KF-21 Fighter Project: Indonesia and South Korea Discuss Future Collaboration Amid Data Theft Concerns

 The CEO of PT Dirgantara Indonesia, Gita Amperiawan, embarked on a two-day visit to South Korea on March 28, amidst ongoing investigations into alleged data theft linked to the joint KF-21 fighter jet project. Both the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI) acknowledged the visit of the Indonesian official.

PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) plays a crucial role in Indonesia's aerospace sector and has been actively participating in the joint development of the KF-21 fighter jet alongside KAI. The KF-21 project, launched in 2015, aims to deliver an advanced supersonic fighter by 2026.

While the purpose of Amperiawan's visit was not explicitly stated, discussions between Indonesian and South Korean officials likely revolved around the progress and future cooperation regarding the joint project. However, specific details of these discussions were not disclosed.

The visit comes in the aftermath of reports alleging an attempted data theft related to the KF-21 program by an employee of PTDI at KAI's headquarters in South Korea in January this year. This incident prompted a police investigation, raising concerns about its impact on the joint development initiative and broader Indonesia-South Korea aerospace collaboration.

The investigation primarily focuses on whether the stolen data contained sensitive technologies crucial to the KF-21 development. Consequently, Indonesian individuals are currently barred from leaving South Korea pending the investigation.

In February 2024, South Korean lawmakers advocated for stricter laws to prevent defense secrets leakage, highlighting the need for legislation to safeguard military expertise effectively. Delays in Indonesia's financial contributions to the KF-21 project have also raised concerns, with the nation owing a substantial amount to South Korea.

Despite these challenges, both countries continue to reaffirm their commitment to the KF-21 project, with recent announcements highlighting progress and prospects. South Korea's approval to produce 20 KF-21 Boramae fighters this year demonstrates its determination to advance the project, with plans to deploy 120 units by 2032.

The KF-21, featuring cost-effective yet advanced capabilities, is positioned to replace South Korea's aging fighter fleet and potentially cater to markets in Asia and the Middle East. While not classified as a stealth aircraft, its incorporation of stealth-like features and collaboration with Lockheed Martin contribute to its competitiveness in modern aerial warfare.

Saab Gripen Engages in Rare Dogfights with F-35 in Preparation for Potential Confrontation with Russian Fighters

 In an unusual encounter, Saab Gripen fighter jets engaged in simulated aerial combat, or "dogfights," with F-35 stealth jets to prepare for potential confrontations with Russian Su-35 and Su-30 fighters. This joint exercise between Swedish JAS-39 Gripen and Danish F-35 aircraft showcased the advanced capabilities of Western fighter aircraft in countering Russian Aerospace Forces.

The Gripen-E, known as a force multiplier for NATO's air fleet, presents a significant threat to Russian fighters, despite its lack of stealth. Equipped with advanced technology such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and infrared search and track (IRST) systems, the Gripen-E can effectively engage Russian aircraft while remaining agile and versatile.

The collaboration between Gripen and F-35 aircraft signifies mutual cooperation between neighboring countries, aimed at enhancing joint fighting capabilities. By combining the F-35's data processing capabilities with the Gripen's mass-production advantage, a potent "radar and missile truck teaming" tactic is proposed, allowing Gripen to release missiles at targets identified by the F-35 while leveraging its stealth capabilities.

Russia's weaknesses in Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) further exacerbate the advantage of Western aircraft. With plans underway to revitalize defense industries in Europe and the US, including the development of advanced missiles like the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), Western forces are gearing up to counter the threat posed by Russian fighters effectively.

Through strategic collaborations and technological advancements, Western air forces are preparing to confront Russian fighters with confidence and efficiency.

MBDA Expresses Frustration Over Delayed Missile Contracts in Germany

 MBDA, a prominent missile manufacturer known for products like the Taurus cruise missile and Patriot anti-aircraft missiles, has voiced dissatisfaction with the German government's sluggishness in finalizing defense contracts. Led by Thomas Gottschild, the German subsidiary of MBDA, the company emphasizes the need for expedited decision-making to meet rising demand.

Gottschild highlights the adverse effects of delayed orders, resulting in a halt in Taurus missile production and disruptions in supplier operations. Resuming production involves reestablishing supply chains, particularly in critical sectors like explosives, to ensure continuity and expertise retention.

Despite challenges, progress is evident in fulfilling state orders for Patriot missiles in collaboration with Raytheon. However, MBDA criticizes Germany's reluctance to supply Taurus missiles to Ukraine amid escalating tensions with Russia.

Ukraine's repeated requests for Taurus missiles, emphasizing their non-aggressive intent, have faced skepticism from the German government. Concerns about inadvertently escalating the conflict and entanglement in war deter Germany from transferring the missiles, despite proposals from allies like Britain to facilitate the transfer indirectly.

While pressure mounts domestically and internationally for Germany to reconsider its stance, Chancellor Scholz remains firm, underscoring the symbolic significance of Taurus missiles amid complex geopolitical dynamics.

US Army Expands Competition for Short-Range Laser Defense Systems

 

The U.S. Army is broadening its evaluation of 50-kilowatt platforms as it pursues the acquisition of short-range air defense laser weapons. Despite deploying the initial four prototypes to U.S. Central Command’s area of operations, the Army is considering additional platforms to enhance its capabilities, according to a Defense News report.

Currently, three Directed Energy Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense systems (DE M-SHORAD) are operational in Iraq, facilitating experimentation in relevant operational environments. The fourth prototype will join them after undergoing necessary adjustments, stated Lt. Gen. Robert Rasch, director of the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office.

While the Army originally intended to conclude the DE M-SHORAD prototyping effort and transition to Program Executive Office Missiles and Space by 2023, it has extended the timeline to fiscal year 2025 for further development.

The initial prototypes feature a 50-kilowatt laser installed on a Stryker combat vehicle, with Raytheon and Kord Technologies leading integration efforts. Two additional 50-kilowatt platforms from nLight and Lockheed Martin will be evaluated next year, offering different designs and characteristics.

The Army's evaluation process is expected to span approximately two years, gathering data from existing and new systems to inform senior leadership decisions by the late 2026 or early 2027 timeframe. Rasch emphasized the importance of maintaining competition to enhance overall performance and affordability.

While progress may seem slow, Rasch underscored the significance of operationalizing the systems to understand their lethality and reliability in real-world scenarios. The Army is investing approximately $100 million annually in this endeavor, evaluating laser options ranging from 10 to 300 kilowatts to address various threats and missions.

Through an integrated test campaign, the Army aims to collect comprehensive data on power, lethality, affordability, and reliability across directed-energy weapons. This approach will inform strategic decision-making and help optimize defense strategies against emerging threats in diverse environments, Rasch concluded.