Malaysian Defense: Budget Hinders Military Asset Procurement

Malaysian Defense: Budget Hinders Military Asset Procurement


17 Maret 2017

RMAF Hawk 208, F/A-18D Hornet, MiG-29N, and Su-30MKM (photo : RA AZ)

MELBOURNE, Australia — Malaysia’s military continues to struggle to implement plans to recapitalize its assets, as the government’s budget is battered by slow economic growth mainly due to falling oil revenues. 

As a result, major procurement programs for the Malaysian Armed Forces have mostly been put on hold even as existing platforms rapidly approach obsolescence. For the Royal Malaysian Air Force, this means that badly needed fighters, trainers, helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft will unlikely be acquired in the short to medium term.

Situated alongside the vital maritime trade routes and the hotly disputed islands of the South China Sea of which it partly claims, Malaysia faces a unique geographical challenge, as its territory is split by the South China Sea into two separate landmasses 365 miles apart at its narrowest point.

This has had the effect of spreading the RMAF thinner, with the service recently moving a squadron of BAE Hawk 108/208 light attack aircraft to eastern Malaysia in response to continuing unrest and lawlessness in neighboring southern Philippines. This has spilled over into Malaysia on a number of occasions in the form of kidnappings and even an armed insurrection in 2013 that necessitated a military operation, including airstrikes by RMAF aircraft, to it put down.  

Malaysia’s $3.6 billion 2017 defense budget represented a 13 percent drop from 2016’s budget. And it represents 1.2 percent of gross domestic product, taking defense spending in real terms down to 2002 levels.

The budget includes $104 million to the RMAF for procurement, but as Malaysian defense analyst Dzirhan Mahadzir told Defense News, this will be used to pay for ongoing programs rather than new acquisitions. 

This will include the first delivery of an eventual total of six MD 530G armed scout helicopters by MD Helicopters planned for the end of 2017. Malaysia’s defense minister, Hishammuddin Hussein, has confirmed the program will go ahead, with the helicopters assigned to Malaysia’s Eastern Sabah Security Command and based at the eastern state of Sabah on the island of Borneo.

The ongoing upgrades to various RMAF platforms will also continue, with contracts for upgrades to the Hawks, Lockheed Martin C-130H Hercules airlifters and Sikorsky S-61 Nuri helicopters expected to be signed this year. Malaysian aerospace company Airod is expected to perform the upgrade in conjunction with a foreign partner.

The details and requirements of the Hawk upgrade have yet to be released, but both the C-130Hs and S-61s will require cockpit and avionics upgrades. Airlift is one area where Malaysia is well-equipped, with deliveries of four Airbus A400M strategic airlifters completed with the delivery of the last aircraft. These will join 15 C-130Hs and seven Airtech CN-235 transports already in the RMAF inventory.

However, the RMAF’s major procurement programs still remain unfunded and look to be the case for a while yet. Malaysia is seeking a multirole combat aircraft, or MRCA, to replace the survivors of 18 MiG-29N/NUB Fulcrums acquired in the mid-1990s, with the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Saab JAS-39 Gripen having all been touted for the MRCA program, with the first two believed to be the preferred choice.

Malaysia’s budgetary constraints have, however, contributed to a stalling of the MRCA competition, although Saab is still marketing the Gripen in Malaysia, believing it is offering the best solution to a budget-conscious customer. In the meantime, a handful of MiG-29s continue in service, although Defense News understands their flying hours are carefully conserved in an effort to preserve airframe life.

The RMAF currently flies 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKM Flankers alongside eight older F/A-18D Hornets as its primary combat aircraft. And although these remain capable aircraft, Malaysia needs more front-line fighters to be able to properly defend its airspace along with other platforms outlined at the beginning of this piece. 

However, the medium-term outlook for increased Malaysian defense spending is poor at best, and the longer its aging assets soldier on without replacement, the harder the country will need to work to get back “on the curve” when the times comes.

(DefenseNews)


Militer Indonesia

Air Force Acquiring Fire-Control Radar for FA-50PH

Air Force Acquiring Fire-Control Radar for FA-50PH


17 Maret 2017

Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar (photo : Defense Update)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is allocating some PHP82,543,000 for the acquisition of one transmitter needed for unscheduled maintenance of the fire-control radar (FCR) of one of its South Korean-made FA-50PH “Fighting Eagle” jet fighters.

FA-50PHs are equipped with Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar further developed by LIG Nex1.

The money will be sourced from PAF General Appropriations Act CY 2017, said Department of National Defense Bids and Awards Committee (DND BAC) chair Assistant Secretary Josue S. Gaverza in bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.

Winning bidder is required to deliver the parts within 540 calendar days from the receipt of the Notice to Proceed.

Bidders should have completed, within the last five years, a similar contract.

A pre-bid conference is scheduled on March 23, 10 a.m. at the DND-BAC conference room, basement, left wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, which shall be opened to all interested parties.

While bid opening is on April 6, 10 a.m. at the same venue.

An FCR is a radar that is designed specifically to provide information (mainly target azimuth, elevation, range and range rate) to a fire-control system in order to calculate a firing solution (i.e., information on how to direct weapons such that they hit the targets.

(Update)


Militer Indonesia

RSAF"s New Drone Heron 1 Now Combat-Ready

RSAF"s New Drone Heron 1 Now Combat-Ready


17 Maret 2017

Singapore"s new Heron 1 UAV was declared combat ready by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on March (photo : StraitsTimes)

SINGAPORE - It can fly as high as 6km in the sky, cruise at speeds as fast as 130kmh, and can be deployed up to 200km away from a remote location.

This drone - or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) - can also fly for more than 24 hours continuously, and take off and land automatically.

It is no ordinary drone though, but the Singapore airforce"s latest "eye-in-the-sky" - the Heron 1, which was declared combat-ready on Wednesday (March 15) by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen.


It is a milestone which places the Singapore Armed Forces" (SAF) on a par with other advanced militaries in intelligence and surveillance capabilities.

In a ceremony held at Murai Camp, Dr Ng marked the Heron 1"s achievement of the Full Operational Capability (FOC) status by the Republic of Singapore Air Force"s (RSAF) 119 and 128 Squadrons.

