Peruvian Air Force Bolsters Medical Evacuation Capabilities with New Beechcraft King Air 360C

The Peruvian Air Force has received its first Beechcraft King Air 360C ambulance aircraft, marking a significant enhancement in the country’s aeromedical evacuation and disaster response capabilities. Acquired from US-based Textron Aviation, the aircraft is set to play a crucial role in medical missions, particularly in reaching remote areas of the nation.

Assigned to Air Group 8 in Lima, the Beechcraft King Air 360C will operate from Callao Air Base, allowing for swift access to regions that may be difficult to reach by ground. The versatile aircraft is designed to accommodate various mission configurations and can seat up to 15 passengers or transport a cargo load of 2,334 kilograms (5,145 pounds). It has a maximum operational altitude of 10,600 meters (34,700 feet) and boasts a cruising speed of 578 kilometers (359 miles) per hour, ensuring rapid responses during emergencies.

Shortly after its introduction, the Peruvian government announced the aircraft’s deployment on two medical missions, successfully transporting patients in critical condition from the northern and southern regions of the country to specialized hospitals in Lima. This immediate use underscores the aircraft’s potential impact on the health and safety of Peruvians, particularly those in urgent need of medical care.

With the addition of the Beechcraft King Air 360C, the Peruvian Air Force is taking significant steps towards strengthening its light transport, medical evacuation, and disaster management capabilities, promising enhanced service to its citizens in times of need.

European Commission Selects Consortium for IRIS² Satellite Constellation to Enhance Connectivity and Sovereignty

PARIS — In a strategic move to bolster its autonomous satellite communication capabilities, the European Commission has appointed a consortium comprising SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat to deploy the IRIS² satellite constellation. This initiative comes as the European Union seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign entities, notably Elon Musk’s Starlink, for broadband services.

The consortium is set to formalize a 12-year concession contract by December, according to a statement released by the Commission on Thursday. As part of the agreement, over 290 satellites will be launched into multiple orbits, with prominent subcontractors including Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Space and Defence, Italy’s Telespazio, and Thales SIX.

Transitioning to IRIS² is particularly urgent given that militaries worldwide have come to depend on Starlink, the first large satellite constellation facilitating low Earth orbit broadband, raising concerns of vulnerability associated with reliance on a private service provider. Key military stakeholders, such as the U.S. Air Force, use Starlink for essential command and control operations, while Ukraine has utilized the service for drone guidance and battlefield communications.

“IRIS² is an essential pillar of our resilience,” commented Christophe Grudler, a member of the European Parliament’s industry committee, via a post on social media platform X. “We need it fast.”

The EU envisions IRIS² as a sovereign alternative to other global satellite systems like Amazon’s Kuiper and OneWeb based in the U.K. With satellite-based connectivity emerging as a strategic asset for national security and resilience, the Commission emphasizes the need for reliable access that does not hinge on third-party services.

Under the terms of the contract, the SpaceRISE consortium will roll out governmental services by 2030, also enabling commercial usage over time. The IRIS² system will facilitate government operations including border and maritime surveillance, secure communications for embassies, and military missions. The consortium hailed the milestone as a critical step in forming a secure, resilient, and autonomous communications infrastructure for Europe, targeting full operational status by the early 2030s.

The projected timeline for IRIS² represents a setback from previous estimates, which suggested an initial deployment as early as late 2024 and full operational availability by 2027. The satellite system will encompass both low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, providing low-latency connectivity, and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, which can serve larger areas globally. The EU aims to extend broadband access to underserved regions across Europe and the Arctic.

Financially, the estimated cost of the constellation stands at €10.6 billion (approximately $11.6 billion). Funding will be a combination of public and private investments from the consortium. Last year, the EU allocated €2.4 billion for the IRIS² initiative, with €1.65 billion earmarked through 2027, subject to further European funding decisions post-2027 that may depend on parliamentary and member state backing of a successor program.

Concerns have been voiced by figures such as German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, who called for a re-evaluation of the IRIS² project in March, questioning the proposed €12 billion budget and the allocation of work between France and Germany.

