Russia's A-100 Premier AWACS Completes Successful Test Flights, Gears Up for Serial Production

 

Footage has emerged online showcasing the new Russian long-range radar detection and control aircraft, the A-100 Premier, during its test flights. Reports indicate that the experimental prototype of the A-100 Premier AWACS is nearing the final stages of its testing process.

The prototype is undergoing rigorous full-scale testing for its airborne long-range radar detection system under near-combat conditions. Once these tests are successfully completed, serial production of the aircraft is expected to begin.

The A-100 Premier, equipped with the advanced "Premier" radar system, is based on the upgraded Il-76MD-90A. Developed in 2014 by the Taganrog Aviation Scientific and Technical Complex in collaboration with NGO Vega-M, part of the state corporation Ruselectronica, this aircraft is set to replace the aging A-50 line of AWACS aircraft.

The state-of-the-art A-100 radar system features an active phased array antenna and capabilities in radio-electronic reconnaissance. It includes terminals for secure, stable communication with Russian fighters and anti-aircraft missile systems, vital for target designation across air, ground, and surface targets.

Beyond radar capabilities, the A-100 can receive data from space satellites and control drones, relaying this information to both ground and airborne weapons. It also integrates seamlessly with ground reconnaissance systems like long-range radar, enhancing situational awareness.

Designed as a versatile airborne command center, the A-100 Premier can detect and track up to 350 air, sea, and ground targets simultaneously at distances up to 650 km. It boasts an impressive range of about 5,000 kilometers and can remain airborne for over 10 hours without refueling.

The A-100LL flying laboratory, based on the standard A-50 aircraft, made its first flight in October 2016. By November 2017, the first prototype of the A-100 Premier, developed from the Il-76MD-90A, took to the skies. This prototype's testing was intended to pave the way for mass production, which has been delayed until now, with serial production expected to start in 2024.

In 2020, another A-100 aircraft was reported to be under construction, aiming to join the testing phase. In February 2022, Rostec announced a significant milestone: the first flight of the new A-100 complex equipped with onboard radar technology was successfully conducted.

Looking forward, the introduction of Russia’s latest AWACS A-100 aircraft with the advanced Premier radar system is anticipated by the end of the year, despite the lack of official statements on the matter.

Additionally, in March, Sergey Chemezov, head of Rostec, mentioned plans to modernize and resume production of the A-50U long-range radar detection and control aircraft to meet the current needs of the Russian Armed Forces, alongside the A-100 Premier program.

Indian Air Force Bolsters Eastern Airbases Amid Rising Tensions with China

 In response to increasing tensions with China, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is upgrading infrastructure at 20 eastern airbases, enhancing capabilities to handle China-centric operations. This includes constructing hardened aircraft shelters, munitions centers, and additional runways to accommodate increased civilian traffic and ensure operational continuity in case of runway damage during conflict.

A notable upgrade is the construction of a second runway at the strategic Leh airbase in Ladakh, a region of frequent India-China military clashes. Leh airbase is essential for maintaining operations along the Line of Actual Control with China and Siachen. The base supports night operations for fighters and transport aircraft, including Rafales, MiG-29s, Sukhoi-30s, and Apaches, and is vital for transporting troops and supplies during harsh winters when road access is limited.

The IAF’s infrastructure development extends to other key bases. Satellite imagery from April 2024 revealed significant enhancements at the Chabua Air Base, near the China border. Upgrades include additional taxiways, hardened shelters for fighter aircraft, underground munitions storage, and improved taxiways for drones, ensuring sustained high-tempo operations if tensions escalate.

In Ladakh, a new 2.7-km runway at Nyoma airbase, located 23 kilometers from the China border, is set for completion in October 2024. The new runway, at an elevation of 13,700 feet, will enhance IAF operations. Support infrastructure, such as hangars, air traffic control buildings, and hard standing areas, will be ready by the end of 2025. Nyoma airstrip, operational during the 1962 India-China war, was reactivated in 2009 and has since supported various military aircraft, including the C-130J Super Hercules.

China has been ramping up its air assets along the LAC since the 2020 Galwan standoff. Recent satellite images show the deployment of China’s Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon 5th-generation fighter jets at Shigatse Air Base, only 150 kilometers from the LAC. The base also hosts J-10 aircraft and KJ-500 Airborne early warning and control aircraft, posing a strategic challenge to India's Rafale-equipped Hasimara Air Base in West Bengal.

