean Ambassador Rafael Moreno and Navy Deputy Secretary Carolina Echeverría were the top Chilean officials present at the ceremony. Chile’s Defense minister was originally scheduled but a last minute cabinet reshuffle forced a change of plans.The 4.000 tons vessel is the second of three purchased by the Chilean Navy following an agreement signed September 2005 and involving 195 million Euros.
The first to be incorporated was under the name of “Almirante Cochrane” and took place last November in Portsmouth. The third is scheduled to be delivered next November 2007.
Major General Malcolm Wood, head of the British Army’s Logistics said the event is evidence of the long history of close cooperation between the Royal Navy and the Chilean Navy.
”The delivery of this frigate is another landmark in the long tradition of the Royal Navy’s links with Chile”, said Woods.
HMS Grafton was launched by Lady Abbott at Yarrow’s Shipbuilders in Glasgow in 1994.
Her disposal is part of UK government plans announced in 2004 to reduce the Navy’s fleet of Type 23 frigates from 16 to 13. HMS Norfolk and Marlborough were decommissioned last year.
http://www.mercopress.com/vernoticia.do?id=10159&formato=HTML
orko_8N-submarine may be operational by 2012
Rajat Pandit
[ 18 Mar, 2007 2329hrs ISTTIMES NEWS NETWORK ]NEW DELHI: After a series of technical hiccups, India’s long-running project to build nuclear submarines is finally gaining momentum. As per the revised target, the Navy is likely to get the first such operational submarine by 2012.
Sources said this was the “general assessment” at a top-level meeting to review progress of the hush-hush Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) programme on Friday, which was attended by defence minister A K Antony, among others.
Though official word is hard to come by on the secretive ATV project, which formally kicked off in 1983 but has made excruciatingly slow progress since then, it’s learnt that the first prototype of the nuclear-powered guided-missile attack submarine would be “launched” in the “near future”.
“And if there are no more hitches, the first of the two ATVs should be ready for being commissioned into Navy by 2011-2012. The overall project cost has been hiked by 30% to take it to around Rs 14,000 crore, with ultimately five ATVs planned by around 2025,” said a source.
The work on the ATV project revolves around the Vishakhapatnam naval dockyard, where the basic submarine hull and structure are fabricated, and the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research at Kalpakkam, where PWRs (pressurised water reactors) for the submarine’s propulsion system are tested.
One of the main reasons for the long delay has been the technical problem of designing and fitting a miniaturised PWR and its containment vessel in the submarine’s hull. After the PWRs designed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre failed to pass muster, India had turned to Russia for two 90-megawatt PWRs and related parts. There are also some Israeli, French and German imprints in the project.
“There were some problems with the integration of the Russian PWRs also. Work is now going ahead with a mixed design for the propulsion system,” said the source.
The entire aim behind the ATV programme is to have nuclear-powered submarines, armed with nuclear-tipped cruise or ballistic missiles, to ensure “credible” second-strike capabilities in consonance with India’s “no-first use” nuclear doctrine.
Nuclear-powered submarines have higher speeds and can stay submerged much longer than conventional diesel-electric submarines – which have to surface or snorkel frequently to get oxygen to recharge batteries – and thereby provide a much more invulnerable launch pad for nuclear weapons.
Though India already has nuclear-capable aircraft and mobile land-based missiles like Agni-I and Agni-II, it’s hoped the ATV project will finally provide it with the third leg of the nuclear triad.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/N-submarine_may_be_operational_by_2012/articleshow/1776200.cms
India launches 1st nuclear submarine
Vishal Thapar
CNN-IBNNew Delhi: India is set to launch its first nuclear submarine later this year which if successful will put the country in an extremely exclusive club.
The project codenamed the Advanced Technology Vessel has been crawling since the 1970s.
Reports now indicate that India has overcome the biggest problem or miniaturisation of a nuclear power plant that is to be mounted on a submarine hull.
There are whispers of Russian assistance with the mini nuclear plant that has been reportedly tested and validated at Kalpakkam.
The vessel will be launched in Vishakapatnam and sea trials for this submarine are slated to begin by 2010, and are expected to be fully operational by 2012.
The vessel displaces 6, 500 tonnes and can stay submerged for upto 100 days. Armed with guided missiles, it will have a crew of 70 people.
