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In an unexpected decision, Australia has chosen to prematurely retire its fleet of NH Industries MRH90 Taipan multi-role helicopters. Throughout its 14 years of service with both the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Navy, the MRH90 Taipan encountered consistent issues, including poor availability and recurring fleet-wide groundings.

In response to these challenges, the Australian Army has decided to acquire off-the-shelf UH-60 Black Hawk combat utility helicopters as replacements. Meanwhile, the Royal Australian Navy has opted for an addition of 12 MH-60R Romeo Seahawk naval helicopters to replace the MRH90s.

Interestingly, the MRH90 Taipan was originally procured to replace the Australian Army’s S-70A Black Hawks. However, due to the availability issues with the MRH90, the retirement of the S-70A Black Hawks had to be postponed on multiple occasions.

In a broader shift, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) seems to be moving away from European to American helicopters. This transition is further exemplified by the Australian Army’s decision to replace its fleet of Eurocopter/Airbus EC665 Tiger attack helicopters ahead of schedule with the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian. Following these changes, the Eurocopter EC135 will stand as the lone ADF-owned European helicopter. It’s worth noting that while the ADF does operate several Leonardo AW139 helicopters, these are on a lease basis and will be returned to the lenders after a short duration.

Across the Tasman Sea, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) also operates the NH90 helicopter. Intriguingly, they have not reported similar issues to those experienced by the ADF’s MRH90 Taipans.

The figures are based on the 2017 Indigenous Expenditure Report produced by the Productivity Commission. Source: Professor Matthew Bennett, spokesman for the Sovereign Court of International Justice (SCIJ) and International Barrister with a 25+ year legal career and an expert on international law.

There are:

3,278 Aboriginal corporations

243 Native title bodies

48 Land councils

35 Regional councils

122+ Aboriginal agencies

3 Advisory bodies

145 Health Organisations

11 Indigenous Federal MPs

12 Culturally important Indigenous days

PLUS:

Let’s review the data that is currently available in a clearer manner:

1. Funding Amount and Population Percentage: Taxpayers contribute $33 billion annually to support 984,000 Indigenous Australians, which represent 3.8% of the country’s population.
2. Expenditure Breakdown (2012-13):

1. • Indigenous Australians: $43,449 per person
   • Non-Indigenous Australians: $20,900 per person

This shows that the expenditure on Indigenous Australians is 2.08 times that of non-Indigenous Australians, an increase from a 1.95 ratio in 2009.

1. Daily and Annual Expenditure: Australian taxpayers spend approximately $100 million daily on direct support for Indigenous Australians, totaling $39.5 billion of direct government expenditure annually.
2. Source of the Figures: The data is based on the 2017 Indigenous Expenditure Report produced by the Productivity Commission. The source is also credited to Professor Matthew Bennett from the Sovereign Court of International Justice (SCIJ).
3. Representation in Parliament: The argument is made that there’s a proposal (or a current situation) where 3.8% of the population (Indigenous Australians) would get a “second voice” in Parliament, which the remaining 97.2% of the population won’t have access to due to not being First Nation individuals.

Currently, the U.S. Navy operates over 80 destroyers. Their fleet is expanding with the addition of over 10 advanced Flight III DDG 51s. The goal for these warships? To tackle missions such as annihilating enemy drones and jets with laser weaponry, intercepting and destroying anti-ship and ballistic missiles, disrupting enemy radar, and deploying long-range precision weapons. These are just some tasks designed for the latest Arleigh Burke-class DDG 51 Flight III Destroyers.

The first of this class, the USS Jack Lucas (DDG 125), is now sailing from Mississippi to Tampa, Florida, marking its commissioning. This vessel represents a significant evolution in naval warfare, featuring laser weapons, revolutionary long-range sensors and radar, and state-of-the-art power storage and electricity systems.

These ships aim to incorporate a host of new technological advancements, in line with the Navy’s vision for a more distributed, lethal maritime warfare system. Former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday emphasized the importance of quickly advancing these technologies, stating, “speed matters.”