In a speech, he said: "It"s a significant milestone. The FOC of the Heron brings RSAF"s (unmanned) aerial capabilities to the level of advanced militaries globally."

With its advanced imaging sensors, the Heron 1 provides ground commanders with a real-time, bird"s eye view of the battlefield, and it can also guide munitions to targets precisely using its laser designator.

Inaugurated into the RSAF in 2012, the drone can be deployed alongside fighter aircraft and attack helicopters.

To achieve FOC, the squadrons" personnel have to be fully trained to operate, maintain and deploy the Heron 1 in operations.

The UAV"s capabilities are also validated in missions, to ensure integration with the SAF"s network of sensors and fighting systems.

Dr Ng said the 119 and 128 Squadrons have gained considerable expertise and depth, through many high-level exercises, such as multi-agency counter-terrorism exercises in Singapore, and Exercise Forging Sabre in Arizona, US.

Commending the RSAF and the UAV Command, Dr Ng also said SAF has come a long way since 1979, when it launched its first Mastiff remotely piloted vehicle, and that it has steadily built up its experience on successive and more advanced platforms.

The Heron 1 is made by the Israel Aerospace Industries Malat division and will replace the Searcher-class UAV, which has been in service since 1994.

(StraitsTimes)


Militer Indonesia

Upgrade of ASLAV Turret Simulators Completed

Upgrade of ASLAV Turret Simulators Completed


17 Maret 2017

ASLAV turret simulator (photo : Thomas Global)

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, has congratulated Thales and its subcontractor Thomas Global, following their successful delivery of nine upgraded Crew Procedural Trainer (CPT) turrets for the Australian Army’s Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV).

The ASLAV CPT is a simulator which enables the crew commander and gunner to practice gunnery skills without the need to use live ammunition.

“Contributing to the Australian economy, the upgrade contract valued at $5 million has seen the creation of nine new jobs in Rydalmere and Regents Park, in NSW, as a result of industry and Defence working together,” Minister Pyne said.

“The upgrade will lead to lower life cycle costs and higher availability, ensuring this platform remains reliable, affordable and effective.

“This project is yet another example of how industry is helping deliver important, cost-effective capabilities to the Australian Defence Force.

“Thales and Thomas Global in partnership with the Defence project office have brought the Australian Army’s fleet of 18 ASLAV CPTs to a common technology baseline, and addressed component obsolescence,” he said.

(Aus DoD)


Militer Indonesia

Lockheed Martin Canada Delivers High Fidelity Combat System Trainer to Royal New Zealand Navy

Lockheed Martin Canada Delivers High Fidelity Combat System Trainer to Royal New Zealand Navy


16 Maret 2017

Lockheed Martin Canada"s Combat System Trainer delivered to the Maritime Warfare Training Centre at the Royal New Zealand Navy base in Devonport, New Zealand. (photo : Lockheed Martin)

OTTAWA, Ontario/PRNewswire/ -- Completing the first major delivery under the New Zealand ANZAC Frigate System Upgrade Project, prime systems integrator Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Canada and Chief of Navy Rear Admiral John Martin have officially opened the New Zealand ANZAC combat system trainer.

The combat system trainer was delivered ahead of schedule to the Maritime Warfare Training Centre at the Royal New Zealand Navy base in Devonport on February 16, 2017.

Rear Admiral Martin stated, "It is wonderful to receive the trainer early which will allow our sailors to be properly prepared when the upgraded ships arrive. Lockheed Martin Canada"s combat system trainer is a world class trainer that will revolutionize the way we train our crews."

"The ANZAC combat system trainer provides a generational shift in training capability with a realistic synthetic environment capable of generating high fidelity simulations of real world conditions," said Rosemary Chapdelaine, vice president and general manager Lockheed Martin Canada Rotary and Mission Systems. "We are proud of our Canadian-developed solution and thrilled to deliver this advanced capability to the Royal New Zealand Navy."

This milestone marks the first international delivery of Lockheed Martin Canada"s combat management system, CMS 330, product line, initially developed for Canada"s Department of National Defence and then modified for the Royal New Zealand Navy with Canada"s support.

CMS 330 and Lockheed Martin Canada"s combat system integration capability are proving performance everyday on Canada"s modernized HALIFAX class frigates and the record of success continues to generate international attention as an attractive solution for both new ships and mid-life upgrades.

Thanks to the expertise of its engineers, scientists and computer programmers, Lockheed Martin Canada was the only Canadian company to pre-qualify as a combat systems integrator for the upcoming Canadian Surface Combatant program. The company was also selected as the command and surveillance integrator for Canada"s new fleet of Arctic/Offshore Patrol Ships.

(Lockheed Martin)


Militer Indonesia

Philippine Navy Expecting 4 New Mk. 38 Mod. 3 Gun Systems from 2 Contracts

Philippine Navy Expecting 4 New Mk. 38 Mod. 3 Gun Systems from 2 Contracts


16 Maret 2017

The Mk. 38 Mod. 3 MGS with a 30mm ATK cannon. The Philippine Navy opted to use the 25mm M242 Bushmaster cannon instead, based on the DoD"s information. (photo : DefenseMediaNetwork)

Based on information made public by the US Department of Defense through its website as of September 29, 2016, the US Navy"s Naval Surface Warfare Center awarded a US$25.4 million contract to BAE Systems Land & Armaments LP for the production of Mk. 38 Mod. 3 Machine Gun System (MGS), which will be installed on US Navy ships as well as Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to friendly countries.

Among those scheduled to receive from FMS is the Philippine Navy, whose share on the contract is around 8%, or roughly US$2.03 million.

This is in addition to an earlier contract, which the US Navy"s Naval Surface Warfare Center also awarded to BAE Systems Land & Armaments LP in October 2015 for US$30.556 million, wherein the Philippine Navy shares around 6.24% of the contract amount.

Based on previous information gathered by MaxDefense Philippines using publicly available sources and confirmation from our sources, a Mk. 38 Mod. 3 system costs a little less than US$1 million as of mid 2016.

