Does the shift in role for the Leonardo C-27J Spartans now mean the RAAF has an airlift capability it cannot take to war?
Nigel Pittaway | Melbourne
In an online story posted on July 25, Defence revealed it has redefined the role of its twin-engine Leonardo C-27J Spartan to ‘enhance response and engagements’ by focussing on Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR), crisis response and regional engagements across the Indo-Pacific.
The redefined role for the Spartan is in response to Defence’s review of the aircraft, referred to in an Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) report into major Defence projects in 2019-2020, and the role for which it was originally acquired, Battlefield Airlift, is no longer mentioned. Instead, the aircraft is now being referred to more broadly as a Light Tactical fixed-wing aircraft.
Ten C-27Js were acquired under Project Air 8000 Phase 2 (Battlefield Airlift Capability) and the first aircraft arrived in Australia in June 2015. However, after six years in service the aircraft still has not achieved Final Operational Capability (FOC) and this is now not expected to occur until the end of the 2021/2022 financial year.
Credit: Nigel Pittaway
In January Defence said that even at FOC, several ‘residual activities’ will need to be completed, including delivery of training equipment, remediation of its Missile Approach and Warning System (MAWS) capability and completion of a C-27J Structural Substantiation Program. The aircraft has also reportedly suffered from poor availability rates since introduction, largely due to sustainment and supply chain issues.
“C-27J FOC was not achieved in December 2019 (a rescheduled date, the aircraft was originally expected to be fully operational in 2017) due to challenges and complications with completing the full scope of the original capability acquisition,” the spokesperson said. “As highlighted in the recent ANAO report into major projects, Air Force conducted a review of the C-27J Spartan throughout 2020. This whole-of-capability review assessed FOC in terms of overall project affordability, schedule, technical risk, delivered and residual capability, impact to industry, supportability and reputation.”
The ‘enhanced’ HADR role is one which the C-27J has undertaken since new, notably during the recent ‘Bushfire Assist’ support to eastern Australia, so what has changed to make it more effective in the role?
This week ADM asked Defence this and other questions, including whether the C-27J was still supporting the battlefield airlift role; if not, what capability (or capabilities) had replaced it in that role; what its cost per flying hour was and what the aircraft’s long-term future in RAAF service now looks like.
“The C-27J remains a credible and capable part of Defence capability as a Light Tactical Fixed Wing aircraft focussed on near region operations,” a Defence spokesperson said in a written response on July 28. “Redefining the role of the Spartan will ensure Defence delivers an airlift capability that meets the ADF’s operational requirements on time and within budget. Within the redefined role, the Spartan system is fit for purpose and is expected to achieve FOC by the end of the Financial Year 2021/2022.”
It is unclear what ‘on time and within budget’ means in this context, with the capability now at least five years later than originally planned when Air 8000 Phase 2 achieved Second Pass approval in 2012. With regard to cost per flying hour the spokesperson added, “Spartan sustainment is continuing to mature, including collaboration with Australian industry. As the system is still maturing, it would be premature at this point to provide a definitive cost per flying hour.”
It is also unclear if the MAWS remediation work, vital for the battlefield airlift role, will still continue, as Defence did not specifically answer ADM’s question on the subject. Does the shift in role now mean the RAAF has an airlift capability it cannot take to war?
“The C-27J is being used to conduct operations in support of National Security objectives, and is proving to be a capability that bridges the gap between the (Army) CH-47F Chinook and the C-130J-30 Hercules,” the spokesperson said.
“The aircraft provided valuable support to Operation Bushfire Assist, where it was able to conduct missions into airfields inaccessible by larger aircraft. The C-27J Spartan continues to support Australia’s national interest in the South West Pacific and near region (and) is ready to expand this tasking in support of our neighbours.”
It is perhaps worth noting that Defence has recently received the first two of four additional CH-47F Chinooks, acquired under a rapid Foreign Military Sales acquisition from the US Government. The Chinook performs a similar battlefield lift capability to the C-27J, albeit with the advantages and disadvantages inherent in a rotary-wing platform, and the four additional aircraft will bring the fleet to 14 helicopters.
Project P-75 (I) will follow on from completion of the ongoing Project 75, in which MDL has been licence-building six Kalvari (Scorpene)-class SSKs in collaboration with Naval Group. (Wikimedia)
India has issued a Request for Proposals for the construction of six diesel-electric attack submarines.
