Regional Market News

Asia-Pacific Naval Forces aiming for better and advanced equipments

7 January 2009

 

Much of the region’s rush to modernise maritime forces is driven by higher levels of naval activity, increased spending and response to the possible threat of maritime terrorism. Regional analysts claim that there are two major trends evident with sea power in the Asia-Pacific. The first trend is the acquisition of naval forces to extend military and diplomatic influence in the region.


New naval forces equipment with state-of-the-art surface platforms, submarines, and maritime aviation assets top the procurement lists of navies in the Asia-Pacific which are expected to spend a combined US$108 billion over the next decade. Plans for bigger and more advanced surface vessels, submarines and maritime aviation assets such as patrol and strike aircraft are evident right across the region. These platforms are required for sea denial and to support out of area operations, possibly as a part of an international coalition.


This reflects the perceptions by regional powers of the need to secure sea-lanes of communication. This is particularly apparent in regard to the chokepoints in Southeast Asia which are also vital to the US and regional powers such as Japan, India and China.


Analysts said the second trend is the increased operational significance of littoral areas. Navies in the region are focusing on littoral operations and expeditionary forces. The littoral focus of major navies requires capabilities for sea insertion, sea use or power projection. Add to this the emphasis of naval forces not only controlling sea-lanes but also influencing events on land as well.


The splurge on naval forces is also fuelled by the US forecast that it will face a serious challenge from the People’s Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N) by 2020. This has prompted US military chiefs to pressure allies to invest in anti-submarine warfare capabilities. US sources estimate that China's defence spending for 2007 to be around US$97 to US$139 billion. China’s “blue water” ambition has also prompted other navies from Japan, South Korea, India and Australia to adopt the same strategy, thereby fuelling some sort of a continent wide naval spending race.

 

Surface Platforms

China, India, South Korea, Japan and Australia have invested heavily in developing their surface fleets. Australia has picked Spanish Navantia designs for its Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD) and amphibious ships requirements.


For the AWD, Australia has selected a version of the F100 design for a three-ship requirements, and for the two amphibious ships, Australia has settled with a version of Navantia’s 27,000-tonne strategic projection ship, which is capable of carrying helicopters and even VTOL fighters. The selection of the vessels sees a distribution of work between Navantia of Spain, Australia’s Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), ASC, Tenix and Raytheon of Australia for the Aegis radar system. The AWDs will be known as Hobart-class ships, while the amphibious ships will be known as Canberra-class ships.


The fourteenth Armidale-class patrol boat (ACPB), HMAS Glenelg, was commissioned in February 2008. The Armidale-class patrol boats are designed to substantially improve Australia’s capability to intercept and apprehend suspicious vessels. The new patrol boats are built in Australia for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) by Austal Ships under a contract worth A$553 million. The Armidale-class boats are 56.8 meters long, over 14 meters longer than the current Fremantle-class ships, with greater range and endurance, and a better sea-keeping capability. The first Armidale-class patrol boat, HMAS Armidale, was commissioned in June 2005. HMAS Glenelg was the last Armidale-class patrol boat to be commissioned by the Royal Australian Navy.


HMAS Manoora completed her three-months Extended Maintenance (EMA) period on October 2007. Among the upgrades for the amphibious ship includes the installation of the Mini Typhoon weapon system. HMAS Manoora was originally built for the US Navy and was acquired by RAN along with HMAS Kanimbla in 1994.


HMAS Adelaide guide missile frigates was finally decommissioned in January 2008.The ship was the second of the Adelaide-class FFG to be decommissioned following HMAS Canberra in 2005. Adelaide was originally commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy on 15 November 1980. The second of the new Canberra-class amphibious ships will carry the name Adelaide in the future.  Four of her sister ships will continue to serve, and are currently being upgraded under the FFG Upgrade Project, which is scheduled for completion in December 2009.


Apart from Australia, two other US allies, Japan and South Korea are adding amphibious support vessels, which are also air capable ships to their fleet.


Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) has launched its largest warship since World War II in August 2007 at Yokohama. The new 13,500 tonne ship, JDS Hyuga (DDH 181) will have large flight decks in order to operate four helicopters. Some view the ship as Japan’s first post-WWII aircraft carrier but JMSDF classifies the vessel as a helicopter-carrying destroyer dedicated to anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and humanitarian/logistic support.


A total of four are planned to replace the two Haruna-class and two Shirane-class destroyers in the ASW role. The “helicopter-carrying-destroyer” can carry 12 helicopters or up to six VTOL aircraft such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. With an expected crew around 350, the Hyuga is designed to be a flagship for the JMSDF, providing command and control capabilities to the fleet while using its organic helicopters to support ASW and mine warfare operations, or operations other than war. At least one more ship in the class is planned. The Hyuga includes the FCS-3, a smaller version of the Aegis phased-array radar.


Japan is also adding Aegis-equipped destroyers to its fleet. The two Atago-class 7,700-tonne missile destroyers are equipped with surface-to-air missiles capable of shooting down ballistic missiles to counter the threat of North Korean long-range missiles. The JMSDF currently deploys four non-Aegis missile ships, but two of them will be retired by 2010.


Japan took delivery of its second Atago-class guided missile destroyer, DDG 178 Ashigara in March 2008. The ship is the sixth ship in its fleet to be equipped with Aegis system.


Hot on the heels of its neighbour, the South Korean Navy is also adding Aegis-capable destroyers to its fleet. The navy hopes to commission three King Sejong the Great-class of Aegis-equipped destroyers within the next five years. In May, 2007, South Korea launched its first Aegis destroyer at a shipyard in the south-eastern port city of Ulsan, becoming the fifth country in the world, following the US, Japan, Spain and Norway, to have a warship equipped with a similar system. The destroyer was built by Hyundai Heavy Industries Co at a cost of 1 trillion won (US$1 billion). Named after King Sejong, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) who helped create the Korean alphabet in the 15th century, the warship with a displacement of 7,600 tonnes is the most powerful in the navy. It is 166 metres long, 21 metres high, capable of a max speed of 30 knots and a cruise speed of 20 knots. The new destroyer is armed with 16 ship-to-ship "Haesung" (Sea star) missiles, 128 ship-to-air missiles and 32 ship-to-surface cruise missiles that could give the ship strategic capabilities. Apart from the destroyers, the navy is expected to induct into service this year, the first of two indigenous-designed Landing Platform Experimental. The first of class, Dokdo was handed over to the navy in July 2007 and expected to be operational within one-year. The 18,000-tonne-class LPX ships are capable of carrying a battalion of marines, 10 helicopters, armoured landing vehicles and two air-cushioned landing craft. Like the Australian and Japanese vessel, the LPX is capable of operating VTOL fighters like the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II (JSF), although there have been no reports of South Korea purchasing the aircraft.