He further elaborated in the Navy’s 2022 CNO NAVPLAN, “Advanced sensors, battle networks, and weapons have propelled us towards a more decentralized warfare approach… To maintain our edge, rapid deployment of top-tier systems is essential.”

This acceleration is crucial, especially considering the rapid naval advancements of the People’s Liberation Army – Navy.

For the most efficient integration, Navy weapon developers have been balancing swift implementation of new weapons with ensuring the use of cutting-edge technology. They’re achieving this through a “modular” strategy, which uses standard IP Protocol, interfaces, and computing systems, allowing continuous tech upgrades. Such software updates have previously enhanced radar systems, weapons guidance, and other crucial technologies, further expanding combat capabilities.

A pivotal upgrade in the Navy’s Block III DDG 51 is the AN/SPY-6 Air and Missile Defence Radar. This new radar system surpasses its predecessors, allowing Navy ships to detect or counteract targets with unprecedented accuracy and range. The SPY-6, in particular, is 30 times more efficient than the SPY-1D(V), as cited by the “Microwave Journal.”

Moreover, Raytheon’s SPY-6 radar uses Gallium Nitride (GaN), a military-grade material that’s up to 1,000 times more efficient than the current Gallium Arsenide.

In practical terms, the SPY-6 radar system integrates different fire-control and detection techs, providing commanders with a more extended decision-making window during potential multi-faceted enemy attacks, including ballistic missiles, drones, and more.

Pictures provided by BSE Systems

In a groundbreaking development during a recent NATO exercise off Portugal’s coast, naval drone technology witnessed an unprecedented evolution. The BAE Systems/Malloy Aeronautics T-600 heavy lift Uncrewed Air System (UAS) successfully air-launched an inert Sting Ray training torpedo, marking a significant leap in naval drone applications.

Around the globe, major naval forces have been consistently investing in and observing the development of aerial drones. As these machines grow in sophistication, they’re being designed to fulfill diverse roles. This not only enables them to seamlessly integrate into more specialized tasks but also allows human resources to be allocated to more critical operations.

This particular test was part of NATO’s Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Uncrewed Systems (REPMUS) 2023 exercise. A series of demonstrations were presented for delegates from NATO member countries as well as from non-member nations like Ireland and Sweden.

The standout moment was undoubtedly the release of the Sting Ray training model of the anti-submarine torpedo from the T-600 drone. This marked the inaugural instance of an anti-submarine weapon being released by a drone in a maritime mission. The goal of this exercise was twofold: it was an opportunity to showcase the T-600’s prowess in anti-submarine warfare, and it also demonstrated the drone’s versatility. Its potential roles span from automated logistics and resupply missions to casualty evacuation. One of the most compelling features is the T-600’s minimal environmental impact, made all the more impressive by the fact that it operates without human pilots.

BAE Systems has disclosed that this technological feat with the T-600 is merely a stepping stone towards their next venture, the T-650. This upcoming model is set to be an all-electric heavy lift UAS equipped with rapid reconfiguration features tailored for various applications, including military, commercial, and humanitarian missions.

Reflecting on the swift progress, Neil Appleton, Head of Sustainable Electric Products at BAE Systems Air, remarked, “In a mere two-year span following the commencement of our partnership with Malloy, we’ve rolled out a heavy lift UAS. Moreover, in collaboration with the UK Royal Navy and the Portuguese Navy, we’ve actively participated in the latest NATO REPMUS exercise. This demonstration was a spectacular opportunity to exhibit the prowess of our T-600 technology demonstrator, as it successfully carried an inert Sting Ray torpedo in the presence of some of the world’s most elite naval forces.”

Picture:  MP-120 mortars. Source: Facebook

Ukrainian Armor, a renowned armament manufacturer, recently concluded the acceptance tests of another batch of 120-mm MP-120 mortars, specifically crafted to meet the requirements of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This development was proudly shared by the company on their official Facebook page, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to quality.

