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We live in interesting
times, as the old Chinese
proverb says. And, as air
chiefs from around the TIMES Aerospace Limited Regional Office
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across the greater MENA Mark Brown
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Air power remains the Nick Hutchins
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This first issue of Air Dave Winship-Evans
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Power Middle East and
Production Coordinator:
North Africa looks in
detail at each of the air
THE AUTHOR: ALAN WARNES Sophie Fullam
sophie.fullam@arabianaerospace.aero
forces that support and I am passionate about air forces – not many friends there before the 2011 Circulation Dept:
defend this region’s just air forces but army aviation, naval war. When the country overcomes its Clare Brown
clare.brown@arabianaerospace.aero
nations – sometimes aviation and military aircraft of any current problems, I would love to
together and sometimes shapes or sizes, anywhere in the return. EDITORIAL HEAD OFFICE
against each other. It is a world. Visits to Asia, South America, Aerocomm Ltd, The Tower, Guardian Avenue,
tangled web. This is probably because, during my North America and, of course the North Stifford, Essex RM16 5US UK.
formative years in the 70s, I grew up Tel: +44 1375 371434 or +44 1702 530000
The very experienced Middle East North Africa (MENA)
Alan Warnes has spent in Germany and cycled regularly to region were all enjoyable. Disclaimer
considerable time talking the local air bases. Unfortunately, official visits to MENA The views expressed in Arabian Aerospace magazine are not necessarily
shared by, nor should they be taken as the views of TIMES Aerospace
and listening to people Watching and photographing air forces are difficult, but of the many Limited (the publishers) or Aerocomm Ltd. Any views expressed are those of
the individual contributors.
across the region and military aircraft back then got you into times I’ve visited official air shows in No responsibility or liability is accepted by the editor or the publishers for
any loss occasioned to any person, legal or physical, acting or refraining
collating this report. trouble but I still pursued what was the region, like Dubai, I have always from action as a result of any statement, fact, figure, expression of opinion
or belief contained in Arabian Aerospace.
We hope it is then, a hobby. been impressed. The publication of advertisements does not in any way imply endorsement
something that will be Since then I have travelled I have also had the chance to pursue by the editor or the publishers of the products or services referred to therein.
The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright, full details of
seen again as the region extensively to more than 60 countries my passion for photography, often which are available on request. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or
continues to invest and all over the world, pursuing my taking air-to-air photographs, and by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise,
without prior permission from TIMES Aerospace Limited.
we welcome your interest and furthering my career. flown in many different types of Printed in the UAE by Emirates Printing Press.
suggestions. Professionally, I was the editor of aircraft.
I sincerely hope you AirForces Monthly from 1998 until As you may have guessed, travelling
enjoy reading it – and find 2010 and, while still part of the team, I is an interest – taking in different Advertisers
it useful too. now enjoy pursuing a freelance career. cultures and meeting new people. AAR Corp. 8
I have written hundreds of features, as When you travel on your own, as I Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair and
Alan Peaford well as a book on the modern Pakistan regularly do, people will often want to Overhaul Center (AMMROC) 6
Editor-in-chief Air Force (published in 2009), and talk to you and I always get to learn Air Tractor, Inc 66
Al Raha Group for Technical Services (RGTS) 12
I’m working on a new one. something new.
Alsalam Aircraft Company 57
There have been many highlights; In these days of Wi-Fi and the BAE Systems 2
visiting the Sri Lanka Air Force internet, I love the cut and thrust of Boeing Defense, Space & Security OBC
throughout the 90s at the height of the writing on the hoof and I get as excited Eurofighter Typhoon 53
civil war and being there as it ended, today about my work as I did when Global Aerospace Summit 2016 23
was one. cycling my bike around Germany. IOMAX Archangel IFC
Korea Aerospace Industries, LTD 49
The regular trips to the Pakistan Air If you find that you can update any
L-3 Link Simulation & Training 33
Force are another, experiencing one of of the data in this book, or provide MBDA 19
the most operational air forces in the news or assist with photography for Northrop Grumman Corporation 5
world, with such a diverse fleet of future issues of Arabian Aerospace or Rosoboronexport 59
aircraft. the next edition of MENA Air Power, Russian Helicopters, JSC 43
I was fortunate enough to visit the then please get in touch. Specialized Events and General Marketing
Activities (SEGMA) 16
Libyan Air Force three times, making alan.warnes@arabianaerospace.aero
TAI - Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. IBC
Textron Aviation 29
RSAF Typhoon at sunset - Picture by Jamie Hunter
Thales 11
1
contents
09 INTRODUCTION
24 IRAN
WHY AIR POWER IS TOP PRIORITY
SANCTIONS HINDER PROGRESS
13 ALGERIA
THE MISSING SYNC
17 BAHRAIN 26 IRAQ
US AIDS RECOVERY
FIGHTING MODERNISATION
20 EGYPT
THE POWER PYRAMID
30 JORDAN
A GROWING FORCE
3
contents
34 KUWAIT
SUPPORT STRUCTURE 40 MOROCCO
ROYAL BACKING
36 LEBANON
WAR AGAINST TERROR
44 OMAN
FOCUS ON UPGRADES
38 LIBYA
LIFE AFTER GADDAFI
46 QATAR
THINKING BIG
4
E-2D: THE EYES AND
EARS OF SECURITY
The U.S. Navy’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program continues to go from strength to strength with the recent completion of its
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Control System, representing a two-generation leap in radar sensor and enhanced network capabilities. The E-2D provides
Theater Air and Missile Defense, synthesizing information from multiple onboard and off-board sensors, making complex tactical
decisions, and disseminating actionable information to joint forces in a distributed, open-architecture environment. The E-2D
program has achieved all major milestones on or ahead of schedule since program inception in 2003. As of July 2015, 19 aircraft
have been delivered, with the next 32 aircraft under contract.
The Japan Ministry of Defense indicated in November 2014 that it selected the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye as part of its Japan Air
Self-Defense Force fleet in a recent type selection competition. In June 2015, the U.S. government approved the possible foreign
military sale to Japan for E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft and associated equipment, parts and logistical support,
acknowledging the benefits a shared system would bring to both countries.
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contents
50 SAUDI ARABIA
CONTINUING TO BUILD 62 TURKEY
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
67 UAE
SOLID DEFENCE
58 SYRIA
JIHADIST FIGHT
71 YEMEN
TOUGH TIMES
60 TUNISIA
LIVING ON THE EDGE
7
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introduction
Alan Warnes explains why Middle East
air power is not just about rich air
forces buying the best aircraft and
weapons in the world. Training with
their allies and learning how to get the
best out of their platforms whether they
are new or old is equally as
important.
The Dassault
T
ordered by the air
he Middle East North Africa (MENA) region is one of the particular, the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) has grown in forces of Egypt
most unstable areas of the world. Tribalism, terrorism, confidence, militarily over the past decade or so. and Qatar earlier
religion and political differences mean the protection of In 2014 Saudi Arabia spent around $80 billion on defence – this year.
national interests remains on every country’s agenda. 10.4% of gross domestic product (GDP) – making it the fourth
From Morocco in the west to Iran in the east, Turkey in the largest spender in the world, according to the acknowledged
north to Yemen in the south, there is always something going on. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Defence is paramount and most of it is done under a veil of Some of the biggest contracts involve the RSAF, which, in
secrecy. 2012, agreed deals worth more than $20 billion with the USA to
Saudi Arabia sits at the heart of the region and its military has equip itself with the 72 brand new F-15SAs ($11bn), upgrade 68
grown in stature in recent years. We have seen Saudi-led air existing F-15S aircraft ($3.5bn) and buy new smarter, longer-
strikes against Houthis in Yemen in 2015, the first time the range weapons ($7bn). Continued
on Page 10
biggest and wealthiest country in the region has led such a Additionally, in February 2014, the Saudi Government agreed
coalition. It goes some way to show how the Saudis and, in a price escalation contract with BAE Systems over the
9
INTRODUCTION
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
acquisition of 72 Typhoons in 2007, which at the
time was worth $4.4 billion.
While its all very well involved have to know how to work together –
what their roles are, what weapons they bring,
Only three other countries in the world spend
more on defence – the USA, China and Russia.
having the best how to communicate, who is providing
command and control.
The UAE is not too far behind, in about 14th
place, spending $22.7 billion (5.1% of GDP),
weapons to fight the Air forces have learnt to train in the art of the
combined air operation (COMAO). This is the
while Turkey spent $22.6 billion (2.2% GDP).
The UAE has recently restructured its own
bad people, as many reason most of the Middle East air forces have
always bought US or European systems, and
aerospace industry, not just to make it more then participate in regular exercises.
efficient, but also in a bid to export its services – MENA countries do, The RSAF exercises regularly with the US
with the Advanced Military Maintenance, forces and has visited ‘Exercise Red Flag’ in
Repair and Overhaul Center (AMMROC) working with other Nevada several times, the UK twice (in 2007 and
having huge potential. 2013) and France during 2014.
Turkey, meanwhile, produces its own coalition partners is The United Arab Emirates Air Force and
helicopters, aircraft and weapons, not just for its Defence Force (UAEAF&AD) hosts its own
huge domestic market but also for export as well, the name of the game advanced tactical leadership courses (ATLCs) at
in a bid to offset some of the huge domestic spend. Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi where US, UK RAF and
Turkey’s SSM (undersecretary of Defence) and interoperability is French fighters, regularly get involved.
has been quite vocal in its criticism of the local UAEAF&AD F-16s also attend ‘Red Flag’
defence companies for not doing more to export.
In North Africa, Algeria is the leader in
the key word. and, last year, Mirage 2000s ventured to
Australia for ‘Exercise Pitch Black’.
military procurement. In 2014 it spent $11.8 Turkey hosts ‘Anatolian Eagle’ at Konya Air
billion (5.4% of GDP), with most of the Base and attracts fighters from the Middle East
Algerian Air Force share going to Russia for new and Europe, which again allows them to work
air defence systems, ground-based air defence together.
systems and Su-30s. Jordan, this year, sent six F-16s to ‘Red Flag’,
which were surprisingly refuelled by Israeli Air
qqqqq force KC-707s en-route.
Net-centric warfare, often referred to as
More recently, it has been beefing up its border ‘sensor to shooter’, plays a huge part in
security and issuing tenders for intelligence COMAO. It constitutes the heart of any modern
surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) command and control system, which
platforms. encompasses the needs of all of the country’s
Algeria like so many MENA states, not only services. Without it, forces have no combat
suffers from terrorism and civil unrest, particularly flexibility, tactical cohesiveness or effectiveness.
in the wake of the 2011 Arab Uprising, but also The lack of it in combat denies an air force the
sees Morocco as a threat because of their benefit of a powerful force multiplier in combat
differences over the South Sahara. operations.
So, with around $180 billion spent annually Most countries buy either western or eastern
on military procurement in the region, it is not systems. It would be very difficult to integrate
too surprising that MENA acts as a magnet to Russian or Chinese hardware with NATO
the big defence companies. systems, as Turkey is finding with the acquisition
To understand why these countries need of a Chinese HQ-9 SAM system.
strong militaries, you just have to look at the One exception is Egypt, which operates a mix
spread and popularity of the Islamic State (IS – of US F-16s, Russian MiG-29s, Chinese F-7s and
often referred to as Daesh in the Middle East). French Mirages. More recently, it added the
Middle Eastern air power is playing its part in Dassault Rafale to its inventory. However, there
trying to oust IS from Iraq and Syria and the is no common air defence system linking all the
Houthi rebels from Yemen. systems together. Iran has a mix of old western
The US and its Arab allies, Bahrain, Jordan, and eastern fighters, including F-4E Phantoms,
Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have F-14A Tomcats, F-7s, Su-25 Frogfoots, Su-24M
all committed jets to rid Syria of the barbaric IS Fencers and MiG-29 Fulcrums, but none can
under ‘Operation Inherent Resolve’. Australia ‘talk’ to each other either. While data-linking
and France have also joined the effort. does happen in Iran, it’s mainly between
In Iraq, the US and its NATO allies are also The electronic intelligence/signals intelligence
trying to stamp out IS under the same operation. more you (ELINT/SIGINT) and recce platforms.
Then there is the Saudi-led coalition, which So, at the end of the day, while the Middle East
includes Egypt and UAE, trying to crush the spend, the more countries maybe spending tens of billions of dollars
Houthi militias in Yemen, after President Hadi you can bring to the on defence, they also need to have a cohesive plan,
was overthrown. table when a military working with allied partners to get the best out of
While its all very well having the best weapons them. Most seem to be doing that, because no
to fight the bad people, as many MENA solution has country has the stomach to fight conflicts on their
countries do, working with other coalition to be found. own anymore. However, the more you spend, the
partners is the name of the game and more you can bring to the table when a military
interoperability is the key word. All the countries solution has to be found. n
10
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ALGERIA AND
THE MISSING SYNC
T
hanks to 15 years of high oil and work out well and the Algerian force HQ
gas revenues, the Algerian Air curtailed some of the manoeuvres,
Force (FAA), looks impressive on although the BAF enjoyed its time there.
paper. The FAA also needs to replace its ageing
Like many air forces, the FAA flies tactical and strategic platforms, like the
older platforms like the MiG-29C, SU- Beech-1900D high-integrated synthetic
24MK2 and Mi-24MKII, which co-exist aperture radar (HISAR), the MiG-25RBsh
with modern aircraft like the SU-30MKA (strategic) and SU-24MR (tactical).
and the newly acquired Mi-28E. The FAA might have ordered the It issued a series of tenders in 2014 to
However, none of these platforms Mi-28NE, which is undoubtedly a very modernise the fleet and introduce more
work together as there is no net-centric impressive attack helicopter, but it is ISR systems. This included the
structure, which plays a massive part in incapable of data-linking information or modernisation of its surveillance
today’s modern air combat operations. automatic targeting cues coming from an helicopters, procurement of 14
Some say this has happened largely due to ISR or airborne surveillance platform. reconnaissance helicopters, Beech 1900D
the leadership’s lack of knowledge. This will dramatically reduce the combat modernisation (which has been partly
The Algerian SU-30MKAs are a great effectiveness of such an impressive done), purchase of six medium altitude
example of this. They are equipped with a platform, let alone the possibility to be turbo-prop ISR aircraft and replacement
very basic data-link capability, allowing able to work jointly with reconnaissance of the MiG-25RBSh squadron with three
them to exchange a limited form of helicopters or unmanned air vehicles None ISR business jets. This should have
messaging, but are incapable of sending (UAVs). provided a chance to integrate the
or receiving complete tactical situational Another weakness is training of these systems and establish a ‘sensor to
awareness. As a result, they cannot pilots in tactical scenarios. For shooter’ concept but, unfortunately,
receive a data-link-recognised air picture example, back in 2006, the platforms work there was no technical specification
from a ground air defence network or a Belgian Air Force (BAF) sent four together as there is outlining the need to send tactical
battlefield picture from an airborne F-16s to work with the MiG-29s of information and
intelligence, surveillance, and the 3rd Air Defence Wing. no net-centric targeting information to Continued
on Page 14
reconnaissance (ISR) platform. Unfortunately, things didn’t quite structure. the war-fighter.