Julian Kerr | Sydney
India has issued a Request for Proposals (RfP) for the construction of six diesel-electric attack submarines (SSKs) in which two shortlisted domestic shipyards must each enter into a strategic partnership with one of five overseas original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) before bidding for a contract valued at about A$7.82 billion.
The classified RFP for Project 75 (I) issued on 20 July requires state-owned company Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) and private-sector firm Larsen & Toubro to partner with either Naval Group (France), ThyssenKrupp Systems (Germany), Rubin Design Bureau (Russia), Darwoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (South Korea), or Navantia (Spain).
The P-75 (I) program was initially approved by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in 2007 and then again in 2022 and is the first such project proceeding under the Strategic Partnership (SP) category of India’s Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020.
Describing the five OEMs as the world leaders in the field of conventional submarine design, construction and all other related technologies, the MoD said the OEMs would transfer technologies to enable the establishment of dedicated manufacturing lines for the new submarines “and make India the global hub for submarine design and production”.
The project also envisages associated shore and engineering support, together with training and spares packages.
The SSKs will be fitted with contemporary equipment and sensors, fuel cell-based air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems and feature advanced torpedoes, modern missiles and state-of-the-art countermeasure systems, the MoD said.
According to one unconfirmed report, indigenisation will include arming the SSKs with the Indian-developed Brahmos medium-range supersonic cruise missile.
Indian media said final selection and contract signature would take at least two years, with delivery of the first-of-type around 2030.
Project P-75 (I) will follow on from completion of the ongoing Project 75 in which MDL has been licence-building six 1,775-tonne (when submerged) Kalvari (Scorpene)-class SSKs in collaboration with Naval Group.
All six Kalvari-class boats are expected to be in service by early 2023.
The robots to be replaced have not been confirmed by Defence but are understood to comprise the Dragon Runner (light); Talon (medium); and tEODOR (heavy) unmanned ground systems. (Defence)
A Request for Tender involving the replacement of Remote Positioning Vehicles used by the ADF across all three services in anti-IED operations was released by Defence on 25 July.
Julian Kerr | Sydney
A Request for Tender (RfT) involving the replacement of Remote Positioning Vehicles (RPVs) used by the ADF across all three services in anti-improvised explosive device (IED) operations was released by Defence on 25 July.
The RfT, closing on 16 September, says the current fleet of RPVs is reaching life-of-type and is experiencing supportability problems. The requirement involves 40 light RPVs, 80 medium RPVs, and 30 heavy RPVs.
The new equipment will be acquired under Project Land 154 Phase 4. This is delivering counter-IED capability across the joint force in force protection electronic countermeasures; search; neutralisation; and exploitation segments. The RPVs will form part of the neutralisation capability.
Performance trials for selected tenderers will take place in January-February 2022, with contract execution in November 2022 and delivery by October 2023, the RfP states.
The robots to be replaced have not been confirmed by Defence but are understood to comprise the Dragon Runner (light); Talon (medium); and tEODOR (heavy) unmanned ground systems.
The factory will use 'state-of-the-art equipment', including a 1200-tonne hot forging press, to produce advanced 155mm calibre projectiles for the ADF as well as export markets. (Supplied)
The factory will use 'state-of-the-art equipment', including a 1200-tonne hot forging press, to produce advanced 155mm calibre projectiles for the ADF as well as export markets.
Fifteen months after workers broke ground on a bare 23ha parcel of dirt at the Moonaboola Industrial Estate, construction is finally complete on the new Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions artillery shell forging plant.
The factory will use 'state-of-the-art equipment', including a 1200-tonne hot forging press, to produce advanced 155mm calibre projectiles for the ADF as well as export markets.
Australian company BADGE Constructions led the building phase for the $60m project which has had multi-level government backing with a $28.5m injection from the Federal Government’s Regional Growth Fund on top of $7.5m from the Queensland Government’s Regional Jobs and Investment Fund.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce joined Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions representatives for a tour of the plant today, and Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien, who drove the push for Commonwealth funding, welcomed the project update.
“We began work in Canberra three years ago on bringing this project to Maryborough, so today our region can share in RNM’s pride to finally see the concept become a reality,” O’Brien said.
Deputy PM Joyce said the project had delivered immediate and long-term jobs for the region.
More than 590 site inductions for workers were undertaken during the construction phase with just over 60 contracts placed for goods and services. The Wide Bay region and Southeast Queensland won 55 contracts, accounting for 98 per cent of the project spend.
