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Photo: An Australian Army M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment during a combined arms live-fire serial on Exercise Brolga Sprint 23 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland. Photo: LCPL Riley Blennerhassett

By Robert Dougherty – Defence Connect

Australian veteran-owned SME Global Defence Solutions has been engaged to manufacture a dozen container systems to house main battle tank simulators under a multi-million-dollar contract.

GDS, an Alkath Group company, will construct the deployable containers in Nowra, NSW, before they are fitted with M1A2 Abrams System Enhancement Program Version 3 (SEPv3) main battle tank immersive tactical trainers.

The first 20-foot 1C ISO container is scheduled for delivery in March 2024, while the complete 12 will be manufactured by January 2025.

Thomas Global Systems, an Australian avionics and mission-critical electronics manufacturer and prime system integrator, will install the M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams simulation system to support the Australian Army’s acquisition of 75 M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 main battle tanks under the $3.5 billion Land 907 Phase 2 project.

The trainers will train Australian Army tank crews before they accept the new M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks by fully simulating an M1A2 tank environment with crew positions for gunner, driver, and an additional instructor station to enable system training control.

“Following the TGS approval of our design plans for the deployable container system in mid-August, our team has commenced manufacture,” GDS general manager Jeromy Bendall said.

“The modular Abram’s ITT is taking mission simulation to the field, allowing crews to prepare for actual operations while deployed, increasing efficiencies and mission outcomes.

“It represents the latest and greatest training capability for Australia’s upgraded tank force. Once complete, the 12 containerised ITTs will be deployed to defence bases around Australia.

“Securing the Abrams contract allows GDS to further solidify our position as leaders in sovereign manufacturing. We are proud to be producing tactical trainers for the Army’s most advanced capabilities while generating skilled employment opportunities in the Nowra region.

“Given the Abrams is extensively operated by the US and its allies around the world, the global Abrams supply chain is huge and represents AUKUS export, growth, and job opportunities for GDS as well as our Alkath Group sister companies Mellori Solutions and Resilience Logistic Solutions.”

GDS has previously collaborated with Saab Australia on JP 2060 Phase 3 to deliver a new generation of deployable health capability.

Maritime underwater tracking facilities are set to be constructed in Western Australia to serve the Royal Australian Navy. These facilities will be maintained until 2045, following a $328 million contract given to L3Harris Technologies.

These tracking facilities aim to offer the ability to monitor below the water’s surface and to ensure optimal readiness. This will be achieved through a series of sensors that are part of the Australian Department of Defence’s SEA 1350 Phase 3 MUTR program.

These tracking ranges will not only offer surveillance capability but are also anticipated to bolster Australia’s autonomous preparedness by protecting its maritime entry points and key maritime communication routes. The introduction of new equipment designed for deep water, shallow regions, and deployable tracking will supersede the initial tracking range, which was crafted for the testing of Collins Class submarines.

Alan Clements, the corporate vice-president of L3Harris and the executive for Australia, expressed the company’s dedication to fortifying Australian defence capabilities. He highlighted the significance of using their worldwide technological know-how to craft Australia’s independent maritime underwater tracking approach. Clements further emphasized the current and future importance of this competence in the progression and enhancement of maritime tools and systems.

These tracking facilities are designed to gather and communicate data about the position and movement of assets within its surveillance area. They will likely support exercises in both deep ocean and coastal waters. Moreover, the ranges will facilitate efficient testing and evaluation of the readiness of various naval platforms and weapon systems.

U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shannon Renfroe/U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Betty R. Chevalier (composite)

By PATRICK “BURT” BROWN

he U.S. Air Force wants to retire the A-10 Warthog, an aircraft I have flown for years around the globe, by the end of the decade. While many may think all of us in the A-10 community want to hold onto our beloved mount for dear life, that isn’t necessarily the case. What many of us do want is a suitable replacement, of which there is none currently planned. This new aircraft should be relatively economical while also bringing additional capabilities to the fight, especially one in the Pacific against China. That aircraft should be the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet for a slew of reasons, some of which may be surprising.

Author’s note: the opinions and personal views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views or opinions of the United States Government, the Department of Defence, the United States Air Force or the United States Space Force.

CLICK LINK to read this article.

A-10 Pilot’s Compelling Case For Replacing Warthogs With Super Hornets (thedrive.com)

ED: While Andrew Bolt may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and I’ve experienced some pushback for sharing his opinions before, his perspective on the recent “Yes” commercial is certainly worth a look.

https://www.facebook.com/100088944497341/posts/281486388159509/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

The recent decision by the Commonwealth to purchase a fourth MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System raises questions about its financial prudence, especially when viewed in light of the Australian Defence Force’s ongoing budgetary challenges, opines defence analyst Michael Shoebridge.

