SP's Aviation July 2014

`100.00 (India-based buyer only)

vol 17 ISSUE 7 • July • 2014

SP’s

Aviation An SP Guide Publication

Sharp Content for Sharp Audience

www.sps-aviation.com

space

isro’s saarc satellite Business Aviation

Global Forecast

France

steps up Defence cooperation

FDI can help modernising our Forces — Vivek Lall, Reliance New Venture

preview

farnborough 2014

Going Green

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

seen here is the E-Fan technology demonstrator by Airbus Group

Environment • Air Transport • Regional Aviation • electric green Taxiing System

page 26 onwards

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table of contents

vol 17 ISSUE 7 • July • 2014

`100.00 (indiA-bASed buyer only)

vol 17 ISSUE 7 • JUly • 2014

SP’s

Aviation An SP Guide PublicAtion

Sharp Content for Sharp Audience

www.sps-aviation.com

space

isro’s saarc satellite Business aviation

Global Forecast

France

steps up DeFence cooperation

FDi can help modernising our Forces — vivek lall, reliance new venture

preview

FarnborouGh 2014

GoinG Green

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

seen here is the e-Fan technology demonstrator by airbus group

EnvironmEnt • Air TrAnsporT • regionAl AviATion • elecTric green TAxiing sysTem

pagE 26 onwards

Cover IMAGE: Airbus Group is playing a major role towards Greener Skies. The E-Fan demonstrator is the part of their on-going hybrid and electrical propulsion system research.

eco-friendly: the boeing subsonic team has found that the SUGAR Volt concept (which adds an electric battery gas turbine hybrid propulsion system) can reduce fuel burn by greater than 70 per cent and total energy use by 55 per cent when battery energy is included.

Cover image by: Airbus Group

TecKnow 6 AWWA Sky Whale Concept Plane

environment 30 Regional Aviation

Space 8 Launch

33 Technology

France Steps up Defence Cooperation

15 Training

Swiss Precision

17 Policy

–F DI in Defence: A Welcome Move – I ndustry Perspective: Vivek Lall on How FDI Can Help Modernisation of Aerospace and Defence?

Business Aviation 22 Global Forecast

Gaining Traction

40 India

SAARC Satellite & Beyond

Military 12 Bi-Lateral Relations

Environment Conscious

Cooperation: The Way Forward

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Lead Story

EGTS - Enormous Gains

Show Preview 36 Farnborough 2014

Window of Opportunity

regular Departments 3

A Word from Editor-in-Chief

4

NewsWithViews

Green Initiatives Airlines, airports and other stakeholders are working towards improving fuel efficiency, reduced noise pollution, efficient use of various materials, all to ensure a sustainable aviation sector.

– Revamp of IAF Helicopters for VVIP Travel

42 Hall of Fame

William Mitchell (1879–1936) 44 Focus India / NewsDigest 48 LastWord

page 26

Revamp the Enabler: DPP

Applied for NEXT ISSUE Training and Simulation

ISSUE 7 • 2014

1

table of contents 12

France Steps up Defence Cooperation

Publisher And Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal senior Editor Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey Assistant Group editor R. Chandrakanth Senior Technical Group Editor Lt General (Retd) Naresh Chand Contributors India Group Captain (Retd) A.K. Sachdev Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha Europe Alan Peaford USA & Canada LeRoy Cook Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal

15

Swiss Precision

Planning & Business Development Executive Vice President: Rohit Goel ADMIN & COORDINATION Bharti Sharma design Holistic Directions: Jayant Baranwal Creative Director: Anoop Kamath Designers: Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Sonu Singh Bisht Research Assistant: Graphics Survi Massey DIRECTOR: SALES & MARKETING Neetu Dhulia SALES & MARKETING General Manager Sales: Rajeev Chugh

SP’s websites Sr Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma © SP Guide Publications, 2014 Subscription/ Circulation Annual Inland: `1200 • Foreign: US$ 320 E-mail: subscribe@spguidepublications.com subscribe@sps-aviation.com LETTER TO EDITOR editor@sps-aviation.com expert@sps-aviation.com FOR Advertising details, contact: neetu@spguidepublications.com rajeev.chugh@spguidepublications.com SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD A-133 Arjun Nagar, (Opposite Defence Colony) New Delhi 110 003, India.

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EGTS - Enormous Gains

Owned, published and printed by Jayant Baranwal, printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd and published at A-133, Arjun Nagar (Opposite Defence Colony), New Delhi 110 003, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without prior written permission of the Publishers.

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ISSUE 7 • 2014

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A word from editor-in-chief

There has been some forward movement in the MMRCA deal as was clear after the visit of Laurent Fabius, the Foreign Minister of France, to India on June 30

O

One thing that is evident in the wake of the election of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government headed by Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister is the revival of hope and optimism amongst both the Indian armed forces as well as the global defence and aerospace majors. During the major part of the tenure of UPA II, defence procurement for the Indian armed forces had practically come to a standstill. For Indian military aviation perhaps the most exhilarating news is that the $20-billion deal for 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) for which the request for proposal had been issued seven years ago and had been wallowing in uncertainty since the Rafale omni-role fourth-generation combat aircraft offered by Dassault Aviation of France was declared in January 2012 by the Indian Air Force (IAF) as the preferred platform.

