China Threat Prompts Japan To Prepone Acquisition Of US Tomahawk & Type-12 Anti-Ship Missiles By 1 Year, Eurasian News reports

 Japan's Ministry of Defense (MoD) has accelerated the deployment of the upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile (SSM) from 2026 to 2025 to fortify its standoff defense capabilities amid rising military threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. The MoD signed a contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for the development and mass production of enhanced Type 12 SSMs, allocating JPY33.8 billion (US$235 million) in the 2023 budget. The total research and development cost is estimated at JPY150 billion. The extended-range Type 12 SSM, with a planned range of at least 900 kilometers, will feature a reduced radar cross-section for stealthiness.

Japan aims to have hypersonic standoff missiles in service within a decade and considers standoff missiles and drones crucial for its future defense. The decision to expedite the missile deployment aligns with Japan's National Defense Strategy, addressing the growing threats and geopolitical challenges posed by North Korea, China, and Russia. Additionally, the US has approved the sale of 400 advanced Tomahawk missiles and air-to-air missiles to Japan, reinforcing its deterrent capabilities and enhancing its counterstrike capabilities. The missiles will be deployed on Japan's F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, F-15J Eagles, and F-15DJ Eagles, as part of Tokyo's ongoing military modernization efforts to strengthen its defense against potential invasion and address evolving security concerns.

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https://www.eurasiantimes.com/china-threat-prompts-japan-to-prepone-acquisition-of/

Czech Republic wants to piggyback on German Leopard 2A8 tank buy, Defense News reports

 Czech Defence Minister Jana Černochová has revealed plans for joint negotiations with Germany to acquire Leopard 2A8 tanks, enhancing the procurement process in terms of pricing and delivery time. The collaboration is expected to yield clearer outcomes in the coming year. Previously, the Czech Republic donated T-72 tanks to Ukraine in 2022 and engaged in Berlin's "Ringtausch" program, receiving Leopard 2A4s to maintain combat capabilities. Negotiations for the purchase of up to 77 Leopard 2A8 tanks have been ongoing since July. Additionally, Černochová outlined military acquisition priorities, including the intention to finalize a deal for two C-390 Millennium aircraft from Embraer in 2024 and the imminent conclusion of a contract for 24 F-35s for the Czech Air Force within weeks. These procurement initiatives signify the Czech Republic's commitment to modernizing its military capabilities through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

Here is the link to the original article:

https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/12/20/czech-republic-wants-to-piggyback-on-german-leopard-2a8-tank-buy/

Greek Military Advancement: US Greenlights Black Hawk Helicopters Amidst Diplomatic Shifts and Turkish Fighter Jet Challenges

The United States has given the green light for the transfer of a significant military package to Greece, including 35 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and additional military equipment, with a total value of $1.95 billion. The announcement from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on December 15 highlights the depth of strategic cooperation between the two nations. This move is particularly noteworthy as it unfolds against the backdrop of Greece's substantial commitment to bolster its defense capabilities.

The comprehensive deal includes UH-60 M-type (Black Hawk) helicopters along with a range of military armaments such as miniguns, machine guns, rockets, advanced electronic suits, training programs, and logistical support. Lockheed Martin's subsidiary, Sikorsky, will serve as the principal contractor for this significant military transaction.

Greece's Defense Minister, Nikos Dendias, had earlier indicated the nation's intent to increase defense spending by approximately $12.62 billion over the next four years. This commitment aligns with a broader strategy for military modernization, encompassing various procurement initiatives. These include the upgrading of 37 F-16 Block 50 aircraft, the acquisition of at least 20 F-35 fighter jets, and the purchase of 18 Rafale fighter jets from French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation.

The recent agreement for the transfer of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters signifies a crucial step in Greece's efforts to enhance its military capabilities. The inclusion of advanced electronic suits and cutting-edge training programs underscores the nation's commitment to keeping pace with evolving defense technologies.

In a historic move on December 14, Greece and Turkey, longtime adversaries, announced their intention to rebuild their relationship. The two NATO partners outlined plans to strengthen trade volumes, address longstanding issues in the Aegean Sea, foster good neighborly relations, and explore military confidence-building measures. However, despite this diplomatic thaw, Greece's pursuit of advanced military capabilities continues, as evidenced by the approval of the Black Hawk helicopter deal.

On the other hand, Turkey faces challenges in its quest for F-16 fighter jets from the United States. The prolonged procedure for acquiring F-16 aircraft has led to frustration within the Erdogan administration. Turkey's urgent need for upgraded F-16s, both for practical and strategic reasons, is underscored by the aging state of its current fleet. The procurement of F-16s becomes crucial, especially given the unavailability of F-35 stealth fighters following US sanctions in 2019.