Reiterating the rigorous testing standards, the company mentioned, “Every mortar that rolls off our production line and is destined for our troops undergoes meticulous quality assessment.” Vladyslav Belbas, the dynamic CEO of Ukrainian Armor, further elaborated on the testing, “During these rigorous evaluations, we fired the final product samples, successfully fulfilling our prevailing contract with the Ministry of Defence. Our production spectrum isn’t limited; we are consistently manufacturing mortars of various calibres, extending our support to nearly all the law enforcement agencies. I took a hands-on approach, personally ensuring the safety of our firing mechanisms by loading and discharging 120mm mortar rounds.”

The mortars crafted by Ukrainian Armor are not confined to a single unit but are widely utilized by various factions of the Ukrainian Defence Forces. Reflecting on their operational efficiency, Belbas proudly stated, “We’ve achieved an operational transition, relocating our production, which now boasts high output rates. Our company is zealously working to amplify the inventory of 60mm, 82mm, and 120mm mortars within the military framework.”

Back in August, Belbas highlighted a significant accomplishment, revealing that Ukrainian Armor had transferred an impressive batch of 600 mortars to the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

Further augmenting their portfolio, a report from September 22 unveiled Ukrainian Armor’s collaboration with several NATO nations. This partnership resulted in the successful delivery of thousands of sought-after 122mm high-explosive artillery rounds to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Remarkably, the first consignment, consisting of a thousand of these rounds, reached the Ukrainian military back in August.

Parallelly, Ukrainian Armor continues its innovation journey, engineering new armoured vehicle designs. It’s noteworthy that Ukrainian Armor not only initiates such international collaborations but also stands as the terminal vendor of the resultant products.

A decade after transitioning its three primary force combat brigades into multi-role formations, Australia has decided to move back to specialist designations. This change comes in light of the Australian Government’s announcement on 28 September, 2023.

Previously, until 2011, the three brigades consisted of a mechanised brigade (1st Brigade), a light infantry brigade (3rd Brigade), and a motorised infantry formation (7th Brigade). They were then unified into multi-role manoeuvre brigades with similar structures. The latest announcement reveals a shift back to specialization:

• 1st Brigade will be transformed into a light combat brigade.
• 3rd Brigade will be designated as an armoured brigade.
• 7th Brigade will revert to its motorised combat brigade role.

Additionally, the 10th Brigade, which was disbanded in 1942, will be re-established to function as a fires brigade. This shift in structure will also lead to significant adjustments in Army equipment placements. A notable change includes Adelaide’s Army presence becoming more ‘future-oriented’, emphasizing long-range strike capabilities like the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).

Reason Behind the Restructuring: Defence Strategic Review

Australia’s decision stems from the directions outlined in the Defence Strategic Review. This strategic document shifted the focus from maintaining a balanced force to establishing a more targeted force. While historically, the primary concern was defending Australia, the new direction aims to prepare for a diverse set of challenges.

Interestingly, designing a specialized force to tackle a wider array of challenges might seem contradictory at first. However, it could indicate Australia’s intent to collaborate more closely with allies in combined task forces. This follows the trend seen in countries like the UK, where specific branches, such as the Royal Navy, specialize in particular roles, like submarine hunting.

A detailed examination of the Defence Strategic Review reveals Australia’s Army is now looking to emphasize combat in coastal areas with extended range fire support, with the need to “re-posture key capabilities”. The review also prioritizes the Army Littoral Manoeuvre Vessels programmes and the procurement of HIMARS, while discontinuing the self-propelled howitzers from the Protected Mobile Fires programme and reducing the Land Combat Vehicle System’s size.

As war rages in Ukraine, the idea of nuclear attack rears its ugly head once again. Today, Britain relies on collaboration with her allies together with her own nuclear deterrent to protect against attack. But how did it all begin? In a special report, we hear from three men who took part in Britain’s early Cold War-era of nuclear testing – the men who helped test Britain’s very first nuclear capability.

No happy ending in defence pension review

THERE is nothing more ominous than a non-binary RSM’s face a few inches from yours at a dress inspection with a look as though they have just stepped in something vile.

