BAE Systems Media

BAE Systems has been chosen by the U.S. Navy to develop the Dual Band Decoy (DBD), one of the most advanced radio frequencies (RF) countermeasures in existence. The DBD is a state-of-the-art RF self-protection jammer designed to shield fighter jets from enemy attacks.

Building on the proven capabilities of BAE Systems’ AN/ALE-55 Fibre-Optic Towed Decoy, the DBD consists of a towed unit connected by a fibre-optic cable to the aircraft’s onboard electronic warfare equipment. This decoy employs the latest jamming technology to disrupt enemy radars and divert missiles away from the aircraft. It can be deployed either manually by the pilot or automatically in response to detected threats, providing essential protection in highly contested airspace.

“With Dual Band Decoy, we are building on the ALE-55’s years of mission success as a high-powered jamming system,” said Don Davidson, director of the Advanced Compact Electronic Warfare Solutions product line at BAE Systems. “Dual Band Decoy delivers broad capability that can be installed on a variety of aircraft and is upgradeable to address future threats.”

The DBD integrates BAE Systems’ custom integrated circuits, enhancing performance while reducing size, weight, and power requirements. This system is a crucial component of BAE Systems’ Intrepid Shield™ strategy, which aims to create a protective sphere around platforms in highly contested battlespaces by using the full electromagnetic spectrum to detect, exploit, and counter advanced threats.

The Dual Band Decoy will initially be deployed on the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, with development taking place at BAE Systems’ advanced facilities in Nashua, New Hampshire.

Video created by Elijah (Age 11) and Gabriel (Age 8) Leigh. Brothers and children to singer songwriter Rae Leigh. This song is dedicated to their Papa and Rae Leighs father (the boys grandfather) Robert Hewett who served as a Tunnel Rat in the Vietnam War. This video was made during an excursion to Canungra where the war memorial for Vietnam Veterans is in the same location where Mr. Robert Hewett was trained for jungle warfare before being shipped off to war.

Song written by Rae Leigh and Allan Caswell Released by Rae Leigh Music www.rae-leigh.com

This week, we turn our focus to Colonel Alexander Hugh “Sandy” MacGregor, MC, RFD, a figure whose life story embodies bravery, resilience, and an enduring commitment to the well-being of others. Born on 16 March 1940, MacGregor’s distinguished military career and his transformative post-military work have left an indelible mark on both military history and personal development spheres.

The Vietnam War:

Sandy MacGregor’s military journey began with his commission as a captain in the Australian Army, where he quickly established himself as a leader of extraordinary courage and skill. His most renowned contribution came during the Vietnam War, a conflict that tested the mettle of soldiers in ways previously unimaginable. In this arena, MacGregor led the 3 Field Troop engineers on one of the most dangerous missions of the war—exploring the Củ Chi tunnels.

These tunnels were a labyrinth of underground passageways used by the Viet Cong for hiding, communication, and launching surprise attacks. They were heavily booby-trapped and nearly impossible to navigate without succumbing to the dangers within. Yet, MacGregor and his men, known as “tunnel rats,” took on the daunting task of mapping these tunnels. Their work not only revealed the extensive nature of the Viet Cong’s underground operations but also uncovered vital resources that would aid Allied forces in turning the tide of the war.

MacGregor’s leadership during these missions was nothing short of heroic. He led from the front, demonstrating a calm under pressure that inspired his men to follow him into the depths of these deadly tunnels. The risks were immense, but MacGregor’s unflinching courage earned him the Military Cross, a recognition reserved for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy. The United States, too, acknowledged his valour with the Bronze Star Medal, underscoring the international significance of his contributions.

Post-Military Life: A Journey of Healing and Empowerment

After the war, MacGregor faced the challenge that many veterans encounter—transitioning from a life defined by combat to one of peace. However, instead of letting the war define him, MacGregor chose a path of healing and empowerment, not just for himself but for others as well.

He channelled his experiences and the lessons learned on the battlefield into a new mission: helping people harness the power of their subconscious minds. Through seminars and motivational speaking, MacGregor taught individuals how to overcome their own fears, doubts, and limitations. His approach was unique in that it drew directly from his military experience, where mental toughness and resilience were as crucial as physical strength.

MacGregor’s teachings resonated deeply with audiences, many of whom faced their own battles, whether personal, professional, or psychological. He emphasized the importance of inner strength, a quality he had relied on during his time in the tunnels of Vietnam and later in his life as he dealt with personal tragedies.

Personal Tragedy and the Power of Forgiveness

Beyond his military and professional accomplishments, MacGregor’s life was also marked by profound personal tragedy. In a heartbreaking event that would test the limits of anyone’s resilience, MacGregor’s three daughters were tragically murdered in 1987. The devastating loss was a turning point in his life, forcing him to confront unimaginable pain.

Remarkably, MacGregor emerged from this tragedy not with bitterness, but with a commitment to forgiveness and healing. He publicly forgave the man responsible for his daughters’ deaths, a decision that was both deeply personal and universally inspiring. This act of forgiveness became a cornerstone of his teachings, demonstrating the incredible power of the human spirit to transcend even the most profound grief.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, Colonel Sandy MacGregor’s legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered as a war hero whose actions saved lives and changed the course of history. But he is also celebrated as a mentor and guide, someone who used his experiences to help others find strength and peace within themselves. His seminars have left a lasting impact on those who have attended, teaching them that the greatest battles are often fought within the mind.

