Damen Naval Contracts Alfa Laval for Royal Netherlands and Belgian Navy ASW Frigates

Breda, Netherlands – Damen Naval has announced a significant contract with Alfa Laval Benelux to provide critical components for the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) frigates being developed for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy. Under this agreement, Alfa Laval will supply advanced fuel oil separators, cleaning tables, Oily Bilge Water Separators, and integrated logistics support deliverables.

This partnership comes on the heels of Damen Naval’s contract in June 2023 to design and construct two ASW frigates for each navy, intended to replace the existing Karel Doorman Class multipurpose frigates. The Dutch government further underscored its commitment to naval capabilities in September by announcing plans to procure additional frigates.

Richard Keulen, Damen Naval’s Director of Corporate Strategy & Innovation, emphasized the uniqueness of the project, noting, “We are building identical frigates for two different NATO partners.” He highlighted the importance of this endeavor for the Dutch naval shipbuilding sector, expressing a commitment to involve as many local suppliers as possible.

Alfa Laval’s role in the project includes providing skid-built fuel oil separators designed to accommodate a variety of fuel types. These separators are integral in removing solids and water from fuel oil, thereby improving efficiency and protecting onboard equipment. Additionally, the contract features the deployment of Oily Bilge Water Separators (PureBilge), a state-of-the-art automated centrifugal separation system that effectively cleans oily water aboard vessels by achieving oil pollution levels as low as 5 Parts Per Million (PPM). The separators will be skid-mounted, complete with interconnecting pipes and electrical cabling.

David van Luijtelaar, Head of Marine Division at Alfa Laval Benelux, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are excited and looking forward to starting this project with strict demands in shock and noise levels with Damen Naval and extending our successful cooperation.”

This collaboration marks a pivotal development in strengthening naval defense capabilities for both the Netherlands and Belgium, reinforcing their commitment to NATO and maritime security.

UK and Germany to Equip Ukraine’s Sea King Helicopters with Advanced Missiles

In a significant development in the ongoing support for Ukraine amid its struggle against Russian aggression, the United Kingdom and Germany have announced plans to arm Ukraine’s Sea King helicopters with modern missile systems. This decision came as part of the bilateral Trinity House Agreement on Defence, aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s offensive capabilities.

According to the joint communique from the agreement, "In addition, we are committed to working together for as long as it takes to support and enable Ukraine to counter Russian aggression." The statement emphasized the collaboration of specialist teams and defense industries from both nations to secure a stable and just peace for Ukraine.

The newly announced provisions include the integration of advanced missile technology onto the Sea King MK41 helicopters, previously donated by Germany. Although specific details about the missile systems have not been disclosed, the enhancements are expected to significantly boost Ukraine’s naval capabilities in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Earlier this year, Germany confirmed the donation of six decommissioned Sea King MK41 helicopters to Ukraine. Originally built as a dedicated search and rescue platform, the Sea King MK41 possesses limited offensive capabilities, including a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun. With the now-proposed upgrades, these helicopters could potentially be equipped with advanced weaponry such as the Brimstone air-launched ground attack missile, known for its effective operational range exceeding 40 kilometers (over 25 miles).

Additionally, the possibility of incorporating the Marte ER long-range anti-ship missile system, boasting a range of over 100 kilometers (62 miles), has been discussed. The Exocet missile, in its latest MM40 Block 3 version, which can strike targets at distances up to 200 kilometers (124 miles), is also being considered for integration with the aircraft.

The Westland Sea King MK41 is derived from the American Sikorsky S-61 helicopter and has been adapted extensively for naval operations. It is primarily utilized for anti-submarine warfare but has also seen roles in search and rescue missions across various nations, including the German Navy. The MK41 can operate unrefueled for more than 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) and is equipped with advanced radar and infrared technology, making it capable of operating even in challenging weather conditions.

This strategic move by the UK and Germany marks a notable escalation in military support for Ukraine, underscoring their commitment to empowering the country in its fight for sovereignty and stability. As both nations advance their cooperative efforts, the focus will remain on ensuring that Ukraine has the necessary tools to secure a lasting peace against ongoing aggression.

Emerging Technologies Reshape Arms Control Landscape, UN Experts Warn

BERLIN — October 25, 2023 — Representatives from five major UN-affiliated disarmament agencies addressed the challenges and potential opportunities presented by emerging technologies at a meeting coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly’s First Committee, the chief disarmament forum. According to experts, advancements in artificial intelligence, drones, and nuclear technologies are fundamentally altering the arms control landscape and pose significant threats to global security.

Speaking to delegates, Hong Li from the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) highlighted the troubling accessibility of technological tools, like large language models such as ChatGPT, which could facilitate the dissemination of dangerous information, including instructions for creating chemical weaponry. The OPCW, which oversees the Chemical Weapons Convention, has historically been pivotal in eliminating chemical weapons across nearly all UN member states.