Thus it would be safe to assume that in each of the two contracts, the Philippine Navy stands to get two (2) brand new Mk. 38 Mod. 3 MGS, for a total of four (4) systems.

MaxDefense sources previously confirmed that the machine gun systems covered by the 2015 contract was meant to be installed on the Del Pilar-class frigate (DPCF) BRP Gregorio del Pilar (FF-15), so it is highly possible that the MGS covered by the 2016 contract was meant for the only other DPCF left without an allocation, the BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17).

But MaxDefense would still put some caution on this information.

Currently, aside from the DPCFs, the Tarlac-class Landing Platform Docks are also in need for self-defense weapon systems to defend itself from fast moving surface threats and slow moving aircraft. Also, based on the acquisition plans of the Philippine Navy for the LPD"s weapon systems, they are also recommending the acquisition of MGS systems like the Mk. 38 Mod. 3 for the class, at least two (2) units for each ship.

It now boils down to the latest threat assessments made by the Philippine Navy. Which ships are in need of these Mk. 38s first? While MaxDefense has no information yet on that, the possibility of the Philippine Navy making changes on the installation plans is present. So while we can assume that the four upcoming Mk. 38 Mod. 3 MGS are for the the FF-15 and FF-17, this is not yet 100% final.

See full article MaxDefense

Militer Indonesia

Australia Test New Minehunter Capabilities

Australia Test New Minehunter Capabilities


16 Maret 2017

Crew members from HMAS Huon and 723 Squadron practice personnel transfers during Exercise OCEAN EXPLORER. (photo : RAN, images : Thales)

Mine hunters conduct advance force operations

HMAS Huon has tested a critical piece of mine countermeasures equipment and practiced helicopter operations as part of Exercise OCEAN EXPLORER.

Over a two week period, the mine hunter tested her Type 2093 variable depth sonar for accuracy and carried out vertical replenishments and personnel transfers with aircraft from 723 Squadron.

Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Jason Mullen said the role of the mine hunters - to find, identify and dispose of mines – often placed them in harm’s way.

For that reason all systems onboard needed to be validated on a regular basis to ensure mines and obstacles were dealt with at a safe distance.

“We need to be fully cognisant of our system’s capabilities as this affects how we train and do business,” he said.

OCEAN EXPLORER was a multinational exercise designed to test the Navy’s ability to conduct high-end warfare.


As part of the exercise conducted in locations around Australia, HMA Ships Huon, Diamantina and Yarra conducted maritime advance force training in Jervis and Broken Bays, in New South Wales.

Lieutenant Commander Mullen said the mine hunters were an essential part of Navy’s advance force operations.

“The mine hunters ensure a body of water is safe for shipping prior to the arrival of the follow-on forces, such as an amphibious platform,” he said.

“Once the mine hunters, the clearance diving teams and the mine warfare teams have reduced any potential mine threat to a minimum, the amphibious landing can begin.”

Australian Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Task Group oversaw the training.  

Huon successfully conducted all validation trials of the Type 2093 sonar and is now waiting on scientists to conduct their operational analysis and report.

OCEAN EXPLORER marks the start of a busy year for Huon with another major exercise, TALISMAN SABER and an end-of-year deployment scheduled.

The Type 2093 can be operated in hull-mounted mode or in variable depth mode. The sonar has dual-frequency search and classification capability.

In the variable depth mode both frequencies operate simultaneously, the lower frequency covering mid-water to surface depths and the higher frequency covering the seabed. 

The system achieves a detection range greater than 1000 metres and a classification range greater than 200 metres.

(RAN)


Militer Indonesia

Dua Pesawat Sukhoi Su-30MK Menjalani Perawatan Berat

Dua Pesawat Sukhoi Su-30MK Menjalani Perawatan Berat


16 Maret 2017

Pesawat Antonov datang untuk mengambil pesawat Su-30 (photo : Sukhoi Indonesia)

Pesawat Antonov Kembali Ke Lanud Hnd Untuk Melaksanakan Misi Perawatan Berat

SIAGAINDONESIA.COM Pesawat Antonov dari Rusia kembali datang untuk melaksanakan misi perawatan berat pesawat tempur Sukhoi, Senin (13/3/17). Dua unit pesawat tempur Sukhoi TS-3001 dan TS-3002 melaksanakan perawatan berat di negara asalnya Rusia direncanakan diberangkatkan pada hari Rabu 15 Maret 2017.

Kepala Dinas Operasi Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin Kolonel Pnb Benny Arfan memerintahkan seluruh anggota Skadron Teknik 044 dan Skadron Udara 11 serta berkoordinasi dengan beberapa crew Antonov melakukan persiapan hingga loading pesawat Sukhoi siap untuk diberangkatkan.

Sementara untuk seluruh anggota yang bertugas diinstruksikan agar tetap memperhatikan keamanan dan selalu mengutamakan faktor safety, agar misi perawatan pesawat dapat berjalan dengan baik, aman dan lancar.

(Siaga Indonesia)


Militer Indonesia

Tiga Pesawat Helikopter Perkuat Lanud Atang Sendjaja

Tiga Pesawat Helikopter Perkuat Lanud Atang Sendjaja


16 Maret 2017

Helikopter EC725 Caracal dan NAS-332 Super Puma (all photos : defence.pk)

Pentak Lanud Ats,  Rabu  (15/3), PW --- 2 (Dua) Pesawat Helikopter Full Combat SAR Mission EC 725 A P Carakal  dan 1 (satu) NAS- 332 C1e Super Puma perkuat Lanud Atang Sendjaja.  Tiga Pesawat Helikopter tersebut tiba di Lanud Atang Sendjaja Bogor pukul 09.00 Wib. Diterima secara langsung oleh Komandan Lanud Atang Sendjaja Marsma TNI Hari Budianto didampingi Kadisopslatau Marsma TNI Nanang Santoso, KapusLaik Kemhan Laksma TNI Edy Sulistyadi, Pejabat Mabesau,Pejabat Koopsau I, Danwing 4, Para Kadis serta Perwira Lanud Atang Sendjaja.  Bertempat di Main Eperon  Lanud Atang Sendjaja. Rabu, (15/3). Dalam kata sambutannya Komandan Lanud Atang Sendjaja Marsma TNI Hari Budianto mengatakan, kita ketahui bersama bahwa penyerahan tiga Helikopter yang kita laksanakan hari ini, sebagai tidak lanjut dari dokumen serah terima, Kementerian Pertahanan Republik Indonesia tanggal 25 November 2016,  yang ditandatangani oleh Direktur Utama PTDI dan Kepala Badan Sarana Pertahanan (Baranahan) Kementerian Pertahanan Republik Indonesia.  Bertempat di Kantor  PTDI, Jl. Pajajaran No. 154 Bandung.