The admin office and entry foyer to the 7000sqm facility was constructed using locally grown timber from Maryborough-based Hyne Timber.
When fully operational in 2022 the plant will have the capacity to produce 30,000 shell cases per year with a workforce of up to 100 from line supervisors, skilled operators, maintenance staff, labourers and apprentices.
NIOA CEO and Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions Deputy Chairman Robert Nioa said the factory would bolster the local economy while delivering true sovereign industrial capability.
Australia currently imports artillery shell cases from overseas for use by the Army in both training and combat.
“From concept to completion, it’s been two years, so it is very exciting to see the end result. It is a magnificent-looking building, and we can all be proud of this,” Nioa said.
“RNM is committed to playing a key role as regional economies recover from the pandemic while producing the best equipment for the ADF and supporting government at all levels in their endeavours to create new domestic manufacturing opportunities in the defence sector.”
Rheinmetall Waffe Munitions Chief Executive Officer and Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions Chairman Roman Koehne said the projectile plant would combine the best of global and local expertise in advanced military manufacturing.
“We are delighted to reach this significant milestone,” Koehne said. “’Together with our long-term partners at NIOA we are a step closer to developing a highly qualified local workforce, capable of producing world-leading munitions.”
Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions Project Manager Jeff Crabtree said the building completion was a “fantastic achievement” by the whole team.
The next stage will be the factory fit-out, followed by the commissioning, then first article production, commencing early 2022.
Munitions and small arms research, design, development and manufacture has been identified as one of the federal government’s top 10 Sovereign Industrial Capability Priorities.
The acquisition will allow Elementum 3D to offer more capabilities within its current services by expanding into metal cold spray technology.
Elementum 3D, an additive manufacturing (AM) research and development company that specialises in the creation of advanced metals, composites, and ceramics, has acquired cold spray metal 3D printing technology developed by SPEE3D.
The acquisition will allow Elementum 3D to offer more capabilities within its current services by expanding into metal cold spray technology.
With the investment, a WarpSPEE3D metal 3D printer will become the latest tool for Elementum 3D to advance its current additive manufacturing capability. The WarpSPEE3D is SPEE3D’s large-format cold spray metal 3D printing machine able to build multiple components at once up to 1000mm x 700mm in diameter and has the capacity to print 30 tons of metal parts per year.
This acquisition enables Elementum 3D to now offer a 'rapid and cost-effective solution' for customers who require metal parts for applications such as defence, mining, oil and gas, aerospace, automotive industries, and more.
“Our revolutionary RAM technology and AM expertise is helping meet the 3D printing industry's ever-growing demand for a greater selection of printable materials. We are confident the acquisition of SPEE3D’s technology will be an excellent addition to our current capabilities. Developing and applying Elementum 3D materials to SPEE3D’s cold spray printers is a major step forward towards our goal to offer customers a comprehensive range of AM solutions,” Dr. Jacob Nuechterlein, CEO of Elementum 3D, said.
Leveraging cold spray technology, SPEE3D’s metal 3D printers run at a supersonic speed 100 to 1000 times faster compared to traditional metal 3D printing methods. They can produce industrial quality metal parts in minutes, rather than days or weeks.
Through SPEE3D’s recent Australian Army field trials, the company says it is the world’s only proven deployable metal 3D printing technology.
“We are very excited about partnering with such a pioneering company such as Elementum 3D. Their additive manufacturing and material expertise will help to bring cold spray additive manufacturing to the forefront and quite literally change the way parts are manufactured in several industries,” Byron Kennedy, CEO of SPEE3D, said.
“SPEE3D is honoured to be involved in Elementum 3D’s advanced materials research and development. SPEE3D’s cold spray fabrication technology provides a significantly increased scope for advanced materials development as the material is not melted during the print process," Steven Camilleri, CTO of SPEE3D, said.
Schiebel is currently under contract with the RAN, which operates several Schiebel systems at 822X Squadron, Nowra. (RAN)
The Royal Australian Navy has awarded Schiebel with a three-year extension contract for the sustainment of its Camcopter S-100.
The Royal Australian Navy has awarded Schiebel with a three-year extension contract for the sustainment of its Camcopter S-100. The extension allows the RAN to continue to experiment and develop knowledge using the S-100.