The Shigatse base, with its new 3,000-meter auxiliary runway and multiple helipads, is strategically located along the central China-India border, close to the Doklam area, site of a 2017 standoff. The oblique angle of the new runway complicates enemy strikes aiming to disable both runways simultaneously.

China’s infrastructure expansion along the LAC since 2020, which includes new airbases, missile sites, roads, bridges, bunkers, and underground facilities, has significantly enhanced its military capabilities. The Hotan airbase in Xinjiang now features a new runway, additional tarmacs, hangars, and upgraded air defenses.

According to the China Power Project at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), China has upgraded dozens of airports and heliports in Tibet and Xinjiang, improving last-mile connectivity and enabling a wider range of military operations. Open-source data identifies 37 newly constructed or upgraded air facilities in these regions since 2017, with at least 22 being military or dual-use. The accelerated development in 2020, including the construction and upgrading of 14 air facilities, fills previous gaps along the Indian border, providing the PLA Air Force (PLAAF) new bases to project airpower against India.

US Military Expands Stealth Technology for Bombers, AEW&C, and Support Aircraft

 

On May 22, 2024, the US Air Force (USAF) unveiled the first official photos of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber in flight, following its inaugural flight last year. Northrop Grumman, the manufacturer, released additional images showcasing the bomber's takeoff, flight, and presence at Edwards Air Force Base. The B-21 Raider joins the B-2 Spirit as the only active stealth bombers, with China's Xi’an H-20 expected by 2025 and Russia's Tupolev PAK DA by 2027. These aircraft represent the forefront of heavy stealth technology.

Stealth Technology Overview Stealth technology involves integrating various low-observable (LO) technologies to significantly reduce an aircraft's detectability. This includes minimizing radar cross-section (RCS), acoustic signature, thermal imprint, and other detectable attributes. The term "stealth" became widely known in the late 1980s with the F-117 stealth fighter's deployment during the 1991 Gulf War.

Key techniques include tilting or removing vertical stabilizers, applying radar-absorbing materials (RAM) to leading edges, and internalizing weapons and fuel tanks. Advanced materials and coatings, such as dielectric composites and transparent conductors for cockpit canopies, further reduce radar reflections. Placing engines within the wing or fuselage reduces infrared signatures, and passive infrared and low-light TV sensors help maintain stealth by avoiding active emissions.

Operational Use of Stealth Technology Stealth technology saw its first operational use with the F-117 in the Gulf War, later deployed in Yugoslavia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya. Stealth helicopters, like the modified Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk used in the 2011 Osama bin Laden raid, also utilized stealth features. More recent combat applications include the F-22 over Syria and the Israeli F-35I in Syrian and Iranian airspace.

Limitations and Countermeasures Despite its advantages, stealth technology has limitations. Low-frequency radars can detect stealth aircraft, though with reduced accuracy. Infrared search and track (IRST) systems can detect aircraft heat signatures. Stealth design involves trade-offs in aerodynamics, development time, and cost, often requiring larger internal bays and specific maintenance procedures. Additionally, counters to stealth technology continue to evolve.

Stealth Aircraft Developments The B-2 Spirit, produced from 1987 to 2000, remains the only operational stealth bomber, with a wingspan of 172 feet and a maximum takeoff weight of 170,600 kg. The new B-21 Raider, smaller and estimated at $700 million per unit, aims to replace the aging B-2 fleet. The USAF plans to invest $203 billion over 30 years to develop and operate at least 100 B-21s. China's H-20 and Russia's PAK DA are still in development, with limited details available.

Future of Stealth Technology The USAF's plans include stealthy flight refueling aircraft (FRAs) to support closer refueling of stealth fighters and bombers in contested environments. Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works has proposed concepts for stealth tankers, and Boeing's MQ-25 Stingray is in development as a stealth refueling drone.

Stealth AEW&C aircraft, such as the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, aim to reduce detectability through design modifications. Future stealth initiatives may also encompass cargo and special operations aircraft, with flying wing designs offering potential solutions for stealth transport.

Innovative Stealth Concepts Emerging technologies, such as metasurfaces and plasma stealth, promise further advancements in RCS reduction. Adaptive aero-elastic wings and fluidic controls are also under exploration, though these remain costly and in developmental stages.

Overall, the USAF's investment in stealth technology for various aircraft ensures continued global dominance and operational effectiveness in increasingly contested environments.