13
Above: Like most
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 It was reported earlier this year that air forces in the close relationship with Eurocopter (now
The FAA does look impressive, if Algeria’s air defence was significantly world, C-130 Airbus), with its helicopters replaced by
dated, in areas. A single interceptor enhanced when it became the first foreign Hercules form the those from arch rival AgustaWestland.
squadron equipped with MiG-25PDS basis of the
country to receive the deadly S-400 Orders for AW109s, AW139s, AW101s
Algerian Air
Foxbats at Ain Oussera Air Base operates Triumf (NATO name SA-21 Growler) Force tactical and Super Lynx all squeezed Airbus
alongside another equipped with MiG- missile system. The S-400 is designed to transport Helicopters out of Algeria.
25RBSh reconnaissance variants and intercept and destroy airborne targets at a requirements. It was announced on February 28,
Sukhoi Su-24MRK2 Fencers. distance of up to 250 miles (400kms) and PICTURE: ALAN WARNES 2014 that the Algerian Air Force had
Long-range precision strike over land will alarm neighbour Morocco, with concluded a massive $2.7 billion contract
and sea is the role of the Su-24MK2s based which Algeria has a strained relationship. Right: Algerian with Rostvertol for the supply of new
at Laghouat Air Base. Around 22-25 were In 2011, the air force leadership Air Force helicopters and upgrades to its existing
upgraded from Su-24M/MKs in 2001. demanded an explanation from Russia Su-24M/MKs rotary-wing fleet. The purchase includes
have been
The MiG-29 Fulcrums flown by the 3rd for the high level of Israeli avionics in its 42 Mil Mi-28E Night Hunter attack
upgraded with
Air Defence Wing at Bou-Sfer were Su-30MKAs. It came after maintenance the capability of helicopters and modernisation of the
acquired second-hand from Belarus and of the first aircraft, delivered in 2007, dropping Mk 82 AAF’s 39 Mi-171Sh (Mi-8AMTSh)
Ukraine in 1999. As part of the Russian revealed the main mission computer, the series weapons. helicopters by Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant,
arms deal, these aircraft were to be traded nerve centre of the Su-30MKA, had been which will come with an armament
in for the latest MiG-29SMT-2/UBT heavily influenced by Israel technologies. upgrade.
variants. Delivery of 28 MiG-29SMT-2s An order for six brand new Mi-26Ts
was halted after the supposedly new qqqqq has been followed by a second contract
aircraft were actually old airframes for eight. The first two were delivered to
upgraded, but still allegedly in poor The computer interfaces with the Israel their new home at Biskra on June 9.
condition. It resulted in Algeria returning Aerospace Industries Elta EL/M8222 The next arrive before the end of this
the first 15 of 34 jets on order and electronic warfare system and Elbit year and the remaining two from the first
subsequently cancelling the deal. The Systems SU967 head-up display. contract will follow early next year.
two countries settled their differences Real concerns have been raised that the Deliveries of the additional eight are due
and a deal for 28 Su-30MKAs followed, new generation Flanker’s avionics could by the end of 2017. Algerian pilots and
with deliveries between 2007-2009. become a target of cyber-warfare from technicians are also being trained as part
A second contract for a further 16 Su- the Jewish state in the event of hostilities. of these contracts.
30MKAs was completed by the end of Algeria already has a track record of Algeria’s fixed-winged transport fleet
2011, which spelt the end of the MiG- withdrawing from use platforms with based at Boufarik Air Base comprises one
23MF/ML Floggers, and considerably Israeli equipment. tactical and logistical wing operating the
boost the air arm’s strike capabilities. A Two VIP Eurocopter EC225s, western sourced types – Lockheed C-130
third acquisition of 14 Su-30MKAs was 2600/7T-WVA and 2623/7T-WVB, were Hercules, Gulfstreams, C295s and Beech
announced in September 2015, with retired in 2008, some four years after 200/300s. There is also a tactical
deliveries expected in 2016-17. being received, when they were transport and air-refuelling wing
The S-300MPU2 Favorit air defence discovered to have Elbit avionics. They operating Ilyushin Il-76 Candids and Il-
system was also purchased as part of the have now been sold. 78 Midas tankers.
Su-30MKA deals. This also signalled the end of Algeria’s Some of the Beech 200s are equipped
14
ALGERIAN AIR FORCE
for maritime patrol, but are likely to be force has been looking to acquire up to
replaced soon. three A330 multi-role tanker transport
Boufarik also houses the AAF’s Beech (MRTT) aircraft to replace the IL-78s.
1900Ds, six of which were equipped with In early May 2013, an A330 MRTT
the Raytheon HISAR surveillance undertook a series of demonstrations at
system. It is understood the system has Base Aérienne Boufarik, the AAF’s main
been upgraded as its weight restricted the transport base, but no order materialised.
aircraft’s performance. The new kit The FAA has a large training facility at
includes the L3 Wescam MX-15 EO/IR Tafraoui Air Base. Basic training is
sensor. undertaken using Czech- and locally-
Two new production King Air C90GTi assembled variants of the Zlin light
twin-turboprops were delivered to the air aircraft family, while L-39ZAs are based
force in November 2011. Algeria has there too.
been a user of various King Air models The advanced and weapons training
for many years, most being operated for segments of the syllabus is undertaken on
transport duties at Boufarik and 16 Yakovlev Yak-130s based at Mecheria,
including four older model King Air working alongside L-39ZAs. Algeria
C90Bs delivered new in 1985. Four King ordered the Yak-130 in March 2006 with
Air 200s are also in service, plus a single the first aircraft making its maiden flight
Beech 200T, used for training at in August 2009, but deliveries did not
Tafraoui. Most recently, six King Air commence until November 29, 2011,
B300s have been delivered, the latest with an initial three aircraft. They were
being in May 2011. purchased before development had been
completed and issues with the aircraft’s
qqqqq navigation systems allegedly hinder the
jet’s performance.
An order for 10 Airbus C295s was Beech twin-turboprops are used for
placed in 2003, which comprised four crew and specialised training, while pilots
aircraft in basic transport/utility working up on helicopters will make use
configuration, two with VIP-specification of PZL (Mil) Mi-2 Hoplites and
interiors and four with systems installed Eurocopter AS.355B Twin Ecureuils
for maritime patrol and surveillance. The based at Setif - Aïn Arnat Air Base.
six transport and VIP-configured aircraft Eight Sokół W-3A helicopters were
were delivered between November 2005 ordered for crew training in July 2011 via
and early 2007, but the four MPAs were PZL’s parent company, AgustaWestland,
cancelled. A C295 was lost on November and deliveries were completed in 2014.
9, 2012, when it crashed in France, with There are options for a further 15 to
all six on board killed. replace the Air Force’s Mi-2 Hoplite
There has been speculation that the air helicopters. n
15
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ROYAL BAHRAINI AIR FORCE
17
ROYAL BAHRAINI AIR FORCE
18
DIVERSITY THE FOUNDATION
OF EGYPT’S POWER PYRAMID
I
t is no surprise that the US ban on
exporting military equipment to
Egypt, which lasted from October
2013 until July 2015, affected the air
force’s modernisation.
After Egyptian president Mohammed
Morsi was ousted in a coup on July 3
2013, US officials announced on October
9 that hundreds of millions of dollars-
worth of military aid to Egypt was being
suspended.
The US provides more than $1 billion
in military aid annually, so it hurt, but
most of the aircraft affected by the freeze
have now been delivered.
The deal for 10 AH-64E Guardians
was one programme halted. However,
some of the suspension order was lifted in
April 2014 to allow the attack helicopters
to head to their new home. They augment
35 AH-64Ds, which were rebuilt and
upgraded from AH-64As in the early
2000s.
The ban was eventually lifted on March
31 2015, allowing the remainder of the remaining four aircraft to complete the The legacy Mirage 5s struck included camps, training sites and
received a
20 new F-16 Block 52s, contracted on order would follow in the autumn. weapons storage areas. Egyptian military
comprehensive
March 2 2010 under ‘peace vector VII’, The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) will avionics upgrade in officials said the air strikes were “to
to be delivered. have taken delivery of 240 F-16s, which the early 2000s to avenge the bloodshed and to seek
One F-16C and three F-16Ds had equip around 10 squadrons. Egypt is the overcome retribution from the killers”.
arrived in Egypt during January 2013, F-16’s biggest customer outside of the obsolescence. A second wave of air strikes were
followed by three F-16Cs and one F-16D USA and operates the -15, -32, -40 and - carried out later in the day, hitting targets
in April 2013 before deliveries were 52 derivatives. in Derna, an extremist stronghold in
halted. It would take more than two years Its F-16s are known to have been eastern Libya.
before eight of the remaining 12 F- involved in a series of dawn raids The EAF operates one of the most
16Cs headed to their new against Islamic State (IS) diverse fighter forces in the world, which
home. All were flown from targets in Libya on February also includes the Chengdu F-7Bs, MiG-
the Fort Worth factory in The 16 2015. The missions 21MFs, F-4E Phantoms, Mirage 5s and
Texas, via Lajes Field, EAF operates came after IS had 2000s. Dassault fighters have been flying
Azores to Cairo West published a video the with the EAF for more than 40 years, so it
Air Base on July 30/31. one of the most previous day of the shouldn’t have been a surprise when the
The US Embassy in beheading of 21 French Government announced on
Cairo announced on diverse fighter Egyptian Coptic February 12 2015 that it had sold 24
July 30 that the forces in the Christians. Targets Rafales to Egypt. The reported €5.2
world.
20
EGYPTIAN AIR FORCE
billion ($5.8bn) contract includes 16 Egypt’s Rafales a significant operational The Egyptian Air and Egypt – following more than 40 years
Force received its
dual-seaters (DMs) and eight single- edge with the ability to conduct all- of an exemplary partnership marked by
first three Rafales of
seaters (EMs), as well as Mica missiles, weather, day/night precision ground 24 on order in early commitment and mutual trust. After the
Sagem AASM air-to-ground precision- strikes against fixed or moving targets. August 2015. Mirage 5, Alpha Jet, and Mirage 2000
guided munitions, and Scalp Cruise Equipment fit is expected to be similar to PICTURE: EGYPTIAN MOD. comes the Rafale – the fourth Dassault
missiles. The Scalp will undoubtedly be current French aircraft, including the aircraft to fly in Egyptian colours – and
the Black Shaheen version developed for Reco NG reconnaissance pod. Egypt is the first export customer for the
the UAE. In order to speed up initial deliveries, Rafale, as it was for the Mirage 2000.”
Sagem will deliver the first AASM the first three Rafales, built for the French The first three aircraft, 9201 (DM01),
Hammer missiles by the end of 2016, Air Force, were diverted off the 9202 (DM02) and 9203 (DM03) were
along with associated support services. production line. The two-seat Rafale DM flown to Cairo the following day and will
All three versions of the AASM now in variants were formally handed-over be operated by the 203rd Tactical Fighter
service are included: hybrid inertial/GPS during a ceremony on July 20 at the Wing ‘Storm’/34 Squadron ‘Wild
guidance, inertial/GPS and terminal Dassault Aviation Flight Test Centre at Wolves’. They were included in a flypast
infrared guidance, and inertial/GPS plus Istres-Le Tube. on August 5 to mark the inauguration of
laser terminal guidance. The first will be Dassault chairman and CEO, Eric the expansion of the Suez Canal. The
delivered by late 2016. Trappier, told a gathered audience: “This remaining aircraft are due
Continued
The AASM Hammer has a range of constitutes a new milestone in the to follow at a rate of five on Page 22
more than 37 miles (60km), giving cooperation between Dassault Aviation aircraft per year.
21
EGYPTIAN AIR FORCE
An Egyptian Air
force Mirage EGYPTIAN AIR FORCE ORBAT
2000 pulls up
HQ Egyptian Air Force, HQ Kobry al Kobba, Cairo
alongside a
Air Defence Command
French Air Force
C-135FR during 104th Fighter Brigade, Al Mansurah AB
22 Sqn F-7B/FT-7B
air-to-air 45 Sqn MiG-21MF/UM
49 Sqn MiG-21MF/UM
refuelling
102th Tactical Fighter Brigade, Marsa Matrouh AB
training. 26 Sqn F-7B/FT-7B
reportedly been in discussions with Russia 2013, after being hit by a shoulder-launched 252nd TFW, Gebel el Basur AB
71 Sqn Mirage 5SDE/SDR, SDD
during 2015 about the possibility of air-to-ground missile, close to the town of 82 Sqn Mirage 2000EM/BM
Det, Marsa Matrouh AB
purchasing 46 MiG-35s, but its unclear if Sheikh Zuwayed, in North Sinai. An Mirage 2000BM/EM
there has been any recent progress. Islamist militant group named Ansar Beit al- 262nd TFW, Abu Suwayr AB
It is not surprising, given the size of the Maqdis, or Champions of Jerusalem, 60th TFS F-16C/D-40
country, that the EAF operates a huge claimed responsibility for the death of all 272nd TFW, Jiyanklis AB
75th TFS F-16C/D-40
transport fleet, which includes 25 C- five personnel on board. Egypt has suffered 77th TFS
79th TFS
F-16C/D-40
F-16C/D-40
130Hs and 15 Airbus C295Ms. The from a terrorist threat for decades, 516th Transport Brigade, Cairo-Almaza AB
latter have come in four separate orders, highlighted by the regular checkpoints as 2 Sqn/ANS DHC-5D
40 Sqn SA342L Gazelle
with the latest batch of eight eventually you move around the country. ? Sqn Mi17/Mi-8
? Sqn An-74T-200A, Beech 1900C, King Air 200,
bringing it up to 20, making the EAF the There is believed to be around 20 VC-130H Hercules, S-70A-21, VH-3A Sea King,
WS-61 Commando
biggest operator of the type. surviving Westland WS-61 Commando
? Transport Brigade, Cairo Int’l Airport
Most of the transport fleet is based at Mk 1/2s flying with 7 Squadron at Borg 4 Sqn C-130H/H-30 Hercules
Cairo International Airport. el Arab. Three were overhauled by 16 Sqn C-130H Hercules
Two of the eight Beech 1900s are AgustaWestland in Hagerstown, 546th Electronic Countermeasures Brigade, Jiyanklis AB
81 Sqn Beech 1900C
equipped for the electronic intelligence Maryland as part of a $17.3 million 601st Airborne Early Warning Brigade, Cairo - West AB
(ELINT) role. They are thought to have contract in 2009/2010. Another 87 Sqn E-2C Hawkeye 2000
been supplemented by a further two example, a Commando Mk2E, was given 5th Tactical Helicopter Wing, Borg El Arab AB
7 Sqn WS-61 Commando Mk.1/Mk.2B/Mk.2E
examples under a $24 million foreign a utility configuration in 2014 by Clayton 11 Sqn SA342K/L Gazelle
37 Sqn SH-2G(E) Super Seasprite
military sales contract awarded in June International of Peachtree City, Georgia,
? Helicopter Brigade, Al Ismailiyah AB
2012, to Raytheon. Two C-130Hs have as part of a $7 million cost-plus-fixed-fee ? Sqn SA342 L Gazelle
? Sqn Mi-17-1V
also been configured to the ELINT role. foreign military sales programme.