In a move that signifies significant trust placed in the Department of Defence, both Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and the Prime Minister-led National Security Committee of Cabinet have greenlighted the acquisition of an additional Triton long-range UAV from the U.S.-based Northrop Grumman Corporation. This decision is expected to add approximately $350 million to the already $1 billion expenditure from a total project budget earmarked at $2.777 billion.

This acquisition is puzzling in multiple facets, but its primary concern lies in the apparent disconnect it presents with the evolving priorities since the Defence Strategic Review. The decision almost insinuates an unchanged stance from earlier strategic outlines.

Considering that the Defence sector is not expecting any significant influx of funds for a foreseeable period of at least four years under the current Albanese administration, one would anticipate a more discerning and prioritised allocation of its resources. However, the purchase gives an impression of a somewhat automated decision-making process, with the project being executed by a major US defence firm. This adds to an increasing trend of Australia sourcing from the inventory of US defence giants.

Simultaneously, there’s a missed opportunity. More agile and potentially more impactful investments in smaller projects, which could be swiftly executed by nimble Australian entities, remain in limbo. The Defence department awaits the government’s approval on its updated acquisition plans following the Defence Strategic Review, a decision anticipated before the May 2024 budget. To put it mildly, this approach seems rather perplexing.

Get a behind the scenes look at an Australian Army Artillery Gun Line.

ED: This Timeline Documentary was sent to me. I took the time to watch it and hope you enjoyed it also.

The twentieth century was profoundly shaped by the looming presences of Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin. As two of the most influential figures of their time, they both wielded immense power and drove the course of history with their decisions. Interestingly, there were parallels in their approaches and ideologies, but the stark contrasts in their strategies and personal behaviours are equally intriguing.

This is the inaugural episode of our “Warlords Series”, which delves deep into the interactions and rivalries of World War II’s key players. In this episode, we explore the intricate dynamics of Hitler and Stalin’s relationship. How did these two colossi view each other? Where did their strategies align and diverge?

Leveraging primary documents, personal memoirs, and expert analysis, we not only narrate the historical events but also delve into a psycho-historical examination of these two giants. This rich and multi-dimensional approach provides insights into the minds and motivations of the men whose choices forever altered the trajectory of global events.

RAAF Base Williamtown saw Flight Lieutenant Ross Bowman take to the skies in the F-35 A Lightning II for a majestic display at the Central Coast Airshow 2022 in Warnervale, NSW. Photo courtesy of Corporal Craig Barrett.

The RAAF School of Technical Training (RAAFSTT) played an instrumental role in shaping Flight Lieutenant Ross Bowman’s illustrious career, offering him a deep dive into the Air Force’s operational mechanics. “RAAFSTT was the launchpad for technicians, setting them up for success in their squadrons,” mentioned Lieutenant Bowman. “I gained a nuanced understanding of the Air Force’s junior ranks, which has undoubtedly enhanced my capabilities as an officer.”

Hailing from Dunedoo, NSW, Flight Lieutenant Bowman began his journey in 2005, undergoing Initial Military Training at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Later, he headed to RAAF Base Wagga, honing his craft as an aircraft technician at RAAFSTT. “In my role as an ATECH, often dubbed a ‘black hander’, I delved into everything that could stain our hands – be it hydraulics, fuel, or engines,” he recounted.

His dedication saw him spend half a decade at the 2 Operational Conversion Unit (2OCU), maintaining the Classic Hornet and concurrently chasing his aspiration to fly. Upon earning his ‘wings’, Lieutenant Bowman dedicated three years to the ‘Mighty Magpies’ (75 Squadron), followed by an 18-month stint in the US mastering the F-35A and training both Australian and US cadets. “Coming back home, I briefly joined the 3 Squadron. Now, I’ve circled back to 2OCU, but as a mentor,” he shared. He went on to say, “Watching a rookie fighter pilot don their squadron badges, the pride they feel is palpable.”

Lieutenant Bowman expressed his awe at piloting the F-35A. “Soaring over the waters on Australia Day 2022, cruising at staggering speeds near the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is a memory etched in my heart,” he remarked. Yet, what he cherishes most is his deployment on Operation Okra. “It wasn’t just the thrill of flying but the gleam in the technicians’ eyes, knowing our collective efforts culminated in mission success.”

Bowman’s journey had its share of hurdles. “I faced rejection the first time I applied as a pilot. Yet, it paved the way for a career I hadn’t envisioned,” he revealed. Gratitude runs deep for Bowman, who believes his milestones owe much to his family’s unwavering backing. “My wife has been my anchor. Her support has been pivotal to my achievements,” he said. His counsel to aspirants? “The Air Force journey is replete with golden chances. Seize them when they come your way.”