The developments in the navies of US allies have prompted China, which has the largest fleet in Asia to look into the procurement of carriers or air capable ships. According reports, China will operate its first carrier by 2010 if current research and development proceeds smoothly. A second-hand aircraft carrier purchased from Ukraine in 1999, the Varyag, is currently under refit at Dalian.


The Chinese military has been researching carriers for years as a way to protect its interests offshore and perhaps to confront US Navy carriers if they intervene in a crisis with Taiwan. And should the plan to operate carrier be confirmed, which is likely, China will have to settle with conventional take off and landing (CTOL) fighter planes like the MiG-29K or the naval (D) variant of the Flanker, the Su-33. Indeed, there was a 2006 report, which claimed that China was to purchase 50 Flanker D in a deal worth US$2.5 billion. Even without a carrier fleet, the PLA Navy boasts a fleet that includes 76 principal surface combatants, 55 submarines (nuclear and diesel electric), some 50 large and medium landing ships, and about 50-60 coastal missile patrol vessels. China is expected to place an order for the new Project 21956 Russian-designed destroyers as it expands its naval capabilities. Severnoye PKB (Northern Design and Engineering Bureau) said the Project 21956 destroyer will displace 9,000 tonnes and would carry improved Moskit missiles, lighter 130mm guns, and the Kashtan missile air defence system. The modified Sovremenny-class destroyers were delivered to the PLA-N in 2005 and 2006. Designed by the Severnoye Project Design Bureau, the Project 956EM was a modified variant of the earlier Project 956E and carries an improved version of the 3M80 Moskit supersonic anti-ship missile.


Meanwhile, Malaysia announced that the next four ships in the New Generation Patrol Vessel (NGPV) programme are going forward. The NGPV programme, which originally envisioned a total of 27 ships, was delayed for almost three years caused by mismanagement of the local shipyard and system integration issues. The first two ships of the Kedah-class have already been delivered to the Royal Malaysian Navy and are currently based in East Malaysia. Malaysia could be looking for enhanced ASW capabilities in the second batch of NGPVs. Malaysia has also announced its intention to buy at least two frigates with an option for two more from BAE Systems. However, because of uncertainty over the budget, the future of this deal, known as the Frigate Batch 2 programme, is now cloudy. Malaysia is now presumed to also be looking at other sources to supplement their fleet. Malaysia is also eyeing to acquire one or more multi role amphibious ships, to support peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, as well as to supplement its ageing amphibious support ships. Among the candidates are Spain’s Navantia, Dutch Royal Schelde and Merwede, France’s DCNS, China and the Republic of Korea. However, budget for the programme remains a problem.


With the biggest fleet outside East Asia, India is seeking a greater role in regional political and security affairs through the projection of its sea power. The navy, which has never been shy to announce its intention to become a blue water navy, wants to build two aircraft carriers in addition to the ex-Russian Navy carrier Admiral Gorshkov, which is currently in dry-dock for a refit.


The acquisition of three carriers would include the procurement of about 50 MiG-29K maritime combat aircraft. The plan to have three carriers within a decade, however, could be in jeopardy. It was recently reported that the overhaul process of the Indian Navy’s Russian made aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya (Admiral Gorshkov) will be delayed indefinitely because of insufficient funding as well as management problems of the project. The ship is currently undergoing modernisation work at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, in northern Russia. The same report mentioned that its completion could be delayed for at least another four years. The 45,000-tonne carrier was supposed to replace the ageing INS Viraat, a Centaur-class aircraft carrier. INS Viraat is currently undergoing upgrades. US Defense Secretary, Robert Gates has gone on record in May 2008 saying that despite rumours, the US has no plans to sell its aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk to India. USS Kitty Hawk is to be decommissioned in 2009.


Meanwhile, according to a top official of the Baltic shipbuilding plant Yantar in Kaliningrad, the contract for building three frigates for the Indian Navy will be completed on schedule. The US$1.6 billion dollar contract for building three frigates for the Indian Navy, the biggest order placed with the Yantar plant in recent years was signed in New Delhi on July 14, 2006.  According to schedule, India will receive the frigates in 2012.


The Vietnamese Navy is seeking to improve its ocean-going escort fleet in response to the perceived growing threat of Chinese submarines as well as the growing interest in the Spratly Islands, being shown not only by China but also the other ASEAN claimants.


Sources said the navy is committed to improve its anti-shipping, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and mine-clearing/minesweeping capabilities. The Vietnamese People’s Navy recently expressed strong interest in obtaining four of Poland’s Gornik-class corvettes, two of which were retired in 2005. The corvettes could be sold along with a few dozens of P-21/P-22 missiles. Vietnam signed an order for four Gepard-class corvettes from Russia in the middle of 2006. The main contractor for the order will be Zelenodolsky shipyard and first delivery is expected in 2009.


Indonesia has been busy modernising its maritime forces and recently unveiled plans to procure eight corvettes, three landing ship tanks, and four fast patrol craft for counter-piracy operations. The first of the Sigma-class corvettes ordered in 2004 and 2005, KRI Diponegoro was commissioned on July 2, 2007 by Indonesian Navy Chief Staff Admiral Slamet Soebijanto. The second, KRI Hasanuddin, was commissioned on Nov 24, 2007. Indonesia has ordered four corvettes; based on the Sigma 9113 design and all are to be built in Vlissingen, the Netherlands.
Bangladesh has announced plans to significantly modernise its navy, which include the procurement of four missile corvettes. In early July 2007, Bangladesh re-commissioned its most modern warship, frigate BNS Khalid Al Walid after being removed from its naval fleet six years ago after a government-change and charges of corruption. The frigate formerly known as Bangabandhu, was re-commissioned at a naval jetty in Chittagong on July 11, 2007.The state of the art frigate remained idle for more than five years due to a long-standing fight among the country’s political establishment, with charges and counter-charges of corruption.


Like its sister services, the Pakistani Navy is seeking to strengthen its capability through modernisation and upgrading of its ships. Modernisation plans include the procurement of corvettes and other offshore patrol vessels, upgrades to its frigates and mine countermeasures craft, ASW equipment, together with missile systems and weapon and control systems. The timeframe for such purchases remains unclear.