Sweden Donates AEW&C Aircraft to Ukraine, Enhancing F-16 Capabilities Amid Threats from Russian MiG-31BM

In a major and unexpected move, Sweden has announced it will supply Ukraine with two Saab 340 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft as part of a new SEK 13.3 billion ($1.25 billion) military aid package. This aid marks Sweden's largest support package to date, aiming to bolster collective air defense capabilities. The announcement came on May 29, when the Swedish government detailed its "Military Support Package 16," with the Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft, also known as the S 100D Argus or ASC 890, being the central component.

The Swedish Ministry of Defense stated that these aircraft would provide Ukraine with a new capability for airborne radar reconnaissance and combat control against air and sea targets, significantly enhancing Kyiv's long-range detection and targeting abilities. Equipped with advanced Erieye radars based on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, these aircraft will revolutionize Ukraine’s surveillance capabilities.

Currently, the Swedish Air Force operates only two of these sophisticated surveillance planes. The aid package indicates that one or both of these planes will be transferred to Kyiv, temporarily reducing Sweden’s AEW&C capability. To address this, Stockholm will expedite the acquisition of an additional Saab GlobalEye platform and accelerate the delivery of two units already on order, with the first new aircraft expected by 2027.

Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pal Jonson, noted that sending the planes followed intensive discussions with coalition countries and emphasized that the ASC 890 aircraft would significantly bolster Ukrainian air defense. These advanced aircraft will complement the F-16 fighter jets to be supplied by Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, forming a robust air force coalition for Ukraine. The timeline for the delivery of the ASC 890 aircraft has not been specified.

AEW&C Aircraft for Ukraine

The deployment of these AEW&C aircraft holds significant strategic value. They offer extensive overhead surveillance, crucial for detecting low-flying threats like Russian drones and cruise missiles that often evade conventional radar systems. The Saab 340 AEW&C will play a vital role in coordinating F-16 fighter operations by detecting, prioritizing, and guiding targets for interception, thus enhancing Ukraine's defense posture.

Valerii Romanenko, a leading researcher at the National Aviation University of Ukraine, emphasized the transformative impact of these aircraft, highlighting their ability to unlock the full potential of the multi-role F-16 fighters. The Saab 340’s integration with the NATO-standard Link 16 datalink communications system ensures seamless coordination with allied air defense systems, providing a comprehensive air defense picture and targeting data to compatible systems both airborne and on the ground.

Russian Threats and AEW&C Vulnerability

Despite their operational advantages, AEW&C systems are vulnerable to hostile actions. Earlier this year, the Russian Air Force lost two Beriev A-50 AWACS planes to Ukrainian missile attacks, underscoring the strategic importance and susceptibility of these aircraft. The Saab 340 AEW&C, with a detection range of up to 450 km, would need to operate within Ukrainian airspace to be effective, making them targets for Russian MiG-31BM and Su-57 fighters armed with R-37 air-to-air missiles, which have a range of 300 kilometers.

While the MiG-31BM presents a detectable threat, the Su-57’s advanced stealth capabilities pose a significant detection challenge. Additionally, the R-37M missiles are exceedingly difficult to evade. The Mikoyan MiG-31BM interceptors near the Russia-Ukraine border extend the threat radius across Ukrainian airspace, often forcing Ukrainian fighter pilots to abort missions. The relatively slower and less agile Saab 340 is more vulnerable compared to the four-engine A-50, which can reach higher speeds and altitudes.

Conclusion

The introduction of Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft to Ukraine’s military will significantly enhance its surveillance and defense capabilities. However, these gains come with increased vulnerability to advanced Russian fighter jets and missile systems. The balance of power in the region will be closely monitored as these developments unfold. 

Analyzing the Air Power Balance: Indian Air Force vs. Chinese PLAAF

Amid escalating tensions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a formidable challenge from the technologically advanced People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) over the Himalayas. With over 1200 warplanes, the IAF stands in a tight spot against the PLAAF's locally developed and manufactured arsenal.

The PLAAF's substantial size and technological superiority pose a significant threat, yet the IAF holds advantages in operational bases and geographical positioning, critical for supporting Indian Army operations and counteracting PLAAF strategies.

As tensions simmer along the Ladakh border, questions arise about the IAF's ability to sustain operations in challenging mountain terrain and a potentially expanding conflict scenario. An objective analysis of PLAAF capabilities is crucial to assess the threat posed to IAF operations.

