Germany Approves Funding for Supersonic Naval Missile Development and Extensive Missile Purchases

 

Germany's parliament has approved funding for the acquisition of thousands of missiles and the development of a supersonic naval cruise missile, as announced by the Defence Ministry.

In collaboration with Norway, Germany will work on developing the supersonic Tyrfing missile. A key parliamentary committee released funds for Berlin's first venture into creating modern naval missiles, which currently are mostly French or American-made.

While Norway and its state-owned arms manufacturer Kongsberg will lead the project, Germany plans to invest approximately €650 million ($695 million) into the development through 2033.

The new missile, named 3SM Tyrfing, is slated to be operational by 2035. The contract, expected to finalize by August, will involve Diehl Defence and MBDA working on the German side.

Initially, Germany’s portion will be funded from Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s special military fund, established following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In subsequent years, funding will come from the regular defense budget.

Kongsberg describes the Tyrfing as a “new super missile” to succeed the Naval Strike Missile developed in the early 2000s. The 3SM (Super Sonic Strike Missile) is anticipated to be ready by 2035. Besides Norway and Germany, Kongsberg aims to market the missile to other European armed forces.

Additionally, the German budget committee has approved purchasing up to 3,266 Brimstone 3 rockets, scheduled for delivery by 2033 under a contract expected to pass next month. Initially, 274 missiles and necessary equipment will be purchased from MBDA Germany for about €376 million. An additional 29 Brimstones will be used for operational testing and 75 for training and telemetry.

These rockets are intended for the Eurofighter fleet, the core of Germany’s Air Force. Berlin first announced plans to acquire the air-to-ground missile in 2017. The British Royal Air Force has utilized the Brimstone family of missiles for nearly two decades, including in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. A contingent of German Eurofighters is also deployed in the Baltics to bolster NATO’s stance against Russia.

The parliamentary budget committee also approved acquiring 506 Stinger man-portable air defense systems, valued at approximately €395 million, to replace 500 ground-to-air missiles sent to Ukraine.

Germany has been a leading supporter of Ukraine, providing more military aid than any country except the United States. According to the Germany-based Kiel Institute for the World Economy, the German government has sent €10.2 billion in military aid to Ukraine as of the end of April 2024.

Japan Commissions Sixth Mogami-Class Frigate 'Agano' for JMSDF

 On June 21, 2024, Japanese shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems Co., Ltd. held a delivery and flag-raising ceremony for the ‘Agano’ (あがの), officially commissioning it into the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The 'Agano' is the sixth vessel in the Mogami-class series of next-generation frigates, designated with the pennant number FFM-6. It will be stationed at the Maizuru Naval Base.

The frigate is named after the Agano River, a notable river in the Hokuriku region of Honshu, Japan. The ship was launched by MHI in Nagasaki in December 2022.

The Mogami-class frigates, also known as 30FFM and previously 30DX, represent the next generation of multi-mission vessels for the JMSDF. The JMSDF initially planned to procure 22 of these frigates but has revised this number to 12 by the end of fiscal year 2023. From 2024 to 2028, a new class of 12 improved Mogami-class frigates will be built, featuring longer-range missiles, enhanced anti-submarine capabilities, and improved maritime operational functionalities.

Key specifications of the FFM include a full load displacement of approximately 5,500 tons, a length of 132.5 meters, and a beam of 16.3 meters, with a maximum speed exceeding 30 knots. The frigates are designed to be highly automated, requiring a crew of about 90 sailors.

The FFM is equipped with advanced weaponry and systems, including:

• BAE Systems Mk.45 mod.4 5-inch naval gun system
• Japan Steel Works 12.7mm Remote Weapon System (×2)
• Mk.41 Vertical Launch System (VLS)
• Raytheon SeaRAM
• MHI Type 17 anti-ship missiles (×8)
• Mitsubishi Electric OPY-2 multifunction Radar
• Mitsubishi Electric OAX-3EO/IR sensors
• Hitachi OQQ-11 anti-mine sonar
• NEC OQQ-25 anti-submarine sonar (VDS/TASS)
• Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) for mine countermeasures
• Offensive sea mines

The introduction of the new-class FFM aims to bolster the JMSDF's capabilities, with the enhanced frigates featuring improved anti-aircraft and search functions, potentially elevating them to the status of missile frigates (FFG).