After winning the RAN contract back in 2016, Schiebel has built on its initial acquisition contract resulting in this substantial extension. The contract includes field support services, engineering and logistics elements, as well as the creation of a sovereign Australian Camcopter S-100 training capability delivered by Schiebel Pacific.
“For Schiebel Pacific the contract extension secures existing Australian jobs and will create further positions for Australian Unmanned Air System (UAS) experts," Hans Georg Schiebel, Chairman of the Schiebel Group, said. "We are immensely proud that we were able to convince with our Camcopter S-100."
The RAN currently operates several Schiebel systems at 822X Squadron, Nowra.
The Camcopter S-100 holds an impressive track record of supporting naval customers, with missions successfully completed on over 40 different ships on all the world’s oceans.
Adelaide-based Silentium Defence has secured a $7.4 million contract from Defence to supply its MAVERICK M-series passive radar system to the Australian Army for capability development and evaluation activities.
Adelaide-based Silentium Defence has secured a $7.4 million contract from Defence to supply its MAVERICK M-series passive radar system to the Australian Army for capability development and evaluation activities.
Silentium’s MAVERICK M-series is a high-performance, low-power, soldier-portable, covert radar system for air defence, land, and maritime surveillance.
“The battlespace continues to evolve, and we see greater penetration of new, unmanned aerial systems alongside traditional threats that put our troops, operations, and assets in harm’s way," Dr James Palmer, CEO Silentium Defence said.
“Comprehensive situational awareness with sufficient time to act has never been more critical.
“Our MAVERICK M-series passive radar system, designed in collaboration with Defence provides that awareness without compromise. This is true world class technology, developed right here in Australia.”
A complementary or replacement technology to traditional surveillance systems, MAVERICK M-series passive radars use existing energy in the environment (e.g. broadcast television signals) as their transmission source. As it does not emit, it does not highlight the user’s presence or create a radiation hazard, making it quick, safe, and easy to deploy, even in densely populated environments.
Unlike traditional active radar systems, passive radar does not require spectrum allocation to operate which makes it more cost effective to deploy in a world where spectrum is increasingly expensive and elusive to secure.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison previewed Aquaterro’s refurbishment and SPPE capabilities during his visit to Aquaterro Headquarters in May 2021. (Aquaterro)
Melbourne-based company Aquaterro has won a $35 million contract to refurbish and upgrade the ADF's combat helmets.
Melbourne-based company Aquaterro has won a $35 million contract to refurbish and upgrade the ADF's combat helmets.
The five-year deal with Aquaterro, the prime contractor for Land 125 Phase 3B Tiered Combat Helmet Program, is expected to create 10 highly skilled, technical jobs at the company in Melbourne’s south-east.
It is the first time the tiered combat helmet built by US company Team Wendy has been refurbished outside the US.
The helmet provides the men and women of the ADF with protection against ballistic, fragmentation and blunt force trauma, incorporating a ballistic protection shell, suspension and retention systems, and accessory mounts and rails.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price congratulated Aquaterro for winning the $7 million a year contract, which has seen it establish Australia’s first combat helmet refurbishment and upgrade program.
“This program will extend the life of the Australian Defence Force’s existing fleet of tiered combat helmets by five years, and most importantly, will ensure our soldiers are protected on operations,” Minister Price said.
“Companies like Aquaterro are building robust domestic supply chains that we can rely on.
“Aquaterro’s work in establishing this program will help ensure the ADF has the best available capability to defend Australia and its national interests.”
With the majority of required spare parts manufactured in Australia, work on the helmets started in July at Aquaterro’s recently expanded purpose-built facility in Pakenham.
As of July, Aquaterro unveiled the completion of “Building 2” on its Aquaterro Defence Precinct in Pakenham. This dedicated Integrated Soldier Systems Centre on over 3000 square metres of industrial land is adjacent to the company’s headquarters property, which will accommodate the Armour Technical Inspection and Refurbishment Workshop.
Aquaterro says that its facility will continue to enable the ongoing development and production of operationally relevant Integrated Soldier Systems and Small Arms programs capability for Australia’s defence industry.
Australian Army forward observer Gunner Zeke Barker, from the 8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, uses the Sophie-MF long-range thermal imager to provide battlefield commentary as part of Exercise Maroon Dawn at Cultana Training Area, SA. (Defence)
Whether planning a mission, directing operations or acquiring new capability, the protection of ADF personnel and assets is front of mind for its commanders.