The intricacies of the F-16 acquisition process have prompted Turkey to explore alternatives, including talks with European states for Eurofighter Typhoon jets. Despite facing roadblocks, particularly with Germany's disapproval of the sale, Turkey remains determined to strengthen its air force. The geopolitical dynamics in the region and the delayed decision on F-16s have led to speculation that Ankara might consider turning to rivals Russia and China for its fighter jet requirements.

In summary, Greece's approval for the transfer of Black Hawk helicopters underlines its steadfast commitment to military modernization, while Turkey grapples with challenges in acquiring crucial F-16s from the United States, potentially reshaping the dynamics of military capabilities in the region.

F-35 Faces Significant Challenges in Block 4 Upgrades: Potential Production Shutdown Looms

The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program is encountering significant challenges in its Block 4 upgrades, raising concerns that delays could lead to a production shutdown. Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt, the program's executive officer, highlighted key issues related to hardware design maturity and software integration timelines, emphasizing the critical challenge of development and production concurrency. Block 4 upgrades aim to enhance the F-35's capabilities, allowing it to carry more weapons, improve target recognition, and enhance electronic warfare capabilities. Issues with concurrency, where development and procurement overlap, are complicating the integration process.

Schmidt emphasized that development and production concurrency pose the most critical challenge for Block 4. High-risk concurrency in the schedule could potentially halt aircraft production if development faces further delays. Lockheed Martin stated that some Block 4 capabilities have already been delivered ahead of schedule, including the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System and laser-guided GBU-49 bombs. The company did not directly address concerns about a potential production shutdown.

TR-3, a prerequisite for major Block 4 upgrades, is facing software problems, leading to delays. Schmidt mentioned slow production of key parts hindering the completion of new jets. The expected costs and timeline for Block 4 have increased over the years, with 80 capabilities costing $16.5 billion now anticipated to be completed by 2029. Jon Ludwigson from the Government Accountability Office cited evolving requirements and unrealistic expectations as contributing factors.

The program is actively working to eliminate concurrency problems and establish a realistic delivery schedule. A technical baseline review and evaluations by experts from the Navy and Air Force are underway to assess development risks, hardware maturity, and workforce skills. The program needs nine flight sciences aircraft for testing Block 4 upgrades, with resources currently available for three conversions. Congressional authorization is required to convert six more aircraft to meet program requirements.

In conclusion, the F-35 program is navigating challenges in its Block 4 upgrades, emphasizing the need for addressing concurrency issues, setting realistic expectations, and securing additional resources for essential testing. The potential for a production shutdown underscores the significance of overcoming these obstacles to ensure the continued advancement of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

Turkey's Fighter Jet Dilemma: Could JF-17 Block 3 be the Solution

 In the ever-evolving landscape of geopolitical tensions and defense strategies, Turkey finds itself at a crossroads in its pursuit of advanced fighter jets. Facing denials of F-16s from the United States and Eurofighter Typhoons from Germany, Turkey is now rumored to be considering the China-Pakistan co-developed JF-17 Block 3 as a potential alternative. This shift coincides with recent fighter jet acquisitions by its regional rival, Greece, further intensifying the complex dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey's quest for F-16s from the United States and Eurofighter Typhoons from Germany has encountered diplomatic hurdles, contributing to the nation's exploration of alternative options. Germany's reluctance to fulfill Turkey's request and the United States' denial of F-16s have left Ankara seeking other partners to meet its defense needs.

On the other side of the Aegean, Greece has been actively fortifying its air force capabilities. Recent acquisitions of F-16V Viper fighter jets from the United States and Dassault Rafale jets from France underscore Greece's commitment to modernizing its air fleet. The addition of these advanced aircraft enhances Greece's military posture and introduces cutting-edge technology to its arsenal.

Turkey, in response to Greece's strategic advancements, is exploring alternatives beyond traditional Western alliances. The potential consideration of the JF-17 Block 3 represents a departure from the established norms, signaling a willingness to diversify defense partnerships and explore options beyond the denied acquisitions.

The JF-17 Block 3, a collaborative effort between China and Pakistan, presents a cost-effective solution for Turkey, equipped with advanced avionics and weaponry. While not directly comparable to Western counterparts, the Block 3 variant is gaining attention for its capabilities, particularly in the context of Turkey's denied acquisitions and Greece's bolstered air force.

Turkey's potential shift towards the JF-17 Block 3 adds a layer of complexity to the geopolitical dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean. As Turkey seeks alternative defense partners, the move may impact regional power balances and influence diplomatic relationships.

In addition to the JF-17 Block 3, Turkey has other noteworthy alternatives on its radar. The Russian-made Su-57 and Su-35, along with the Chinese J-10C, emerge as potential choices for Ankara. This consideration adds an intriguing dimension to the geopolitical landscape, as operating Russian or Chinese jets would mark a departure for a NATO member. It is worth noting that Turkey already operates the Russian S-400 Air Defense System, a move that led to its expulsion from the F-35 program.