Delving into PLAAF platforms, training, and likely tactics provides insights into the potential challenges faced by the IAF. From frontline fighters like the Su-35 and J-20 to strategic assets like the H-6 bombers and advanced cruise missiles, the PLAAF presents a multifaceted threat.

Examining PLAAF training, tactics, and operational exercises reveals a concerted effort to enhance combat readiness and adaptability against near-peer adversaries. However, challenges remain in achieving uniformity across units and maintaining tactical proficiency.

In assessing the PLAAF's potential tactics, the utilization of stealth capabilities, force multipliers like AWACS, and precision strike capabilities underscores the complexity of the threat environment faced by the IAF.

Despite PLAAF's advantages, constraints exist, such as terrain limitations, logistical challenges, and vulnerabilities in extended operations from high-altitude airbases. The IAF's familiarity with low-level flying and operational bases offers strategic advantages in countering PLAAF aggression.

As both air forces engage in a potential conflict scenario, the balance of power hinges on factors like training, motivation, and adaptability. While the IAF may face initial challenges, leveraging strategic acquisitions and operational expertise can bolster its resilience against PLAAF incursions.

In navigating the air power balance, the IAF must prioritize strategic investments in cruise missiles, EW equipment, and air defense systems to mitigate PLAAF advantages and uphold national security interests in the region. 

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.

China Unveils J-15D Electronic Warfare Aircraft: A Game-Changer in Naval Aviation?

 China has showcased its electronic warfare (EW) version of the carrier-based J-15 fighter, termed the J-15D, through Chinese state media. The aircraft, reminiscent of the US Navy's E/A-18G Growler, integrates EW capabilities into a fast-flying jet fighter, as depicted in footage aired by China Central Television (CCTV).

The J-15D features distinctive pods, akin to those seen on the J-16D. Notably, China drew inspiration from the US F-16 C/D Block 52/60 design for integrating EW systems into the J-10D, making the J-15D the third fighter-based EW platform in the Chinese arsenal. Originating as a Chinese iteration of the Russian Su-33, the J-15 serves as a carrier-based aircraft.

Speculation surrounds the carrier from which the J-15D might operate, considering China's fleet of carriers, including the Liaoning, the Shandong, and the forthcoming Fujian. While visual evidence primarily showcases the Liaoning and the Shandong deploying J-15s, the J-15's heavy build may necessitate a Catapult Assisted Take-Off and Barrier Arrested (CATOBAR) flight deck, such as that found on the Fujian, equipped with an Electromagnetic Launch System (EMALS).

The J-15D's potential role aligns with its heavier counterpart's, the J-15, which specializes in carrying substantial payloads of anti-ship missiles. In contrast, lighter platforms like the J-31/J-35 focus on combat air patrol (CAP) and air superiority tasks.

Considering China's naval aviation strategy, the emergence of the J-15D, alongside the development of the J-31/J-35 and the introduction of the Fujian carrier, signifies a comprehensive enhancement of carrier-based capabilities. The J-15D is poised to play a pivotal role, akin to the US Navy's Growler, in providing electronic support and jamming capabilities during naval operations.

Taiwan Receives Two U.S. Early Warning Aircraft

TAIPEI - Taiwan received two upgraded early warning aircraft from the United States on Dec. 18, the island's air force said, as part of an arms deal that upset China-U.S. relations.

The arrival of the E-2K aircraft in southern Kaohsiung city brings to four the number of such planes in Taiwan's air force, it said, after they were sent to the United States last year for upgrades.

Taiwan acquired four E-2Ts in 1995 and added two E-2K, an improved version of the Grumman Hawkeye series, in 2006.

A pair of E-2Ts were transported to the United States for upgrading last month, as part of a $6.5 billion arms sale agreed with Taiwan in 2008, which also included advanced interceptor Patriot missiles, Apache attack helicopters and submarine-launched missiles.

Analysts say the E-2K - an all-weather early warning and control system platform with an upgraded radar, software, avionics and propellers - will further reduce warning time if China launched an air attack on the island.

Ties between Taipei and Beijing have improved markedly since Ma Ying-jeou of the China-friendly Kuomintang party came to power in 2008 promising to boost trade links and allow more Chinese tourists to visit the island.

But Beijing still sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary, even though the island has governed itself since 1949 at the end of a civil war.