Rob Napier | Melbourne
Whether planning a mission, directing operations or acquiring new capability, the protection of ADF personnel and assets is front of mind for its commanders. In this article, Rob Napier examines some of the ways Capability Managers are approaching land force protection.
Wherever Australian forces are deployed around the world, there are unavoidable risks to the men and women who serve in uniform. Minimising those risks begins with an effective intelligence capability and significant investment in secure technology, training and tactics.
How does a military force protect itself? While the conventional answer is to field the superior force, this is not a complete answer. When two near-peer powers meet on a battlefield, large numbers of casualties can be expected – demonstrating that force alone is not enough to protect the combatants. Experienced commanders and capability managers know that force protection is not a matter of chance. It takes planning, commitment and attention to detail.
An era of rapid specialisation
The ADF has moved towards a ‘total force’ comprising uniformed combat forces supported by civilian contractors and specialists. It now employs a core team of specialists, supported by contractors who perform non-core roles, and is believed to be a more cost effective and more capable military organisation.
This shift brings the protection of its forces into sharper focus as specialisation presents new challenges to planners and commanders: Large numbers of casualties are not only unacceptable in modern society, strategically a significant loss in capability can be fatal for a small force. When soldiers become casualties, the skills of essential and sometimes highly specialised personnel cannot be easily replaced. To address this, versatility and the ability to respond effectively in unfamiliar situations are characteristics of the Australian Army today.
It relies on the ability to leverage greater mobility, flexibility and firepower, the support of its allies, more effective intelligence, and superior technical resources.
Clear and present danger
The ADF has been forced to adapt to an ever-changing array of new threats including Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), insider attacks and cyber warfare. It has shown a commitment to innovate as a way of overcoming some of the disadvantages the Australian Army faces as a smaller military force.
This view is supported by comments from Brigadier Ian Langford, Director General Future Land Warfare, who said, “Our commanders have directed that we accelerate the adoption of new technology as a capability enabler – to pull the future into the present. We will be increasingly asked to do tasks and solve problems that are not part of our traditional mission set, as we understand them.”
A Lieutenant from the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment delivers orders to his platoon before a patrol on Exercise DINGO FURY at Townsville Field Training Area. (Defence)
Rapid response from Army and the Defence Science and Technology Group to threats from IEDs is one example where Australia has taken prompt and innovative action to develop new tactics and technology. This work has not only advantaged Australian forces, but also our allies. For example, L3Harris Micreo and other industry partners have produced more than 200,000 award winning Redwing IED detection devices for the Afghanistan National Defense and Security Forces.
Australia’s Cyber investment
Cyber is now regarded as the greatest and most immediate threat to all Australians, whether in uniform, or not. While bank fraud and other attacks against individuals and corporations are deeply disturbing, threats to the ADF’s supply lines, sensors and effectors are potentially catastrophic. The Royal Australian Corps of Signals, the Australian Signals Directorate, other service branches and intelligence organisations, as well as Federal and State police forces all contribute to Australia’s response to cyberattack.
Early detection of intent, as well as the ability to constantly determine the location, direction and speed of enemy threats are the gold standard for force protection. As a member of the Five Eyes nations, Australia’s intelligence agencies contribute to and benefit from international agreements with their coalition partners.
All branches of the ADF and civilian intelligence agencies have been well funded to perform their signals intelligence (SIGINT) roles. The Federal Government has increased funding in cyber and information warfare capabilities to around $15 billion over the next decade, as announced in Defence’s 2020 Force Structure Plan.
All branches of the ADF benefit from Army, Navy, Air Force and Joint programs through closer force integration. Additionally, there are a number of programs within the intelligence community that are vital to protecting service personnel – with counter cyber having the highest profile.
Seeing but not being seen
The need to see without being seen is an ongoing challenge for troops in the field. Transmissions from active sensors such as radar carry tell-tale signatures that can be detected by opposing forces. Passive radar is different: It employs background radio transmissions to provide ground forces with an effective defensive radar capability that doesn’t disclose its position.
Australia’s passive radar development has its roots at Defence Science & Technology Group – a world leader in signal processing. Both Silentium Defence and Daronmont Technologies have continued to refine and commercialise this technology under various programs and Defence Innovation Hub contracts.
Ground based radar plays an important role in protecting troops. (Defence)
Silentium Defence develops passive radar for the land, air and space domains. CEO and co-founder, Dr James Palmer, is enthusiastic about the value to our forces of using the environment to advantage.