However, there has now been some forward movement in the MMRCA deal as was clear after the visit of Laurent Fabius, the Foreign Minister of France, to India on June 30. Apart from the mega deal for the Rafale MMRCA, his interaction with the NDA Government also included proposal for other acquisitions that are in the pipeline, namely the $2-billion deal for six Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft, the $6-billion deal for the co-development with France of the short-range surfaceto-air missiles (SRSAM) and six EPR nuclear reactors in Jaitapur. This issue has a report by Ranjeet Kumar on the recently conducted Indo-French interaction on these subjects.

Another and perhaps more spectacular event in the recent past that elevated the status of India in the global space fraternity was the impressive success of the PSLV C-23 launch that placed into individual orbits with high precision, five satellites from four different countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present on site to witness the launch as also to give fresh direction and impetus to India’s space endeavour. He aptly described the success as “global endorsement of India’s space capability”.

A full report by R. Chandrakanth is included in this issue.

In the third week of June this year, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), while on a visit to the Air Force Academy near Hyderabad to review the passing out parade, flew a sortie in the Pilatus PC-7 MkII basic trainer aircraft, 75 of which are under induction into the IAF and more are in the pipeline. A sortie on the basic trainer by the CAS served to reinforce the credibility of the Pilatus PC-7 MkII basic

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trainer aircraft whose performance has inspired the IAF to plan for enhanced intake of trainees and increase the basic training syllabus. Hopefully, the IAF would be able to build up the basic trainer fleet to full strength to provide a strong foundation of human resource that the IAF needs.

The major event in the regime of global aviation is the Farnborough Airshow scheduled in the middle of July this year. R. Chandrakanth provides a preview of the airshow that began as a shop-window exclusively for the British aerospace industry, but now attracts 56 per cent of international exhibitors. In the civil aviation regime, the efforts of BAOA appear to be producing results as the DGCA is now moving towards regulatory reforms that will enable business aviation to prosper. In his report on business aviation, Chandrakanth observes that with a proactive government in place, BAOA is hopeful that the bottlenecks affecting the growth of the sector would be out of the way very soon.

The global civil aviation industry is clearly focused on its impact on environment. Chandrakanth reviews a number of segments of the global civil aviation industry and catalogues the green initiatives and other measures adopted by the different segments of the industry to reduce fuel burn, attain lower noise levels and minimise emissions, all for improved sustainability of the industry.

All these in this issue apart from the regular features. Welcome aboard and happy landings!

Jayant Baranwal Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

ISSUE 7 • 2014

3

News

with views NEWS: Revamp of IAF Helicopters for VVIP Travel The Indian Air Force (IAF) is waiting for a nod from the government for converting some of its Mi-17V5 helicopters that are currently under acquisition, into VVIP class machines to fly the President and Prime Minister. After the acquisition of AgustaWestland’s AW-101 helicopters was blocked over allegations of corruption, the IAF was looking for options to equip the Air

Headquarters Communication Squadron with helicopters suitable for VVIP travel. A call will have to be made soon as the ageing Mi-8s, which are being used in the elite communication squadron, are already on life extension. One of the options is to use some of the newly acquired Mi-17V5s, the most advanced military helicopters in service, for transportation of VVIPs.

Photograph: Russian Helicopters

VIEWS: In March 2013, the IAF had apprised the Ministry of Defence (MoD) about the state of the fleet of helicopters available with the Palam-based Air Headquarters Communication Squadron that is responsible for providing air transportation for the President and Prime Minister of India as also others that fall in the category of VVIPs. At that time, the IAF had informed the MoD that after February 2014, there would not be a single helicopter in its elite squadron which would be fit to carry VVIPs. The currently available fleet of Russian-made MI-8 helicopters would be completing even their extended life by February 2014 and would not have any replacement, as the investigation into the VVIP helicopter scam had cast a shadow over acquisition of the AgustaWestland AW-101 helicopters.

Today, the fleet of the Mi-8 helicopters that were inducted in 1970s are obsolescent. These no longer provide the level of safety that the IAF is expected to ensure for VVIP travel. These helicopters were diverted from the operational fleet of the IAF for VVIP travel which is essentially a non-military and non-operational role.

In 1999, the IAF had in fact initiated a case in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) for the acquisition of modern platforms developed for VVIP travel to replace the Mi-8 fleet.

It took over a decade of intense effort to identify a suitable platform and negotiate the highly complex and elaborate procedure culminating in the finalisation in March 2010 of the `3,600-crore contract for 12 three-engine AW-101 helicopters from AgustaWestland, an Anglo-Italian firm under the Italian aerospace major Finmeccanica. The IAF preferred the AW-101 for induction over the only other competitor in the race, the American Sikorsky S-92.