China has repeatedly threatened to invade Taiwan should the island declare formal independence, prompting Taipei to seek more advanced weapons, largely from the United States.

Taiwan Hawkeye Aircraft Head to U.S. for Upgrade

TAIPEI, Taiwan - Taiwan has sent two early warning aircraft for upgrading in the United States and will send two more as part of an arms deal that upset U.S. ties with Beijing, media and the air force said Nov. 8.
The island's air force confirmed that two U.S.-made E-2T aircraft, which have served the island's air force for 15 years, are being upgraded in the United States and are scheduled to be sent back before the end of the year.

Another two of the planes were transported to the southern Kaohsiung harbor early in the morning under tight security, the state Central News Agency said. The air force declined to comment on that report.
Analysts say all four E-2Ts will be upgraded to the Hawkeye 2000 configuration, which further reduces warning time if the Chinese were to launch an air attack on the island.
The upgrading was part of a $6.5 billion arms sale agreed with Taiwan in 2008. The sale also included advanced interceptor Patriot missiles, Apache attack helicopters and submarine-launched missiles.
Ties between Taipei and Beijing have improved markedly since Ma Ying-jeou of the China-friendly Kuomintang party came to power in 2008 on promises of boosting trade links and allowing more Chinese tourists to visit the island.
But Beijing still sees the island as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary, even though Taiwan has governed itself since 1949 at the end of a civil war.
China has repeatedly threatened to invade Taiwan should the island declare formal independence, prompting Taipei to seek more advanced weapons, largely from the United States.

Russian Planes Spark NATO Scramble in Baltics

VILNIUS - NATO jets were scrambled Nov. 7 as four Russian air force planes flew near the territory of the Baltic states, Lithuania's defense ministry said, adding that the unusual number was a cause for concern.
Defense ministry spokeswoman Ugne Naujokaityte said that four Danish F-16fighters, which currently police the skies of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, took to the air twice to escort the Russian planes.

Two AN26 transport aircraft and a TU134 bomber flew in succession from Russia's Baltic territory of Kaliningrad to Russia itself, and an IL20 intelligence-gathering plane flew in the opposite direction.
While their path over neutral waters did not ultimately encroach on the Baltic states' airspace, the flurry of flights was unusual in an area that normally sees only a few Russian aircraft transit every few weeks.
"The intensity of these Russian planes' flights raises concern. It proves once again the importance and necessity of the NATO air police mission in Baltic states," Naujokaityte said.
The Baltic states broke away from the crumbling Soviet Union in 1991 after five decades of communist rule and joined NATO in 2004. They have had rocky ties with Moscow since independence and are jittery about Russian military moves in the region.
With a total population of 6.5 million and a professional military of 20,500, they lack sufficient aircraft to police their own skies.
As a result, other members of 28-nation NATO take turns patrolling the trio's airspace on rotations lasting several months, out of a base in Lithuania. Denmark took over from France in September. Russian aircraft bound for Kaliningrad - sandwiched between the Baltic Sea, Lithuania and fellow ex-communist NATO member Poland - have at times strayed into the Baltic states' skies without permission.
The line between navigational error and Russian "buzzing" of the Baltics can be hazy, experts say. While the planes involved in Monday's incident did not actually cross into the Baltic states' airspace, it comes amid growing disquiet about a Russian build-up in the region.
The Baltic states have stressed repeatedly that improving ties with their resurgent former master is by far their preferred option. But their concerns increased after Russia's 2008 war with ex-Soviet Georgia, as well as Moscow's affirmation in its military doctrine that NATO's expansion is a threat, and by military exercises with scenarios including cutting off the Baltic states from the rest of NATO.
Worries have been stoked by the bolstering of a brigade of marines in Kaliningrad, and reported Russian deployment there of a new anti-aircraft missile system sweeping the Baltic states and Poland.

Israel-China Revive Military Ties, But Not Defense Trade

TEL AVIV - In yet another step toward revived Sino-Israeli defense ties, Gen. Chen Bingde, chief of staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), concluded a four-day trip to Israel on Aug. 17, the first ever by a commander of the Chinese military.

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak toasts Gen. Chen Bingde, left, as Lt. Gen. Beni Gantz nods in agreement. (Israel Ministry of Defense)

The visit, hosted by Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak and Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, Chen's counterpart in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), followed Barak's mid-June trip to Beijing and a PLA Navy delegation hosted here in May.

