Lockheed Martin Battles for Indian Air Force Transport and Fighter Jet Contracts Against Airbus and Embraer

 Lockheed Martin, a major U.S. defense contractor, is fiercely competing for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) transport and fighter jet aircraft contracts. For the transport aircraft, Lockheed Martin is up against Airbus and Embraer.

The IAF’s transport aircraft have been crucial for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations within India and internationally. They also play a vital role in the logistics and movement of Indian armed forces, especially in the Himalayan regions. Historically, the Ilyushin Il-76MD and Antonov An-32 aircraft have been the mainstay for almost 40 years. The recent additions of the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J-30 have extended India’s reach and payload capacity.

As India progresses towards becoming the third-largest economy, its global commitments necessitate an upgrade in the IAF’s transport capabilities. Older aircraft are nearing retirement, prompting the IAF to seek new transport aircraft with an 18 to 30-ton cargo capacity. Contenders include Embraer’s C-390, Lockheed Martin’s C-130J, and the Airbus A400M Atlas.

Currently, the IAF operates a 17-aircraft fleet of Ilyushin Il-76MDs, 105 Antonov An-32 aircraft, 12 Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, and 12 Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules. The older HS-748 aircraft are being replaced by the Airbus C-295MW.

The Indo-Russian Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) project, initiated in 2009, aimed to replace the An-32 but has faced delays and technical issues, with Russia continuing the project alone. The Ilyushin Il-276, a potential outcome of this project, is expected to begin flight testing in 2023.

In December 2022, the IAF issued a Request for Information (RFI) for a new transport aircraft with an 18 to 30-ton capacity, extending the submission deadline to March 31, 2024. The RFI emphasizes technology transfer, indigenization, and establishing a manufacturing line in India.

The contenders for the contract are:

1. Airbus A400M Atlas: A four-engine turboprop aircraft capable of carrying 37 tons and performing various roles, including medical evacuation and aerial refueling.
2. Embraer C-390 Millennium: A twin-engine, jet-powered aircraft with a 26-ton payload, suitable for multiple missions and known for its operational flexibility and low costs.
3. Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules: A four-engine turboprop with a 19-ton payload, already in service with the IAF and known for its reliability and performance.

The evaluation process will consider technical specifications, life cycle costs, technology transfer levels, and potential for local manufacturing. The decision will also account for the aircraft's ability to operate from short, rough airstrips and support high-altitude operations.

India's defense acquisition processes are often lengthy, but the need for modernizing the IAF’s transport fleet is urgent to avoid capability gaps. Lockheed Martin, Airbus, and Embraer are all well-acquainted with India, with each offering distinct advantages and extensive collaboration history.

Lockheed Martin, in particular, is also pitching its F-21 fighter aircraft to the IAF, emphasizing its long-term presence in India and integration of Indian suppliers into its global supply chain. Airbus, with its significant civil aviation footprint in India, and Embraer, known for its advanced technologies and collaborations, are formidable competitors in this high-stakes battle for IAF contracts.

Canada Begins Construction on New Warship Fleet for Royal Navy, Targeting 2035 Operational Date

 

The Royal Canadian Navy has commenced the construction of a new fleet of warships, with the vessels projected to be operational by 2035, according to service and government officials.

Vice Admiral Angus Topshee, commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, and Defence Minister Bill Blair announced on Friday that the construction work for the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) Project has started at Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Irving Shipbuilding will serve as the prime contractor for the project, with Lockheed Martin Canada providing the design based on the BAE Type 26.

This project involves the construction of 15 warships to replace the existing Halifax-class frigates, which the navy will classify as destroyers. “Today, we launch construction on the largest Canadian shipbuilding project since the Second World War, marking a historic milestone for the Royal Canadian Navy,” Blair stated at a news conference in Halifax.

The construction timeline for the CSC is extensive, with the first ship expected to be delivered in the early 2030s, followed by a testing phase. Consequently, the ship will not be operational until 2035. The schedule anticipates the delivery of nine CSC ships by 2040, with the final vessel arriving in 2050.