Additionally, the Royal Australian Navy has shortlisted the Mogami-class as one of four contenders for its next frigate, alongside Germany’s Meko A-200, South Korea’s Daegu class FFX Batch II and III, and Spain’s Navantia ALFA3000. Admiral Sakai Ryo of the JMSDF welcomed this selection, emphasizing the high trust and evaluation of Japanese naval equipment.

Indonesia Considers Chinese YJ-12E Anti-Ship Missiles Amid South China Sea Tensions

 Indonesia is reportedly contemplating the purchase of YJ-12E anti-ship missiles from China, as indicated by Malaysian media. The defense portal DefSecAsia.com noted Indonesia’s interest in acquiring these missiles, raising eyebrows given the ongoing maritime border dispute between Indonesia and China in the South China Sea. This potential acquisition might be driven by political motivations beyond mere defense enhancements.

The South China Morning Post cited Indonesian analysts suggesting that the arms deal could symbolize a strategic political gesture, reassuring China that Indonesia is not a threat. An Indonesian military expert drew parallels to Malaysia's purchase of Keris patrol boats from China, intended to convey a non-confrontational stance towards China.

Moreover, reports indicate that Indonesia is considering collaboration with China for the production of the YJ-12E missile. Previously, Indonesia has partnered with Turkey to procure Atmaca anti-ship missiles and is currently negotiating joint production with Turkey. Malaysia has followed Indonesia's lead by expressing interest in a partnership with Turkish aerospace manufacturer Roketsan to produce Atmaca missiles.

STM General Manager Özger Gülerüz confirmed that Roketsan will supply Atmaca missiles to Malaysia, making it the second ASEAN nation after Indonesia to acquire this technology. The Atmaca is a sophisticated anti-ship missile with a range of up to 200 kilometers, and Indonesia is set to receive 45 Atmaca missiles to enhance its naval defenses. These missiles will be deployed on Fatahillah-class, Parhum-class, and KCR FPB 57 corvettes, bolstering their capabilities against enemy ships.

While Atmaca missiles will be stationed on warships, the YJ-12E is intended for shore-based military posts. Indonesian military experts suggest that the Atmaca and YJ-12E will complement each other in national defense. Should Malaysia also procure the Atmaca, they might consider the YJ-12E due to the synergy between these systems.

The YJ-12E, an export variant of China's YJ-12, is a supersonic anti-ship missile designed to target large naval vessels, including aircraft carriers. Known for its speed and maneuverability, it poses a significant threat in maritime warfare. The missile measures approximately 6.3 meters in length and 0.76 meters in diameter, allowing it to carry a substantial warhead while maintaining a streamlined profile for high-speed travel.

Powered by a solid rocket booster for initial launch and a ramjet engine for sustained supersonic cruise, the YJ-12E can achieve speeds of up to Mach 3, performing evasive maneuvers to evade interception. It can be launched from various platforms, including aircraft, surface ships, and potentially land-based launchers, enhancing its operational flexibility.

Equipped with a high-explosive warhead, the YJ-12E is designed to inflict maximum damage upon impact. Its high speed increases the kinetic energy, enhancing its destructive capability. With an operational range of approximately 400 kilometers, the YJ-12E can engage targets from a considerable distance, providing a strategic advantage by keeping launch platforms out of enemy defense range.

Philippines Establishes First BrahMos Missile Base to Bolster South China Sea Defense

 

The Philippines has begun constructing its first BrahMos anti-ship missile base, strategically positioned at a naval installation facing the South China Sea. This development follows the country’s 2022 order of Indian supersonic cruise missiles, a key component of its defense modernization program aimed at updating its military capabilities amidst regional tensions with China. This $375 million deal under the Philippine Navy’s Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Acquisition Project includes three BrahMos missile batteries and technical support, marking the first international sale of this missile system and sparking interest from other nations like Vietnam and Indonesia.