Chen's visit included tours of several military installations and a series of high-level working meetings at IDF headquarters here, but did not involve substantive discussion of revived Israeli arms transfers to China, sources here said.
"There's no change in our export license policy to China due to continued American opposition. But as the string of recent visits indicates, we're working hard to find other ways to advance our mutual interest in strengthened [Sino-Israeli] defense cooperation," a government official here said.
The Israeli official said the Chinese still resent the U.S. pressure that forced Israel to terminate a $1.3 billion deal for early warning aircraft more than a decade ago, as well as the consultative process that gives Washington de-facto veto rights over any proposed trade with Beijing.
A U.S. State Department cable published by WikiLeaks provided rare insight into the process in place since 2006 with respect to Israeli technology transfers to China. According to the July 2009 cable, authorized by Andrew Shapiro, U.S. assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs, "As it now stands, the government of Israel must pursue any export to China through the bilateral statement of understanding with the United States. While the statement calls for expeditious resolution of any requests to export to China, it often takes up to 80 days to obtain approval."
Israeli sources say that since the crisis of confidence with Washington that triggered the bilateral consultative process, Washington has approved only a few, nonoffensive, homeland security-related sales to China.
"Compared to what we could have sold in that huge market, defense trade to China has been miniscule ... And the Chinese know that decisions of this nature are not taken in Jerusalem, but in Washington," the Israeli official said.
Beyond stymied defense trade, however, sources here say Israel can provide China valuable information on military tactics, assessments of regional threats, and insight into Israeli diplomatic and other initiatives that may impact neighboring countries and China's access to Mideast oil.
"As long as there is no change in Israel's arms export policy - and there is no evidence that such a change has occurred ... a strengthening of military ties could still prove beneficial to China," wrote Yoram Evron, senior researcher for the Institute for National Security Studies, based here.
In an Aug. 17 paper, Evron, a lecturer at the Department of Asian Studies at Haifa University, noted that China has not engaged in military operations since 1979, and therefore is interested not only in Israeli technology but in broader operational and tactical knowledge accrued in recent years by the IDF. Similarly, Evron said that information-sharing with Israel would support Beijing's desire to establish a gradual strategic presence in the region.
"Not only can Israel provide China an updated perspective on regional occurrences - for example, developments pertaining to the 'Arab spring' and trends in the field of terrorism - but strategic information-sharing with Israel could spare China surprises from Israeli actions" that impact the region, according to Evron. Israel's position as a key U.S. ally makes such channels with Israel all the more worthwhile, he said.
"Given the intensifying competition between the two powers, the strengthening of military ties with an American ally is a credit to China," Evron added.
The Israeli researcher concluded that as Israel continues to enhance its standing with a vital player in the region and on the world stage, it will have to tread carefully so as not to upset Washington, its pre-eminent ally and strategic patron.

First Karakoram Eagle to make a touchdown in Pakistan in November 2011

Delivery of first ZDK-03 Karakoram Eagle AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems) produced for Pakistan Air Force is expected in November this year, according to latest report.

The aircraft is in final stages of preparations/system testings/installation for delivery to Pakistan.

Pakistan Air Force signed an agreement for the joint development of four ZDK-03 AEW&C aircraft Karakoram Eagle which were to be configured to meet Pakistan's specifications with China Electronics Technology Group Corporation.

PAF has plans to induct a total of four Shaanxi ZDK-03 AWACS aircraft in a $278m deal. ZDK-03 also features a solid nose with MAWS sensors on both sides, as well as two small vertial tail stablizers.

U.S. Navy Resumes EMALS Tests

Flight tests of the U.S. Navy's new electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) resumed in late May after a five-month hiatus, and two more aircraft types have now passed their initial launch tests.

Sailors at Lakehurst Naval Air Station, New Jersey, watch as a T-45C Goshawk of VX-23 rolls down the rail during testing of the EMALS Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System in early June. The aircraft made a dozen launches over two days.

The program's maiden launches were accomplished in mid-December when an F/A-18E Super Hornet strike fighter from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 23 (VX-23) made four takeoffs from the Navy's catapult test center at Lakehurst, N.J. But the tests revealed the need to fine-tune the software that controls the system's motors and better control the miniscule timing gaps between when the motors are energized and turned off.