A senior government official emphasized the urgency of acquiring the new ships due to ongoing maintenance issues with the aging Halifax-class frigates. The official also reassured that technological advancements would be incorporated over time, enhancing the ships' capabilities. Upgrades for the Halifax-class frigates are also planned, although specific details and costs were not provided.

Former assistant deputy minister for materiel at National Defence, Alan Williams, expressed concerns over the incomplete CSC design and undetermined final budget, warning that the lengthy delivery schedule could lead to complications. He noted that the combined costs of the CSC, F-35 procurement, and modernization of NORAD systems might limit funds for other major procurements.

The Department of National Defence has budgeted the CSC project between CAD $56-60 billion, but a 2022 report by Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux estimated the cost at CAD $84 billion. A final cost figure is expected by late 2024 or early 2025.

The initial construction phase will allow Irving workers to develop and test building techniques for the ships. An implementation contract for the project is expected to be signed by the end of the year, allowing for full-rate production to begin in 2025.

Vice Admiral Topshee described the commencement of initial work on the CSC as “a clear sign of tangible progress towards our future fleet.”

India and US Discuss Co-Producing Javelin Anti-Tank Missiles Amid Rising Military Cooperation

 A key weapon in Ukraine’s military arsenal, the shoulder-fired Javelin anti-armor weapon, might soon be co-produced in India if ongoing talks between New Delhi and Washington are successful. During a recent visit to India by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, the two countries discussed various joint production proposals, including Javelin anti-tank missile systems for the Indian Army.

The Javelin, produced by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, is a 46-pound, shoulder-fired weapon capable of penetrating any tank or mobile vehicle on the battlefield, and it can also down helicopters. The Indian Army has been seeking shoulder-fired ATGMs for almost a decade, and if discussions proceed, a local partner will be identified to establish a manufacturing plant in India.

Operated by a two-soldier team, the Javelin fires a heat-seeking missile with a range of up to 2.5 miles. Known as a “fire and forget” system, it allows soldiers to seek cover immediately after firing. The Javelin is named for its ability to strike tanks from above, like a spear, and can also directly target low-flying helicopters.

To address its anti-armor weapon needs, the Indian Army acquired Spike ATGMs from Israel in 2020 to counter Chinese aggression. Recently, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army test-fired a man-portable anti-tank guided missile (MPATGM) system at the Pokhran field firing range in Rajasthan.

On April 14, 2024, the Indian Ministry of Defence announced that the MPATGM system—comprising missiles, a tripod-mounted command launch unit, a target acquisition system, and a fire-control unit—was field-evaluated in various configurations to validate its technology.

The Pentagon has supplied more than 10,000 Javelin systems to Ukraine, where experts believe the weapon significantly helped Ukrainian light infantry against Russian mechanized forces. The FGM-148 Javelin costs about $176,000 each. In August 2023, Lockheed Martin announced plans to nearly double Javelin production from 2,100 to nearly 4,000 units per year by 2026.

India and the US are discussing several joint defense projects. Previously, EurAsian Times reported a proposal to co-produce Stryker armored vehicles in India after an initial off-the-shelf purchase via the Foreign Military Sales route. However, none of these deals have been finalized yet.

Indian company Larsen and Toubro has partnered with France’s MBDA to develop missiles and weapon systems in India, including fifth-generation anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM5s), missiles for coastal batteries, and high-speed target drones. The prototype, showcased as ATGM-5 at DefExpo in Chennai, will be produced in India with complete technology transfer.

The Indian Army is actively enhancing its firepower to counter threats from both its eastern and western borders. In June 2023, it issued a Request for Information (RFI) for acquiring 5,000 fire-and-forget missiles and 500 launcher systems to be mounted on license-built BMP-2/2K ‘Sarath’ Infantry Combat Vehicles. The RFI specifies that the ATGMs should support top and direct attack modes, with the capability to penetrate at least 650 mm rolled homogeneous armor equivalent (RHAe) and explosive reactive armor (ERA).