Satellite images have revealed the construction of the BrahMos site at Philippine Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales, Western Luzon. The images show new infrastructure being built on land previously used for amphibious assault and coastal defense training, with only a shed for amphibious vehicles existing before the construction began in August 2022. By May 2024, the site features buildings similar to those at Indian BrahMos bases, including a high-bay facility for missile maintenance and testing, and a magazine bunker for storage. The Philippine base is smaller, reflecting the reduced capacity of the BrahMos systems ordered by Manila, which have two missiles per launcher compared to three on Indian launchers.

Construction continues on additional structures likely intended to house the missile launchers and other command and control facilities. While missile deliveries began in April, it’s unclear if the transporter-erector-launchers have arrived. The mobile BrahMos system allows for flexible deployment, enabling batteries to relocate and avoid enemy counterstrikes while striking targets up to 300 kilometers away, including the disputed Scarborough Shoal occupied by China.

Another potential BrahMos deployment site is Camp Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, home to the Philippine Marine Corps 4th Marine Brigade. Development plans here show structures similar to those at the Zambales base, suggesting future coastal defense deployments that would cover the Luzon Strait. The Coastal Defense Regiment, operating the BrahMos, has also received land donations in Lubang and Calayan, both strategic locations for coastal defense.

Former Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana emphasized BrahMos’ deterrent capabilities in defending Philippine sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Army is also considering procuring BrahMos and HIMARS systems in the next phase of military modernization, aiming to deploy more missile batteries for coastal defense. To support this high-end system, the Philippines has collaborated with the U.S. for training in modern systems and tactics, practicing combined networks to identify and strike maritime targets effectively.

Malaysia Secures Turkish Corvettes for LMS Batch 2 Project: Enhancing Naval Capabilities

 

On June 10, 2024, Malaysia signed a letter of acceptance (LOA) with the Turkish Defense Industry Agency (SSB) for the procurement of three Littoral Mission Ship (LMS) corvettes for the Royal Malaysian Navy. This announcement, made by the SSB Chief, finalizes negotiations between the two countries, initially reported during the Defense and Security Asia (DSA) 2024 exhibition held in Kuala Lumpur from May 6-9, 2024.

While details about the project timeline were not specified, SSB Chief Haluk Görgün confirmed that STM will construct the three ships in Turkey, tailored to meet the Royal Malaysian Navy's requirements. These ships will incorporate products from several Turkish defense industry companies, including HAVELSAN, ASELSAN, and ROKETSAN.

The announcement also highlighted a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Turkey and Malaysia regarding the procurement of defense products. This marks the first time Malaysia has signed a government-to-government (G2G) MoU for defense product procurement with another country.

“These significant meetings and agreements not only represent substantial progress in our defense industry cooperation but also herald a new era of strategic partnership between Turkey and Malaysia,” Görgün remarked.

Based on the MİLGEM corvette model displayed at the Malaysian Navy’s booth, the dimensions of the corvette for Malaysia are similar to the Turkish counterpart, with some configuration adjustments. The LMS Batch 2 Corvette will feature air defense missiles housed in 2×2-cell Vertical Launch Systems (VLSs) located in the aft mast area. The selected air defense missile is the Haegung (Sea Bow) Surface-to-Air Missile (SAAM) from South Korean company Lig NEX1, with 16 Haegung SAAMs onboard.

The Ada-class corvette, part of the MILGEM project, is Turkey’s first national shipbuilding initiative aimed at creating a modern littoral combat ship with indigenous anti-submarine warfare and high-seas patrol capabilities, utilizing stealth technology in its design.

The Ada-class Corvette is equipped to detect, locate, classify, identify, and destroy air, surface, and underwater targets, and provide Naval Gunfire Support. These corvettes are also adept at evading threats and performing maritime operations such as surveillance and patrol, protecting coastal areas and infrastructure, and monitoring Exclusive Economic Zones.