Li underscored the urgent need for revised tracking systems to adapt to new delivery mechanisms, particularly inexpensive agricultural drones that can be easily modified for nefarious purposes. To address these evolving threats, the OPCW will establish a temporary working group on artificial intelligence in 2025 to assess both risks and potential applications of AI in furthering disarmament initiatives.

The Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also shared its proactive approach to maintaining global nuclear safety. With the volume of nuclear material under its safeguards increasing by 25% in the past decade, the IAEA is leveraging machine learning technologies to enhance surveillance capabilities at nuclear facilities. According to Tracy Brown, the agency’s liaising officer, AI has improved efficiency in monitoring operations and identifying suspicious activities.

In parallel, the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) reported on its successful use of machine learning through its NET-VISA program to accelerate and refine the detection of nuclear tests globally. This system has been critical in discerning North Korean nuclear endeavors and dispelling misinformation surrounding other alleged nuclear incidents.

UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, emphasized the urgency of adapting the nonproliferation framework to a rapidly changing security environment defined by technological advancements. She pointed out that innovations such as artificial intelligence, 3D printing, biotechnology, and nanotechnology lower the barriers for rogue states and terrorists to access weapons of mass destruction.

“We are living in an age of accelerated technological change,” said Nakamitsu, recognizing both the challenges and responsibilities that lie ahead in maintaining peace and stability in a turbulent global landscape.

As the disarmament community grapples with these emerging threats, the integration of advanced technologies into monitoring and enforcement efforts remains a critical focus in the ongoing endeavor to curb the spread of dangerous weapons and ensure global security.

By Linus Höller, Europe Correspondent for Defense News

Ukraine’s Armed Forces Authorized to Use New Shotgun to Combat Drone Threats

In a significant move to enhance its defense capabilities, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has officially approved the use of the Safari HG-105M semi-automatic shotgun by its armed forces. This compact and versatile weapon is particularly designed for close combat situations and to neutralize enemy first-person view (FPV) drones, a growing threat in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Weighing approximately 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds), the Safari HG-105M features a bullpup configuration, allowing for a shorter overall length without sacrificing barrel length. This design not only facilitates easier maneuverability in tight spaces but also reduces shooter fatigue during extended periods of use. The shotgun operates with a gas-piston mechanism and is chambered for 12-gauge ammunition, boasting a magazine capacity of either 5 or 10 rounds.

The introduction of the Safari HG-105M comes as Ukraine intensifies efforts to counteract regular drone and missile attacks from Russian forces. Earlier this month, the Ukrainian military took further steps to bolster its defenses, equipping Leopard main battle tanks with 430-kilogram (947-pound) steel grid screens aimed at protecting against FPV drones.

As the situation escalates, President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Western allies to extend a NATO invitation to Ukraine, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures amid ongoing violations of the nation’s airspace by Russian forces.

This latest development underscores Ukraine’s commitment to adapting its military strategies in response to the evolving battlefield dynamics, particularly the increasing utilization of drones in modern warfare.

Polish President Duda Affirms South Korean Weapons Will Bolster Poland’s Defense, Not Ukraine’s

During an official visit to South Korea, Polish President Andrzej Duda emphasized that the recently acquired South Korean weapons will strictly serve Poland’s defense needs, rejecting any notions of transferring them to Ukraine. In remarks reported by Polish media outlet RMF24, Duda stated, “There is no scenario under consideration in which we hand over weapons, which we have recently purchased for billions of złoty from the pockets of our taxpayers, to anyone. These weapons are to serve the security and defense of the Republic of Poland.”

Duda’s comments came as he concluded a significant four-day visit to South Korea, focusing on enhancing defense and economic ties between the two nations. During the trip, Poland secured a deal worth approximately $5.7 billion for main battle tanks and howitzers, a move aimed at strengthening its military capabilities amid regional tensions.

The discussions between Duda and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol also touched on the increasing threats posed by North Korea and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has reportedly seen North Korean troops deployed in support of Russia.

While South Korea has maintained a policy of not directly supplying weapons to Ukraine, President Yoon indicated that this position might be reconsidered based on developments regarding North Korean troop activities in Russia.

As the situation evolves, both nations reiterated the importance of their cooperation in addressing shared security challenges, underlining the critical need to bolster their defenses in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.

Fire Erupts at BAE Systems Shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Two Hospitalized but No Nuclear Threat Detected

LONDON (AP) — A significant fire broke out early Wednesday morning at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, which is known for building Britain’s nuclear-powered submarines. Two individuals have been hospitalized due to suspected smoke inhalation, but authorities assure there is “no nuclear risk” associated with the incident.

The Cumbria Constabulary reported that the fire ignited shortly after midnight, with dramatic footage circulated on social media showing flames erupting from the Devonshire Dock Hall building amid a backdrop of blaring alarms. Local resident Donna Butler described the scene, noting the thick black smoke that engulfed the area.

“When I opened the front door, we just saw a lot of black smoke. It was very loud,” Butler recalled, expressing her shock from witnessing the blaze.