IRIS² joins the ranks of other critical EU programs, including the Galileo navigation satellite system and the Copernicus Earth-observation program, as Europe strives to enhance its strategic technological autonomy.

Reporting by Rudy Ruitenberg, Europe Correspondent for Defense News.

Pakistan Signs MoU with Thailand for MRAP Vehicle Procurement

Islamabad, October 30, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Pakistan has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Thai government for the procurement of 100 Chaiseri First Win Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles for the Pakistan Army.

The agreement also includes a transfer-of-technology scheme that will enable local production of the 4×4 vehicles on Pakistani soil through collaboration with Thai Defence Industry and Heavy Industries Taxila. This initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s defense manufacturing capabilities while strengthening ties with Thailand.

A formal commercial contract to finalize the acquisition is anticipated to be established during a bilateral meeting later this year, or potentially at the upcoming international military convention hosted by the Pakistan Trade Development Authority in November in Karachi.

The First Win MRAP vehicles, designed by Chaiseri in Pathum Thani, Thailand, are specifically engineered to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and ambushes, making them a critical addition to modern military operations. The vehicle is built with an all-welded v-hull chassis to enhance protection and features NATO-standard armor capable of enduring blasts from grenades and even 155-millimeter artillery shells.

In addition to the Pakistan Army, the First Win MRAP has gained traction among other militaries, currently being used by the Royal Thai Army, Malaysian Army, Indonesian Army, and various UN peacekeeping missions in the Eastern Himalayas, particularly in Bhutan. As of 2024, the Philippines is also expected to purchase approximately 900 units of the First Win.

The vehicles offer a top speed of 110 kilometers (68 miles) per hour and can accommodate up to 10 passengers, making them a versatile option for both combat and transportation needs.

Through this procurement, Pakistan aims to enhance its operational readiness and improve the safety of its personnel in challenging environments.

Naikai Zosen Launches Japan’s First Landing Craft Utility Vessel "Nihonbare"

On October 29, Naikai Zosen Corporation celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of the Japan Self-Defense Force – Maritime Transport Group’s inaugural Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessel, named "Nihonbare," in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. The event, attended by Deputy Defense Minister Kinikubo, marked the official naming and first contact with water for the LCU, which is a crucial component of Japan’s strategy to enhance military logistics.

The Nihonbare, constructed at a cost of approximately 4.1 billion yen ($26.9 million), measures 80 meters (262 feet) in length and is designed to transport troops and supplies, particularly in shallow-water port areas among Japan’s many islands. With a payload capability of several hundred tons, it can accommodate up to 30 personnel, 12 tactical vehicles, or standard 20-foot containers. The vessel has a top speed of 15 knots (28 km/h or 17 mph), enhancing its operational readiness.

The acquisition of the Nihonbare is part of Japan’s broader initiative to bolster its military logistics capabilities, particularly in the southwestern islands, further strengthening the nation’s island defense system. The launch of this vessel is being overseen by Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency, with plans to integrate various personnel from the joint forces stationed at the Kure Naval Base next year.

Looking ahead, the Nihonbare is the first of a series of vessels, with nine additional ships scheduled for completion by 2028. This future fleet will consist of three more LCU platforms based on its hull design, four maneuver support vessels, and two medium-sized transport vessels. The first of these medium-sized vessels is expected to be launched later this November.

As Japan continues to modernize its naval capabilities, the introduction of the Nihonbare symbolizes a commitment to enhancing maritime security and operational efficiency in the region.

US Approves $941 Million Military Sale to Argentina, Including 34 F-16 Aircraft

The US State Department has given the green light for the sale of 34 F-16 fighter jets to Argentina, alongside a comprehensive military equipment package valued at $941 million. This significant arms deal also encompasses Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, general-purpose bombs, components for laser-guided weapons, and fuze systems.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) highlighted that this proposed sale aims to enhance Argentina’s military capabilities, enabling the country to effectively address both current and future threats. The deal will provide Argentina with increased capacity for air defense, offensive counter air operations, and close air support missions.