Designed to accommodate a 10-ton helicopter with platform, hangar, and extensive service and handling equipment, helicopter operations can be performed at sea state 4. A MILGEM corvette can house 106 sailors, including the flight crew, with a total accommodation capacity of 108.

The LMS Batch 2 corvettes are multipurpose vessels capable of executing a range of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and both surface-to-surface and surface-to-air warfare.

LMS Batch 2 Main Specifications:

• Displacement: 2,500 tonnes
• Length: 99.56 meters
• Beam: 14.42 meters
• Draft: 3.9 meters
• Propulsion: CODAG (1 GE LM2500 gas turbine and 2 diesel engines)
• Max Speed: 26 knots
• Range: 4,000 nautical miles at 14 knots
• Crew: 111
• Weaponry: 1x 76 mm gun; 2x 12.7mm STAMP; 8 × Atmaca; 21 × RAM; 30 mm Aselsan Smash; 4-cell quad pack Haegung SAM; Gökdeniz CIWS

China's Expanding 'Carrier Killer' Missiles: A Strategic Threat to US Naval Dominance

 In the midst of global tensions, China's military posturing towards Taiwan intensifies, paralleled by Russia's war against Ukraine. Recently, China's "Joint Sword – 2024A" exercises followed closely after Lai Ching-te's inauguration as Taiwan's President, whom Beijing labels a "separatist."

During these drills, warships patrolled near Taiwan's coast, signaling potential invasion threats that could disrupt the technology supply chain, trigger economic crises, and escalate to a US-China conflict. Beijing justified the drills as a response to Lai's assertion that Taiwan and China are "not subordinate to each other." Taiwan's defense forces tracked 49 Chinese aircraft, 19 naval ships, and 7 coast guard vessels near its waters, indicating the growing threat. Most of these ships were frigates and corvettes with lighter weapon loads.

As tensions rise, the US is preparing for potential conflict. A delegation of US lawmakers has shown support for Taiwan in response to China's extensive military drills. In April 2024, Rear Adm. Mike Studeman, a former US Navy intelligence leader, warned that China's military is preparing for an invasion or blockade of Taiwan within the next decade.

China insists that nations cannot maintain official relations with both China and Taiwan, leading Taiwan to have formal diplomatic ties with only a few countries. The US, while being Taiwan's most crucial ally, does not officially recognize Taiwan, adhering to the one-China principle.

Comparison of Naval Capabilities

As of 2024, China has the world's second-largest navy by total displacement, following the US Navy, and the largest number of active service ships. A report from the US Congressional Research Service highlights that China's navy is the largest in East Asia and surpassed the US Navy in battle force ships between 2015 and 2020. Currently, China has over 370 battle force platforms, including major surface combatants, submarines, amphibious ships, mine warfare ships, aircraft carriers, and fleet auxiliaries. By 2025, this force is projected to grow to 395 ships, reaching 435 by 2030.

China operates two aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, with the third and most advanced, the Fujian, starting sea trials in May 2024. In contrast, the US Navy had 292 battle force ships as of January 29, 2024, with a projected fleet of 290 ships by FY2030.

In a potential naval conflict, China would need to reposition military assets to its eastern coast and prepare for an invasion, while using its anti-ship firepower to keep US warships at bay. China's arsenal of anti-ship missiles (ASMs) is central to its strategy to deny US forces access to the Western Pacific.

China’s Anti-Ship Missiles (ASM)

China has significantly expanded its anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs), sometimes called "carrier killers." Key missiles in China’s arsenal include the YJ-12, YJ-18, YJ-83, DF-21, and DF-26.

YJ-83: A modern addition to China's anti-ship arsenal, deployed on surface ships and multirole aircraft. It’s a smaller, shorter-range missile typically housed in box launchers on Chinese frigates and corvettes.

YJ-18: A cruise missile for anti-ship and land-attack roles, derived from the Russian 3M-54E "Klub" missile, and the only widely deployed ASM that can be launched from vertical launch cells. It’s installed on large surface combatants and submarines.