Currently, the Indian Army uses the French-made MILAN 2T ATGM for light anti-armor warfare, capable of destroying targets up to 2 kilometers away. Another widely used system is the Russian-made 9M133 Kornet ATGM, which targets heavy armor. The Army also maintains a large stockpile of the 9M113 Konkurs system, known in NATO circles as the ‘AT-5 Spandrel’.

Additionally, India has developed an indigenous third-generation ATGM called Nag, which employs infrared homing and millimetric wave active-radar homing technologies. Nag has three versions: a vehicle-mounted version (based on the Namica launcher), a heliborne version (HeliNa), and a man-portable version (MP-ATGM).

White House Prioritizes Air Defense Interceptors for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

 

The United States has moved Ukraine to the top of the list for receiving air defense interceptors, a vital weapon for Ukraine’s self-defense. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby announced this adjustment during a briefing, describing it as a “difficult but necessary” decision. In the short term, Patriot and NASAMS interceptors initially destined for other countries will be redirected to Ukraine.

Kirby mentioned that this would delay deliveries to other countries currently awaiting these interceptors. However, Ukraine is expected to receive hundreds of these air defense weapons by the end of summer, which should suffice for the next 16 months. After this period, the countries waiting for their interceptors will start receiving their orders.

Kirby clarified that these countries will still receive their ordered missiles, but the delivery will be delayed. He did not specify which countries would face delays but assured that Taiwan and Israel would not be affected.

Lockheed Martin, fully funded by the U.S. Army, is producing 550 PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles annually and reached a production rate of 500 per year in December 2023. Although the Army has not funded further increases, Lockheed has internally invested to produce 650 interceptors annually. In 2023, Lockheed signed six letters of approval with international customers.

Nineteen countries currently use the Raytheon-made Patriot system, and this customer base is expanding. Switzerland purchased five batteries and 75 missiles in November 2022, and Romania plans to buy more units. Additionally, at least two other European countries are close to announcing Patriot purchases, with Slovakia and Germany showing interest.

This decision marks one of the most significant measures the U.S. has taken to support Ukraine since the full-scale war with Russia began two years ago. Pentagon leaders have prioritized air defense for countries backing Kyiv, as evidenced by recent actions. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of air defense during a June press conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels, following a meeting of countries coordinating support for Ukraine.

Reports indicated that the U.S. was sending another Patriot system to Ukraine, though neither Austin nor Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown confirmed this. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in June that his country needs seven Patriot systems. Germany and the Netherlands have committed to sending Patriot systems, and other countries have pledged different air defense systems like NASAMS.

Austin noted that Ukraine needs various capabilities, not just Patriots, and the interceptors to support them. Despite their importance, air defense batteries and interceptors are in short supply. The U.S. and its allies have been sourcing extra weapons to support Ukraine amid drone and missile attacks. This recent decision highlights the tight supply chain for these systems, leading to a reordering rather than an expansion of capacity.

Tom Karako, an air defense expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, emphasized the need to expand inventory, noting that funds meant to increase capacity from the April national security supplemental haven’t been spent yet. This package includes around $48 billion for military aid to Ukraine, though the amount for air defense isn’t specified.

Kirby did not detail which countries would be affected by the reshuffle but assured that Washington would minimize delays. He acknowledged that each country’s circumstances would differ based on their orders and self-defense needs.

Thailand's Fighter Jet Decision: Boeing F-16, SAAB Gripen, or Korean FA-50?

 Thailand is considering acquiring a new fourth-generation fighter aircraft, with options including the Boeing F-16 and SAAB Gripen. Now, the South Korean contractor Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has thrown its hat into the ring, proposing its FA-50 light fighter aircraft to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF).

KAI's proposal comes in response to an informal request for proposals (RFP) from the RTAF, aiming to replace aging Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs. While the FA-50 offers advanced capabilities at a lower cost and with timely delivery, the RTAF had initially shown interest in fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

The FA-50, an export success for KAI, boasts features such as Tactical Data Link and Precision Guided Munitions. It has been actively deployed by the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) since 2013 and has garnered significant orders from countries like Poland and Malaysia.