Lockheed Martin has been designated as the prime contractor for this transaction; however, it still awaits approval from the US Congress.

Argentina is considered a “Major Non-NATO Ally” by the United States, a designation that underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations. The DSCA noted that this sale is aligned with US foreign policy goals and national security objectives, seeking to bolster the security of Argentina, which is viewed as a stabilizing force in South America.

In a related development, the US recently announced $40 million in foreign military financing to enhance Argentina’s defense capabilities. This funding is aimed at supporting the acquisition of the F-16s and marks the first instance in 20 years that Argentina has benefited from such military financing from Washington.

The approval of this military sale signals a continued commitment to strengthening the defense relationship between the US and Argentina, reflecting the latter’s role in promoting political stability and economic progress in the region.

Norwegian Government Allocates $127 Million to Bolster Ukrainian Air Defense Systems

OSLO — The Norwegian government has announced an allocation of 1.4 billion kroner (approximately $127 million) to enhance air defense capabilities for Ukraine, underscoring the urgency of military support needed for the war-torn nation.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the collaborative international effort, stating, “Together with other countries, Norway is providing funding that will enable Romania to send a Patriot air defense system to Ukraine.” He highlighted the crucial nature of air defense, declaring it one of Ukraine’s most pressing requirements to protect military installations and forces amid ongoing conflict.

This latest initiative falls under the Nansen Support Program, which was established last year to provide both civilian and military assistance to Ukraine over a five-year period, with a total budget of 75 billion kroner ($6.8 billion).

Norway’s efforts include the provision of various defense systems utilized by NATO allies, along with training for Ukrainian troops. In March 2022, the country had committed to supplying two NASAMS air defense systems capable of launching medium to long-range missiles.

Earlier this year, Norway allocated an additional 4 billion kroner ($364 million), reinforcing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, including support for a German-led initiative to deliver Patriot missiles. Moreover, during a NATO summit in July, Norway announced a further commitment of 1 billion kroner ($90 million) to collaborate with Germany on providing a complete IRIS-T air defense battery to Ukraine.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Norway’s unwavering support reflects an increasing commitment by Western allies to ensure the security and sovereignty of the nation in the face of adversity.

Paris Unveils New Submarine-Launched Missile SM40 to Enhance Naval Warfare Capabilities

PARIS — European defense contractor MBDA has officially announced the development of the SM40, a state-of-the-art submarine-launched missile designed specifically to engage heavily protected naval vessels and stealth targets. This latest advancement, showcased during the Euronaval show, represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the SM39, enhancing capabilities for modern naval warfare.

The SM40, part of the renowned Exocet missile family, boasts a range of groundbreaking features that set it apart. According to Pierre-Marie Bealleau, head of business development for deep strike missiles at MBDA, the missile integrates a cutting-edge J-Band radio-frequency seeker and innovative algorithms optimized for high-intensity combat scenarios. Notably, the SM40 has doubled its operational range, now reaching up to 120 kilometers thanks to a new turbojet engine, ensuring a critical stand-off distance in anti-submarine warfare.

"It is designed solely for Naval Group-made submarines, ensuring compatibility and streamlined customer options for global naval operators," Bealleau stated. The SM39, the preceding model, is already in service with multiple navies, including those of France and India.

In addition to its naval capabilities, the SM40 features a land attack function, enabling it to target ships in harbor environments, thereby expanding its tactical versatility. The missile utilizes a proven launch methodology involving a propelled and guided underwater vehicle, from which it is ejected after surfacing at a low altitude.

While production of the SM40 has yet to commence, MBDA representatives emphasize that the missile is built upon existing and mature technological foundations, suggesting that market readiness may come sooner than anticipated.

At the Euronaval exhibition, which runs from November 4-7, MBDA also commemorated a milestone anniversary by showcasing the Exocet MM40 B3C, celebrating the production of its 4,000th Exocet missile.

With its advanced design and expanded operational capabilities, the SM40 positions itself as a crucial asset for future naval defense strategies, reflecting MBDA’s commitment to staying at the forefront of defense innovation.

— Reported by Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo, Europe Correspondent for Defense News