Perhaps that’s an exaggeration but even more terrifying is a government announcing a review of defence force pensions.

Like a condemned felon walking the few steps from their cell to the gallows, there’s never a happy ending.

The ADF introduced one of Australia’s first, compulsory contribution schemes named it, as only bureaucrats temporarily distracted from straightening paper clips could.

CLICK LINK to continue reading

No happy ending in defence pension review | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

ED: Sadly Robert Service was buried today, see Last Past. Here is the story of his involvment at Long Tan.

By 41961 WO1 (Bob) R.C. Thompson (Ret)

Forty years ago, I heard a story about a RAEME soldier being at the Battle of Long Tan. I immediately dismissed it as bullshit. I heard it again in 1999, when I was applying to have the pilot, Flt Lt Cliff Dohle’s MID upgraded to a DSM. Flt Lt Cliff Dohle piloted the first helicopter that dropped ammunition which saved the lives of ‘D’ Company 6RAR. I was so focused on getting Cliff Dohle his DSM, which he eventually received, I forgot about the story.

Two years ago, I again heard there was a RAEME soldier at the Battle of Long Tan, this time I thought I would check it out, as the story had surfaced too many times not to have some validity. I knew the soldier wasn’t with the ground troops because I had researched 1APC Squadron, 3 Troop and ‘D’ company 6RAR.

Two of the people on helicopter A2-1020, were RSM WO1, George Chin and Major Owen O’Brien, flown by Flt Lt Francis (Frank) Riley. They’ve been well documented in books such as The Battle of Long Tan by Lex McAulay and many others. But nobody knew who the other two were on aircraft A2-1022 flown by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle. These people helped load the second chopper as well as wrap the ammo in blankets. They stayed on board to help push out the ammo when A/C hovered over ‘D’ company. This aircraft carried most of the ammunition and was first over ‘D’ company to drop the ammunition.

After two years of research, I eventually discovered who the RAEME soldier was. He was 1200605 Cfn Robert Service, Armourer, RAEME attached 6RAR. Most people have never heard of Cfn Service because he applied to Army Aviation after Vietnam. He later trained to become an Airframe Fitter and served out his six years and left Aviation and the army to work for Bell Helicopters at Brisbane Qld. I asked Robert Service now retired to tell me his story this is his response:

“On the afternoon of the 18 August 1966, I was enjoying a drink of beer with the Admin Company. A Sgt ran up to us and ordered the group to go over to the ‘Q’ store and collect ammunition boxes and load them into the two helicopters that were sitting on our pad. As the only RAEME person there, I thought it was my duty to volunteer to help out. We did this in a tropical monsoonal downpour. We loaded the two helicopters, and I noticed I had the last box of ammo to be loaded and as I did, I saw the ‘Q’ store Cpl McCutchen arrive with a bundle of blankets and he jumped on board with them. I could see he needed my help, so I climbed aboard the helicopter and help him wrap the ammo boxes.

While we were busy doing this, the pilot took off. (Picture Flt Lt Cliff Dohle DSM) The noise of the tropical downpour combined with the engine noise, plus the adrenalin rush, blocked out any communications with one another. After a short period of time, we arrived at our destination; we were at tree top height. Through the rain, you could see the trees. I helped push the ammo boxes as well as some ammo in sandbags right to the edge of the floor of the helicopter. The A/C rolled on its side and the load helped by the door gunner and us left the A/C and fell to the ground. After the drop we returned to Nui Dat.

Our helicopter was A2-1022; it was piloted by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle. I knew we were sitting ducks; we were at treetop about 20/30 feet above the ground, and you could see the rubber trees through the blinding rain. The helicopter had on all its navigation lights as well as the flashing strobe light on at the top of the A/C.”

Aircraft A2-1022 piloted by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle and Flt Lt Bruce Lane, door gunners, Cpl. Bill Harrington, LAC Brian Hill, ammo unloaders Cfn Robert Service and Cpl William McCutchen is now restored as a Memorial and sits on a stand out the front of Caloundra Qld RSL.