Despite initial interest in the F-35, the RTAF aims to bolster its air power with potent fighter jets. The competition now includes the F-16 Block 70/72 Viper and SAAB Gripen-E, both offering advanced capabilities in their generation.

With the entry of the FA-50 into the contest, the RTAF faces a three-way decision, potentially reshaping its evaluation process and strategic considerations.

Enhancing F-35s for Combat: Innovative Approaches to Maintenance

Amidst the bustling activity at the U.S. Navy's largest jet base, efforts are underway to maximize the readiness of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and the expanding fleet of F-35C Joint Strike Fighters. However, concerns persist regarding the availability of F-35Cs for missions and the escalating costs associated with sustaining these aircraft.

Unlike traditional military aircraft programs, the F-35 program relies heavily on Lockheed Martin for various aspects of maintenance and management. This arrangement, overseen by the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO), has limited the Navy's control over ensuring readiness. To address this challenge, the Joint Strike Fighter Wing in Lemoore is adopting innovative strategies drawn from the successful maintenance practices of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets.

Following a data-driven initiative called Naval Sustainment System-Aviation, which propelled Super Hornet readiness rates to surpass 80%, the Joint Strike Fighter Wing is collaborating with F/A-18 counterparts to implement similar practices. By enhancing data collection and communication efforts, the Navy aims to improve F-35C readiness and reduce costs.

Despite these efforts, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighted maintenance challenges and spare parts availability issues within the F-35 program. Unlike other aircraft programs, the F-35 lacks intermediate-level maintenance, leading to additional workload on squadrons and delays in repair times.

To address these issues, the Navy is seeking to increase its involvement in maintenance operations and streamline communication between stakeholders. By leveraging data-driven insights and adopting proven practices, the Navy aims to optimize F-35 sustainment and mitigate cost overruns.

However, challenges persist, including parts availability fluctuations and delays in standing up depot repair capabilities. The Navy is closely monitoring these issues and collaborating with industry partners to find sustainable solutions.

Amidst budget constraints, maintaining F-35C readiness is critical for naval aviation operations. Efforts to minimize mishaps, address corrosion issues, and empower squadrons to conduct maintenance are underway to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Looking ahead, the Navy and Air Force are exploring unmanned wingmen as a cost-effective solution to supplement combat aircraft capacity. Despite setbacks, the F-35 remains a vital asset in the Indo-Pacific theater, underscoring the importance of addressing readiness challenges and learning from past experiences for future programs.

F-35A Lightning II Stealth Fighter Cleared for Thunderstorm Flights: Latest Updates

 In a significant development, the F-35A Lightning II, previously restricted from flying near thunderstorms due to lightning concerns, has reportedly been cleared for such operations. While the F-35Cs and F-35Bs were exempt from the ban, the conventional take-off and landing variant of the F-35 faced restrictions within 25 miles of lightning. However, recent reports suggest that the Pentagon has lifted these restrictions after implementing hardware and software fixes for the lightning protection system.

According to statements from the Joint Program Office (JPO) spokesperson Russ Goemaere, the Defense Department formally withdrew the lightning restrictions on March 19, following the development of fixes for the F-35A aircraft. However, details regarding the number of modified F-35As and their readiness for operations in inclement weather remain undisclosed and unverified.

Despite its designation as an "all-weather" aircraft, the F-35A had been prohibited from flying in lightning conditions, posing operational challenges. Issues with the On-board Inert Gas Generation System (OBIGGS) led to the ban in 2020 after damage to one of the system's components was discovered during routine maintenance. The remedial measures involved strengthening brackets associated with OBIGGS tubes to prevent vibrations and enhance safety.

The removal of lightning restrictions marks a significant milestone after years of development and testing. The coordinated efforts between Lockheed Martin and the Department of Defense (DoD) have resulted in hardware and software upgrades to the OBIGGS system, ensuring safe operations in thunderstorms. With extensive testing and analysis confirming the system's reliability, the F-35A can now operate near thunderstorms with reduced restrictions, enhancing its operational flexibility and capabilities.

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.