Ten ex-US Navy SH-2F Seasprites, 53rd Helicopter Brigade, Kom Awshim AB
18 Squadron CH-47D Chinook
qqqqq delivered between October 1997 and 5. Attack Helicopter Brigade, Katameya AB
1999, operate with 37 Squadron at Borg 51 Sqn AH-64D Apache Longbow
Three AN-74T-200A Coalers, purchased el Arab. They were subsequently 53. Helicopter Brigade, Hurghada AB
? Sqn Mi-17-1V, Mi-8?
over the past decade, still serve. At least upgraded in late 2008 onwards as part of 533rd Helicopter Brigade, Cairo-Almaza AB
one is in the VIP role, working alongside a mid-life update, with improvements ? Squadron Mi-17-1V, Mi-8
the survivors of five DHC-5D Buffalos including a digital automatic flight 550th Attack Helicopter Brigade, Az Zaqaziq AB
52 Sqn AH-64D Apache Longbow
with 2 Squadron at Almaza. control system, a FLIR Systems Safire AH-64E Guardian
Seven Hawkeye 2000s fulfil the electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) turret Air Force Academy, Bilbays AB
airborne early warning role. Two were and an AN/ALE-47 countermeasures 117th Primary Training Brigade
? Sqn Grob G 115EG
delivered new and the other five dispensing system. Work on all 10
117th Basic Training Brigade
upgraded from the E-2C standard by Seasprites was completed during 2011. 83 Sqn EMB.312A Tucano
Northrop Grumman in the late 2000s. Meanwhile, AgustaWestland delivered 84 Sqn
201 Sqn
EMB.312A Tucano
K-8E Karakoram
The EAF’s helicopter force, like so two AW139 helicopters in April 2012 to ? Sqn L-39ZO Albatros, L-59E Albatros
many Middle East countries, relies on the the EAF. Produced in the United States at Weapons Training Brigade, El Minya AB
? Sqn Alpha Jet MS1/MS2
Mi-17 Hip. Kazan Helicopters supplied the company’s Philadelphia, Flying Training Brigade, El Minya AB
24, with the first deliveries taking place Pennsylvania, facility, AgustaWestland 85 Sqn
201 Sqn
EMB.312A Tucano
K-8E
in 2009. They add to the 20 Mi-17-1V configured the AW139s for search and
Border Patrol Unit, Abu Simbel Airport
Hips purchased in 1999/2000. rescue missions. n Zlin Aircraft Z143LEAF
22
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IRAN EDGES FORWARD
DESPITE THE SANCTIONS
M
ilitary sanctions have played a work, with the first jet re-delivered to the
big part in stunting the 72nd Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS)
modernisation of the Islamic followed by delivery of the first MiG-29 to
Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF). the IRIAF’s 11th TFS in 2013.
In a bid to overcome the shortfalls in IACI is believed to have modernised and
capabilities, Iran has created its own extended the life of 11 F-4Es, eight Mirage
aerospace industry. The IRIAF’s Owj F1s, six MiG-29s, five Su-24MKs and 10 C-
Complex developed the Saeghe (restored 130E/Hs between 2008 and 2015, as well as
F-5Es) and Azarakhsh (modernised F- performing routine overhaul or
5Es). Then the IRIAF developed the programmed depot maintenance on IRIAF’s
Project Saeghe-80, which was effectively KC-707s, C-130s, F-4s and F-14s.
an aerodynamic upgrade of F-5Es and After president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
Azarakhshs by installing V-shape or twin left office in 2013, around five of the
vertical stabilisers. The Iranians claimed Iranian Aircraft Organization (IAIO) and
the Saeghe was a fully indigenous fighter IACI high-ranking managers, including the
but it was far from that. CEO of IACI, allegedly embezzled almost
In 2008, sanctions scuppered deals that into KF-4E tankers with Beech Pod 1080 $15 million of the research budgets or the
would have seen Russian joint stock refuelling pods, along with the design and costs of Projects Habibi, Dowran and
company RSK MiG work with the Iranian installation of a retractable in-flight Sattari. It caused Iran massive delays.
Aircraft Industries Company (IAIC) to refuelling probe to enable them to The IRIAF launched its own
modernise and upgrade MiG-29s and Su- perform buddy refuelling; installation of modernisation of the F-14As under
24s. It forced the IRIAF to carry out the new navigation aids (NAVAIDS), new ‘Project Babaiee’, as well as production of
work on Su-24MKs at the 7th Tactical communication systems, self-defence two electronic warfare aircraft, believed
Fighter Base, Shiraz. systems etc. Further modernisation In a bid to to be Falcon 2000s, under ‘Project Saye’
Procurement of 50 Klimov RD-33 contracts included the restoration of and the P-3F modernisation, known as
engines allowed another 10 MiG-29s, Mirage F1s under ‘Project Habibi’ in 2007
overcome the ‘Project Persian Gulf’.
grounded between five and 15 years, to and modernisation of C-130E/Hs as part shortfalls in Today the IRIAF has a fleet of 348 fighters,
return to the air between 2008 and 2012. of ‘Project Sattari’ in 2008. capabilities, 63 heavy, medium and light transport
In 2008, IACI and the IRIAF modernised A first upgraded C-130 was delivered to aircraft, 58 trainers, seven tankers, three
and extended the life of F-4Es under ‘Project the IRIAF in 2010, followed by the first F- Iran has electronic intelligence/signals intelligence
Dowran’. It enabled them to operate with C- 4E in 2011 and then the first overhauled created its (ELINT/SIGINT) platforms, two electronic
704KD, C-802A and C-803 anti-ship and Mirage F1 in 2012. own warfare (EW) aircraft, four maritime patrol
Cruise missiles, and integrate the R-73E The IACI started studies on domestic aircraft and 35 helicopters. This is a
infrared (IR)-guided air-to-air missile with upgrade and service life extension of IRIAF’s aerospace considerable combat capability built up to
the armament system. Su-24s and MiG-29s in 2009. Three years industry. confront any invasion from the Persian Gulf
It also saw the conversion of six F-4Es later, the Su-24MK went through similar states like Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
24
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN AIR FORCE
11th Tanker Squadron KC-707/ KC-747/ Boeing 747-131/ Boeing 707-3J9C Cargo
Falcon Star Squadron Lockheed Jet Star/ Falcon 20F/ Falcon 50EX
25
UNITED STATES HELPS TO
PROPEL IRAQ INTO A NEW ERA
I
raq has seen more than its fair share of Under the supervision of US Central
turbulent times over the last few Command’s coalition air force transition
decades, its once formidable air force team, plans were put together to rebuild
having been decimated by massive coalition the IqAF. On August 18, 2003, the
forces during the Gulf War in 1991, which Coalition Provisional Authority
followed Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. sanctioned the creation of new Iraqi
When the US invaded Iraq in 2003 and armed forces, including an air force. The
toppled Saddam Hussein, this marked the initial emphasis was to acquire aircraft
end for the final remnants of the Iraqi Air for transport and surveillance missions to
Force, which had already been largely support the on-going counter-terrorist
prevented from operating due to the operations.
imposition of northern and southern no-fly Operational control of the IqAF was
zones over the country after the Gulf War. formally transferred to the Iraqi prime
Since that time, a ‘new’ Iraqi Air Force minister, Nouri al-Maliki, on September
(IqAF) has been built from scratch, with 7, 2006. Two Seabird Seeker SB7L-360s
extensive assistance from the United States. Iraq in December 2011, insurgency has and eight SAMA CH2000 light aircraft,
None of the aircraft in use prior to the continued and increased. Most recently, equipped with electro-optical/infrared
invasion became part of the new air arm, the alarming rise of the Islamic State (IS) (EO/IR) sensors, delivered in 2004 along
which operates an all-new force terrorist group in the country, and in with four AeroComp Comp Air 7SLX
comprising aircraft that were initially neighbouring Syria, has led once again to light surveillance aircraft, arrived at
donated by the US and neighbouring a US-led coalition being formed to Basra, later joined by two more, all
allied countries. In more recent years, Iraq counter the threat. donated by the UAE in 2004.
has also found funding to be able to In August 2014, US aircraft began air Following a fatal crash on May 30, 2005,
purchase its own aircraft, which have strikes against IS targets in Iraq, later the 7SLX was deemed ‘unsafe’ and despite
come from a variety of sources. being joined by other coalition nations. subsequent rebuild and testing of one of
Troubles for the country have not Daily air strikes have continued and, at them at Edwards Air Force Base, California,
ceased, however, and since the the time of writing, show no sign of the type did not return to IqAF service.
withdrawal of the final US troops from abating. In 2005, three ex-US Air Force C-130E
26
IRAQI AIR FORCE
Hercules were delivered, while on transport King Air 350ER was delivered, some of the equipment fitted to them, all Top: The IqAF is now
February 1 of that year Iraq also received followed by five more in intelligence, six eventually arrived in Iraq between flying 12 Su-25
an initial two ex-Jordanian UH-1H surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) 2011 and 2012. Frogfoots – which were
Iroquois, eventually taking delivery of 16. configuration. A sixth was ordered on A further boost to the transport fleet an emergency
acquisition in a bid to
Due to poor performance in the hot- March 24, 2015, with delivery due by came in the form of six brand-new C-
take on the IS with
and-high conditions in Iraq, these were March 2017. 130J-30 Super Hercules, delivered some heavy hardware.
soon upgraded to UH-1H-II Huey II Eleven Cessna 208B Grand Caravans between December 2012 and May 2013. Five surplus Russian
standard. Plans for a further 48 were have also entered service, the first during A surprising acquisition was the Air Force Su-25
abandoned due to cost overruns and it 2007. Five are used for liaison and training, purchase of 20 UTVA Lasta 95 primary Frogfoots were
was, instead, decided to build up the three for ISR and the other three configured training aircraft, a type that was still in airfreighted into
rotary-wing fleet with more of the tried for both ISR and attack, equipped with the development stage when the order, Baghdad-New Al
and trusted Mi-17s, with which Iraqi AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and designated also including 12 options, was Muthanna Air Base
pilots were already familiar. Since then AC-208B Combat Caravans. announced on December 24, 2007. The during June 2014 joined
by seven former Iranian
the IqAF has continued to progressively first three were shipped to Iraq in May
Islamic Revolutionary
build up its Mi-17 fleet. qqqqq 2010. Guards Corps Air Force
By mid-2005, four Bell 206 JetRangers Over the last few years there have been aircraft, which
donated by the UAE had also arrived in For basic training, 12 Cessna 172R protracted negotiations with the Czech originally served the
Iraq and entered service at Al Taji Air Base Skyhawks were ordered, the first two Republic over the purchase of surplus L- Iraqi Air Force.
for rotary-wing training, followed later by being airfreighted into Kirkuk on 159 ALCAs. Aero Vodochody president,
a fifth. Five more, sourced from the October 19, 2007. Options are held on a Ladislav Simek, confirmed at the Paris Inset: Six brand-new C-
civilian sector and converted for training, further six. Airshow in June that the sale comprised 15 130J-30 Super Hercules
were delivered from December 2008. The first four of a total of 15 T-6A L-159s and was progressing with all delivered between
December 2012 and
Ten former US Army OH-58C Kiowas Texan IIs for training were delivered in milestones so far being passed. The deal
May 2013, have
entered service from April 2008. December 2009 and all were in service by includes 10 L-159A single-seaters and two considerably boosted
PZL Swidnik delivered two W-3 Sokol November 2010. L-159B dual-seaters, with a further three the IqAF’s airlift
and 10 new-production Mi-17V-5s in Six An-32 transports were also ordered aircraft being used for spare capabilities.
Continued
2006. from Ukraine and although deliveries parts. Four, including a on Page 28 PICTURES: IRAQ MOD
On December 28, 2007, a light were delayed by Iraq’s refusal to accept dual-seater, are expected to
27
IRAQI AIR FORCE
28
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This RJAF F-16AM equipped with a Sniper ATP
was one of four along with a F-16BM that
participated in a Red Flag exercise at Nellis
AFB, Nevada in August.
PICTURE: NATE LEONG
30
ROYAL JORDANIAN AIR FORCE
31
ROYAL JORDANIAN AIR FORCE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31
1Fs were donated to the Pakistan Army in
March 2010 to fight terrorism in the
ROYAL JORDANIAN with Hellfire missiles, 2¾in guided rockets,
ATK’s side-mounted M230 30mm chain
Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA). AIR FORCE ORBAT
Royal Jordanian Air Force gun, an integrated defensive suite, mission
Three of the original AH-1Fs arrived at and fire control systems, plus electro-
Operations Command
Huntsville, Alabama, USA in March to be 1 Sqn Al Azraq/Shaheed Muwaffaq AB F-16AM/BM (MLU)
optical and radar sensors.
upgraded by Science and Engineering 2 Sqn, Al Azraq/Shaheed Muwaffaq AB F-16A/B-15 ADF The RJAF operates six Cessna 208Bs,
Services (SES), with new avionics and 3 Sqn, Amman-Marka C295M, C-130E/H, configured for the ISR role, with an under
M-28-05 Skytruck
targeting systems. The work includes 6 Sqn, Al Azraq/Shaheed Muwaffaq AB F-16AM/BM (MLU) -fuselage EO/IR turret. Three were
integration of the MX-10 electro- 7 Sqn, Amman-Marka AS332 M1 Super Puma delivered in November 2009, followed by
optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor. They 8 Sqn, Amman-Marka UH-1H two more in May 2010 and the last one in
Det, Al Mafraq UH-1H
should be delivered to Jordan next year. 9 Sqn,King Abdullah II F-5E/F Tiger II November 2011. All are operated by 14
The RJAF AH-1F/S Cobras fleet is 10 Sqn,Zarqa AH-1F/S Cobra Squadron at Amman-Marka, which also
12 Sqn,Zarqa AH-1F/S Cobra
operated by10 and 12 Squadrons, based flies the EC635T1, UH-1H Iroquois and
14 Sqn, Amman – Marka EC635 T1, C208B ISR G Caravan
at Zarqa-King Abdullah II Air Base. 17 Sqn, H5/Prince Hassan AB F-5E/F SA2-37A. Some, if not all, of the Cessna
A single UH-60M Black Hawk has 208s may have been modified with the
Training Command, Al Mafraq - King Hussein Air College
been ordered for the RJAF under a 4 Squadron T-67M-260 Firefly II
Thales I-Master EO/IR systems.