Pakistan’s first F-22P frigate was launched in April 2008 in Shanghai, China. The frigate, named PNS Zulfiqar, is part of a contract of four frigates worth US$750 million that was signed in 2005. The frigates are derivatives of the Jiangwei II-class frigates, of which three will be built in China and one will be built locally at Karachi Shipyard. The ships will be armed with China-made C-802 anti ship missiles. 


The Republic of Singapore Navy has commissioned the first of the Formidable-class frigates, RSS Formidable on May 5, 2007, to mark the 40th year of the RSN. The second, third and fourth ships in the class, RSS Intrepid, RSS Steadfast and RSS Tenacious, were commission at Changi Naval Base on February 2008. The remaining two frigates, RSS Stalwart and RSS Supreme are expected to be fully operational by the year 2009. The six ships form the 185 Squadron of the Republic of Singapore Navy and will replace the RSN’s retired missile gunboats, which have been in service for more than 30 years and were finally decommissioned in May 2008. The first of the missile gunboats, RSS Sea Wolf and RSS Sea Lion were commissioned in 1975. For more than three decades, these missile gunboats conducted numerous operations at sea, as well as maritime surveillance, patrol and escort operations. The Formidable-class frigates are designed to carry a Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopter and are equipped with Aster SAM system, which has a range of up to 30km.


The Government of Brunei has decided to sell off the three OPVs, KDB Nakhoda Ragam, KDB Bendahara Sakam and KDB Jerambak, built at BAE Systems shipyard in Glasgow for the Royal Brunei Navy after a long-running legal dispute was resolved. The ships were built under a deal costing  £600 million, between BAE Systems and Brunei, and were completed in 2004. However the Brunei claimed the ships were not as they had ordered, and they remained berthed in Scotstoun until the arbitration dispute ended in May 2007, allowing the ships to be sold off. German company, Lurssen, is reported to be acting as an agent for Brunei for the sale of the three ships. The three ships, which share a number of similarities with the Royal Malaysian Navy’s Lekiu-class frigates, were originally destined for the Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) squadron of the Royal Brunei Navy. Industry talks point that Malaysia is the likeliest buyer for the three ships, provided they could get it at a reasonable price.


New Zealand has launched the third of the four Tenix-built Inshore Patrol Vessels on 6 May 2008. The ship, named Pukaki,will be used to conduct maritime surveillance in support of other agencies such as Customs and Fisheries. The Inshore Patrol Vessels will be able to patrol the New Zealand coastline from the shore to approximately 24 nautical miles. The ship is part of seven new ships under Project Protector.  The first ship under the project, the multi-role vessel, HMNZS Canterbury, was commissioned into the Royal New Zealand Navy in June 2007, the first Offshore Patrol Vessel, Otago, was launched in November 2006, and is expected to be commissioned for operational service in late 2008. Her sister ship, Wellington, was launched in October 2007 and is expected to be commissioned into operational service also in late 2008. The new Inshore Patrol Vessels being built under Project Protector, Rotoiti, Hawea, Pukaki and Taupo, will commission into operational service in 2008. By the end of 2008 the Protector Fleet will comprise seven ships of three different classes; one Multi Role Vessel (MRV), two 85-metres Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) and four 55-metres Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPV). The two OPVs can embark the KAMAN SH-2G Seasprite helicopter.


Two of the remaining three RNZN In Shore Patrol Craft, HMNZS Wakakura and HMNZS Kiwi were formally decommissioned from operational service on 11 December 2007. The last ship, HMNZS Kahu, will remain in operation as the Navigational and Seamanship Training Ship.

 

Submarines

Navies in the Asia-Pacific region are forecasted to spend US$84 billion on the acquisition of submarines and surface combatants with anti-submarine warfare capabilities, over the next 10 years, to further strengthen their maritime capabilities. Construction programmes are planned or are currently underway to build submarines for the navies of China, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Indonesia and Taiwan.


The PLAN is the ascending sea power in the Asia-Pacific. China is moving towards being the complete sea power with a blue-water navy. China has invested a lot of money in developing its fleet in recent years. Sources report that a key requirement for the PLAN is a second-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine. Of particular concern to the US and its allies is the speed of the PLAN build-up of new modern nuclear and conventional submarines. The PLA Navy submarine force started this decade with about 70 conventional and nuclear submarines and is likely to end the decade with roughly the same number, but with more advanced capabilities.


According to US government sources, from 2002 to mid-2005 the PLA Navy built 14 submarines. These included the first Type 094 Jin second-generation SSBN, two Type 093 Shang SSNs, the first Yuan-class SSK and 10 Type 039A Song SSKs. In 2006, the PLA Navy is expected to launch its third Shang and will finish taking delivery of eight Russian Kilo 636M SSKs. Such is the need for submarines to protect sea lanes and conduct intelligence that many countries in the Asia-Pacific have prioritised plan to either acquire new boats, or to upgrade their existing ones. Looking ahead to the future, these continuing development on submarine technology may result in sales of the indigenous designs such as the Yuan- or Song-class SSKs to Myanmar, Pakistan, and Thailand.

 

South Korea has nine Type 209-class and two 1,800-ton Type 214-class submarines in service, built with the help of German technology. South Korea plans to build seven more Type 214-class submarines by 2018. It has also launched a US$2.7 billion project to locally develop and build 3,000-ton submarines in 2018.


Japan operates a number of diesel-electric submarines, primarily of Harushio and Oyashio-class. The newest addition to the submarine fleet is the Soryu-class submarine, which is equipped with advanced air independent propulsion (AIP) system from Kawasaki Heavy Industries. The first of class, Soryu, was launched in December 2007, and is expected to be commissioned in March 2009. SS 589 Asashio, a Harushio-class submarine, was the first Japanese submarine to be modified with AIP system as the testbed platform. 

 

Singapore took the first step to develop a submarine capability through the acquisition of four Sjoormen-class (Challenger) subs and has since purchased two Type A 17 Västergötland-class submarines from Kockums AB. The submarines, Västergötland and Hälsingland, are being retired early from the Royal Swedish Navy (RSwN) as a result of cutbacks in Sweden's submarine force. Kockums is buying back the two submarines from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration for resale to Singapore. The Swedish media reported the deal to be worth about US$128 million. The two Västergötland-class submarines are expected to be refitted with AIP systems before delivery to Singapore in circa 2010.


Meanwhile, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) recently announced a requirement for four submarines. Sources said these boats needed to be both inexpensive and simple to operate to allow the RTN to develop a capability before upgrading to sophisticated boats. Sources said that the RTN would likely acquire Song class submarines from China in the near future. It has been reported that Beijing was happy to trade naval platforms for Thai agricultural goods. However, the RTN submarine force development program is still in the planning stages, and the final type and number of submarines procured could change based on regional and budgetary considerations.