YJ-12: Compatible with various platforms, including bombers and coastal launchers, the YJ-12 can engage warships from long distances.

DF-26: An Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) that provides high speed and long range, earning the "carrier killer" nickname. It can target beyond aircraft carriers.

DF-21D: A medium-range ballistic missile operational since 2012, designed specifically to target ships at sea, reaching speeds up to Mach 10 during the terminal phase.

China's anti-ship missile capabilities aim to deny US warships access to the region, leveraging Taiwan's proximity to offset American naval dominance.

Taiwan's Strategic Position

As tensions over Taiwan escalate, its strategic position within the "first island chain" becomes crucial. Controlling this link would bolster China's influence in the Western Pacific, challenge US dominance, and give Beijing control over Taiwan's semiconductor manufacturing industry. Given Taiwan's role in maritime trade routes and its semiconductor industry, neither the US nor its allies can afford to let Taiwan fall into Beijing's orbit.

Kongsberg Secures $141M Contract to Supply Joint Strike Missiles to USAF for F-35A Aircraft

 Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has secured an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) from the United States Air Force (USAF) for the provision of Joint Strike Missiles (JSM) for their F-35A aircraft. This contract is valued at up to $141 million, with deliveries scheduled to commence in 2026.

Expressing satisfaction with the deal, KONGSBERG highlighted the significance of the USAF, the largest operator of the F-35A Lightning II, choosing the JSM. The combination of the JSM with the advanced F-35 aircraft offers a robust strike capability, validating the JSM as the internal strike weapon for the F-35A. Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, noted that the USAF's selection of the JSM, alongside the Royal Norwegian Air Force's decision, supports NATO’s vision for interoperability among allied forces.

About the Joint Strike Missile (JSM):

The Joint Strike Missile (JSM) is an air-launched weapon designed for the internal weapons bay of the F-35A, capable of executing complex missions such as Anti-surface Warfare (ASuW) and land attacks. It targets high-value, well-defended assets on sea, in coastal waters, or on land. The JSM features sophisticated mission planning capabilities, allowing it to engage targets based on predefined Rules-of-Engagement.

The JSM was developed under a contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA). In 2021, the Norwegian Defense Material Agency successfully conducted the first in-flight release of the JSM from an F-35A test aircraft over Edwards Air Force Base. The JSM, an air-launched variant of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), is unique in its ability to attack both sea and land targets while being carried internally in the F-35, thus preserving the aircraft's stealth characteristics. Utilizing advanced materials, terrain-following capabilities, and passive seekers, the JSM is designed to be extremely difficult to detect and counter, even by the most sophisticated defense systems.

China Rapidly Constructs 10 Type 055 Destroyers in 48 Months, Equipping Each with 112 Missiles

 

In just four years, China's defense industry has impressively built and launched ten advanced Type 055 destroyers, each equipped with 112 vertical launch cells for anti-ship or anti-aircraft missiles. The first of these destroyers was launched in January 2020, with the eighth following by April 2023, averaging 2-3 destroyers per year.

This rapid production pace has not hindered the construction of other naval vessels, such as the Type 054 frigates, which are being built concurrently in shipyards in Shanghai and Guangzhou.

PLAAN's Versatile Asset

The Type 055, a class of guided missile destroyers developed for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), is among the largest and most advanced surface combatants globally. Designed for air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare, it is a versatile addition to the PLAN's fleet.

Technical Specifications

The Type 055 measures approximately 180 meters (590 feet) in length, 20 meters (66 feet) in beam, and has a draft of around 6.6 meters (22 feet), making it significantly larger than many contemporary destroyers. Its combined gas and gas (COGAG) propulsion system includes four QC-280 gas turbines, each generating 28 megawatts, enabling speeds up to 30 knots.

Advanced Features

The destroyer features a stealthy design with a smooth superstructure to minimize radar cross-section, an integrated mast housing various sensors and communication systems, and a hull optimized for hydrodynamic performance. It is equipped with advanced electronic systems, including the Type 346B AESA radar for air and surface search, the Type 518 L-band radar for long-range surveillance, and the H/LJG-346A sonar for anti-submarine warfare.