$11.28 million foreign military sales to be replaced by PC-9M A PZL M28-05 Skytruck was delivered
(FMS) contract awarded to Sikorsky on 5 Squadron AS350 B3 Écureuil to the RJAF’s 3 Squadron at Amman-Marka
Robinson R44
July 9, with delivery expected before the 11 Squadron C-101CC Aviojet
in December 2014. This is the first of the
end of the year. to be replaced by PC-9M type for the RJAF, although it is thought
The RJAF has taken delivery of eight Falcons Aerobatic Team EA-300 three further examples were an option.
UH-60L and two VIP VH-60M Black Special Operations Aviation Brigade, Amman-Marka Three former US Air Force Lockheed
Hawks, operated by 30 Squadron at BPA Squadron AT-802U BPA C-130E Hercules transport aircraft were
Zarqa. The UH-60Ls are flown in support CASA 235 Squadron AC-235 Gunship delivered to the RJAF in December 2011
28 Squadron, Zarqa Hughes 500E/MD530FF
of Jordan’s Special Operations Aviation 30 Squadron, Zarqa UH-60L, VH-60M and April 2012. The aircraft, valued at
Brigade, while the VH-60Ms act primarily $45 million, were donated to the RJAF to
as back-up aircraft for the Jordanian Royal supplement its existing cargo and troop
Flight, but are also made available for King Abdullah II Design and Development airlift capability, which includes four C-
special operations training as required. Bureau (KADDB). 130H Hercules that are operated by 3
ATK announced on February 19, 2011, Squadron at Marka.
qqqqq that it had been awarded a contract by
KADDB to modify two RJAF CN-235 qqqqq
Four IOMAX Air Tractor AT802U ISR transport aircraft into highly capable and
aircraft are being supplied by L3 cost-effective special mission With an urgent need to modernise its
Communications. The company aircraft. ATK, with the full participation pilot training, the RJAF purchased nine
announced in mid-September that its of KADDB, began the US-based flight Pilatus PC-9M turboprop trainers in
Platform Integration Division had been and gun test programme in autumn 2013, August. The deal, which was announced
awarded a $9.78 million Foreign Military following completion of conversion in by Pilatus Aircraft, also includes a
Sales contract to deliver the aircraft. The ATK’s facility at Fort Worth-Meacham simulator, training equipment and a
deal also includes pilot, maintainer and International Airport, Texas. The comprehensive logistics support package.
mission systems training. The contract comprehensive test programme was The Swiss manufacturer said it had won
should be completed by September 30, conducted to validate the performance of the order after several years of hard
2016. All four aircraft were originally the gunship and to perform system negotiations, adding that the RJAF PC-9Ms
earmarked for the Yemen Air Force, but checkouts. Testing included a full suite of would be ready for delivery from January
the deal was cancelled due to the ongoing aircraft flying qualities, sensor and 2017 and would form the backbone of the
situation there (see Yemen). weapons testing, with accuracy validation RJAF pilot training programme.
The unarmed aircraft will be fitted with completed in March 2014. The RJAF will use the PC-9Ms for both
Wescam MX-15 electro-optical infra-red The first aircraft was delivered to the basic and advanced pilot training.
sensors to support counter-terrorism RJAF in April 2014 and made its public Currently, this is carried out at the King
efforts in Jordan. debut at the tenth Special Operations Hussein Air College at Al Mafraq. Initial
The RJAF already operates six of Conference and Exhibition (SOFEX), in basic training uses the T-67M-260 Fireflies
Iomax’s earlier Block 1 BPAs, which are Amman, Jordan the following month. of 4 Squadron, from which pilots progress
based on the Air Tractor AT-802U and The second example was in service within on to the 11 Squadron CASA C101CC
initially delivered to the UAE. weeks. Aviojets.
Thales announced at the Paris Airshow Airbus Defence and Space, ATK and the Eight Robinson R44s were ordered in
in June that it was to provide the RJAF with KADDB announced on June 17, 2014 that With October 2014 for the primary rotary-
additional I-Master synthetic aperture they would cooperate on the wing training at King Hussein Air
radar/ground moving target indicators development of a gunship version of an urgent need College. They have replaced the six
(GMTIs). It follows the installation of the the C295 transport aircraft. One of to modernise its remaining MDH MD500Ds,
radar on to the RJAF’s AC 235 last year. the two C 235s currently operated by
While the announcement didn’t reveal on the RJAF will be used for the
pilot training, the RJAF which are now for sale.
The R44s are equipped with Aspen
which platform they would be installed, the conversion programme, undertaken purchased nine Pilatus and Garmin glass avionics, together
RJAF has taken delivery of a second AC by ATK in the USA. PC-9M turboprop with Bendix King’s new military
235. The two aircraft were a joint The new AC-295 configuration will KTR909 UHF transceiver. All of the
collaboration between Orbital ATK and be similar to the AC 235 Light Gunship,
trainers in R44s are now operational. n
August.
32
On September 11, the Kuwait Air Force
announced it had ordered 28 Typhoons after
negotiations with AleniaAermacchi. Kuwait
will be the third Typhoon operator after
Saudi Arabia and Oman.
KUWAIT CONCENTRATES
ON SUPPORT STRUCTURE
he operational doctrine of the
T
competition from Alenia Aermacchi’s
Kuwait Air Force (KAF) is to own T-346A in any LIFT contest. Italy
support its ground troops. It is not and Kuwait already have a military
designed to fight a war alone, but tasked cooperation programme that will see 35
with operating as part of a coalition. KAF pilots trained at the Italian Air
This is the main reason why it has Force’s training school in Lecce, southern
invested much of its oil money recently on Italy, flying FT-339A/Cs.
transport aircraft and helicopters rather This is also home to the new T-346A
than fighters and training aircraft, like lead-in fighter trainer and, undoubtedly,
most of its neighbours. KAF personnel would have been given
However, after several years of detailed briefings on the jet. While the
deliberations, going back to the early- Hawk is a good jet trainer, the Mk 64s,
2000s, the KAF has finally opted to buy delivered between October 1985 and 86,
new fighters – 28 Eurofighter Typhoons. would need extensive avionics updates to
The deal, believed to be worth around £8 bring them in line with the capabilities
billion ($12.2bn), was brokered by the T-346A can offer.
Alenia Aermacchi and announced by mean new lead-in fighter training aircraft Meanwhile, the KAF’s elderly fleet of
Eurofighter GmbH on September 11. It (LIFT). Up to nine surviving Hawk F/A-18C Hornets has been operational
includes 22 single-seater and six twin- Mk64s, acquired in 1985/86, and 16 since 1992 and the KAF has recently
seater tranche 3s from the Italian Tucanos, purchased in 1995, are all opted to support its own air defence
production line, all fitted with the new showing their age. needs better, for the interim anyway, by
Selex ES e-scan radar. Deliveries are BAE Systems is keen to reactivate the modernising the Hornets.
expected to begin from 2019. KAF Hawks, which are known to have A US Defense Security Cooperation
The Italian marketing campaign began low hours and stored in good condition at Agency (DSCA) notification submitted
in 2012 with flight trials and technical Ali Al Salem Air Base. If contracted in to Congress on June 26, 2012 showed a
and operational evaluations. 2015, the solution could see all the possible $51 million foreign military sales
The acquisition of a new fourth trainers returned to service in 2017. (FMS) deal to Kuwait for 43 joint helmet-
generation fighter will probably also However, BAE Systems will face fierce mounted cueing system (JHMCS) units
34
KUWAIT AIR FORCE
35
WAR AGAINST TERROR
DRIVES LEBANESE APPROACH
L
ebanon has suffered significantly Fighting the terrorist threat is now the
over the last 30 years from internal LAF’s biggest role, so it isn’t surprising
strife. that six A-29 Super Tucanos are on order
There has been the occupation by under a foreign military sales (FMS) deal
Israeli and Syrian troops, as well as armed that was given the go-ahead on June 9.
groups – including Hamas and Hezbollah The purchase will provide Lebanon with
– fighting each other and launching much-needed close air support (CAS)
attacks into Israel. platforms to meet present and future
Now the country is struggling with the challenges posed by internal and border
burden of refugees arriving from Syria. security threats.
During the civil war that ended in 1990, The US Defense Security Cooperation
the Lebanese Air Force (LAF) lost most of Agency (DCSA) estimates the cost of the
its aircraft or ran out of spares to fly them. acquisition will be $462 million, including
The 11 Mirage IIIEL/BLs it acquired in associated equipment, parts and logistical
1968, and stored at Rayak for many years, combat the increasing terrorism threat support.
were sold to the Pakistan Air Force in from Syrian-backed rebels. However in
2001. the end they were not required and are qqqqq
Their sale meant the only fighters the now back into storage.
LAF owned were four vintage Hunters, Today, the LAF’s offensive aircraft The FMS deal will also include two spare
stored for more than 15 years until 2008, comprise the armed Cessna AC 208 PT6A-68A turboprop engines, eight
when they started flying again. They were Caravans being used against Islamic State, ALE-47 countermeasure dispensing
looked upon as part of the solution to Al Nusra and al Qaeda affiliated militants. systems, 2,000 advanced precision kill
The first was delivered by US aerospace weapon systems (APKWS) precision
LEBANESE AIR FORCE ORBAT company ATK (now Orbital ATK) on laser-guided rockets, eight AN/AAR-
April 15, 2009, modified to carry AGM- 60(V)2 missile launch detection systems
114 Hellfire missiles on under-wing and non-selective availability anti-
hardpoints. spoofing module (SAASM) embedded
GPS/INS (EGIs).
qqqqq The DSCA notes this proposed sale
enforces United Nation’s Security Council
A further example was acquired in August resolutions 1559 and 1701, regarding
2013, which by June 2015 was going counter terrorist threats. According to
through a similar modification programme. local media reports, the purchase is to be
A third aircraft ordered from Orbital funded by Saudi Arabia.
ATK, in May 2015 had been purchased by A batch of six UH-1H Iroquois
the company in a ‘green’ configuration helicopters, newly upgraded to UH-1H-
and was set to undergo the necessary II Huey II standard, were delivered to the
airframe modifications. As well as mission LAF in December 2012. All were painted
equipment, including a Wescam MX-15D white overall, with no markings. Their
imaging system, there will be the adaption acquisition, worth $63 million, including
for AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. Work on spare parts, maintenance, support
the contract is to be completed by May 30, equipment, training and logistics
2016. support, was followed by a $180 million
36
LEBANON AIR FORCE
Far left:
Three S-61s were delivered in June 2009
for fire-fighting, but when not being
utilised they are probably used for SAR
and logistical flights.
qqqqq
37
LIFE AFTER GADDAFI
A STRUGGLE FOR LIBYA
T
he air force run by colonel Gaddafi, tens of L-39s and several Galebs were
prior to his death no longer exists. destroyed by the NATO air forces in
All its modernisation plans are Ghurdabiyah and Misurata.
long gone. It has been split by tribalism, Several Libyan Air Force officers
which like so many countries in Africa and defected, to create the Free Libyan Air
the Middle East means more to many, Force (FLAF) in March 2011 by raising all
than living in peace as one nation. The available operational aircraft or defective
remnants of the official Libyan Air Force jets now in Benina and Tobruk air bases.
(LAF) is still in use fighting a war against The first attacks came on March 14, 2011,
terrorist organizations such as IS and when two MiG-21s of the FLAF were used in
Ansar al-Sharia, as well as the a CAS mission to support the anti-Gaddafi
internationally recognized government of militias commanded by Abdel Fattah Younis
Tobruk, where Qatar and Turkey against the loyal Gaddafi forces in an area
recognize the Libyan Dawn government between Brega and Ajdabiya. It was followed
in Tripoli. by more attacks until NATO declared a No
Once it was planned to equip the LAF Fly Zone over Libya and started bombing
with Rafales, Su-30s, Su-35s, Yak-130s Gaddafi loyalists.
and even Typhoons in 2010 to replace its recognised governments of the country.
small but combat capable fleet. This Starting in March 2011, the brutal way qqqqq
comprised almost thirteen Mirage F1s, six Gaddafi confronted his enemies caused
Su-24MKs and around 30 Su- widespread insubordination among the On 20th August 2011, Tripoli fell to the
22M3/UM3s, 25 MiG-21bis/UMs and 27 personnel of the Libyan Air Force, rebel’s hands and then the Sirte followed in
MiG-23ML/UBs. However, the LAF soon especially in the east of the country, where October 2011. Gaddafi was killed on
found itself in war against anti-Gaddafi Benina AB and Tobruk AB had been October 20 and his regime crumbled.
revolutionaries and then Gaddafi loyalists located. Only a fleet of 44 operational combat
during the 2011 Libyan civil war. The US Earlier in February, most of the aircraft comprising three MiG-21bis’,
and the west also helped to destroy much operational combat aircraft of the Umm al- three MiG-21UMs, two MiG-23MLDs,
of the LAF during Operation Unified Atiqa, Benina and Gamal Abdel Nasser one MiG-23UB, two Mirage F.1EDs, three
Protector. (Tobruk) air bases were forward-deployed L-39ZOs, four Galeb G-2s, three
The so-called Arab spring reached to the Ghurdabiyah AB at Sirte in order to SF.260Fs, two An-26s, an An-72, one C-
Libya in 2011 and the first protests be used in strike missions against the civil 130H, two C-130H-30s, an Il-76MD, one
against Muammar Gaddafi started to take protesters and then militias. Mi-2, three Mi-8Ts, three Mi-14s, two Mi-
hold in January. Quickly, the Libyan Just nine operational MiG-21s, four in 17s, five Mi-24Vs and two CH-47Cs were
armed forces together with the air force Benina AB and five in Tobruk survived, left for the FLAF.
were tasked to bomb and rocket the and the other operational Fishbeds were Two more Mirage F1EDs and two Mirage
protesters in various cities of the country. destroyed under NATO air raids against F1ADs survived, but they were not
The brutal suppression of the civil Ghurdabiyah AB in March and April operational. Five more MiG-21bis’, four
unrest headed the country toward a long- 2011. Several Mirage F.1s, including the more MiG-21UMs, three other MiG-
lasting war which started against pro- sole Mirage F.1BD of the air force, all of 23MLDs and one more MiG-23UBs were
Gaddafi forces and is still being continued the operational Su-22s and Su-24s as well found in good condition suitable for
among militias and internationally- as almost nine operation-ready MiG-23s, restoration and overhaul in various air bases.