Indonesia is thought to be keen on more submarines in the near future to supplement its two ageing Type 209-class submarines. The first one, KRI Cakra was refitted by Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME), South Korea between 2004-2006 and is now back in service, while the second Type 209-class submarine, KRI Nanggala is also going to be overhauled in the near future, with the tender expected to be floated in the middle of 2008. Among the prospective shipyard expected to bid for the contract includes DSME, South Korea and HDW, Germany. Components expected to be overhauled includes the engines, batteries, and combat system. Among the candidates are submarines from Russia, South Korea, China and German. Some reports mentioned that the Amur-class submarines from Russia is the current favourite as it is more cost effective compared to other offerings. South Korea is reported to be keen to trade its 1,300-ton Type 209 diesel-electric submarines with Indonesian CN-235 aircraft. The deal, estimated to be worth in the region of US$1 billion, is reported to be two submarines for eight aircraft. Indonesia has set the target of having 12 diesel submarines in the submarine fleet by 2024.


The Malaysian Scorpene submarine programme has reached a milestone in March 2007. A joining ceremony was held in Cherbourg, France to commemorate the joining of the fore and aft sections of the first Scorpene submarine built for the Malaysian Navy. According to plan, DCNS in Cherbourg will be in charge of building two fore sections while Navantia will be in charge building the two aft sections in Cartagena, Spain. The two submarines are expected to arrive in Malaysia by 2009. The submarines, upon commissioning will be known as KD Tunku Abdul Rahman and KD Tun Abdul Razak.

 

Australia operates a fleet of six Collins-class submarines. HMAS Waller is the first of the Collins-class submarine to be fitted with a new replacement combat system (RCS) and heavyweight torpedoes. The replacement combat system and heavyweight torpedo capabilities were provided under Projects SEA1439 Phase 4 and SEA1429. The two projects represent an investment of about A$890 million. The RCS utilises the submarine's existing sonar, electronic and visual sensors and represents a significant increase in the boat's ability to detect, track, identify, localise and engage targets. In addition, the new system allows for the use of the Advanced Capability (ADCAP) Heavyweight Torpedo, which significantly increases the submarine's war-fighting capability. Installation of these capabilities in further submarines is ongoing and is linked to their docking availabilities.

 

India intends to develop a fleet of nuclear submarines as part of its new maritime doctrine that moves away from coastal protection to pursue a more competitive strategy aimed at developing a credible minimum nuclear deterrence, generating a littoral warfare capability and dominating the Indian Ocean Region. According to the Indian Maritime Doctrine, the navy is endeavouring to project power through “reach, multiplied by sustainability” across its “legitimate areas of interest” stretching from the Persian Gulf to the Strait of Malacca. India has procured a number of Kilo-class submarines from Rubin Design Bureau of Russia over the past decade and recently agreed to buy six Scorpene diesel-electric attack submarines from French prime contractor DCNS. The deal includes MBDA SM 39 Exocet anti-ship missile.


India is also reportedly interested in building four to six Russian Amur-class boats, but no order has yet been reported. A variant of the Amur design, with an additional vertical-launch compartment aft the fin, has been displayed by Rubin. The 7-metre extension would provide space for eight vertically launched BrahMos anti-ship missiles.


Pakistan's submarine fleet shrank dramatically on Jan 2, 2006, when the service's ageing Hangor-class submarines were officially decommissioned. The four French-built submarines had seen a combined total of over 120 years in service and were becoming increasingly hard to maintain operationally. Following the decommissioning, the Pakistan Navy's three Agosta 90B (Khalid-class) submarines will fulfil the country's core submarine roles, supported by the two older Hashmat-class (Agosta) boats also remaining in service. Sources said that Pakistan is desperately keen to acquire more advanced submarines in order to keep pace with India’s submarine force. Among the main contenders for the replacement submarines are the Type 214 from Germany and Marlin from France. The contract for the new submarines is estimated to be worth up to US$1.5 billion. Two of its Agosta 90B submarines, PNS Khalid and PNS Saad will be fitted with AIP systems from France. Pakistan has ordered two MESMA type AIP systems early 2008, and the integration to the submarines will be done during major maintenance works.

 

Maritime Helicopters

The maritime helicopter is a vital component needed by navies to meet the many challenges faced by maritime forces in the vast Asia-Pacific. Complete with sensors and weapon systems, the maritime helicopter works in combination with surface ships, submarines, and shore-based maritime aircraft. Despite the high operating cost, the maritime helicopter has become an indispensable part of any navy, which is why so many countries in the region are now seeking to acquire them. Through the acquisition of new frigates, a number of other countries have announced that they are hunting for dedicated naval helicopters equipped with new generation systems capable of executing a wide range of combat missions, which include anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare. There is strong demand in the region for maritime helicopters following the decision by several navies to retire the venerable Sikorsky or Westland Sea King variants.


The RAN will accelerate the retirement of its six remaining Mk 50 Sea King helicopters and the new aircraft should be in service by 2010. In the RAN service the Sea Kings undertake a maritime utility role, the principal tasks being amphibious troop-lift and vertical replenishment. Australia has announced its acquisition of 34 MRH-90 helicopters for both the navy and the army. The navalised MRH-90 is a version of the NH-90. It can be used to support amphibious operations, troop lift and vertical replenishment. This was followed by New Zealand’s announcement that it was buying six MRH-90 helicopters for its navy.


In March 2007, Australia announced that the A$1 billion contract for US-made Seasprite helicopters is finally cancelled, following a review ordered by the Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon. 11 of the helicopters were ordered in 1997, but the project since the beginning was plagued by technical problems. Following the cancellation, Australia could be looking for new solutions to fulfil the requirements for anti-submarine and anti-shipping helicopters.
The RAN has leased three AgustaWestland (AW) A109E helicopters from Raytheon Australia Pty Ltd for a period of four years. This leasing initiative provides the RAN with a flexible arrangement to continue to train aircrew while providing support to the fleet and the remainder of the Navy. The A109E helicopters have finished their military fit-out and are ready for service. The A$24 million project was officially commissioned in December 2006, with the three aircraft sourced from France, Italy and Sweden. The A109E Flight will operate as a detachment of 723 Squadron, located at HMAS Albatross.