Lebih lanjut Danlanud Ats menambahkan, Helikopter EC -725 A P Carakal dan NAS- 332 C1e Super Puma ini merupakan pesawat multi fungsi yang dapat dioperasionalkan untuk mendukung tugas-tugas TNI Angkatan Udara baik untuk membawa pasukan, dukungan logistik, sarpur serta juga untuk mendukung tugas operasi militer perang  dan operasi militer selain perang. Dengan bertambahnya kekuatan tiga pesawat Helikopter di Lanud Atang Sendjaja ini, diharapkan kegiatan latihan dan operasi baik di Home Base maupun diluar Home Base dapat berjalan dengan aman dan lancar, serta dapat memperkuat tugas-tugas yang dibebankan oleh lanud Atang Sendjaja,” tuturnya.

Sementara itu Direktur Utama PTDI dalam sambutanya yang dibacakan oleh Direktur Teknologi dan Pengembangan PTDI Bapak Andi Alisjahbana, menyampaikan terima kasih dan penghargaan yang setinggi-tingginya atas kepercayaan yang telah diberikan oleh seluruh jajaran TNI Angkatan Udara, yang telah memilih penggunaan produk dan jasa yang dihasilkan PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero), dalam mendukung kegiatan operasionalnya Sehari-hari.   Sungguh hal ini merupakaan kebanggan bagi kami beserta seluruh jajaran di PTDI, dan menjadi motivasi bagi kami untuk selalu terus berinovasi dan berkarya menghasilkan produk dan jasa yang mampu memenuhi operation requirement TNI AU maupun Angkatan Lainnya.

Sebagai Angkatan yang bertugas untuk menjamin kedaulatan dan keutuuhan wilayah NKRI di bidang pertahanan matra udara, menempatkan TNI Angkatan Udara sebagai pelanggan utama bagi PT Dirgantara Indonesia (persero). Untuk itu kami berkomitmen untuk selalu memperbaiki dan meningkatkan pelayanan kami dengan menghasilkan produk dan jasa yang lebih tepat mutu, lebih tepat biaya dan lebih tepat waktu. Dengan demikian, kami berharap dapat lebih mendukung keberhasilan kegiatan operasional TNI Angkatan Udara di dalam maupun Di luar negeri termasuk dalam mewujudkan Minimum Essential force dalam menjalankan tugas pertshsnsn Negara, yang pada akhirnya mampu menjadikan TNI  Angkatan Udara RI sebagai sebuah kekuatan yang disegani Negara Tetangga. Kami juga sangat berbannga hati karena acara penyambutan 2 (dua) Unit helicopter Combat SAR EC725 1 (satu) unit helicopter AS332 C1e ini dilakukan bersamaan dengan acara istighoshah untuk kedamaian dan harus dilakukan memenuhi ketentuan dalam undang-undang nomor 16 tahun 2012 tersebut. Kemajuan industri pertahanan bukan hanya sekedar memenuhi kekuatan pokok minimum namun harus ditujukan untuk membangun kekuatan TNI sebagai sebuah kekuatan yang disegani. Tegas Direktur Utama PTDI.

Setelah pelaksanaan penerimaan pesawat tersebut diadakan Istighosah dan Doa Bersama Yang dipimpin oleh Habib Noval yang dihadiri oleh, Komandan Lanud Atang Sendjaja Marsma TNI Hari Budianto, Kadisopslatau Marsma TNI Nanang Santoso, KapusLaik Kemhan Laksma TNI Edy Sulistyadi, Pejabat Mabesau,Pejabat Koopsau I, Danwing 4, Para Kadis serta Perwira Lanud Atang Sendjaja anak –anak yatim piatu dan para anggota Lanud Atang Sendjaja. Kegiatan Istighosah dan Doa Bersama yang dilaksanakan ini bertujuan untuk keselamatan Personil dan alutsista atas tugas tugas yang di bebankan oleh  Lanud Atang Sendjaja.

(Pelopor Wiratama)


Militer Indonesia

US Approves $66 Million Sale of Mortar Rounds to Singapore

US Approves $66 Million Sale of Mortar Rounds to Singapore


16 Maret 2017

XM395 120mm guided mortar (image : Orbital ATK)

WASHINGTON --- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Singapore for XM395 Accelerated Precision Mortar Initiative (APMI) rounds. The estimated cost is $66 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on March 13, 2017. 

The Government of Singapore has requested a possible sale of two thousand (2,000) XM395 Accelerated Precision Mortar Initiative (APMI) rounds; U.S. Government and contractor services; and other associated support equipment and services. The total estimated cost is $66 million. 

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been, and continues to be an important partner and force for political stability and economic progress in the Asia Pacific region. 

The Government of Singapore intends to use these defense articles and services to modernize its armed forces to meet current and future threats, to strengthen its homeland defense, and to provide greater security for its economic infrastructure. The Government of Singapore will have no difficulty absorbing XM395 APMI mortar rounds into its armed forces. 

The proposed sale of this equipment and support does not alter the basic military balance in the region. 

The prime contractor will be Orbital ATK. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. 

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government personnel or U.S. contractor representatives to travel to Singapore for a period of one (1) week for equipment fielding and acceptance testing by the Quality Assurance Team. 

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. 

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded. 

(DSCA)


Militer Indonesia

PTDI Kirim Ekor dan Badan Helikopter H225/H225M ke Perancis

PTDI Kirim Ekor dan Badan Helikopter H225/H225M ke Perancis


15 Maret 2017

Badan dan Ekor helikopter H225/H225M (photo : TribunNews)

BANDUNG, KOMPAS.com - PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) mengirimkan dua tailboom (ekor) dan fuselage (badan) helikopter H225/H225M untuk Airbus Helicopters, Perancis, Rabu (15/3/2017).