38
LIBYAN AIR FORCE
39
ROYAL SUPPORT SPARKS
MOROCCO INVESTMENT
U
ntil King Mohammed VI came to
the throne in July 1999, the Royal
Moroccan Air Force (RMAF)
had suffered from little investment. The
young king, who had served in the army,
changed all that.
As a result, the air force has purchased
within it means, upgrading Mirage F1s
and F-5s with clever avionics and
acquiring a batch of F-16 Block 52s.
Fighting between the Moroccan
military and the Polisario Front, which is
pushing for an independent state and is
backed by Algeria, has been on and off for
nearly 40 years.
There are around 100,000 refugees
living in Polisario camps in Algeria and,
as a result, the long-running mistrust
between these two neighbours simmers The two RMAF
on. Morocco views Algeria as a threat to KC-130Hs would protection at low to medium altitude, designation pods and Delilah Cruise
its stability, highlighted by the shooting need to top up the providing an air surveillance range of up missiles are also thought to have been
down of a RMAF C-130H on October 12, Mirage F1 during to 75 miles (125kms) supporting a purchased from Israel.
1981 by a Polisario surface-to-air missile any deep strike multitude of advanced weapons systems The F-5 has a complete tactical
(SAM). The weapons were allegedly sorties. The F-5Es like Hawk and Stinger missile air defence situation awareness system associated
could use the
supplied by Algeria and Morocco has systems. The 3D system, equipped with a with a Link-16 type data-link, allowing
Delilah stand off
never forgotten this incident or others weapon and the phased array X-band unit capable of the aircraft to share and receive tactical
like the shooting down by a SAM-6 of an F-16s could call automatic target detection and tracking, information from ground air defence
F-5E 91921 along the Algerian border on upon conformal fuel plugs into Morocco’s highly autonomous radars to build the air picture.
January 12, 1985. This and other fighter tanks. command and control system. After the F-5 modernisation came the
wrecks are displayed in the Polisario PICTURES: ALAN WARNES Having also acquired eight Sentinel upgrade of 27 Mirage F-1EH, F1CH and
Museum at Tindouf in Algeria. M1152 high mobility multipurpose wheeled F1EH-200s, the latter fitted with air-to-
All Moroccan combat aircraft are net- vehicles (HMMWVs) to tow the radars, it is air refuelling probes, into one common
centric, highly integrated by datalink with now a highly mobile system aimed at Mirage F1EM/CM-VI fleet. The upgrade
the new Thales ground radars. It is a well- protecting the country from airborne threats. was designed by the Association Sagem
thought-out modernisation programme The whole fleet of around 20 F-5Es has Thales pour la Rénovation d’Avions de
to stretch the Algerian air defences. been upgraded with IAI Elta’s multi- Combat (ASTRAC) consortium.
The core of the network are eight mode EL/2032M radar and other SABCA, of Belgium, was sub-
AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel radars, offering associated avionics. Litening laser contracted to integrate the new systems,
40
ROYAL MOROCCAN AIR FORCE
41
ROYAL MOROCCAN AIR FORCE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41
airborne reconnaissance system pods and
12 Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 Sniper
2014, the latest Bell 407 training
helicopter, UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z
ROYAL MOROCCAN ORBAT
targeting pods were also required. Viper, were all being promoted, although
It is likely the AIM-9X and joint the latter pair were not present.
helmet-mounted cueing systems France’s Aerotech Group was also
(JHMCS) have also been purchased. exhibiting an upgraded SA341F Gazelle, !" !
The RMAF’s 16 strong C-130H which would catapult the RMAF’s
!" !
Hercules fleet includes a pair of KC- Gazelle fleet into a new era.
130H air-to-air refuellers and a surviving The Centre d’Instruction au Pilotage
") $ '&*
the northern part of the country. A ultra-modern T-6C.
<
+
0
+ &/ 5
) .+ !.
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+
.+ . , //3 &//
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=#
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,
+ 5 3 , &//
Morocco’s F-5Es have been modernised in recent years and can use the
Delilah stand-off weapon. The F-5 is supported by the KC-130H.
42
T
he Sultanate of Oman was not
renowned for its big defence
spending but it has invested
heavily over the past five years into
modernising the Royal Air Force of
Oman (RAFO).
The list, including F-16C/Ds (12),
Typhoons (12), Hawk AJTs (8), C295Ms
(8), C-130Js (3) and NH90s (20), is
transforming the RAFO into a compact
modern air arm. Iran poses a menace,
although this threat may have subsided in
the wake of the nuclear agreement in
mid-2015.
An initial order for 12 F-16C/D Block
50s concluded in May 2002 under the
foreign military sales (FMS) contract
‘Peace A’sama A’safiya’ (clear skies). This
led to eight F-16Cs (now seven after one
crashed) and four F-16Ds being delivered
OMAN FOCUSES ON
to Thumrait-based 18 Squadron, which
led to the Jaguars being retired.
qqqqq
RAFO UPGRADES
all the weapons have been delivered. An agreement to train 16 RAFO
A further $600 million order followed for The RAFO’s fighting capabilities students and two flight instructors was
10 F-16Cs and two F-16Ds on December received a considerable boost in signed with the Croatian Ministry of
14, 2011, with deliveries to 20 Squadron at December 2012, when it signed a deal Defence on March 5, 2014. The course
Thumrait completed by December 2014. with BAE Systems for 12 Typhoons and took place at Zadar-Zemunik, the home
A $23 million contract was awarded to eight Hawk advanced jet trainers that of the Croatian Air Force’s Flying
Lockheed Martin in July 2012 for should be delivered in 2017. Academy, from March to December.
additional Sniper advanced targeting A new air base is being built at Adam, The training course on PC-9Ms was
pods as well as the upgrade of the around 100 miles southwest of Muscat, split into five flying segments: basic and
RAFO’s existing pods and support. It also to house the Typhoons. Construction aerobatic, visual flight rules (VFR),
acquired DB 110 reconnaissance pods started in early 2010. instrument flight rules (IFR), nighttime,
from Goodrich (now UTC). Meanwhile, the new Hawk AJTs are and formation.
The US Defense Security Cooperation expected to replace the older Hawk Mk RAFO ordered eight C-295Ms under a
Agency (DSCA) revealed in December 100/200s serving 6 Squadron at Masirah. contract signed on May 21, 2012,
2012 that the RAFO had requested the In a bid to boost the RAFO training comprising a combination of variants in
purchase of 27 AIM-120C-7 advanced capabilities, Pilatus, is now putting all 12 both transport and maritime patrol
medium range air-to-air missiles of the PC-9s on strength through a major configurations.
(AMRAAM), 162 GBU-12 Paveway II overhaul. The first two were re-delivered Five of the aircraft are being configured
500lb (227kg) laser-guided bombs, as back to 1 Squadron at Masirah in August for tactical transport operations, while
well as an assortment of other munitions. 2014 and work on the remainder of the the remaining three will be maritime
While no further acknowledgement of fleet continues. Four had returned to patrol aircraft.
the deal has been forthcoming, it is likely Oman by August 2015. The first aircraft was equipped with a
44
ROYAL AIR FORCE OF OMAN
new generation of the fully integrated One of the first deals to be signed as
tactical system (FITS), which
ROYAL OMAN AIR FORCE ORBAT
Royal Air Force of Oman
part of the RAFO’s modernisation was a
incorporates a number of improvements HQ Royal Air Force of Oman, HQ Muaskar al Murtafa'a contract for 20 NH90 TTHs, on July 24,
to make it more user-friendly. It features a 1 Sqn RAFO Masirah MFI-17 Super Mushshak, PC-9M
2004, which included a comprehensive
search radar and electro-optical/infra-red 2 Sqn RAFO Seeb Seavan, Skyvan support package with a contractor’s field
(EO/IR) sensors, Terma 9000 sideways- 3 Sqn RAFO Salalah Super Lynx Mk.120, assistance on several bases, training aids
4 Sqn RAFO Seeb Airbus A320, Gulfstream IV
looking airborne radar (SLAR) and self- 5 Sqn RAFO Salalah C295M, Skyvan
and mission preparation stations.
protection equipment, amongst other 6 Sqn RAFO Masirah Hawk Mk.103, 203 They replaced the fleet of ageing
role-specific equipment. 14 Sqn RAFO Al Musana’a AS332C, AS332L1, NH90TTH AB205A/206/212/214s.
SAR Det, RAFO Khasab
The aircraft will enhance Oman’s 15 Sqn, RAFO Al Musana’a Super Lynx Mk.120
ability to patrol its territorial waters and SAR Det, RAFO Masirah qqqqq
to conduct missions against piracy, illegal 16 Sqn, RAFO Seeb C-130H, C-130J, C-130J-30
17 Sqn, RAFO Al Musana’a NH90TTH
immigration and smuggling. Most have 18 Sqn, RAFO Thumrait F-16C/D-50 However, it was nearly six years before
been delivered. 20 Sqn, RAFO Thumrait F-16C/D-50 the first two NH90s were delivered on
June 23, 2010.
qqqqq All are now split between 14 and 17
Squadron based at Al Musana, although
Its transport needs were further boosted one is thought to have been lost in a July
by three C-130Js, delivered between 2012 accident.
September 2012 and May 2014, which Airbus Corporate Jet Centre
went to 16 Squadron at Seeb, Muscat. announced on October 11, 2011 that it
The first aircraft was returned to has been selected to maintain the RAFO
Lockheed Martin in late April 2013 and Airbus ACJ320 fleet from 2011 to
fitted with a VIP interior. 2013. The RAFO ordered an initial two
The RAFO also operates three older ACJ320 Prestige aircraft to replace its
model C-130H variants, which are being three elderly BAC One-Elevens, taking
upgraded by ST Aero in order to remain in delivery of both (serials 554 and 555) in
service for another 20 years. Modernisation 2009. It is believed the two airliners,
and full-scale maintenance of the first one operated by 4 Squadron at Seeb are still
was completed by February 2014. maintained by ACJC. n
45
QATAR’S SMALL FORCE
IS THINKING BIG...
T
iny Qatar, which is barely a 20th of many US aircraft involved in the fight trained.
the size of neighbouring Oman, against Islamic militancy in the region. The other unit at Al Garyeh, with the 1
has a small air force with little Having been used for the air wars over Fighter Wing, is 11 Fighter/Ground
more than 1,500 personnel. Iraq and Afghanistan, it is now one of the Attack Squadron, flying six Alpha Jets.
However, that is all set to change in the main air bases from which the US Whether these will be upgraded with a
wake of some big purchases, launches air strikes against Islamic State glass cockpit in the wake of the Rafale
undoubtedly as part of some payment (IS) targets. deal is unknown.
package by the US for using the massive The Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) has Prior to the Rafale deal, the QEAF’s
Al Udeid Air Base. one fighter wing, based at Al Garyeh. main priority was the creation of a new
The facility houses the US Air Force Housed there is No 7 Air Superiority flying academy.
(USAF) Middle Eastern Combined Air Squadron, flying nine Mirage 2000-5EDAs It was announced on July 23, 2012
Operations Centre (CAOC) as well as and three Mirage 2000-5DDAs. They have that the QEAF had awarded a contract to
been in service since 1997, even though the Pilatus for the procurement of a
QEAF has been trying to sell them in recent complete PC-21 training system,
QATAR EMIRI AF ORBAT
HQ Qatar Emiri Air Force , HQ Doha
years to partly fund a new acquisition. consisting of 24 PC-21 trainer aircraft, a
Although it failed to attract a new suite of ground-based training system
buyer, it was announced in Paris on April assets and an extensive logistics support
!
" 30, 2015 that Qatar had reached an and maintenance package.
agreement to acquire 24 Dassault Rafales. The air arm selected the PC-21 as its
# !
$%&'( It led French president Francois Hollande fixed-wing basic and advanced training
) *+,!! -# ../01$ to visit Doha on May 4, 2015, when the aircraft after a thorough evaluation, both
2 3 / -# ../01
formal contract was signed for the in Switzerland and in Qatar.
aircraft, as well as an order for MBDA The QEAF Air Academy started
/ -$2 missiles to arm the jets. The acquisition, receiving its first PC-21s in March 2015,
&*4
-$2 worth an estimated €6.3 billion with operations being supported directly
($7.05bn), comprises a firm order for 18 by Pilatus under a long-term
5!
/ '6.! $"$ single-seat and six twin-seat Rafales, with performance-based support contract.
options for the purchase of either 12 or 24 The QEAF is also setting
7.../86/
+/.
9//8 Continued
: additional aircraft. It also includes 36 up a PC-21 aerobatic team. on Page 48
Qatari pilots and 100 technicians being Consequently, all of the
46
QATAR EMIRI AIR FORCE
47
QATAR EMIRI AIR FORCE
qqqqq
48
SAUDI CONTINUES TO BUILD
SUPERIOR DEFENCE FORCE
T
he Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) the press, especially in pro-Iranian news
has never been as busy as it is outlets.
right now – fighting wars on two Fearful of an uprising across the
sides. Since October 2014, it has been country and from external threats like
working with the US and its allies, IS, al Qaeda or Iran, the Saudi monarchy
fighting the so-called Islamic State (IS) has increased its defence spending by
in Syria as part of ‘Operation Inherent 20% since the Arab Spring in 2011. It is comprisingTyphoons, F-15S and
Resolve’. the world’s biggest importer of defence Tornados, are all participating in the
In March 2015, Saudi led a military equipment, with expenditure expected Syrian andYemen conflicts.The RSAF
campaign, known as ‘Operation to reach $48.8 billion by the end of 2015 took delivery of its firstTyphoons in late
Decisive Storm’, against the Shia Houthi and forecast to rise to $62 billion by June 2009, which led to 10 Squadron
forces inYemen, with air support from 2020. standing up atTaif-King Fahd Air Base,
the RSAF. Saudi Arabia has the best-equipped followed by 3 Squadron and, more
If all that wasn’t enough, it lost its armed forces in the Gulf region, but recently, 80 Squadron.
commander, lieutenant general fewer than 20% of the 230,000 troops On September 17, 2007, Saudi Arabia
Mohammad Bin Ahmad Al-Shaalan, on serve the air force. signed an agreement, known as Project
June 10, in mysterious circumstances. While the defence of national Salam, for the acquisition of 72
The official report is that he died after a interests are the RSAF’s primary focus, Eurofighters in a deal reputedly worth
heart attack in a London hospital, while it maintains interoperability with the £4.4bn ($6.9bn).The last 48 aircraft were
on a business trip outside the kingdom. US and its coalition forces. As a result, to be built by Al Salam Aircraft Co in
However, anonymous and unverified the RSA Government works closely Riyadh but this fell through.