“Passive radar transmits no radio signals and has a virtually undetectable visual footprint,” Dr Palmer said. “It is ideal for local area defence. It is light, portable and quick to deploy.
“It’s unclear how far other nations have advanced with passive radar development, but it seems that no other country has the ability to field a system as light and portable as our Maverick M8 radar. This technology shows what is possible when Australia supports local industry.”
Camouflage and concealment
Avoiding detection in the visual and near-infrared window is difficult to achieve – particularly for vehicles on the move. The Mobile Camouflage System (MCS) from Saab Barracuda AB successfully protects Australia’s Supacat Special Operations Vehicles. Saab claims that MCS has reduced detection by up to 90 per cent against a broad range of currently available sensors, including night vision devices, thermal cameras, UV sensors and radar systems.
Under Land 400 Phase 2, Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles will also be fitted with MCS. Saab has appointed Global Defence Solutions (GDS) to provide ongoing manufacturing and support facilities in Australia.
“Saab’s partnership with GDS will bring world-class capability into Australian industry with the transfer of our technical knowledge and expertise of camouflage,” Andy Keough, Managing Director of Saab Australia said.
“Australian industrial involvement is critical to the success of our sovereign defence industry and together with GDS, our partnership is another example of creating local capability and new opportunities for Australian industry,” Keogh said.
Another threat to our land forces is presented by red-force laser targeting, which seriously limits freedom of movement for armoured vehicles. Saab’s LEDS-50 Laser Warning Sensor (LWS) is also integrated into Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles to warn crews of illumination by laser range finders, dazzlers, designators and beam-rider missiles.
The LEDS-50 improves survivability by providing Boxer commanders with the information needed to make better tactical decisions. Saab is demonstrating its commitment to this technology by setting up a new LWS production line and support facility in Melbourne.
An Australian Army soldier from the 3rd Combat Service Support Battalion camouflages a logistics vehicle during Exercise Brolga Run, Townsville Field Training Area. (Defence)
CBRN Defence
Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) attacks and exposure to Toxic Industrial Hazards (TIH) present growing threats to our ground forces, and could also threaten the wider community. The Government is investing more than $188 million in an enhanced capability to protect ADF personnel against exposure to weaponised CBRN and TIH Materials.
The first phase of Land 2110 Phase 1B to be delivered will provide enhanced CBRN force protection to deployed ADF and assigned coalition personnel, both offshore and within Australia. Future phases are yet to be scoped.
Equipment to be delivered by Land 2110 Ph1B includes systems that enable:
detection, identification and monitoring
warning and reporting
physical protection
hazard management, and
medical support.
The Commonwealth has selected Leidos as the Prime Contractor for the delivery of equipment systems being acquired under Phase 1B. A Special Forces CBRNE capability is also being delivered by Babcock under Land 3025.
Enhanced communications
Secure and effective communications – as well as systems that are resistant to detection and jamming by enemy forces – are vital to support operations, protect the force and ensure freedom of movement. Army employs a range of voice, data and telemetry systems in the HF, VHF and UHF bands. Whether point-to-point, mesh or satellite, the aim is always to achieve:
Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) – the result of measures taken to resist attempts by adversaries to determine if a transmission is a signal of interest
Low Probability of Detection (LPD) – the result of measures taken to hide or disguise electromagnetic transmissions.
Army relies on its Multi-Tactical Data Link Network (MTN) to pass information and data automatically and rapidly between platforms and systems within joint and coalition task groups. It is critical for building a common operating picture that can assist battlefield coordination.
JP9347 Joint Data Networks will upgrade Link 16, Link 22 and advanced Common Data Link functionality across several platforms to enhance ADF operations and to ensure critical systems integration within joint and multinational task groups.
The various phases of JP2008 Defence Satellite Communications aim to ensure more reliable and effective communications for Australia’s ground forces. This long-running project promises a significant increase in Defence’s satellite communications (SATCOM) capabilities, including a networked monitor and control system that supports deployed headquarters.
Projects that involve satellites add many layers of complexity and risk. Full compatibility with the US Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) standards was an essential requirement for JP2008. Considering that the starting point was so well defined, it’s surprising that the project came so close to going completely off the rails. Yet while the investment and risk have been high, the value of reliable communications for our forces is inestimable.