The last time the Indian Navy operated a nuclear submarine was in the late 1980s, when it leased a Russian Charlie class vessel.
India is also in negotiations to acquire two Russian-made nuclear submarines of the Akula class.
http://www.ibnlive.com/news/india-launches-1st-nuclear-submarine/36394-3.html
orko_8Well you were wrong to see it as a signal.
I made a comment and provided some argument leading me to that conclusion. Would you please be kind to explain why I was wrong? Am I missing the obvious here? Was the winner design announced? Are there some very solid political, economic and military interactions that point the winner as G&C design? Is there reliable insider info that says F-100 has no chance?
With all my respect, it is very frustrating when someone makes a comment backed up with arguments (i.e s/he not bulshyts) and gets a plain “well you are wrong” in response. I am sorry to say that I am very disappointed, if you care.
orko_8South African Navy commissioned second Type 209/1400Sa type submarine, S-102 “Charlotte Maxeke” on 14.03.2007. The first and namesake of the class, S-101 “Manthatisi” was commissioned on 03.11.2005.
South African Navy Commissions Charlotte Maxeke
(Source: ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems; issued March 14, 2007)
EMDEN/HAMBURG/KIEL, Germany — On March 14, 2007, the South African Navy commissioned the submarine “Charlotte Maxeke” at Emden-based Nordseewerke GmbH (NSWE), a company of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems AG (TKMS). This submarine is an ultra-modern submarine of the German 209/1400mod Class. During commissioning ceremony the boat which was christened as S102 on May 4, 2005, got the new name “Charlotte Maxeke.”
The boat is the second of a total of three submarines which the South African government ordered from the German Submarine Consortium in 2000. The consortium consists of Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft GmbH (HDW), Nordseewerke GmbH and MAN Ferrostaal AG.
The significance of this day for South Africa and its Navy was underlined by the attendance of the Deputy of the South African Secretary of Defence, Mluleki George, the Commander in Chief of the South African Navy, Vice-Admiral Johannes Mudimu, the South African Ambassador Moses Chikane, and the Chairman of the South African Procurement Agency ARMSCOR, Dr. Popo Molefe.
The delivery of these three submarines by the German Submarine Consortium is part of an extensive program to modernise the South African Navy. The submarines are the latest version of the conventional 209 Class, which has been successfully exported by the German consortium for many years. 63 of these submarines are currently in deployment worldwide on four continents, making this the most successful diesel-electric driven submarine class in the world. In addition to the construction and delivery of submarines the Consortium’s scope of delivery also includes training, logistical support and simulation technology.
The boat has a displacement of 1,450 tons, is 62 meters long and is made for cruising with a permanent crew of 30. Due to state-of-the art sensors and an integrated command and weapon control system the submarine is optimally suited for future reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
On March 16, 2007, the “Charlotte Maxeke” will leave Emden. During its long journey to its future home base the boat will be escorted by the fleet supply ship “SAS Drakensberg”. In the last week of April the submarine is expected to arrive at its home base port – the Navy base Simonstown in South Africa.
ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems AG, with its head office in Hamburg, Germany, is part of ThyssenKrupp Technologies AG within the ThyssenKrupp Group. Since 2005 it has been the umbrella organisation for eight European shipyards – Blohm + Voss, Blohm + Voss Repair, HDW-Gaarden, Hellenic Shipyards, Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft, Kockums, Nobiskrug, Nordseewerke – and various marine engineering companies. With its technological competence, extensive portfolio and continuous innovations the corporate group, employing around 8,800 staff, is one of the leading systems houses in European shipbuilding.
orko_8How? You do realsie that the G&B design uses mk41 aswell?
F-101 Alvaro de Bazàn has paid a visit to Australia. As far as I know, during this visit, meetings of civilian and military officials from both countries took place.
I think that hull design of Alvaro de Bazàn is nothing more than a scaled up FFG-7, which both Australia (Adelaide) and Spain (F-80) has a lot building, operating and modernizing experience.
As a fast-developing regional power, Australia has to possess a powerful navy, and has to have it quick. A proven design would be the best way to go in this case, I think.
Additionally, Australia has been conducting several procurement programmes which led a strong cooperation with European defense companies, such as Tiger and the possible selection of Mistral LPD.