Yemeni sources say that he was killed in with the US and the UK to ensure its air After protracted discussions, a
Yemeni Army and Ansarullah (Shia force remains at the technological renegotiated contract was settled in
Houthi forces) missile attacks against cutting-edge. BAE Systems plays a big February 2014, which agreed price
Khamis Mushayt on June 6.These part in the modernisation of the RSAF. escalation terms under the Salam
reports have been widely repeated in The RSAF’s offensive fighter force, programme.To date, 51 of the 72 aircraft
50
ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE
Main picture: One of the three F-15SA development aircraft, comes into land at Left: RSAF and RAF personnel stand together at RAF Coningsby during Exercise
Boeing’s Plant 42 test facility at Palmdale. The F-15SA test programme has Saudi-British Sword. This was the second occasion RSAF fighters had deployed
slipped back a year or so, but the RSAF should expect to start taking deliveries of to the UK. The first time was six years earlier when Tornados deployed to RAF
the new generation Eagle soon. Lossiemouth, Scotland. PICTURE: UK MOD
PICTURE: KEVIN WHITEHEAD
Right: RSAF Typhoons are heavily involved in Syrian and Yemen conflicts.
PICTURE: JAMIE HUNTER
on order have been delivered – two batches – 8001, 8002 left BAE
comprising 24 from batch 1, 23 (one is Warton in early June followed by 8003,
still at Warton undergoing trials work) 8004 in July – are working with 3 and 10
from batch 2, and four from batch 3, Sqn atTaif.
which covers another 24 jets, all of the The RSAFTyphoons will, on the
latest tranche 3 derivative. whole, be armed with the weapons of
The first deliveries of the latter began the UK Royal Air Force jets, Brimstone 2,
this summer to 80 Squadron, which Paveway IV and Storm Shadow. But,
should have been the first fighter unit to instead of opting for the Meteor beyond
reside at the King Khalid Military City. visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile,
However, work at the facility is not which is expected to equip RAF
Continued
completed. Typhoons in June 2018, it is armed with on Page 52
As a result, the four jets, delivered in the Iris-T.
51
ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51
The Storm Shadow stand-off weapon,
which is already on the Tornado
Sustainment Programme (TSP) aircraft,
will be integrated on to the tranche 3s
before the RAF Typhoons, probably by
late 2017. At that point, the Saudi
Typhoons will be the most potent aircraft
of all. They have already been seen
operating the 250lb GPS/INS Paveway IV
munitions while on operations over
Yemen.
The targeting pod is the Damocles
system, as also used on the Tornados.
There is a requirement for 72 more
multi-role Typhoons to replace the
upgraded Tornados, which are expected
to be phased out in the early 2020s.
However, it is unknown as to the
progress, if any, on this.
The 72 F-15S’, which equip three units
– 6 Squadron and 55 Squadron at
Khamis Mushayt and 92 Squadron at
Dhahran, were delivered in the late-90s.
The F-15S is an F-15E Strike Eagle
variant with less capable avionics.
qqqqq
52
TOTAL DOMINANCE
www.eurofighter.com
BENCHMARKING EXCELLENCE
Effective: being the most powerful and reliable swing role fighter
Proven: in global operations with highest operational statistics
Trusted: to deliver performance, political and industrial partnership
Top:
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 52 Having acquired
will incorporate a new night capability, (AMRAAM). For ground attack the six A330MRTTs, the Lockheed Martin is to establish the
elevating it into a new generation of AN/AAQ-33 Sniper targeting pod will RSAF now has a first Sniper ATP expanded repair
Eagle. With this, the new digital work with a plethora of new laser/GPS capable air to air capability facility outside the US in Saudi
electronic warfare system (DEWS) and munitions. refueling tanker Arabia.
common missile warning system The US Defense Security Cooperation which can use hose Announcing the decision on
and drogue, as well
(CMWS), the Saudi jets will be more Agency (DSCA) announced on October September 15, 2014 the company said
as a boom. It has
modern than anything the USAF flies. 11, 2013 that Saudi Arabia had requested meant the RSAF can that the facility would be formed in
DEWS is an all-digital system using various munitions and associated deploy fighters conjunction with the Advanced
digital radio-frequency memory (DRFM) equipment, parts, training and logistical overseas more Electronics Company (AEC) to provide
technology. Targets detected by DEWS support with an estimated cost of $6.8 regularly now. both affordability benefits and expedited
will be fused with radar and infra-red billion. The list of weapons included 650 PICTURE: SAM PILCHER repair times for the RSAF. Lockheed
search and track (IRST) data and shown AGM-84H stand-off land attack missiles- Martin and AEC have previously
on the F-15SA’s large cockpit displays. expanded response (SLAM-ER), 973 Bottom: collaborated on modernised target
The first three F-15SAs are AGM-154C joint stand-off weapons Maintaining an acquisition designation sight/pilot night
instrumented production aircraft being (JSOW), 400 AGM-84L Harpoon block airborne warning vision sensor special repair activities and
used in the flight-test and development II missiles and 1,000 GBU-39/B small and control LANTIRN targeting and navigation pods.
programme at Boeing’s Plant 42 diameter bombs (SDB). capability is The upgraded Tornados all operate
Production Flight Test Installation at On July 24, 2015 it was announced the extremely important from Dhahran, serving 7, 75 and 83
to the RSAF.
Palmdale, where they have been since RSAF had ordered 355 AGM-154 block Squadrons. The RSAF has put its
It operates five
November 2013. There are believed to be III C Unitary JSOWs at a cost of $123 E-3As which have operational Tornado fleet through an
several full standard F-15SAs in store. million, with deliveries expected to be been continuously upgrade programme. The basis for the
Deliveries should start this year and completed in April 2018. upgraded over the programme is the UK mid-life update and
continue until 2019. As part of the F-15SA/S modernisation years. its successor programmes, package 1 and
For self-defence, the aircraft will boast effort, 158 Sniper ATP pods are being PICTURE: JAMES RONAYNE package 2.
the close-range AIM-9X Sidewinder purchased, comprising one for each of The first four aircraft were sent to BAE
missile and AIM-120C7 advanced the new and upgraded aircraft, plus six Systems for modification in 2007 under
medium-range air-to-air missile spare. the RSAF Tornado sustainment
54
ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE
55
ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE
56
www.alsalam.aero
AIRCRAFT
refurbishment & interior design
S
ince the beginning of Syria’s civil
war in 2011, the Syrian Arab Air
Force (SyAAF) has been the main
factor behind the armed forces’ supremacy
in the war against the Jihadist groups.
The Syrian Army owes its victories and
survival to the air force, with its 208
fighters and 29 attack helicopters that
After the Russian Air
have flown in hundreds of close air dispensers on its MiG-23s and Su-22s Force intervention 2017, while delivery of the Yak-130s was
support, and air interdiction sorties against during their domestic overhaul and on September 30, the planned to start in 2014. But, due to the
the militias, now armed with man-portable modernisation at al-Nayreb Aircraft Repair Syrian Air Force war as well as the pressures of the west on
air-defence systems (MANPADs). Plant. MiG-23BNs have Russia, both contracts are on hold.
Today, the SyAAF activities are mainly Furthermore, because of the heavy uses ventured back into The SyAAF is believed to have 27
focused on conducting the aerial resupply of combat aircraft and attack helicopters in the air war. operational MiG-21bis/UMs, 74 MiG-
of Syrian Army units deployed to the strikes, the SyAAF has been operating its 23BN/MLD/UBs, 40 MiG-29B/UBs, 47
front lines, and conducting the bombing large fleet of Mi-8/17s to drop iron-bombs, Su-22M2/M4/UM3/UM3Ks, and 20 Su-
of rebel-held territories. known as barrel bombs. The vulnerability 24MKs forming the backbone of its strike
In 2012, the Syrian armed forces were of the Mi-8s, which were not equipped force. Combat readiness of the fleet is
enjoying air superiority in the battle zone with self-defence systems, has taken a assessed at almost 70%.
provided by fighter/bombers and attack heavy toll. For heavy transport and logistical
helicopters stationed in Dumayr, Mezzeh and In 2007 and 2011, the Syrian support of the SyAAF’s air bases, three of
Tiyas air bases. However, Qatar and Turkey Government ordered 12 MiG-29M2s and its Il-76Ts and five An-26s are being used.
allegedly started to supply the anti-Assad 36 Yak-130s in a $550m deal. Delivery of They are mainly based at Damascus
regime militias with MANPADs. Delivery of the MiG-29s was scheduled for 2016- International Airport.
at-least 10 units of ex-Sudanese FN-6 surface- Recent Islamic State (IS) advances in
to-air missiles (SAMs) to the Al-Qaeda-linked
Nusra Front through Turkey and financed by
SyAAF ORBAT Syria, which led to the occupation of the
abandoned Abu Kamal Air Base at Deir
Qatar in 2012 has been confirmed by the ez-Zor, plus an increased threat to
Stockholm International Peace Research
strategic ports of Tartus and Latakia, has
Institute (SIPRI). led to Russian armed forces being
deployed to Syria instead of arms, which
qqqqq
will put Moscow under even more
! political pressure from the west.
!
It has not only been the rebels’ To provide air support not only for the
"#
MANPADs and anti-aircraft artillery $%
deployed Russian ground forces, but also
downing SyAAF aircraft. The Turkish Air
the Syrian Arab Army in the northwest
Force and Israeli Defence Force shot and northern fronts of the war, the
down a Su-24MK, Mi-17 and a MiG-
& Russian Air Force deployed two Mi-17s
23MLD in 2013 and 2014 respectively.
# and seven Mi-24s in An-124-100s
#
At least 18 aircraft and nine helicopters $%
between September 15 and 22.
– an An-26, a Mi-14, eight Mi-8/17s,
Later 12 Su-24Ms, 12 Su-25SMs and
three L-39s, six MiG-21s, four MiG-23s,
four Su-30SMs flew to Syria between
two Su-22s and three Su-24s, of the
September 19 and 22. All of the deployed
Syrian armed forces – have either been
aircraft are now stationed at Bassel al-
shot down or crashed due to a variety of Assad International Airport near Latakia.
'
accidents during the civil war.
() The recent Russian deployments will
As a consequence of the MANPADs
' compensate in the decline of SyAAF
threat, the SyAAF speeded up the ' combat sorties and will probably change
installation of the Belarusian chaff/ flare BABAK TAGHVAEE. the outcome of the war. n
58
BORDER TERROR MEANS
TUNISIA LIVES ON THE EDGE
T
unisia, the smallest country in the
Maghreb region of North Africa, is
strategically located bordering the
Mediterranean Sea to its north and east,
with Algeria to the west and Libya to the
southeast.
It has one of the smallest air arms in the
region.
Following the terrorist attack on the
Bardo Museum in the centre of Tunis on
March 18, which killed 21 tourists, the
threat of further attacks in the country
remains high.
Cross-border terrorist activity and the
fighting in neighbouring Libya has led to
heightened security on the borders with
Algeria and Libya.
qqqqq
Although the
The Tunisian Air Force’s primary air defence positioning system-embedded GPS/INS, Tunisian Air Force military offensive in the Mount Chaambi
is provided by a fleet of Northrop F-5E/F control display unit, electrical power and has operated around border region against Ansar al-Sharia and
Tiger IIs. Initially, eight single-seat F-5Es and environmental control system. It is unclear 16 HH-3Es, it is al-Qaeda-linked militants.
four twin-seat F-5Fs were delivered between whether or not this modernisation has yet thought that only The country’s most recent acquisitions
1984 and 1985, followed in 1989 by four gone ahead, but it would appear to one is serviceable. have been a pair of Lockheed Martin C-
former US Air Force (USAF) F-5Es. At least indicate that there are no immediate plans A replacement 130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft. The
helicopter is
two of the single-seat aircraft and one of the to replace these aircraft. order was announced on March 2, 2010,
urgently required.
two-seaters have been lost in accidents since Tunisia took delivery of 12 Aero L-59T PICTURE: USAF
with the first delivery taking place on April
then. The 12 surviving aircraft are flown by Super Albatros armed jet trainers in 1995- 4, 2013. The second was handed over on
15 Squadron at Bizerte-Sidi Ahmed Air 6 and, after three were written off, the nine December 11, 2014.
Base. survivors were overhauled by the Two older model C-130Hs had been
A planned $60 million avionics upgrade manufacturer and returned to service in operated since new in 1985, although
for all 12 remaining F-5s, to be undertaken 2006-7. It is believed that they all remain one was retired after a ground accident
by Northrop Grumman, was announced active. The type was confirmed as still in 1996 and eventually sold still
by the US Defense Security Cooperation being operational in April 2014, when it unrepaired, to Derco in December 2007.
Agency (DSCA) on September 19, 2013. was used for reconnaissance and counter- In addition, eight elderly surplus US Air
This was to include 12 LN-260 standard insurgency missions to support a major Force C-130Bs, built between 1959 and
60
TUNISIAN AIR FORCE
1962, were acquired between 1994 and and integration of a precision-guided Members of the purchase of 12 surplus US Navy Sikorsky
2002, five of which are believed to rocket capability, 9,100 2¾in Hydra Wyoming Air SH-60Fs were revealed. Including
remain in service. unguided rockets, 100 AGM-114R National Guard and refurbishment, spares and logistical
the Tunisian medical
For the training role, nine SIAI Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, 24 GAU- support, the cost was put at $282
military personnel
SF260CTs were delivered from 1975, 19 0.50 calibre machine guns and walk towards a C- million. They were being sought
followed by 12 SF260WTs from 1979. A associated equipment. The numbers being 130H at Bizerte-Sidi primarily for the overwater SAR role.
small number are thought to have been acquired will presumably now be reduced Ahmed in Tunisia, Nothing further has been heard of this
retired, but the majority are believed to in view of the lower number of helicopters during May, 2012. planned deal and it is presumed that the
still be in service. being acquired. PICTURE: USAF more recent deal for multi-role UH-
Tunisia’s helicopter fleet is a mixed bag The Black Hawks will augment the 60Ms, which will also fulfil the SAR
of various types, including small numbers existing helicopter fleet and be used in a Inset: The Tunisian mission, has superseded this proposal.
of long-serving Alouette II/IIIs, SA342L1 variety of roles, including combat Air Force has been The SH-60Fs had been planned to
flying F-5s since the
Gazelles, AS350B Ecureuils and Agusta- operations, precision engagement, troop replace the HH-3F fleet.
mid-80s and no
Bell 412s, plus around 30 transport, airborne reconnaissance, replacement is yet
Bell/AB205/UH-1H variants and, search and rescue (SAR), medical in sight. qqqqq
unusually, around a dozen USAF surplus evacuation and night/limited visibility
Sikorsky HH-3E Jolly Green Giants. operations. They will also be used as In addition to the air force, the Tunisian
Renewal of the helicopter fleet began rapid reaction assets along Tunisia’s Government operates a single Boeing
only recently, with signature of an border and within its military zones to 737-700BBJ, delivered in August 1999,
agreement to purchase eight armed improve counter-terrorism operations as a VIP transport. A new VIP Airbus
Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawks on and strengthen border control. A340-542 was ordered and initially
December 18, 2014. Sikorsky was Another possible Tunisian acquisition delivered to Tunis on December 19,
awarded a $93 million production was notified to Congress by the DSCA on 2009, before being returned to Bordeaux
contract for the eight ‘green’ airframes that June 30, 2010, when plans for the for installation of its VIP interior.
will be equipped to Tunisian requirements. Although this was completed by early
Manufacture is scheduled to be completed 2011, the aircraft has not been delivered
by December 31, 2016.