JP2008 Phase 5B1 Tranche 2 Combined Communications Gateway Geraldton (C2G2) will embed Australian-owned SATCOM equipment into a US facility to be constructed at the Australian Defence SATCOM Station near Geraldton, WA. This new facility will increase Australia's SATCOM anchoring capability.
The successor to these programs under JP 9102 (ADF satcoms) and JP799 (space awareness) will also deliver a huge leap in capability for the space based services that the ADF is increasingly relying on to fight and protect itself.
While satellite communications has dominated RF investment, there remains a need for conventional High Frequency (HF) radio. Joint Project JP2043 Phase 3A High Frequency Modernisation will provide an enhanced HF capability for long-range communications. The network includes four HF base stations in the Riverina, Townsville, Darwin and North West Cape areas, together with primary and backup Network Management Facilities in Canberra.
Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) is well established technology that has protected our forces and Australian airspace for generations. JNT90PH1/AIR90 is upgrading military systems to Mode 5 IFF and the civilian system to Mode Select (Mode S). The new complementary technology, Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ABS-B), will also be implemented. This upgrade is due to become operational by 2022.
Controlling the battlespace
Integrated air and missile defence and battlespace management systems address the rapidly rising pace of modern conflicts. Artificial intelligence systems may become the only practical option for future commanders if they are to respond to threats in time; though as yet there seems to be a reluctance to remove the human from the loop.
Project Land 200 Battlefield Command System is delivering a software Battlefield Management System (BMS) and a mobile secure tactical radio communications network for Land Forces. A digitised Battlefield Command System is key to conducting operations on the modern battlefield, where paper-based and voice radio systems are no longer adequate.
While it’s essential to know where enemy forces are located, it’s equally important for commanders to know the exact positions of their own troops. Land 200 will implement a mobile, data-capable communications system, able to exchange combat information with other Land and Joint BMS. It will form the basis of a land combat identification (Blue Force Tracking) system by providing commanders with a 'real-time' display of friendly force locations.
Integrated Air and Missile Defence
Controlling the airspace is of continued concern for Joint Force commanders as technology evolves. The challenge is becoming ever-more complex. Even non-state actors now have the ability to deliver swarms of cheap and expendable reconnaissance or explosive-laden drones onto the battlefield. Defence is examining options to repel these threats.
Conventional threats from fixed and rotary wing aircraft, as well as large drones, are also being addressed through development of the Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) program.
Project Land 19 Phase 7B Short Range Ground Based Air Defence is the vanguard for the wider IAMD Program. It will provide the land force a mobile, short range capability that forms the inner tier of the IAMD system. This capability is currently in acquisition and will deliver the enhanced National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (eNASAMS) to Army from 2023. It incorporates Australian designed and manufactured CEA radar with a modern Air Defence system.
Designed to provide greater protection of deployed ADF forces from air and missile threats, along with greater interoperability with our coalition partners, Project AIR6500 Phase 1 Joint Air Battle Management System will deliver the core of the future IAMD capability.
In addition, AIR6502 Phase 2 Medium Range Ground Based Air Defence is currently a pre-Gate 1 project. It is intended to deliver a system that can operate independently, and also as a component of the Joint IAMD capability. Key systems under consideration include command & control, radar and missile launchers.
Deployed Military Healthcare
Defence has identified deficiencies in the delivery of health clinical care for deployed military, humanitarian and disaster relief operations. JP2060 Phase 3 Deployable Health Capability aims to provide Australia’s Defence personnel with world-class medical facilities and resources.
The ADF’s access to quality healthcare will receive a significant boost with Defence signing a $337 million contract with Saab Australia as the lead industry partner under Joint Project JP2060 Phase 3. The Saab led team will deliver and support the most comprehensive deployable health transformation in the ADF’s history, and will align the ADF deployable health capabilities with cutting-edge international military health capabilities. Saab has partnered with multiple healthcare leaders to deliver more than 500 deployable medical modules, along with critical support infrastructure that includes shelters, internal power and waste disposal.
Conclusion
The ability to anticipate the intentions and capabilities of adversaries, to operate undetected, and to respond quickly and effectively to immediate threats are driving current Defence tactics, as well as investment in materiel and training. Despite the cost, complexity and effort required, force protection is an ongoing challenge that must be met.
The current state of world affairs influences Defence investment, which is vital if we are to protect Australia and its interests for future generations. The Australian Army’s current focus still reflects the position of its former head (now Chief of the Defence Force), General Angus Campbell, who said, “In planning for the future through our modernisation efforts we seek to protect, empower and support our Diggers to achieve their mission for Australia.”