"Kami senang telah menjadi mitra terpercaya dan pemasok kepada Airbus Helicopters untuk bagian tailboom dan fuselage," ujar Direktur Utama PTDI, Budi Santoso di hanggar assembly EC725/MK II, Bandara Husein Sastranegara, Kota Bandung, Rabu pagi.

Ekor helikopter H225/H225M (photo : Merdeka)

Kedua bagian helikopter H225/H225M yang dikirimkan ke Perancis hari ini adalah paket ke-50 yang dikirimkan. Dari kerja sama yang dibangun PTDI dan Airbus Helicopters sejak tahun 2009, total tailboom dan fuselage yang rencananya dikirim mencapai 125 paket. 

"Nilai kerjasama pembuatan dua unit tailboom 44.000 dollar AS per unitnya. Satu unit fuselage senilai 385.000 dollar AS," ujar Budi. 

Budi menambahkan, tailboom dan fuselage yang dikirimkan ke Perancis akan tiba dalam waktu lima minggu.

Ekor helikopter H225/H225M (photo : Merdeka)

Di Perancis, tailboom dan fuselage akan diintegrasikan dengan mesin dan sistem terbang. Setelah semua komplit, helikcopter yang sudah dilengkapi dengan mesin dan teknologi sistem terbang dikembalikan ke Bandung untuk dirakit ulang dan dicat kembali. 

"Helikopter tersebut akan dikirimkan untuk customer di lebih 15 negara dunia. Hal ini membuktikan produk made in Indonesia telah menjadi global supply chain tailboom dan fuselage untuk Airbus Helicopters," tandasnya. 

(Kompas)


Militer Indonesia

Operasional F-16 Dihentikan Sementara

Operasional F-16 Dihentikan Sementara


15 Maret 2017

Pesawat tempur F-16 kode TS-103 (photo : F16.net)

F-16 TS-1603 Tergelincir dan Tidak Bisa Digunakan Lagi

JAKARTA, KOMPAS — Pesawat tempur F-16 Fighting Falcon dari Skuadron Udara 16 Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin, Pekanbaru, Riau, tergelincir di ujung landasan Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin, Selasa (14/3) pukul 17.25. Akibat insiden itu, pesawat mengalami total lost alias tak dapat digunakan lagi.

Kepala Dinas Penerangan TNI AU Marsekal Pertama Jemi Trisonjaya mengatakan, tergelincirnya pesawat F-16 itu disebabkan brake mulfunction atau kerusakan rem setelah pesawat mendarat di landas pacu 36. Dua penerbangnya, Mayor (Pnb) Andry - yang sehari-hari sebagai Kasiops Skuadron Udara 16 - dan Lettu (Pnb) Marco - sebagai siswa konversi - selamat. Keduanya saat ini dibawa ke Rumah Sakit Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin untuk pemeriksaan. Sementara pesawat dievakuasi ke hanggar Skuadron Udara 16. "Tidak ada korban, pilot juga tidak luka," kata Jemi. 

Penyelidikan lebih lanjut soal penyebab kecelakaan masih dilakukan. Pesawat dua tempat duduk dengan nomor TS 1603 itu dibeli Indonesia dari Amerika Serikat dan datang pada Mei 1990. Pesawat ini satu dari dua pesawat tempur yang mencegat lima F/A-18 Hornet AS pada 2 Juli 2003 di atas pulau Bawean. 

Tahun lalu media asal AS, The Salt Lake Tribune, sempat melansir berita tentang warga Utah, Scott A Williams (51) yang didakwa karena mengekspor suku cadang F-16 secara ilegal ke Indonesia (Kompas, 4/3/2016). Scott kedapatan akan mengirimkan perangkat rem F-16 ke Indonesia. Dia ditangkap pada 19 Februari 2016 dan dihadapkan ke pengadilan pada 2 Mei. Scott sebelumnya bekerja di Hill Air Force Base dalam Program Penjualan Militer Asing dengan tanggung jawab spesifik suku cadang F-16. (Kompas)

Lanud Pekanbaru hentikan sementara operasional F16

Pekanbaru (ANTARA News) - Pangkalan Udara Roesmin Nurjadin menyatakan akan menghentikan sementara operasional pesawat tempur F16 dari Skadron Udara 16 pasca tergelincirnya jet tempur buatan Amerika tersebut hingga badan pesawat terbalik di Pekanbaru, Selasa (14/3). 

"Pesawat F16 akan dihentikan operasional untuk sementara hingga diketahui penyebab utama," kata Komandan Lanud Roesmin Nurjadi, Marsekal Pertama Henri Alfiandi di Pekanbaru, Rabu. 

Henri menjelaskan saat ini pesawat F16 dengan nomor ekor TS1603 masih berusaha dievakuasi dari landasan pacu Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin yang juga menjadi landasan pacu untuk Bandara Sultan Syarif Kasim II Pekanbaru. 

Terkait penyebab pasti kecelakaan pesawat tersebut, Henri mengatakan tim dari Panitia Penyidik Kecelakaan Pesawat Udara (PPKPU) Mabes TNI AU sedang melakukan penyelidikan. 

Ia mengatakan selama penyelidikan berlangsung, F16 dari Skadron Udara 16 Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin akan dihentikan operasionalnya, baik untuk patroli udara maupun latihan tempur yang dalam pekan ini sedang berlangsung. 

Menurut dia, penghentian operasional ini merupakan prosedur TNI AU menyikapi peristiwa itu. 

"Ini memang prosedur untuk mengambil langkah menenangkan," tuturnya. 

Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin merupakan satu-satunya Lanud Tipe A di Sumatera. Terdapat dua Skadron Udara di Pangkalan militer tersebut. Selain Skadron Udara 16 dengan jet tempur F16 nya, juga terdapat Skadron Udara 12 dengan Hawk 100/200. 

Selasa petang tadi, salah satu pesawat tempur F16 mengalami kecelakaan keluar landasan atau over run saat melakukan pendaratan usai misi latihan.