TUNISIAN AIR FORCE ORBAT
and remains in storage at Bordeaux in
Plans for this procurement were first
!
full Tunisian Government colours.
revealed on July 24, 2014, when the DSCA "#$ %& '(
A small helicopter fleet is also flown by
) "#$ %& '(
notified Congress of the proposed deal, * *+
!
the air component of the Tunisian
although at that time it was planned to *,
-%( Gendarmerie. Six AS350B Ecureuils were
#"./0"/)"123/"4
!
purchase 12 UH-60Ms. It is unclear
"*
/"*
/1../
(((
delivered in 1983, of which four or five are
whether Tunisia still plans to buy the
"*
/"*
/1../
*" thought to be still in use. An unknown
((
remaining four at a later date. 5 1.. number of AS355F Twin Ecureuils were
The DSCA stated that the deal would ..+
reported as being delivered at the same
6
"*
/1.. -%(
include 24 M134 7.62mm machine guns time, but this has never been confirmed. n
61
TURKEY CONSTANTLY ON
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
S
haring borders with Syria, Iraq and
Iran in the east, and having long-
standing disputes with Greece in
the west, means trouble is never far away
for Turkey. So the Turkish Air Force
(TuAF) is on a constant state of alert and is
one of the busiest air forces in Europe.
On top of that, Turkey is a key NATO
ally, as it has proved during operations
over Iraq, Yugoslavia and Libya in the
past 25 years.
On August 29, it went further by
joining anti-Islamic State (IS) operations
in Syria. A year of watching developments
in Syria eventually led to Turkey joining
‘Operation Inherent Resolve’.
Although Turkey had previously
bombed IS positions in Syria on July 24,
those missions were independent of the Turkish Aerospace
US-led attacks. They were undertaken NATO bombed the Milosevic regime into Industries delivered It is no surprise Turkey invests heavily
the last of 30 F-16
without entering Syrian air space. giving up Kosovo. Six Turkish F-16s into its military and its aerospace industry.
Block 50Ms in 2012.
contributed to ‘Operation Unified The public The government is working towards self-
qqqqq Protector’ over Libya in 2011. aerospace company sustainment with Savunma Sanayii
There have also been long-standing is now moving Müste arlı ı (SSM – defence industries
However, to complicate matters, Turkish F- historical issues with Greece over Cyprus towards F-35 work. undersecretariat).
16s allegedly also bombed Kurdish and the disputed Aegean islands. PICTURES: ALAN WARNES SSM is the procurement authority
resistance fighters. With the Kurds working Turkey broke off diplomatic relations under the Ministry of National Defence. It
with the allies to defeat IS, this, not too with Israel after its military attacked the implements the decisions made by the
surprisingly, has caused tensions. MV Mavi Marmara in May 2010, the defence industry executive committee,
August also saw Turkey allow the US to flagship of a flotilla crewed by an alliance including major procurement projects.
use Incirlik Air Base to launch attacks of pro-Palestinian activists, who had SSM is also reorganising the existing
against IS. This is nothing new as NATO combined to deliver 10,000 tonnes of aid Turkish defence industry to conform to
aircraft flew from Turkish bases against to Gaza. Eight Turkish citizens were international standards. It is aimed at
Saddam Hussein in 1990, ‘Operation killed in the attack. building a defence industry that welcomes
Provide Comfort’ in 1991 and ‘Operation Until then, the Turkish and Israeli Air private entrepreneurship and allows
Northern Watch’ throughout the 90s. Force enjoyed a good military relationship, balanced collaboration with international
However, Turkey refused to allow strikes with jets from both sides regularly partners. SSM is targeting a turnover of
from its bases during the second Gulf War exercising together. The Anatolian Eagle $8 billion for 2016 with an export volume
in 2002. (AE) exercises, one of the biggest held in of £2 billion.
TuAF F-16s deployed to Italy in the Europe, often hosted Israeli Air Force F- Havelsan, Roketsan and Turkish
mid-90s for ‘Operation Deny Flight’ over 15s. Today, Konya where the AE Aerospace Industries (TAI) are among the
Yugoslavia, which eventually evolved into manoeuvres are held regularly, hosts jets biggest players in these ambitious plans.
‘Operation Allied Force’ in 1999, when from friendly Middle East countries. The TuAF combat strength is made up
62
TURKISH AIR FORCE
63
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 63
overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) for the
European region.
In January 2015, the Turkish MoD
announced the purchase of four
additional production F-35As.
Turkey has declared that there exists F-
35 industrial opportunities for Turkish
industries, which could reach $8 billion.
In September 2009 TAI had signed a
five-year $28.4 million contract with
Northrop Grumman to reproduce
composite air inlet ducts, a major structural
element of the F-35 Lightning II central
fuselage. Delivery of the first one, from
Ankara, took place in March 2011.
The 50 or so F-4E-2020 Terminators
work in the air-to-ground role with three
operational squadrons at Erhac or
Eskisehir. They worked alongside a small
number of RF-4Es but a mid-air collision
during a night sortie on February 24,
claiming the lives all four aircrew, saw the
surviving eight aircraft grounded. Their
premature withdrawal means there is
more pressure on TAI to push on with
development of its Anka-B UAV.
qqqqq
these aircraft will provide capabilities that Right: No 131 Filo Transport requirements are backed up
SSM and TAI signed a formal acquisition the TuAF never had before, like looking operates the Boeing by 50 CN235Ms built by TAI, which are
737 Airborne Early
contract for 10 Anka Bs on October 25, deep into neighbouring countries’ air split between the units at Kayseri and
Warning and Control
2013, which should see deliveries to the space. (AEW&C) Peace Etimesgut, and 13 C-160D Transalls,
TuAF between 2016 and 2018. The first Turkey’s transport fleet includes six Eagle known locally based at Kayseri. The latter are being
new generation Anka Block B took to the air elderly C-130Bs and seven C-130Es as the E-7T. Four replaced by 10 A400Ms.
for the first time on January 30. This version, earmarked to go through a TAI aircraft were The first example was delivered to Kayseri
known as the Anka B by the TuAF, adds a modernisation programme, Project ordered in a $1.6 on April 16, 2014, with the following one in
synthetic aperture radar (SAR), with inverse Erciyes. billion deal in 2002, December 2014. Unfortunately, the third
SAR and ground moving target indicator The Hercules will receive a new glass but the first aircraft example crashed on its maiden flight from
(GMTI) capability. It will have a 30,000ft cockpit that includes four multi-function was not delivered Seville, on May 9, 2015 with the loss of four
until January 2014
(9,145m) ceiling and a 24-hour endurance. displays, two control display units and a Airbus employees. Two others were seriously
due to integration
However, it is unclear if these examples pair of multi-mission computers (MMCs). issues. injured.
will be upgraded to the S version, which It is the first C-130 upgrade to have Link
will come with a satellite link. 16 as well as a multifunctional Above, top: qqqqq
The initial version of Anka is the Block A, information distribution system (MIDS) The last eight RF-4Es
fitted with an electro-optical/infrared terminal on board – allowing the transport were grounded in With the TuAF planning to buy 100 F-
(EO/IR) sensor payload. The first of six aircraft to play a part in secure flying February 2015 after a 35As, a lot has been put into modernising
prototypes took to the air on December 30, operations when required. mid-air collision. the training systems. Most of the flying
2010 and operational flight trials continue. To date, one C-130E and one C-130B training is carried out at Izmir-Cigli,
Above, bottom:
There are several other programmes, have been completed and work on the where the TuAF plans to inaugurate a
The Turkish Air
which will shape the way the TuAF remainder was to be completed by the Force operates multi-national military flight training
operates. One of the most important is TuAF’s 2nd Air Supply and Maintenance seven KC-135Rs school in late 2015. The school is
the Boeing 737 Airborne Early Warning Centre at Kayseri. However, TAI is now delivered between expected to use Korean Aerospace
and Control (AEW&C) Peace Eagle. working on two more aircraft, which December 1997-July Industries (KAI) KT-1T Hurkus trainers
Having such a capability has been a long should be completed by the end of the 1998. They provide and T-38AMs.
time coming as the four aircraft were year, while Kayseri is working on their the F-16s with a The TuAF has taken delivery of 40 KAI
ordered in a $1.6 billion deal in 2002. first example. These latest three should be deep strike KT-1T turboprops in a deal reputedly
Deliveries were originally due to begin flying with the TuAF in early 2016. The capability whenever worth $356.5 million.
required.
before the end of 2008 but radar and upgrade will see the Hercules continue in TAI assembled 35 of them during 2010-
systems integration problems caused a service for another 20 years. 12. Options for a further 15 aircraft look
six-year delay and it wasn’t until January It is possible the six Royal Saudi Air Force to have lapsed.
31, 2014 that the first was handed-over to (RSAF) C-130Es acquired in 2011 could go TAI is continuing with development of
the TuAF. All four are now in country with through the Erciyes modernisation, but no its Hurkus trainer. Two are currently
131 Filo at Konya, although it is unclear if decision has yet been made. The first two involved – the first flew on August 29,
initial operational capability (IOC) has examples have been through an extensive 2013 and the second on September 10,
been reached yet. When fully operational, overhaul at Kayseri. 2014. The TuAF is expecting to receive its
64
TURKISH AIR FORCE
65
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AIR FORCE AND AIR DEFENCE
I
Grumman.
n May 2015, His Highness sheikh equipment in 2015. Its current inventory
PICTURES: ALAN WARNES
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, includes 140 fighters, which includes 78
vice president, prime minister and F-16C/D Block 60s, equipped with the
ruler of Dubai, told reporters: “Our armed agile beam radar, and 62 Mirage 2000-9s
forces are strong, they protect the that equip six operational squadrons.
homeland, safeguard its independence In January 2014, the US Defense
and sovereignty, establish security and Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA)
stability in the land, and carry out their notified the UAE’s intention to acquire a
assigned tasks to the best.” $270 million package of equipment and
He spoke of the UAE’s participation in logistics to support its purchase of 30
‘Operation Decisive Storm’ (in Yemen) and Block 61 aircraft and the upgrade of the
‘Operation Restoring Hope’ (over Syria) 78 surviving Block 60 Desert Falcons.
and how the emirates would do its best to Several soldiers have been killed on the Although Lockheed Martin has declined
maintain security and peace in the region. ground during the fighting. to comment on the equipment fit for this
His Highness sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed The United Arab Emirates Air Force new Block 61 variant, it is believed that
Al Nahyan, UAE president and supreme and Air Defence (UAEAF&AD) is one of any differences to the UAE’s current
commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the west’s closest Arab allies, having aircraft is the choice of radar. Northrop
and His Highness sheikh Mohammed bin participated in the 2011 ‘Operation Grumman has ceased production of its
Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Odyssey Dawn’ in Libya, when it APG-80 agile beam active electronically-
Dhabi and deputy supreme commander of deployed six Mirage 2000-9s and six F- scanned antenna (AESA) radar, which is
the UAE Armed Forces, are leading the 16s to Italy. installed in the UAE’s current Block 60
UAE fight against terrorism. In August, six Mirage 2000s took part aircraft, with the new designation possibly
UAE F-16s deployed to Al Azraq, in a unilateral strike from Egypt against reflecting the choice of the scalable agile
Jordan on February 9 to participate in the targets around Tripoli Airport, which beam radar (SABR) from the same
anti-Islamic State (IS) coalition; killed around 20 militia. manufacturer or, alternatively, Raytheon’s
launching strikes against the terrorists on Libya’s slide into anarchy has alarmed advanced combat radar (RACR).
February 10, followed by further strikes the UAE, which has voiced concern that Meanwhile, the UAE is still looking for
on February 12. the chaos there will spread the jihadist a new batch of 60 fighters in a deal that
While they continue to conduct threat to other regions. could be worth $6 billion. The Typhoon
operations, UAE ground troops, The UAE is the fourth largest arms and Rafale have both been considered.
Continued
supported by air power, are also bidding importer in the world and is expected to However, BAE was notified in December on Page 68
to push Houthi rebels out of Yemen. spend more than $27 billion on military 2013, before the F-16 upgrade and
67
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67
acquisition was made public, that it was
no longer being considered. The status of
this fighter procurement programme is
now unknown.
The UAE indicated its clear intentions
to strike when required in October 2013,
with a variety of sophisticated, precision-
guided weapons detailed in a substantial
‘wants list’. Most notable was the
procurement of 1,200 AGM-154C joint
stand-off weapons (JSOW), 300 AGM-
84H stand-off land attack missiles -
expanded response (SLAM-ER) and 30
AN/AWW-13 advanced data link pods,
the latter intended for use with the SLAM-
ER.