Extensive Armament

The Type 055's extensive armament includes a 130mm H/PJ-38 main gun, 112 vertical launch system (VLS) cells for firing HHQ-9 surface-to-air missiles, YJ-18 anti-ship missiles, and CJ-10 land-attack cruise missiles. It also features torpedo launchers, close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for point defense, and anti-submarine rockets, making it a well-rounded combat platform.

US Navy Conducts Test of AGM-158C-3 Anti-Ship Missiles: Ready for Deployment Against Chinese Naval Threats

The United States Navy recently conducted a significant test involving four AGM-158C-3 Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASMs), marking a milestone in the development of these stealth anti-ship weapons. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, hailed the event as a pivotal step forward in ensuring maritime security in the face of rising threats, particularly from China.

This test, part of the 12th Integrated Test Event, showcased the LRASM's formidable capabilities in terms of lethality, mission planning, and target integration. The successful demonstration met all objectives set by the US Navy, affirming the missile's readiness for deployment.

Lisbeth Vogelpohl, LRASM program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, emphasized the company's commitment to providing reliable and effective solutions to empower warfighters and ensure mission success.

The LRASM, belonging to the AGM-158 family, stands out for its lethal, long-range, and survivable features, making it a potent weapon against well-defended surface combatants. Its precision-guided technology allows it to engage a wide range of targets, including hostile ships, submarines, and land-based threats, with a minimum range of 200 nautical miles.

Derived from the AGM-158B JASSM-ER, the LRASM boasts advanced autonomous targeting capabilities, reducing reliance on external navigation systems in hostile environments. Its integration into various aircraft platforms, including the B-1B, F/A-18E/F, and upcoming F-35 and P-8 aircraft, underscores its versatility and strategic importance.

The US Air Force's multiyear acquisition plan for LRASMs reflects the growing recognition of its significance in countering Chinese naval aggression, particularly in potential conflicts involving Taiwan. With China's increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, long-range weapons like the LRASM are expected to play a crucial role in early-stage engagements, circumventing China's formidable anti-access/area-denial capabilities.

In addition to aircraft deployment, the LRASM's compatibility with the Mark 41 Vertical Launching System opens up possibilities for deployment on various US Navy warships, further enhancing its flexibility and reach.

As tensions escalate in the Indo-Pacific, the LRASM stands as a symbol of America's commitment to maritime security and readiness to confront emerging threats, ensuring a deterrent against potential adversaries like China. 

Japan Deploys First Surface-to-Ship Missile Unit to Counter Chinese Naval Threats

 Amid escalating tensions with China, Japan has taken a significant step in enhancing its maritime defense capabilities. The country recently deployed its inaugural surface-to-ship missile unit on Okinawa Island.

Okinawa’s central location in a chain of Japanese islands extending toward Taiwan makes it strategically vital for safeguarding Japan’s interests. Additionally, Okinawa plays a crucial role in the US defense framework in the region, hosting approximately 30,000 troops across all branches of the military.

The newly established surface-to-ship missile regiment is equipped with advanced Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missiles. Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, these missiles feature inertial guidance, GPS, and radar systems. Their current operational range spans between 200 and 400 kilometers. However, Japan has ambitious plans to extend this range to at least 1,000 kilometers by 2026.

The primary mission of this missile unit is to monitor Chinese military vessels navigating the waters between Okinawa and Miyako Island. Given China’s growing assertiveness in the region, Japan aims to maintain a vigilant watch over maritime activities.By closely tracking Chinese naval movements, Japan can respond swiftly to any potential threats and safeguard its territorial waters.

Japan’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities aligns with its ambitious $320 billion rearmament program, announced in 2022. The Type 12 system, introduced as a successor to the Type 88 missiles, began deployment in 2014.

Japan’s deployment of the surface-to-ship missile unit represents a proactive stance in countering potential threats and ensuring regional security. The Type 12 missiles, with their advanced technology and planned range extensions, play a crucial role in this defensive strategy.