"The linear motors fire sequentially as you go down the catapult track," said Capt. James Donnelly, the Navy's program manager for EMALS. "Only three are energized at a time. They turn on, turn off. As each one energizes, a force is exerted on the aircraft, and the timing needed to be fine-tuned."
Flight tests with the F/A-18E resumed May 25, and "the launches validated the software changes," Donnelly said.
The Super Hornet made 14 launches using the revamped software, followed by 12 launches on June 1 and 2 with a T-45C Goshawk training jet from VX-23.
A C-2A Carrier Onboard Delivery aircraft from VX-20 made a further series of 12 launches on June 8 and 9.
The Super Hornet will return in July to Lakehurst for another series of launches using a variety of stores, or weapons, mounted under the wings and on the aircraft. Later in the summer, an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne command-and-control aircraft will begin launch tests, Donnelly said.
The multiple launches are used to test a variety of weights on the aircraft, he said, and to validate the EMALS system and improve reliability. The aircraft are also tested at various launch speeds.
Reliability of the EMALS system is "improving," Donnelly said.
"We have more and more launches without any [warning] lights that come on, anything we annotate in launch logs," he said during a June 23 interview.
"A lot of corrections" were made during the early stages of the program's flight testing, Donnelly said.
"We're doing much less of that. We had very few issues in the May and June launches."
The EMALS, under development by prime contractor General Atomics and the Navy, is intended for installation on board the new Gerald R. Ford CVN 78-class aircraft carriers, where they will replace traditional steam catapults. The launch tests are done at Lakehurst using a mixed Navy-General Atomics team.
Despite the five-month pause in the test schedule, production and delivery of EMALS components is proceeding for the Gerald R. Ford, under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News, Va., shipyard.
"No impact to the ship [construction] schedule," Donnelly said. "We're meeting our required in-yard dates. We started deliveries in May, and we're delivering a lot of equipment this month, including most of the motor generators - the components that many folks were most concerned about schedule-wise."
Asked about the program's budget performance, Donnelly noted that production elements are being procured under a fixed-price contract - "no ups and extras there," he said - but he declined to provide test budget figures.
"We're constantly looking at the testing budget, so that's under discussion," he said.
"The bottom line is, we'll continue testing," he said. "Our focus is to ensure the catapult is as reliable as possible as when we deliver and the ship gets underway with sailors aboard."

PLA Navy Commander Meets Israeli Defense Leaders

TEL AVIV - In an official May 25 visit to Israel, the commander of the Chinese Navy met with Defense Minister Ehud Barak and his Israeli counterpart, Rear Adm. Eliezer Marom.

In an official May 25 visit to Israel, the commander of the Chinese Navy met with Defense Minister Ehud Barak and his Israeli counterpart, Rear Adm. Eliezer Marom. (Inbal Griner / Israel MoD)

Barak's office provided no other details of the meeting with Adm. Wu Shengli of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), although an MoD source insisted the visit did not herald changes in Israel's marginal defense trade ties with Beijing, which focus on dual-use capabilities.

Israel-Chinese defense trade ties have essentially been subject to a de facto U.S. veto following the crisis of confidence early in the administration of former President George W. Bush over Israeli technology transfers to a country deemed by Washington as a strategic competitor, if not adversary.
After forcing Israel to cancel a $1 billion-plus deal for Phalcon aerial early warning and control planes and a subsequent period of estrangement pertaining to a later, unreported sale of drones, Israel's MoD committed to consult with Washington on any transfers that could pose an eventual threat to U.S. forces or its allies.
"Our policy of very close consultations with our American friends remains unchanged," the MoD source said. He refused to elaborate on the purpose of Wu's visit or the sites included in the itinerary.
As Barak was hosting Wu at MoD headquarters in Tel Aviv, a former U.S. Air Force chief of staff was speaking just across town.
At the Fisher Institute's annual conference on air power, retired Gen. Michael Moseley warned of "the very high likelihood" that U.S. forces would have to face off against Chinese or Russian technology in future conflicts. He recalled his response to a question once posed to him by former President Bush.
"He asked about the probability of the U.S. having to fight a future war with China or Russia, and my reply was 'near zero' because I had full confidence in the ability of our political leaders to craft the policies and take the decisions needed to prevent such wars," Moseley said.
In contrast, the former U.S. Air Force chief assessed the probability "at near 100 percent… that my son or my son-in-law will have to engage those [Chinese or Russian] systems."