The Indian Navy has identified a requirement for maritime helicopters and in January 2006 sent a request for proposals to eight overseas suppliers for a 16-helicopter, US$500 million deal, with an option of buying eight additional helicopters at a later date. The aircraft are to replace a similar number of Westland built Sea King Mk 42s that are nearing retirement. Sources said the contract would not be finalised before the end of fiscal year 2007-2008. The IN operates a mix of Sea King Mk 42Bs acquired in 1985 and Sea King Mk 42Cs that entered service a year later, and naval officers said that all need to be replaced.
The Indian Navy has issued a new tender in June 2008 to upgrade 17 of its ageing Sea King helicopters. The upgrades reportedly include the replacement of obsolete equipment and integration of new sensors, avionics and weapons.


Pakistan will receive six China-made Z-9C naval helicopters together with the F-22P frigates. The helicopters can embark on the frigates for anti submarine and anti surface missions.


Singapore has decided for the moment against procuring additional Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters for its fleet of Formidable-class guided missile frigates. The country's ASW helicopter programme initially called for 12 aircraft, and Seahawk won out against Eurocopter's AS 532 Cougar Mk II and NH Industries' NH90 helicopters. This requirement was subsequently reduced to six helicopters in 2004 because of budget constraints and the contract for six Sikorsky Seahawks was announced by the Singapore Ministry of Defence on Jan 21, 2005, with first delivery aimed for 2008.


Republic of Singapore Air Force officials have now decided not to exercise contract options for further helicopters, stating that six are sufficient to fulfil the ASW requirements.


The Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea have revealed plans to acquire maritime helicopters equipped with ASW capabilities while Thailand have ordered Super Lynx 300 helicopters from AgustaWestland. Malaysia is reported to be interested to procure more helicopters, specifically to beef up their ASW capabilities. Malaysia currently operates six Super Lynx 300 and six AS 555SN Fennecs naval helicopters.


Thailand has put a request for six MH-60S Knighthawk and 14 T700 engines, plus spare and repair parts and training and support equipments from the US. The helicopters are destined for the Royal Thai Navy, to be operated alongside the S-70B currently in its inventory. An agreement was signed in June 2007 for the delivery for two MH-60S helicopters, making RTN the first international customer for the aircraft. The two helicopters are to be delivered in 2009. RTN has announced that they plan to procure up to 14 new naval helicopters, including more MH-60S and Super Lynx 300.


South Korea plans to buy new multimission capable naval helicopters to beef up its mine counter measure (MCM) capability. The plan calls for four helicopters fitted with airborne MCM capabilities by 2012, and another four helicopters also with airborne MCM by 2015. Candidates include the MH-60S by Sikorsky, and AW101 by AgustaWestland.


New Zealand’s naval aviation comprises a mix of Navy and Air Force personnel who operate and maintain a fleet of five SH-2G Seasprite helicopters, known as No. 6 Squadron. No. 6 Squadron is based at RNZAF Base Auckland, Whenuapai.

 

Maritime Patrol Aircraft

Asia’s quest for new or upgraded maritime patrol aircraft comes at a time when several hundred early model P-3 Orions procured in the past 20 years are in urgent need of refurbishment. The market for P-3 upgrades in Asia alone stands at US$1.6 billion although it remain to be seen whether navies in the region would continue the expensive programme following US Navy recent decision to use a modern jetliner derivative for maritime patrol duties. Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Thailand and Singapore are among the countries in the region actively exploring the acquisition of maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft to protect their coastlines and sea-lanes.


India has sent a request for proposal for the purchase of eight Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft (MRA) to overseas vendors. The RFP to replace the Indian Navy's retiring fleet of eight Tupolev Tu-142s comes after the Indian Navy turned down the US Navy's offer of leasing two P-3C Orions because the 18-24 month retrofit would be too expensive. The Indian Navy is engaged in exploratory talks with Boeing for involvement in the P-8A Poseidon (formerly known as Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft or MMA) programme. Boeing is reportedly negotiating a direct commercial sale of eight P-8As to India to meet its requirement for an interim long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft. The IN is also reported to be keen in acquiring up to two more Il-38 maritime reconnaissance aircraft. This acquisition is to bolster the now depleted fleet of Indian Navy maritime reconnaissance planes. The new planes to be purchased would be the upgraded version of the aircraft fitted with advanced Sea Dragons digital common patrol suites. New procurement was necessary as existing Indian Navy surveillance assets are insufficient to monitor the country's vast 7,516 km coastline, 1,197 island territories and 2.01 million square kilometres Exclusive Economic Zone.


Australia is instigating a life-of-type (LOT) extension for its fleet of AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft to prolong the type's serviceability and operational relevance beyond 2015. While the RAAF is almost certain to replace its AP-3C Orions with the Boeing 737-based P-8A Poseidon in the longer term as part of Phase 2 of Project Air 7000, budget pressure could delay introduction of the new aircraft. Sources said should the extension of the Orions' LOT by five or 10 years beyond the current planned withdrawal date of 2015 be endorsed, an upgrade of the aircraft's onboard systems will be required. While it is understood that a range of upgrade options are being considered for the Orions in light of a probable funding squeeze across the Australian Defence Force around 2010-2015, areas which would require upgrade for effective operations post-2015 include the mission system, sensors and electronic-warfare self-protection elements. The eventual in-service date and nature of the capabilities inherent in the high-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle, which the RAAF will also procure under Phase 2 of Air 7000, is likely to have influence on any Orion upgrade. The General Atomics Mariner and the RQ-4B Global Hawk from Northrop Grumman are both candidates to fulfil this requirement, for which source selection is anticipated in 2006 or 2007. Due to the duplication of capabilities in the area of maritime surveillance and patrol, any Orion upgrade would be applied to a rationalised fleet comprising fewer aircraft than the current 18 units.


The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) wants an organic maritime patrol and reconnaissance capability. This role is currently provided by four Raytheon Beechcraft Super King Air B200Ts acquired in 1994. Given the requirement to better patrol the Malacca Straits against piracy and smuggling, the RMN has examined offers from Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Saab/Embraer and EADS. Malaysia has identified a requirement for three to four platforms. Singapore also has a requirement for MPA to replace its EP-3 Hawkeyes. The contenders include Northrop Grumman’s Hawkeye 2000, the Embraer/Saab Erieye, and Lockheed Martin’s P-3. A decision on the preferred platform is expected in the near future.


The South Korean Navy has also revealed plans to procure an additional eight Lockheed Martin P-3Cs to the eight it has already acquired. Additionally, Korean Air (KAL) and Lockheed Martin recently began the upgrade of these eight early model Orions to the P-3C version.


Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Navy has also announced a tender to procure two or three MPA. Defence industry sources said Bangladesh was eyeing a cost-effective solution to its requirement for a maritime patrol capability.
Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia and Indonesia have medium to long-term requirements for maritime patrol aircraft. The Royal Thai Navy currently operates three Orion P3-Ts but plan have been drafted to procure additional MPA platforms by the end of the decade. Indonesia, meanwhile, requires enhanced maritime aviation surveillance aircraft given the huge ocean areas it must patrol despite the limited budget for the navy.


Pakistan has recently acquired eight P-3C Orion aircraft from the US. This acquisition will supplement the Atlantique MPA already in service. Pakistan has also requested three P-3C aircraft equipped with E-2C Hawkeye 2000 Airborne Early Warning suite.


The Royal New Zealand Air Force has signed a five-year contract with an international engineering consultancy firm Beca Applied Technology. The contract will provide the RNZAF with software engineering services as part of the P-3K2 Orion surveillance aircraft upgrade project. The contract for the P-3K Orion upgrade project was awarded to L-3 Communications Integrated Systems as the prime contractor and the project is now in the implementation phase. The RNZAF Maritime Patrol Force consists of six P-3K2 Orion aircraft and comprises 75 aircrew and 70 support personnel.

 

Anti-Ship Missiles

Given the purchase of so many surface platforms by Asian navies in the past decade, it is little wonder that the procurement of the latest anti-ship missiles remains a high priority.


The navies of Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are particularly keen to acquire either new or additional anti-ship missiles in order to guard their Sea Lanes of Communication. The current array of anti-ship missiles being offered for export include Boeing’s Harpoon Block II, MBDA’s Exocet (AM39 Mod 2 and MM40 Block II and III), Kongsberg’s Penguin, MBDA’s Otomat Mk2/N Block IV, Rosoboronexport’s Moskit and Uran missiles, and the Chinese copy of the Exocet, the Yingji YJ-8 (C-801 and C-802) Strike Eagle. India’s new BrahMos cruise missile is also expected to enter the fray although integration issues will become a big sale hurdle.


The RAN has procured the Kongsberg’s Penguin to arm its SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopters. The Penguin missile is a short-to-medium range initially guided missile with infrared (IR) terminal homing. Ships and surfaced submarines are the missiles primary targets. An operational advantage of Penguin is its relatively long operational range, which permits a helicopter armed with Penguin to remain outside the launch envelopes of potential targets. The Penguin missile has an indirect flight path to the target. It is also operated in a “fire-and-forget” mode to allow multiple target acquisitions. It is not clear what will happen to the missiles after the Super Seasprite project was cancelled.


Other than the RAN, the Republic of Singapore Navy is also reported to have equipped their S-70B helicopters with Penguin missiles.


Every US ally in the Asia-Pacific has acquired Boeing’s Harpoon anti-ship missile to arm platforms and maritime aircraft including Orion P-3s. The Harpoon missile provides navies and air forces with a common missile for air, ship, and submarine launches. The weapon system uses mid-course guidance with a radar seeker to attack surface ships. Its low-level, sea-skimming cruise trajectory, active radar guidance and warhead design assure high survivability and effectiveness. The latest Block II version of the Harpoon allows for targets near land, like harbours to be targeted with an addition of a GPS unit to the missile guidance unit.


MBDA’s latest Exocet variant, the MM40 Block 3 is also expected to be well received by its customers in Asia. The still under development Block 3 provides for a longer range (180km), higher speeds and the ability to attack land targets with INS and GPS guidance. Malaysia reportedly is keen to purchase the new variant of the Exocet to arm its new frigates.


A number of Chinese, Vietnamese and Indian warships are armed with the Russian Moskit anti-ship missile. Moskit is the aircraft variant of the naval missile 3M80 (SS-N-22 Sunburn, the designation 3M80 apparently referring to the Mach 3 speed) used on Sovremenny destroyers (eight missiles on each) and on Tarantul (Tarantula) III patrol ships (four missiles on each). Indian ships are also being fitted with the new Indo-Russian designed BrahMos cruise missile and the service is also likely to induct the same weapon on its new submarines.


The China-made C-802 missile has found several new customers in the recent years. Thailand has announced that they will purchase the C-802 missiles to replace the C-801 systems that are currently installed on the Chao Phraya-class frigates. Indonesia has also integrated the C-802 missile system on some of its older FPB 57 fast attack crafts. Bangladesh has integrated the missile system on its ex-Chinese BNS Osman guided missile frigate, and have conducted successful test firing in May 2008. Myanmar is also reported to be interested in installing the C-802 missile system on a number of its ships.

 

Surface-to-Air Missiles

Shipborne SAMs not only have to deal with aircraft but also must have the capability to destroy missiles from relatively short-range anti-ship missiles to longer range cruise or ballistic missiles. The introduction of Aegis-equipped ships in the region meant that for the first time in history Asian navies would be able to provide theatre wide ballistic missile defence (BMD). It is expected that Japan, South Korea and Australia (all building Aegis-equipped destroyers) will acquire Raytheon’s Standard SM-2 for air defence and BMD. The Australian ships are also most likely to be equipped with the latest Standard missile, the SM-3, being developed by Raytheon, once it is commissioned into service.


The SM-3 is being developed as part of the sea-based Aegis Ballistic Missile Defence System. The missiles will be deployed on Aegis cruisers and destroyers to defend against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats in the midcourse phase of flight. Raytheon also is developing the Kinetic Warhead for SM-3.
Japan has tested its SM-3 system against a ballistic missile. In December 2007, JMSDF Aegis destroyer Kongo launched an SM-3 Block IA missile to intercept and destroy a medium range ballistic missile that was launched by US Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility in Hawaii.    


For those not “blessed” with Aegis, the option for BMD lies with the MBDA Aster family of SAMs. The shorter range Aster 15 (with a range of 30km) is already in service with the Singapore Navy Formidable-class frigates. The longer range Aster 30 (with a reported range of 100km) is also available for export although no navies in the region have publicly expressed interest to procure the system. RSN’s Formidable-class frigates are reported to be equipped with a system capable of launching both types of Aster missiles. Apart from the Aster 15, Raytheon’s Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) is also a viable area-wide SAM.


The ESSM is an international cooperative upgrade of the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow Missile. ESSM provides self-defence battlespace and firepower against high-speed, highly manoeuvrable anti-ship missiles. ESSM is currently deployed on US Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and surface combatants of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway. Future integration is underway onto the US Navy's Ticonderoga-class cruisers, aircraft carriers, future DDG-1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers as well as the surface combatants of the remaining ESSM team navies and multiple third-party international navies.