It is no coincidence that ‘protect’ appears first in his list. The Australian community expects, and Government directs, that minimising harm to serving personnel is a cornerstone of Defence policy – both in peacetime and in conflict situations.
Asymmetric warfare has defined Australia’s involvement in armed conflict since the Vietnam era, and will likely be a dominant part of its future. As such, it will continue to attract a large share of Army’s planning and investment. However Defence must also address the possibility of a large-scale conflict with a peer (or superior) adversary. This mixed risk profile continues to test the investment strategies of Australia and its coalition partners.
This review examined some of the ways Defence is focusing investment to ensure our forces are given the best possible protection in the service of our nation.
Private Benjamin Goodman from the 7th Battalion RAR, searches for enemy forces during a live-fire platoon attack serial part of Exercise Maroon Dawn 2021 at Cultana Training Area, SA. (Defence)
In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Andrei Komar, a research fellow at the Australian National University's Research School of Physics, about a revolutionary new technology that could dramatically improve low light vision systems.
ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations, ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.
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In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Andrei Komar, a research fellow at the Australian National University's Research School of Physics, about a revolutionary new technology that could dramatically improve low light vision systems.
The discussion opens with a review of Andrei's career to date and his current role at ANU. We also review the difference between image intensifiers and near infrared as compared to thermal imaging systems that work in far infrared and require cryogenic cooling to operate.
From this we progress to a discussion of metasurfaces and the production of nanoscale products that are smaller than the wavelength of light, allowing researchers to develop a lattice on a film that converts near-infrared to visible light with the assistance of a laser. This leads to a discussion on the collaborative approach used to develop this technology and how the metasurface approach augments vision rather than replacing it with screens on boxes that block vision.
We review the potential for using this technology in military and civilian environments before returning to assess the demonstration system's current capability and resolution. We also discuss the effort required to transition the demonstrator to a prototype, including the involvement of the Australian Research Council and industry to bring funds plus engineering talent that can help accelerate the process.
We wrap the episode noting that while this technology is currently in the demonstration phase, the transition from fundamental research to commercial engineering will allow the technology to leap ahead of current systems, providing a major advantage to any commercial organisation involved.
Listen on your regular streaming app or below:
------------------ The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title.
The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.
If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.
Hosted by Grant McHerron Producer - Steve Visscher
ADM's Women in Defence Awards celebrate talented, determined, successful women who make a positive impact in the defence business arena, as members of Defence industry, Australian Public Service or in uniform.
ADM's Women in Defence Awards celebrate talented, determined, successful women who make a positive impact in the defence business arena, as members of Defence industry, Australian Public Service (APS) or in uniform. Finalists for 2021 have now been announced and winners in each category along with the Hall of Fame inductee for lifetime achievement will be announced at a gala dinner in November. Tickets are available here. Delayed until 3 November due to Covid-19.
The Summit’s unique, interactive environment fosters effective partnering between Defence and Industry; a critical factor in achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.
The Summit’s unique, interactive environment fosters effective partnering between Defence and Industry; a critical factor in achieving mutually beneficial outcomes. Combined with unrivaled insights, high-level debate and the very latest innovations designed to support our armed forces, it once again ensure an unmissable program. Delayed until 13 December due to Covid-19.
Welcome to the July/August 2021 edition of ADM: STEM and Infrastructure.
Welcome to the July/August 2021 edition of ADM: STEM and Infrastructure.
With Managing Editor Katherine Ziesing taking a well-earned break, Associate Editor Ewen Levick introduces this month's issue. Ewen also dives into the expanding role of drones in Defence, and what the future of miiltary drones might look like.
Ewen is joined by Senior Correspondent Julian Kerr and and Deputy Editor Nigel Pittaway in providing coverage of Land Forces 2021, delving into some of the announcements made at the exhibition by large industry players.
Managing Editor Katherine Ziesing and Marcus Hellyer from ASPI unpack this year's Defence budget; Katherine announces ADM's Women in Defence Awards 2021 finalists; and Nigel examines the spending figures for the enterprise estate and infrastructure program and also looks at what the US Future Vertical Lift program means for the future of battlefield aviation.
Our From the Source interviewees this month are Georgia Collingwood and Gavin Campbell from Ventia.