That’s why, I saw the latest news regarding the Mk41 VLS as a signal of the selection of F-100 as AWD.
orko_8I think this is an indirect confirmation that AWD design will be based on F-100 Alvaro de Bazán.
orko_8Any reason why only one unite was build? Or does that have to do with the embargo as well?
The arms embargo which was imposed immediately after the second Cyprus operation in August 1974 until late 70’s has its effects on all Turkish procurement projects in that period. The outfit of Girne was affected as well. But there are also other reasons. For example Navy focused all its energy to the procurement of Dogan class FAC’s. In addition, the overall performance of Girne never proved satisfactory.
The only one with the Emerlec 30 depicted here is the Nigerian Ekpe class. That one is also missing on your list orko_8.
Thanks for the heads up, I have updated my database.
orko_8Dear Ja Worsley,
According to my data, these are the ships that have Emerlec turrets:
South Korea: Ulsan class FFG, Dong Hae, Po Hang and Pae Ku class patrol boats, AOE-57 Chun Jee replenishment ship
Qatar: Damsah class (Combattante III)
Kuwait: Um Almaradim class (Combattante I)
Nigeria: Ayam class (Combattante IIIB)
Tunisia: La Galite class (Combattante III)
Greece: Laskos class (Combattante III)
Ulsan class have 4; Pae Ku class have 1 turret, while all others have 2.
I think you have already seen this page but just to make the post complete: http://www.navweaps.com/Weapons/WNUS_30mm_Emerlec.htm
Edit: Attached are the photos I took of Chun Jee during her visit to Istanbul, July 2005 showing Emerlec turrets.
orko_8Hello MConrads,
Excellent work as always.
Turkey also operates a single ship of the Spanish design. However since I don´t have any detailed knowledge of this unit I was unable to depicted
The boat you mention is TCG P-140 Girne. It was laid down at Taskizak Naval Shipyard in 1973, launched in 1976 and commissioned on 07.06.1977. She was recently decommissioned.
The reason for the delay of the launching of the ship is the arms embargo imposed on Turkey after 1974 Cyprus operation. Girne was equipped with COTS machinery and GFE weapon and sensor systems cannibalized from other ships.
Girne was assigned to mainly ASW patrol duties. Performance was rather poor.
Specs:
Displacement: 399 ton
Dimensions: 58,1 x 7,6 x 2,8m
Speed: 29,5kt
Range: 4,200nm (with 16kt)
Armament: 2 x 40mm/70 Bofors; 2 x 12.7mm; 4 x Mk20 Mousetrap; 2 x Mk6 ASW mortar, 2 x DC rails + 18 x DC
Sonar: Plessey PMS 26
orko_8That is an EW simulator. A very similar system called RAKAS/MUKAS is deployed on naval assets in Turkish Navy.
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y24/nutuk/ScreenShot116.jpg
orko_8Malaysia to Purchase Multipurpose Warship from Korea
(Source: Korea Overseas Information Service; issued March 11, 2007)
Malaysia has placed an order with South Korea for the production of a multipurpose warship that can also be used as a hospital ship, a news report said Sunday (March 11).
The order was made as Malaysia’s deputy prime minister Najib Tun Razak, who doubles as defense minister, is visiting Korea’s southern port city of Busan as part of an eight-day trip to the country from Thursday, Malaysia’s state news agency Bernama said.
Produced by Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co., the warship is equipped with state-of-the-art radar and anti-missile weapons. It has the ability to carry 700 passengers in addition to its crew, as well as helicopters, tanks, guns, amphibious vehicles and various other military vehicles.
Najib did not mention the exact price of the warship, Bernama reported.
Malaysia has increased its military spending in recent years to build up its defense capabilities. Most recently, the country purchased US$1 billion worth of Sukhoi 30-MKM fighters from Russia.
Meanwhile, Najib paid a courtesy call on South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun at his office Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul Monday for discussions on closer bilateral ties.
“President Roh asked Deputy Prime Minister Najib to help further expand bilateral relations, and expressed hope that Korea and Malaysia increase practical cooperation in the fields of defense and energy industries,” Cheong Wa Dae said in a statement after the meeting.
“In response, Najib expressed an interest in expanding cooperation with Korea in information technology, culture and tourism,” it said.
orko_8Turkish Phantom’s, F-4E, RF-4E, F-4E 2020: http://www.milint.com/categories.php?cat_id=37
orko_8Mr Baugher’s site is the way to go I think:
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