Kedua pilot yang menerbangkan pesawat naas itu, Mayor Pnb Andri Setiawan dan Lettu Pnb Marco Anderson dipastikan selamat. 

Danlanud menjelaskan peristiwa tergelincirnya pesawat itu terjadi sekitar pukul 16.55 WIB. 

Pesawat awalnya mendarat mulus, namun saat pendaratan pesawat mengalami masalah pada sistem pengereman atau breaking malfunction. Kedua pilot lantas berusaha menghentikan pesawat sesuai Standar Operasional Prosedur (SOP) yang berlaku hingga akhirnya tergelincir dan keluar landasan pacu sejauh 200 meter.

"Namun upaya tidak berhasil dan pesawat tergelincir dan terbalik. Kejadian secara detail dalam tahap penyelidikan PPKPU," tuturnya. (Antara)


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New $900m Training Ground the Size of Bishan to Give Soldiers Realistic Urban Combat Experience

New $900m Training Ground the Size of Bishan to Give Soldiers Realistic Urban Combat Experience


15 Maret 2017

SAF new training ground (all images : Sing Mindef)

SINGAPORE - A new training ground roughly the size of Bishan town will be built in western Singapore to let soldiers hone their urban fighting skills in real-life settings such as high-rise buildings, warehouses, and even an MRT station with multiple exits.

This 88ha area, dubbed the Safti City, will allow soldiers to train in a dense urban environment that closely resembles Singapore"s landscape when it is completed in the west of the country in 10 years, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on Friday (March 3) in Parliament.

One sector of Safti City will be packed with clusters of shophouses, high-rise interconnected buildings, low-rise residences, basement carparks, a bus interchange and a MRT station. Another sector near the Poyan Reservoir will house a petrochemical complex, warehouses, container parks and industrial buildings.

With more than 200 buildings and extensive road networks, Safti City will provide a realistic experience of fighting in a concrete jungle like Singapore, Dr Ng said at the Ministry of Defence"s Committee of Supply debate.

"Safti City will take our NS training to a much higher level of realism and effectiveness," he said.

The first-of-its-kind facility here will allow troops to train in different types of operations, from counter-terrorism to coastal defence and to disaster relief.

Safti City, which will cost about $900 million, will be outfitted with instruments and video cameras that will instantly track the actions of units and individual soldiers.

This data can then be analysed and used to help troops learn from past exercises.

Battlefield effects simulators will also create an immersive environment to make training more engaging.

As part of the revamp of the military premises in western Singapore, new grounds for infantry and armoured vehicle drills will be developed in the existing training areas of Pasir Laba, Ama Keng and the Murai Urban Training Facility.

A variety of training scenarios - called Instrumented Battle Circuits - can be simulated in these areas.

For instance, in Murai, soldiers will simulate different combat situations such as dealing with an improvised explosive device attack or interacting with civilians in conflict zones.

Over in Ama Keng, Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicles, Bionix Infantry Fighting Vehicles and Leopard Main Battle Tanks can execute ambush and artillery drills.

Up to three infantry companies - about 400 people - will be able to train at Pasir Laba, where they will be able to fire live ammunition at three-dimensional mobile targets.

The battle circuits are designed to allow more intensive and efficient training on small plots of land, as the army"s requirement for training land has grown with the number of motorised units.

Like Safti City, the battle circuits will feature battlefield effects and monitoring systems.

(Straits Times)


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HMAS Sirius Returns to Fleet After Refit

HMAS Sirius Returns to Fleet After Refit


15 Maret 2017

HMAS Sirius O-266 (photo : Chosun)

Fleet"s support capability gets Sirius boost

The Royal Australian Navy’s replenishment capability is operating at capacity once again with HMAS Sirius back in the brine after four months of maintenance at Captain Cook Graving Dock, Garden Island.

The fleet tanker cut an impressive figure against the city skyline as she sailed out of Sydney Harbour and into the Pacific Ocean for sea trials recently.

She will return to Sydney briefly to take on bulk fuel at Gore Cove before commencing her transit home to Rockingham, Western Australia. It will be the first time a Navy tanker has ‘bunkered’ fuel at Gore Cove since HMAS Westralia did so in 1993.

The crew of 73 are looking forward to the upcoming increase in pace. 

“We are excited about getting Sirius back to sea to do our job”, said Ship’s Warrant Officer Dale Young.

“When their ship is high and dry, sailors tend to feel a little high and dry as well, and that is how we have all been feeling about our beloved ship the past four months.

“It has been a trying time but extremely well handled by all onboard. Our repairs have been completed and we are keen to get back to work for Australia.”

Readying a ship and crew to return to sea safely requires hard work and detailed planning.

In the weeks leading up to their departure, the crew of Sirius had honed their fire, flood and toxic hazard procedures and conducted numerous ‘fast cruises’, which are carried out alongside and simulate a number of emergency situations which may occur at sea.

The ‘fast cruise’ is designed to test a ship’s organisation, watch bill proving and management of elementary safety incidents, such as a man over board, while safely tied up alongside.

“They are a great way to test being at sea without actually being at sea,” Warrant Officer Young said.

HMAS Sirius O-266 (photo : GFL)

Sirius also tested its replenishment at sea rigs - which allow her to refuel and replenish other warships at sea while underway - and conducted a basin trial alongside to test the ship’s machinery.

Her readiness will be tested over the next three weeks at sea by a series of ship-run exercises, known as a shakedown, followed by a period of Sea Training Group covered training.

Sea Training Group is Navy’s in-house training and assessment team.

“Despite the hard work ahead of us we can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel,” Warrant Officer Young said.

“We will spend a few weeks shaking off the cobwebs during the shakedown off the east coast before heading to Melbourne for a port visit. Then the bit everyone has been waiting for, heading west. By the time we return home it will have been six months we have been away from our family and friends in Western Australia.”

The Royal Australian Navy"s afloat support capability is provided by the replenishment ships Sirius and HMAS Success.

Sirius can carry more than 34 million litres of fuel, including more than 5 million litres of aviation fuel for use by helicopters embarked in ships at sea.