MacGregor’s life is a testament to the power of resilience, not just in the face of external adversities like war, but also in overcoming the internal challenges of grief, fear, and loss. His story is one of courage, not only in combat but in the ongoing journey of personal growth and forgiveness. As we reflect on his contributions, both on the battlefield and beyond, we are reminded that true heroism lies in the ability to rise above adversity and inspire others to do the same.

Colonel Alexander Hugh “Sandy” MacGregor’s story continues to inspire new generations, reminding us all that no matter the challenges we face, we have the power within us to overcome and thrive.

Photo credit: ADF via Twitter

The partnership between Britain and Australia is significantly enhancing the combat capabilities of both nations. The Royal Navy recently led an advanced mine warfare course, underscoring this collaboration. The Australian Department of Defence shared that Australian Navy minesweepers received hands-on training in planning and eliminating sea mines, a critical step in advancing mine warfare tactics.

This specialized course, known as the Royal Navy’s Advanced Course in Sea Mine Planning and Neutralization, equips naval officers and personnel with strategic and tactical knowledge of sea mine deployment, detection, and neutralization. Training covers both theoretical and practical skills, including ‘E-mining,’ which involves using advanced sensors, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), and electronic systems to enhance mine detection and neutralization.

The course also emphasizes strategic planning and decision-making, ensuring participants can integrate mine warfare operations into broader naval strategies while minimizing risks to friendly forces.

The Royal Australian Navy’s Huon-class minehunters, specifically designed for mine hunting with advanced sonar and mine disposal systems, benefit from this training. These vessels are crucial for maintaining secure sea lanes and supporting amphibious operations by clearing mines from critical areas.

With apologies for the late notice, we have been advised of the death on 12 August 2024 of Phillip Montague Perrin.

Phillip died in Perth following a lengthy illness.

He served in Vietnam as the Officer in Charge of the Detachment, 131st Divisional Locating Battery, from January 1968 until January 1969. He later retired from the Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

A funeral for Phillip was held at Purslowe on Monday 19 August 2024. He is survived by his wife Sylvia, Son Adam and Daughter Melinda and their families.

RIP Phillip Montague Perrin.

Peter Bruce, OAM
Obituary Resource Officer
RAAHC
pjbruce8@bigpond.net.au

The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast takes flight in sunny Queensland! Here’s some of the action from the Friday performers on August 16th. Featuring: Jeff Boerboon: Yak 110, Greg Colyer: T-33, USAF F-22, USMC MV-22, USAF C-17, USAF KC-135, RAAF F/A-18F, RAAF Roulettes, Matt Hall & Emma McDonald, L-39 jets, US Navy P-8A, Freedom Formation and more!

APS Blog

During the recent Garma Festival, the noticeable absence of leading Yes campaigners raised eyebrows. Marcia Langton, a well-known advocate for the Yes campaign, was nowhere to be seen. Equally absent were other prominent figures like Noel Pearson, as well as Uluru ‘dialogue leaders’ Megan Davis and Pat Anderson, along with the Uluru Delegates. This void has led many to question the current state of the Yes campaign and the motivations behind it.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took the stage in Parliament to reaffirm his commitment to the Voice initiative, renewing his pledge to support the Makarrata Commission-a process of truth-telling and reconciliation, defined as “coming together after a struggle.” Despite the Prime Minister’s continued dedication, the silence from key Yes campaigners suggests a deeper uncertainty.

Why, then, is Albanese pushing forward without visible backing from these prominent voices? The reality may be that figures like Marcia Langton are aware of the waning public support they once commanded. Their retreat from the spotlight could indicate a strategic shift, acknowledging that their previous bold approach failed to gain the traction they had hoped for.

Yet, despite this shift, the Prime Minister remains determined, advancing with significant social and financial commitments-many of which lack transparency and detail. Little is known about the specifics of the Makarrata process or the allocation of the committed millions. Albanese seems poised to drive the nation toward a critical vote, asking Australians to decide on an issue clouded in uncertainty.

Even though prominent Yes campaigners may have retreated, they still lend their political allegiance, with strong backing from Labor and the Greens.

ED: This is a summary of the full blog.

Nine Townsville-based artillery members participated in training on the K9 self-propelled howitzer, preparing to become future instructors for the vehicle, which is slated to be primarily operated by the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery in Townsville by 2028.

The training took place in South Korea, where the gunners experienced firing 155mm rounds from the K9 for the first time. Compared to the traditional M777 artillery piece, the K9’s automatic aiming system simplifies the process, allowing the main gunner to review fire control data, aim, and fire with the press of a button. The K9 also offers manual and semi-automatic modes, with a joystick available for directional adjustments or direct fire.

Participants also learned essential maintenance tasks, such as removing the muzzle and tracks for repairs. One of the standout features of the K9 is its ability to shoot and move quickly, a significant upgrade from the M777. The K9 can stop and fire within 60 seconds while moving or 30 seconds when stationary, allowing for rapid repositioning to avoid counter-battery fire.

Driver training was highlighted as a critical component of the course, as operating a 50-tonne armoured vehicle is a new challenge for the gunners, who previously did not need such skills with the M777.

Next year, a more comprehensive train-the-trainer course will be conducted for potential instructors, enabling them to teach future trainees from the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery at Puckapunyal. The Australian AS9 Huntsman and AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle, based on the Korean K9 and K10, will feature increased internal height, modernised fire control systems, additional storage, and air conditioning. The Army expects to have 30 AS9s and 15 AS10s in service by 2028, with the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery in Townsville being the primary operators.