Ships designed or built by Western shipyards are likely to be fitted with the western-designed missiles while those built by Russia or China are most likely to be fitted with weapon systems from these countries due to integration issues. For example, the Malaysian Kedah-class PV, designed by a German consortium, was specified with the Raytheon’s Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM). The RAM, which was originally designed to deal with anti-ship missiles, has also been upgraded to provide defence against aircraft, helicopters and surface threats.


India, which has extensive ties with Russia, however, is pursuing another option. India is currently working with Israeli and South African firms to develop and field a new type of SAM. For smaller vessels, navies also have the option of procuring short-range IR SAMs like Mistral, Stinger and Russian-made Iglas. For ship-based application, these missiles are fitted on stabilised mounts to ensure accurate firing and fast re-loading. Some of the mounts also allow remote firing from a ship’s combat information centre.

 

Guns

Analysts report a growing demand among navies in the Asia-Pacific to equip their frigates and patrol vessels with rapid firing cannons to execute missions such as anti-piracy, illegal fishing and anti-missile defence guns. While the frigates of many navies in the region carry Boeing Harpoon and MBDA Exocet MM40 anti-ship missiles, they are also armed with automatic rapid-fire guns such as the FMC 5-in/54 Mk 45 Mod 2, Bofors Defence’s SAK 57 L/70 Mk 3, and the Oto Melara 76mm/62.


Bofors Defence are suppliers of naval gun systems including the Bofors 40 Mk3 Naval Multipurpose Gun, and the Bofors 57 Mk3 Naval All-Target Gun.


The SAK 57 L/70 Mk 3 is one of the naval guns that have caught the attention of navy chiefs in the Asia-Pacific region. Bofors 40 and 57 Mk3 naval guns have a rapid switch capability between optimised ammunition types, including programmable 3P ammunition, and are extremely flexible weapon systems for use against a range of different targets including hostile ships, attack aircraft, anti-ship missiles, and in the littoral scenario helicopters and ground troops.


The 40 Mk3 gun is Bofors’ latest 40mm gun with the capability to engage all types of targets. This extremely accurate gun is capable of firing any 40mm L/70 ammunition, but the highest performance is achieved when using Bofors 40mm 3P ammunition. The 57 Mk3 gun is based on the well-proven 57 Mk2, but uses a new generation of computers, which provide many new features, the most significant of which is the introduction of programmable all-target 3P ammunition. The gun is designed with a stealth cupola, which provides an extremely low signature. The gun has a fully automatic loading system containing 120 rounds of ammunition ready-to-fire. In the twin compartment magazine the shift between types of ammunition, which takes only a split second, is fully automatic.
One of the gun of choice in the region is United Defense’s FMC 5-in/54 (127mm) Mk 45 Mod 2 gun that fires 20 rounds per minute a range of up to 23km. Some 210 Mk 45 mountings have been ordered or delivered for ships as well as shore testing and training establishments. United Defense’s Mk 45 gun can be found on the RTN’s Naresuan-class missile frigates (using the STIR/JM-83H fire control), the RAN’s MEKO 200 Anzac-class FFH (using the 9LV Mk3 fire control), the Japanese Navy’s Imp Kongou DD (using the 2/21 fire control), South Korea’s KDX-2 (using the KDCom2 fire control) and Taiwan’s Kidd- class (DDG 993)—using the Mk86 fire control.


The FMC 5-in/54 (127mm) Mk 45 Mod 2/3/4 was developed as a result of lessons learnt from Operation Desert Sabre in 1991 which underlined a growing awareness within the US Navy of the need for new means of Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS), especially in the context of littoral warfare, whose philosophy dominated the post-Cold War US Navy.


The 5-inch (127mm), 62-calibre Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun system is in US Navy service today, ready to significantly enhance NSFS mission performance. The Mk 45 Mod 4 will provide NSFS range in excess of 21 nautical miles (37km) using the navy's new 5-inch cargo projectile, the Improved Conventional Munition and an improved propelling charge for all-weather, day/night mission support. The new Mk 45 Mod 4 will also provide over-the-horizon NSFS range of more than 60 nautical miles (120km) with the near-term integration of the 5-inch Extended Range Guided Munition (ERGM) and propelling charge. Operation and performance of these extended-range munitions are specifically tailored for effective use and optimised range in unison with the major subsystem upgrades introduced with the Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun.


The Oto Melara 76mm/62 Super Rapid cannon can fire up to 120 rounds per minute to a range of up to 10.5 nautical miles and is in service with almost every navy around the world. This gun can be found on the RAN’s Adelaide-class FFGs (Oliver Hazard Perry-class), Brunei’s FC, Indonesia’s Sigma FC, 11 classes of Japanese navies vessels ranging from patrol boat to DD, six classes of South Korean Navy vessels ranging from FAC to DD, the RMN’s Meko 100 (Kedah) and Assad (Laksamana)-class FCs.


The Oto Melara 76mm/62 can also be found on the Philippine Navy Peacock (Jacinto) class FC, Singapore’s Fearless PB, Formidable FF, Victory FC, and Endurance FW, four classes of Taiwanese Navy ships ranging from Gearing DD to La Fayette and Perry FFs, and seven classes of RTN vessels ranging from PF103 (Tapi) FF to PSMM 5 PBs.


Apart from the medium calibre guns, navies in the region are also investing in a variety of small calibre guns, in calibres ranging from 12.7mm to 30mm. These guns are ideal weapons for navies to counter threats ranging from terrorists to pirates and unlicensed fishermen and smugglers.

 

Unmanned Platforms

In May 2008, Singapore’s Chief of Navy has gone on the record by saying that the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) is looking to acquire more unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV) as well as unmanned surface vehicles (USV). Currently the RSN operates Israeli-built Rafael Protector USV, for force protection and anti-terrorism missions. The RSN reportedly also operates two Remus 100 autonomous UUVs for hydrographical missions.


Malaysia is also reported to be interested in acquiring UUVs and USVs. According to sources, there are several local designs currently in development, although this does not rule out the procurement of non-local designs. The Hovering Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (HAUV) is a UUV developed by US-based Bluefin Robotics. The HAUV is currently being offered to Malaysia and Singapore, as well as Indonesia, for hull inspection operations. The HAUV is battery-driven, and can dive to a depth of 100 meters.