She can replenish ships at sea by day and night, and is capable of replenishing two ships at a time.

A contract was signed with Spanish shipbuilding company Navantia last year to build Australia’s two replacement replenishment ships, with the first to be delivered by 2019.

(RAN)


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Fourth A400M Arrived in Subang

Fourth A400M Arrived in Subang


15 Maret 2017

RMAF Atlas M5-04 (photo : Santi Bianquez)

Fourth A400M Safely Home

SHAH ALAM: The fourth and final Airbus A400M Atlas air lifter touched down at Subang this morning, culminating a contract signed 16 years ago. Atlas M54-04 arrived following a two-day ferry flight from Seville, Spain, where the A400M Final Assembly Line is located.

Although Airbus has said that the 04 will be in the latest tactical configuration, it was hard to distinguish her from the other three already in service with 22 Squadron.

Perhaps a closer inspection after her official unveiling at LIMA 17, next week, will give us the heads up on her differences with the other three Atlases. As of now, RMAF is not saying anything about 04 let alone her capabilities.

22 Squadron received its first A400M in March 2015, the second late in the same year and the third last June. 01 is now in Seville, Spain undergoing upgrading on the Airbus expense. The aircraft will be fitted with the latest tactical configuration.

As for LIMA, at least two A400M will take part, 04 likely on static display while 02 or 03 will be involved in flying display. There is no word whether they will be part of the daily air show or will only take part in the opening ceremony show. Based on previous LIMA’s it is likely the A400M will only take part in the opening ceremony show.

(Malaysian Defence)


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Thailand Launches 10-year Military Modernisation Programme

Thailand Launches 10-year Military Modernisation Programme


14 Maret 2017

Thailand to increase defence spending from the existing 1.4% of GDP to 2% of GDP by the end of the decade (image : wiki)

Thailand"s government has launched a 10-year military development programme through which it intends to address some of its major challenges, including ongoing insurgency in the south.

The "Modernisation Plan: Vision 2026", which was announced by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on 27 February, contains three objectives: to improve the preparation of the Thai military, to enhance capabilities, and to modernise related structures.

The modernisation plan does not provide a specific list of required military assets or capabilities but does provide an outline for Thailand to increase defence spending from the existing 1.4% of GDP to 2% of GDP by the end of the decade, officials confirmed to Jane"s. (Jane"s)

Modern military plan gets nod 

The Defence Council has approved a 10-year modernisation plan for the armed forces, designed to boost their ability to deal with any potential threats facing the country. 

The "Modernisation Plan: Vision 2026" was given the green light at yesterday"s council meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, according to Defence Ministry spokesman Kongcheep Tantrawanit. The blueprint, produced in tandem with the military reform policy, looks to improve the armed forces" readiness and armament capability to fend off threats to the country over the next 10 years.   

Maj Gen Kongcheep said the plan took into consideration security factors and weapons needed by the armed forces to match risk assessments.

It has been drawn up in conjunction with other major master plans, including the national strategic defence plan spanning the next 20 years. 

This plan looks at revamping the Defence Ministry"s management and organisational structure as well as industries related to national defence.

Maj Gen Kongcheep said the modernisation policy over the next 10 years prescribes how the forces can manage to operate during two scenarios -- in case military spending increases in tandem with the country"s growing gross domestic product, or in case of a tight budget. 

The military has a clear idea on how it can operate to the highest ability with a limited amount of funding, he said.  (Bangkok Post)


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Pesawat T-50 akan Diupgrade Menjadi Pesawat Tempur FA-50

Pesawat T-50 akan Diupgrade Menjadi Pesawat Tempur FA-50


14 Maret 2017

Pesawat latih T-50 (photo : Kusri Hatmoyo) 

KSAU Akan Kembalikan Marwah T-50 Sebagai Pesawat Tempur

Mungkin kita sering melihat aksi aerobatik spektakuler pilot-pilot TNI Angkatan Udara (AU), khususnya dalam setiap perayaan hari jadi TNI AU. Pesawat-pesawat yang sering kali mereka gunakan biasanya adalah pesawat latih KT-1B Woong Bee hingga pesawat tempur T-50 Golden Eagle. Keandalannya mereka dalam mengajak dansa pesawat-pesawat yang mereka tungganggi itu di Angkasa pun sangat luar biasa.

Pada Jum’at (10/3/2017) lalu, perwakilan Angkasa berkesempatan untuk mewawancarai langsung Kepala Staf Angkatan Udara (KSAU), Marsekal TNI Hadi Tjahjanto, di kantornya, Markas Besar TNI Angkatan Udara, Cilangkap, Jakarta Timur. Dari pertemuan itu, KSAU menyampaikan bahwa ia akan mengembalikan marwah pesawat T-50 ‘Golden Eagle’ besutan Korea Aerospace Industries bersama Lockheed Martin sebagai pesawat tempur.

Pesawat latih T-50 (photo : AerialVision) 

“Pasawat seperti T-50, kita masyarakat sering tahu ada yang doreng ada warna yang untuk aerobatik. Itu aerobatik (warna T-50) kan cuma seremonial, dan kita sudah punya untuk seremonial adalah KT-1 Woong Bee,” terang KSAU kepada Angkasa.

Hadi menegaskan bahwa akan menguatkan peran KT-1B woong Bee sebagai pesawat yang digunakan untuk seremonial atau aeobatik. T-50 pun akan dirubah KSAU menjadi FA-50 dengan menambahkan beberapa kemanpuan lainnya.

Pesawat latih T-50 (photo : defence.pk)

“Kalau ini (T-50) kita kembalikan sesuai dengan marwahnya sebagai pesawat tempur. Sehingga T-50 itu kita rubah, tidak menjadi T-50 lagi, menjadi FA-50 dengan menambahkan beberapa kemampuan seperti radar dan persenjataan,” jelas Hadi.

Tujuan KSAU mengembalikan marwah T-50 dan menguatkan peran KT-1B sejatinya adalah untuk melakukan inovasi demi kemajuan TNI AU yang modern. “Kita tidak terjebak dengan tradisi, tapi suatu inovasi untuk kemajuan Angkatan Udara yang modern.”