Residents living nearby have been advised to remain indoors and keep doors and windows shut as emergency services manage the situation. Fortunately, there were no additional casualties reported, and the fire has since been contained.

The historic shipyard, established 150 years ago, is located approximately 220 miles (350 kilometers) northwest of London. It is currently engaged in the construction of several nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Navy and is also responsible for the building of replacements for the four submarines carrying the UK’s nuclear missiles, which are set to enter service in the 2030s.

Emergency response teams are working to ensure safety in the area as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.

Ukraine Invests in Drone Technology to Strengthen Defense Capabilities Amid Ongoing Attacks

Kyiv, Ukraine – In a significant move to enhance its defense capabilities in response to Russia’s persistent assaults, Ukraine has confirmed an investment of 1.8 million unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for the years 2024 and 2025, as reported by the government’s defense agency.

This ambitious initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ukrainian Digital Transformation Ministry, has already seen expenditures of 147 billion hryvnias (approximately $3.5 billion) aimed at bolstering the armed forces’ operational efficiency in intelligence, target tracking, and strike missions.

Of the total funding, 114 billion hryvnias (around $2.7 billion) have been earmarked to acquire approximately 1.6 million drones within just the first ten months of 2024. Thus far, the military has received 1.28 million drones, valued at 81 billion hryvnias ($1.9 billion), with about 366,900 additional units expected to be delivered before the close of the year.

The UAS kits being procured include a variety of advanced drone types, such as first-person view (FPV) drones, loitering munition or kamikaze drones, Mavic-type reconnaissance copters, in addition to other fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. “Such a broad functional specification of unmanned vehicles ensures reliable support for combat units, helping to respond faster to tactical and strategic challenges,” stated the defense agency in a press release.

Looking ahead to next year, Ukraine anticipates the deployment of approximately 155,200 drones, valued at 32.3 billion hryvnias ($783.2 million), which will incorporate all planned UAS configurations.

The update on Ukraine’s drone capabilities comes on the heels of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s announcement earlier this month, declaring that the nation has achieved full operational capacity to produce up to four million drones annually as part of its strategy to bolster domestic production.

In related developments, Lithuania recently delivered a batch of its FPV drones to Ukraine as part of a collaborative military procurement effort involving several Ukrainian and Lithuanian developers. The objective of this cooperation is to supply 5,000 drones to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and an additional 2,300 drones to their Baltic allies.

Additionally, the Canadian government has pledged approximately $3.6 million for a separate multinational drone coalition aimed at supporting Ukraine’s defense needs.

As Ukraine continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of modern warfare, its significant investment in drone technology underscores a strategic commitment to enhancing its military readiness and operational capabilities.

Italian Navy Envisions Future with Drone Swarms, Tasks Fincantieri with New Vessel Designs

ROME – The Italian Navy is embarking on a transformative initiative aimed at integrating swarms of drones into its future maritime operations, encompassing airborne, surface, and underwater capabilities. At a recent conference in Rome, Capt. Gianluca Marcilli detailed the Navy’s ambitious project named “Swarm Drone Carrier,” which envisions vessels capable of deploying multiple drones for critical missions, including search and rescue, interception, and interdiction.

The Navy has commissioned Fincantieri, Italy’s premier shipbuilder, to pioneer designs for these innovative drone-friendly vessels. “We expect new navy vessels in ten years to be equipped with a substantial number of drones, and we want to be prepared,” Marcilli stated, highlighting the necessity for forward-thinking designs.

To accommodate various types of drones, Marcilli emphasized the need for ship designs that incorporate efficient launch and recovery systems for aerial, surface, and underwater drones. Current research indicates that future ships could host between six to ten underwater drones launched through hull apertures, rather than relying on traditional crane systems. For unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), the study referenced Fincantieri’s SAND USV, which has demonstrated an operational autonomy of up to 72 hours.

Additionally, the airborne component of the Navy’s drone strategy includes the deployment of four to six drones, drawing upon the capabilities of the Hero, a 200kg rotary drone developed by Leonardo, another Italian defense giant. The Navy is also exploring the integration of fixed-wing and loitering munitions aboard its vessels.

However, a significant obstacle remains: effectively integrating commercial drones with the Navy’s classified Combat Management Systems. To address this challenge, the study led to the creation of a prototype Landing Platform Dock designed specifically to serve as a drone carrier.

Marcilli stressed that the primary goal of the study and collaboration with Fincantieri is to adapt existing vessels currently under construction or in the planning phases. This includes optimizing drone integration into the new Trieste Landing Helicopter Dock, which will also accommodate the F-35B combat jet. Additional upgrades are anticipated for the new PPX patrol vessels and two Fremm EVO frigates ordered from Fincantieri last year, enhancing their capabilities to counter drone threats while deploying their own.

As technological advancements continue to reshape naval warfare, the Italian Navy’s bold vision sets a course for a future where drone swarms play a crucial role in maritime operations.

Reporting by Tom Kington, Italy Correspondent for Defense News.