While fighters remain the cornerstone
of the UAEAF&AD’s front-line, its
counter-insurgency (COIN) inventory has
also been growing in recent years. The
threat of civil disobedience born from the
Arab Spring has now evolved into
possible attacks from Islamic extremists
like IS.
qqqqq
68
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AIR FORCE AND AIR DEFENCE
69
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AIR FORCE AND AIR DEFENCE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 69
centre for air, land and sea platforms will Middle East and North Africa (SAMENA)
be built. UAE AIR FORCE ORBAT region. A massive MRO centre is being
As the new chairman, who once ran UAE Air Force & Air Defence Command built at Nibras Al Ain Aerospace
Mubadala, said: “We are positioning the Park. The free-zone project, jointly
Fighter Wing, Al Dhafra AB, Abu Dhabi
sector for more growth and to maximise I Shaheen Sqn F-16E/F-60
developed by Mubadala and Abu Dhabi
our potential.” II Shaheen Sqn F-16E/F-60 Airports Company (ADAC) will support
The first phase saw 11 subsidiaries from III Shaheen Sqn F-16E/F-60 the establishment of a sustainable
71 Sqn Mirage 2000-9DAD/EAD/RAD
Mubadala, Tawazun and AIG investment 76 Sqn Mirage 2000-9DAD/EAD/RAD aerospace industry in Abu Dhabi.
groups being brought into the EDIC Det Sharjah IAP, Sharjah AMMROC currently provides a full
fold. They comprised Al Taif Technical 86 Sqn, Al Safran AB, A Dhabi Mirage 2000-9DAD/EAD/RAD performance-based logistics or ‘power by the
Services, Bayanat (mapping and Transport Wing, Al Bateen AB, Abu Dhabi hour’ service to 18 military aircraft operated
surveying), and Horizon International C-130 Sqn C-130H Hercules in the UAE. For now, the work is being done
Flight Academy from Mubadala; NIMR 6 Sqn AB.412HP/SP in several locations – mainly Al Dhafra and at
CASA Sqn CN-235M-110
Automotive, Tawazun Dynamics and Puma Sqn SA330SM, IAR-330L, IAR-330SM Puma Al Ain at the GAMCO/Etihad facilities.
Tawazun Precision Industries from MSA Sqn DHC-8-Q315 Dash 8 Its capabilities are set to include
AEW&C Sqn, Al Minhad AB Saab AB S100B Argus
Tawazun Holding; and C4 Advanced C-17 Sqn, Al Minhad AB C-17A Globemaster III
services for both rotary and fixed-wing
Solutions, Global Aerospace Logistics Aerial Refuel’g Sqn, Al Ain IAP A330 MRTT aircraft including: component services;
(GAL), Naval Advanced Solutions, Secure engine services including repair,
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Air College, Al Ain IAP, Abu Dhabi
Communications, and Thales Advanced 4 Squadron PC-7, PC-21
overhaul and depot work; modifications
Solutions from EAIG. 63 Squadron Hawk Mk.61, 63A, 63C and upgrades – weaponisation,
In phase 2, announced on February 21, Air College Squadron G 115TA Acro equipment installation and upgrade. The
Horizon Flight Academy AB.206B-3 JetRanger III, Bell 206B-
they were joined by Abu Dhabi 3 JetRanger, Bell 407 latter means there will be a cross-over
Autonomous Systems Investment with Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL),
(ADASI), AMMROC, Burkan Munition FIS Squadron, Al Minhad AB, Dubai which overhauls helicopters, weaponises
MB-339A(NAT)
Systems, Caracal Light Ammunition them and installs equipment.
(CLA) and Caracal International. Central Air Command, Al Minhad AB, Dubai
102 Sqn
Transport Sqn, Dubai IAP
Hawk Mk.102
C-130H-30/L100-30 Hercules
qqqqq
qqqqq
Naval Squadron, Al Bateen AB, Abu Dhabi GAL is a leading provider of government and
AS332B/AS332M Super Puma,
Speaking at this year’s International AS565SB Panther
defence aerospace services encompassing
Defence Exhibition and Conference aviation maintenance, component repair and
(IDEX), which took place in February, NCMS Cloud-Seeding Flight, Al Ain IAP, Abu Dhabi overhaul, aviation logistics, maintenance
C90 King Air C90-1 King Air C90GT King Air, C90GTi King Air
His Excellency Homaid Al Shemmari,
repair facility, aircraft sales, tactical pilot
chairman of EDIC, said: “These five Joint Aviation Command (JAC) training, and defence aviation consulting and
companies were selected as part of EDIC’s Group 18, Sas Al Nakheel, Abu Dhabi project management. According to a source,
AS550C3 Fennec, AS565UB Panther, Bell
strategy to be the region’s premier 407MRH, CH-47C+, CH47F, IAR- GAL will now work under the AMMROC
integrated defence manufacturing and 330SM Puma, UH-60L Black Hawk, UH- budget.
services platform.” 60M Black Hawk, AAR Airlift will support the design,
Group 18, Sweihan AT-802U BPA, AC-208 Combat Caravan,
Al Shemmari also noted: “As a result of DHC-6-300 Twin Otter, GippsAero Airvan outfitting and integration of key areas of its
this integration, the defence services VIP Flight AS365 N3 Dauphin II, AW109S Grand, state-of-the-art facility in Al Ain. While
AW139
industry will benefit from improved AMMROC creates a component repair and
alignment, enhanced performance, Group 10, Al Dhafra AB, Abu Dhabi depot-level maintenance facility, AAR will
increased capacity and greater economies Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow provide assistance in building up the 1.2
UAV Unit, Various Locations Seeker II, Camcopter S-100 Al Sabr
of scale, be better positioned to serve the Various SAR Dets AW139 million square feet of infrastructure. It will
armed forces of the UAE and compete for also train AMMROC personnel, who will
business in the region.” work on 45 different variants of 36 types,
The companies should benefit as the which will total more than 500 aircraft.
UAE steps up its military spending to AAR is targeting the implementation of
combat the increasing threat from Islamic common procedures with work on eight
extremists, and to fend off any potential platforms now under way. “These eight –
threat from Iran. Of the 16 companies, A330 MRTT, AH-64, CH-47, C-17, C-
ADASI, AMMROC, GAL, Horizon and 130, F-16, Mirage 2000 and UH-60 – are
Tawazun Dynamics currently make up the where the volume is and we are targeting
bulk of the military aerospace operations to commence with them in
business. There is a crossover of May 2016,” said a spokesman.
responsibilities but this will be resolved in Further types operating with the UAE
Al Shemmari’s master plan. military, to be maintained by AMMROC at
The biggest shake up concerns the Al Ain, include the A109, AW139, AT802,
maintenance, repair and overhaul of the AS332, AS350, AS365, AS550, AS565,
UAE’s military assets. AMMROC, the Bell 407 (training/special mission), Cessna
Abu Dhabi-based joint venture owned by 172 Skyhawk, Cessna 208, CN 235,
Mubadala, Sikorsky and Lockheed DASH-8, Diamond DA42, Grob 115,
Martin, was formed to provide the best Hawk 51, Hawk Mk 102, King Air,
maintenance service and support for MB339, Piaggio P180, PC-7, PC-21,
military customers across the South Asia, Seeker, and Twin Otter/Guardian. n
70
YEMEN AIR FORCE
The workhorse of
C
Yemen Air Force
ontinuing unrest in Yemen led to declared an end to the air strikes, saying was attacked and
the capital, Sana’a, being overrun they had achieved their aim and efforts destroyed by
by Houthi rebels in September would now shift to a political process fighters of the
2014. under ‘Operation Restore Hope’. Royal Saudi Air
The government then resigned en The coalition added, however, that it Force led
coalition, in
masse in January 2015 and, on February did not rule out using force again if further
March 2015.
21, president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi threats surfaced from the Houthis and,
fled Sana’a for Aden, which he declared to subsequently, there were additional air
be the country’s temporary capital. strikes.
However, with the Houthis closing in on These included one on the main runway
Aden, he was forced to flee to at Sana’a International Airport on April
neighbouring Saudi Arabia in March. Dailami Air Base, the main Yemen air 28 by Royal Saudi Air Force F-15s to
Following a request for assistance from base, which is adjacent to the prevent an Iranian Red Crescent aircraft,
Hadi and the legitimate Yemen international airport. A number of Yemen which was already on its approach, from
Government, a coalition of nine Arab Air Force aircraft were destroyed, as was landing.
states, led by Saudi Arabia, began carrying much of the air defence system. Al Anad This effectively closed the airport, with
out air strikes on Yemen on March 26, Air Base was also hit on the same day. the munitions having cratered the runway
2015. In addition to Saudi Arabia, fighter On March 27, an air base in the Abyan at strategic points along its length and also
aircraft from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Governorate was the subject of further air hit the taxiways.
Kuwait, Morocco, Qatar, Sudan and the attacks. The next day, Al Hudaydah Air Precise details of the aircraft destroyed
UAE, took part in this military Base was targeted. Another unspecified during these operations are difficult to
intervention, codenamed ‘Operation military air base was hit on March 29. ascertain but photographs of the
Decisive Storm’. After the third day of air strikes, Saudi aftermath at Sana’a show the burnt out
It was as a result of these operations Arabia announced that Yemen no longer shell of Yemen’s sole CN235 transport
that most of the Yemen Air Force’s possessed jet fighters, while most of the aircraft, which had only been delivered in
remaining airworthy aircraft, which were Houthi weapons arsenals, air defences, 2013, in a destroyed hangar. Also visible
under the control of the Houthi rebels, communications lines and command-and- were the wrecks of a King Air 350, an Continued
were destroyed on the ground. The first control centres had also been destroyed. Agusta-Bell 212 and a UH-1H-II Huey on Page 72
air strikes on March 26 targeted Sana’a Al Eventually, on April 21, Saudi Arabia II. Two Ilyushin Il-76s were also burnt
71
YEMEN AIR FORCE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 71
out on the airfield, at least one of which
was confirmed as an air force example.
YEMEN AIR FORCE ORBAT
comprising three CN235s and one
C130H, for the Yemen Air Force to
Videos released later by Saudi officials
supplement its existing fleet. Since then
also showed two Sukhoi Su-22s and an F- there appears to have been no further
5 being destroyed while they were parked
progress on this proposed acquisition.
in the open at an unspecified base.
!"#
Under a separate deal, the US financed
Prior to the Houthi take-over and $
"$ the purchase of a brand-new CN235M-
subsequent decimation of its assets in air
"%& '#(#) 300 for Yemen, which was first noted test
*&
+,-.'-/.*0
strikes, the Yemen Air Force had not been
*1 flying from the factory in Seville, Spain, in
in the best of health anyway, with the
'' February 2012. Delivery was, however,
2)
serviceability of its aircraft said to be very 3 ) #0343 delayed until it finally left the factory on
low. Information from the country is 5
6.$- # September 27, 2013. As noted earlier, this
difficult to obtain and exactly what was 3 6.$- '#(#)
5
6.$-7.676
aircraft was destroyed in the air strikes on
still airworthy prior to the unrest is 5
!"# March 26, 2015.
unconfirmed. On paper at least, Yemen 5
# A contract was also awarded to L-3
5
"%& #
should still have had F-5E, MiG-21bis, Communications on June 2, 2014, for the
MiG-29 and Su-22M aircraft in its combat supply of four unspecified aircraft in
fleet, although it is unknown how many of intelligence, surveillance and
each type were still operational. reconnaissance (ISR) configuration.
Around a dozen Aero L-39C Albatros These are believed to be Beech 350ER
jet trainers were also thought to be still in King Airs, a theory supported by the loss
service, along with 10 Zlin Z242Ls and a of one such aircraft in the air strikes on
single Z143L, which were also used for Sana’a. The contract was due for
training. completion by September 30, 2015, but it
is unclear whether any of the others have
qqqqq been delivered.
US Naval Air Systems Command also
The helicopter fleet should have included awarded a contract to KIG Technical
Mi-8/17/171Shs and Mi-24 Hind Services of Sterling, Virginia, on
gunships, plus small numbers of Agusta- September 26, 2013, to provide 12 light
Bell 212s, Bell 206B JetRangers and UH- observation aircraft with electro-
Yemen’s only CN235
1H-II Huey IIs. was destroyed too in optical/infrared (EO/IR) payloads to
Two Ka-28 Helix-As and two Mi-14 fleet, but by 2011 only three had been March, barely 18 Yemen. First delivery had been scheduled
Haze aircraft may also still have been completed and no further work took months after being for March 2015, with all 12 due in service
operational. Transports comprised a place. Similarly, eight MiG-21bis were to delivered. by September 2015. Due to the current
handful of Antonov An-12BP, An-24RV be acquired by Yemen from the Odessa situation, it seems unlikely that any of
and An-26 aircraft, a CN235M-300 and a Aircraft Repair Plant in Ukraine, where these have arrived.
couple of Il-76TDs, plus a single C-130H they are believed to have been in storage.
Hercules. Their overhaul and refurbishment, qqqqq
As already mentioned, the main air base including a limited avionics upgrade, was
at Sana’a had housed the combat aircraft completed and they had been painted in The SB7L-360 Seeker had originally been
fleet of F-5Es, MiG-29s and Su-22s, plus full Yemen Air Force markings by early selected for this requirement, but bids
An-24, An-26, C-130H, CN235 and Il- 2010. However, the deal was cancelled, were then solicited for alternative options
76TD transports, together with AB212, reportedly due to financial problems, and the type finally selected is unknown.
Bell 206B JetRanger, Mi-8//17-171Sh, with the aircraft remaining in open store US Central Command had also been
Mi-14, Ka-28 and UH-1H-II Huey II at Odessa. Five of them were seeking four ISR-configured precision
helicopters. subsequently sold to the Croatian Air strike aircraft for delivery to Yemen from
The MiG-21s were split between Al Force. mid-2015, with the Air Tractor 802Us
Anad at Al Hudaydah, while Taiz Ganed Over the last few years, a US military equipped with EO/IR systems being tipped
housed Mi-8/17s and Mi-24s. Al Anad aid package had been supporting the as the aircraft. It now seems that they were
also hosted an Mi-8 squadron, and a acquisition of additional aircraft for the and are now destined for delivery to Jordan
detachment of Mi-8/17s and Mi-24s was Yemen Air Force to assist with its fight instead.
maintained at Aden International Airport. against insurgents in the country, A contract was awarded on September
The L-39C trainers operated from Al particularly Al-Qaeda in the Arabian 29, 2014, to Insitu for one ScanEagle
Anad, with a detachment at Al Hudaydah. Peninsula (AQAP). However, with the unmanned air vehicle (UAV) system for
After years of neglect and lack of current turmoil, the present status of Yemen, comprising nine ScanEagle EO
funding, during a visit to Russia in April some of this aid is now uncertain. One and three ScanEagle IR air vehicles. This
2013, President Hadi had been seeking delivery that is confirmed as having been was due for completion by September
new aircraft and helicopters in what was completed was that of two Cessna 208B 2015, but may also have been deferred
planned to be a straight oil for weapons Grand Caravans, which arrived at Sana’a due to recent events.
exchange. The types involved were not on September 17, 2013. With the continued instability in the
reported and nothing further has been US Naval Air Systems Command country, the future of the Yemen Air Force
heard of this proposal since then. issued a request for information on remains uncertain. For the present,
There had been an earlier contract with December 17, 2012, seeking sources for however, it effectively no longer exists as
Russia to refurbish the Yemen Su-22 five second-hand transport aircraft, an operational force. n
72
It defines
multirole superiority.
Innovation from nose to tail. Network enabled. Unrivaled multirole capability.