(Angkasa)


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Ultra Electronics to Design Early Warning System Techniques for Australian Navy

Ultra Electronics to Design Early Warning System Techniques for Australian Navy


14 Maret 2017

Early warning system will complement existing ship-borne radar systems (photo : RAN)

The Australian government last Thursday announced that it had awarded A$1.7 million to Ultra Electronics Pty Ltd to build early warning system techniques for the Australian Navy. 

Ultra Electronics will develop the techniques to provide naval ships with early warning of low flying air threats, such as anti-ship missiles.

Defence minister Christopher Pyne said that the grant would improve the technology available to the Navy.

“This project will complement existing ship-borne radar systems,” Pyne said.

“I am pleased to announce Ultra Electronics Avalon Systems Pty Ltd will receive funding to take this innovative technology to the next level. We are determined to use the defence dollar to drive a higher technology, advanced manufacturing future.

“We need to ensure that we maximise opportunities for Australian Industry to contribute to meeting our capability needs.”

In February this year, the Defence Department tendered for its IT procurement panel. Last year, the Government launched the Defence Innovation Hub, which brings together existing Defence innovation programs to try to streamline investment in innovation.

(Manufacturer"s Monthly)


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Pesawat UAV LAPAN LSU-02 Pecahkan Rekor Terbang

Pesawat UAV LAPAN LSU-02 Pecahkan Rekor Terbang


14 Maret 2017

Lapan UAV LSU-02 (all photos : Lapan)

Pesawat tanpa awak LAPAN Surveillance UAV (LSU) 02 sukses melakukan pemotretan udara untuk batas wilayah desa di Kecamatan Kretek, Bantul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (DIY) pada 1 hingga 5 Maret 2017.

Sebelum misi pemotretan udara, tim terlebih dahulu lakukan uji terbang pesawat. Hal ini dimaksudkan agar pesawat LSU berada dalam performa mesin terbaik serta mendapat settingan sistem avionik terefektif, guna meminimalisir shock wave air sebelum misi pemotretan udara dilakukan.

Pesawat LSU-02 dibekali mesin 33 cc. Dalam misi ini, LSU02 lepas landas dari Landasan Federasi Aerosport Indonesia (FASI) Pantai Depok, DIY. Pesawat terbang dengan kecepatan rata-rata 100 km per jam dengan ketinggian pemotretan 500 dan 750 meter di atas permukaan tanah.

Pesawat LSU terbang sesuai way point dengan jarak 250 kilometer yang ditempuh dalam durasi dua jam sepuluh menit. Jarak ini merupakan rekor baru LSU-02 untuk misi pemetaan pesawat tanpa awak.

PIC Safety Assurance Engineer (SAE) Pusat Teknologi Penerbangan LAPAN, Agus Harno Nurdiansyah bersyukur atas kesuksesan misi ini, "Alhamdulillah dengan loyalitas, keikhlasan dan kerja keras dari seluruh anggota tim misi pemotretan udara dapat dilakukan dengan baik. Semua jerih payah di lapangan terbayar."

Kepala Pusat Teknologi Penerbangan LAPAN, Gunawan S. Prabowo, mengapresiasi hasil kerja tim dalam misi kali ini. Ia berharap, keberhasilan ini dapat meningkatkan kekompakan, sikap saling mengisi, keterbukaan, mental, dan diskusi untuk misi-misi selanjutnya.

Misi kali ini merupakan lanjutan implementasi kerja sama antara LAPAN dengan Badan Informasi Geospasial (BIG). Kegiatan ini bertujuan sebagai salah satu upaya menentukan standardisasi pemetaan menggunakan UAV, baik secara teknis maupun administratif. Secara teknis, standardisasi harus sesuai kriteria yang diinginkan oleh pemangku kepentingan. Sementara itu, secara administratif juga harus memenuhi perizinan.

Kegiatan ini menghasilkan rangcangan Norma Standar Prosedur Kriteria (NSPK) yang akan dikaji sebalum menjadi Standar Nasional Indonesia (SNI). Standar ini nantinya menjadi aturan baku pemetaan. Dalam upaya ini, BIG juga mengundang berbagai praktisi untuk memberikan masukan dalam penyusunan standardisasi pemetaan dengan teknologi pesawat tanpa awak.

Diharapkan, di masa yang akan datang, perkembangan UAV akan semakin maju baik dari sisi flight safety dan Flight performance. Dengan demikian, teknologi ini akan mampu mendukung akuisisi data untuk kebutuhan skala besar.

(Lapan)


Militer Indonesia

Saab Opens Philippine Office

Saab Opens Philippine Office


14 Maret 2017

Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighter aircraft (photo : Gripen Blog)

Swedish Ambassador Harald Fries said Saab Group, a major defense and civilian security company, has just opened an office in the country.

“People here they associate Saab with cars but they no longer exist,” he noted. “It is now a global security company and they just opened up an office here in the Philippines.”

The Saab Group has been reported to be in the pole position to secure a deal to sell its JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft to the Philippine Air Force. Aside from air defense, the company could also offer coastal surveillance equipment and even submarines to the Philippines.

During a media roundtable held on the occasion of the 70th year of Sweden-Philippine Diplomatic Relations, Ambassador Fries said Swedish business is generally quite progressive when it comes to corporate social responsibility in terms of taking care of the environment,  as well as upholding labor and human rights.

Kockums A26 submarine (image : Kockums)

Swedish companies such as clothing giant H&M, multinational networking and telecommunications equipment and services company Ericsson, and global customer experience specialist Transcom WorldWide AB are all “very advanced in nurturing good working conditions for these people that they hire.”

Fries disclosed that later this year, the Swedish embassy will invite Swedish companies who do good work in terms of social responsibility, to have an exchange with government agencies, labor unions, and Philippines companies.

“If the Swedish companies could show that giving emphasis to social responsibility and environment is not only the right thing to do but it also makes sense business wise for them,” he explained. “They see that consumers pay more attention to this, who offer good working conditions, who take care of the environment. These companies say it’s good for the business. That’s good to stimulate companies here to do the same.”

(Manila Bulletin)


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