 

Regional Coast Guard Development

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is the principal government agency tasked with maintaining law and order and coordinating search and rescue operations in the Malaysian Maritime Zone and on the high seas. It is in effect the Coast Guard of Malaysia. The Agency and its members are part of the Malaysian Civil Service and are placed under the Prime Minister's Department. In times of war, special crisis or emergency the Agency may be placed under the command of the Malaysian Armed Forces.


The MMEA experienced rapid growth in terms of assets soon after its inception. Japan donated a training ship that was commissioned as KM Marlin.  The MMEA then went on and procured three used Eurocopter Dauphin N3, as well as three brand new AgustaWestland AW139 helicopters. Recently it was announced that MMEA has agreed to procure two Bombardier CL-415MP amphibious aircraft fitted with surveillance equipment including side looking airborne radars.

 

The Indian Coast Guard in its present shape was formally inaugurated on 18 August 1978 as an independent armed force of India. The Indian Coast Guard was formed be to handle law enforcement responsibilities, and is a service equipped and modelled on the Coast Guards of US, and UK, leaving the Indian Navy to exercise its fleet for wartime role.


The first of the three Offshore Patrol Vessels (New Series) being built at M/s Goa Shipyard Limited to replace the old Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) inducted in 1980’s was launched on 4 July 2008. The ship would actually be the first 90m OPV one to join the Indian Coast Guard inventory on being commissioned. The new OPV would be 93.6 meters in length and capable of operating multi engine helicopters.  It is expected that the ship would get commissioned by April 2009 and would be named Vishwast. The launching of this vessel is in keeping with the fifteen years Perspective Plan of the Indian Coast Guard.


ICGS Sankalp, the fifth Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) of the Indian Coast Guard was commissioned on 20 May 2008. The Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel, ICGS Sankalp, fifth of its class has been designed and built indigenously by M/s Goa Shipyard Limited. The ship is designed to carry one twin-engine helicopter and five high-speed boats for Search & Rescue, maritime law enforcement, EEZ surveillance, high-speed interdiction and marine pollution response missions. The ship is 105 meters long. The ship on joining the Indian Coast Guard fleet will be deployed extensively for the EEZ surveillance and other duties. 


It is envisaged that by the end of the India’s XIth Plan (2007-2012), the Indian Coast Guard would have added to its inventory three Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels (AOPV), three Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), three Pollution Control Vessels (PCV), four Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV), 21 Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPV), 11 Interceptor Boats (IB), 19 helicopters and ten fixed wing aircraft.

 

The Korea Coast Guard (KCG) is in charge of all maritime police affairs and marine pollution control tasks. In February 2008, KCG was reorganized into Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs as an independent agency, under Article No. 8,852 Law of Government Organization. KCG has over 200 vessels and aircraft currently in service, and is considered to be one of the better-equipped Coast Guard in the region.

 

The Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) today, is faced with the enormous task to perform the functions of safeguarding the country’s vital sea-lanes from maritime lawlessness, preserving its marine resources and promoting Safety of Life and Property at Sea with its limited resources. In the accomplishment of this mission, the PCG performed various activities categorized under the five functional areas, namely – Maritime Search and Rescue (MARSAR); Marine Environmental Protection (MAREP); Maritime Safety Administration (MARSAF); Maritime Operations (MARSEC); and lastly, Maritime Law Enforcement (MARLEN).

 

Following the reorganisation of the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 1952, the boats in Marine Police were increased to 68 and at one stage 70, during the time of the Konfrontasi with Indonesia in the 1960's. On 13th February 1993, Police Coast Guard (PCG) underwent a massive restructuring which saw the Marine Police upgrading itself into the current Police Coast Guard. This change supported greater policing roles at sea including joint operations with the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), anti-illegal migrant operations, handling foreign government vessel intrusions and guarding Horsburgh Lighthouse in the Singapore Straits. Police Coast Guard roles are to enforce the law and maintain order in Singapore Territorial Waters and to prevent and detect crime. PCG also conduct Search and Rescue and assist other maritime agencies. The PCG has progressively built up its capabilities to ensure effective operational deployment within Singapore territorial waters. These developments include the introduction of a surveillance system to monitor ships, the formation of the Special Task Squadron for high-speed interceptions, and the upgrading of its fleet to meet the evolving demands of maritime operations. The Third Generation PT boats are faster and have better surveillance capabilities in the form of stabilised infrared cameras.

 

Japan Coast Guard (JCG) is one of the most modern and best-equipped coast guard type organisations in Asia. Duties of JCG are as follows – Administration Department handles public relation, international relation, personnel management, budget, etc; Equipment & Technology Department handles shipbuilding and construction of JCG's airplanes; Guard & Rescue Department handles maintenance of public order, oil pollution response and Search and Rescue; Hydrographic and Oceanographic Department handles hydrographic surveys, oceanographic observation and provision of navigational charts, publications and information that required to ensure navigational safety; and lastly, Maritime Traffic Department handles implementation of navigation safety measures, and construction, maintenance and operation of Aids to Navigation.

 

Australian Government created the Coastwatch function within the Australian Customs. Following two undetected arrivals of Suspect Illegal Entrant Vessels (SIEVs) on the eastern seaboard in early 1999, the Prime Minister established a Coastal Surveillance Task Force to review the following — intelligence gathering and analysis; the ability of current aircraft and equipment; interface between Coastwatch and Defence/intelligence; and other related issues the task force may identify. Australian Customs was closely involved with the review, which developed 18 recommendations, subsequently fully accepted and funded by Australian government. New resources were approved, including marine and aircraft crews, new aircraft, increased staff and a new National Surveillance Centre (NSC) that combined the existing operational and planning capability with a new analytical role. Further, a new position of Director General Coastwatch was created. This position was to be filled by a seconded senior Defence officer. The Director General was to report directly to the CEO of Customs. This was a significant change as previously the head of Coastwatch reported to the National Director of the Customs Border program.


Coastwatch has entered into new contracts under Project Sentinel that will provide fixed wing maritime surveillance services throughout Australia's maritime zones and helicopter services in the Torres Strait until 2020. The contractors are Surveillance Australia Pty Ltd and Australian Helicopters Pty Ltd. Services under new surveillance contracts will commence in 2007/08. The aircraft fleet will then compromise – six de Havilland Dash 8 - 200 series aircraft and four de Havilland Dash 8 - 300 series aircraft all fitted with digital radar (Raytheon SV-2022), electro optic sensors (Wescam MX-15i) and surveillance information management capability; one Bell 412EP helicopter with an infra-red detection system (FLIR Systems Inc. Star SAFIRE HD (IV)) and limited SIM capability; and one new Eurocopter AS350B3 Squirrel single engine helicopter with limited SIM capability.

 

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