However, reports of financial impropriety in the processing of the tender surfaced in 2012 as the Italian Government initiated investigations into the reports of payment of kickbacks to Indian entities.

Under pressure, the Indian Government suspended the contract in February 2013 by which time three helicopters had already been delivered to the IAF. A fourth AW-101 was ready for delivery and the rest were in advanced stages of construction. Also, 30 per cent of the contract value had already been paid in advance. Unfortunately, the contract was cancelled on January 1, 2014, frustrating the efforts over decade-and-a-half by the IAF and the MoD.

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The IAF now has a crisis on its hands, one that is clearly not of its own making. The IAF does not have a helicopter fleet for VVIP travel. The three AW-101 helicopters delivered against the aborted contract cannot be used for this purpose on account of lack of product support from the original equipment manufacturer that has been discredited. Experience in the recent past not only with the AW-101 fiasco but with other ongoing tenders under the DPP indicates that initiation of a fresh tender at this stage for a helicopter fleet suitable for VVIP travel is not a practical possibility. The IAF therefore has opted for the easiest way out of the predicament and that is to modify to VVIP standards the required number of newly acquired Mi-17V5 helicopters, the latest in the series in its operational fleet.

The implication of this decision is that the IAF in effect will degrade its own operational capability in the rotary-wing regime by diverting operational platforms for VVIP travel. Fundamentally, it was to obviate precisely this situation that the IAF had initiated a case for helicopters designed and built for VVIP travel. Unfortunately, the IAF is back to square one and is left with no option but to once again divert helicopters from the operational fleet for VVIP use.

In retrospect, it appears that despite the allegations of wrongdoing by individuals, cancellation of the contract for AW-101 helicopters by the MoD was not the best course of action. It has not only been financially disastrous for both AgustaWestland and the MoD, the IAF is left without the wherewithal to discharge its responsibility in respect of VVIP travel. While the cancellation of the AW-101 contract will not impact the operational capability of the IAF, cancellation of defence procurement contracts in this manner could have a deleterious effect on the operational capability of the armed forces.

While financial impropriety in the procurement of military hardware must never be ignored, cancellation of a contract on account of such aberration is not the best solution as it ultimately impacts national security. In case of allegations of wrongdoing in defence procurement, what needs to be done is to separate crime from the contract and deal with the offenders without killing the contract. SP —By Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

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FIRST Tecknow

AWWA SKY WHALE CONCEPT Plane Greenest Aircraft Imaginable

Photograph: Oscar Viñals

S

Spanish designer and aviation enthusiast Oscar Viñals has released the design of an aircraft that, he says, would revolutionise green air travel calling it the “greenest aircraft imaginable.” Up to 755 passengers could be accommodated, across three decks, each for a different “class” of traveller. This concept plane is called the AWWA Sky Whale and it’s the brainchild of Spanish designer Oscar Viñals. Should it ever leave the ground, the three-floor aircraft would be powered by four large hybrid engines.

The concept plane was designed with current and future technologies in mind, including micro-solar panels that could charge the engines, self-healing skin with adaptable opacity, active wings to reduce turbulence and advanced alloys, ceramic and fibre composite materials. Its engines could rotate up to 45 degrees in a vertical position to assist during take-off and landing, thus reducing the distance of the runway. Viñals has even designed the plane such that it would break apart on an emergency landing to limit damage.

Viñals’ design uses hybrid engine technology and “active

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ISSUE 7 • 2014

wings,” among other things, to create a plane that, should it ever get built, will not only look great but will be one of the safest and most efficient planes in the sky. Equipped with large windows, a vertical take-off ability, the AWWA Sky Whale joins several other outlandish proposals for future aircraft that have cropped up in the last couple of years. It will have three levels or floors; the first class on top with “sky views” and “all conceivable luxuries for a trip in an airplane like this,” business class in the middle, and tourist class at the bottom “with all the comfort and space to have a pleasant flight.” Airbus has predicted that by 2050, the world will see transparent planes flying apart from pilotless planes and space flights. SP

E-mail your comments to: letters@sps-aviation.com

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WELCOME TO OUR WORLD

Thom Richard is one of the few pilots in the world to possess the talent, experience and courage required to compete in the final of the famous Reno Air Races – the world’s fastest motorsport. Less than ten champions are capable of vying with each other at speeds of almost 500 mph, flying wing to wing at the risk of their lives, just a few feet off the ground. It is for these elite aviators that Breitling develops its chronographs: sturdy, functional and ultra high-performance instruments all equipped with movements chronometer-certified by the COSC – the highest official benchmark in terms of reliability and precision. Welcome to the Breitling world.

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CHRONOMAT 44 FLYING FISH

Space

Launch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing scientists at the Mission Control Centre after the successful launch of PSLV C-23 at Sriharikota

SAARC Satellite & Beyond Prime Minister Narendra Modi gives fresh direction and impetus to India’s space capabilities

By R. Chandrakanth

Photograph: PIB

I

India’s space community has achieved remarkable progress in the realm of space exploration. The scientific community has been consistently performing and it is a matter of immense pride that India is part of an exclusive club. Giving further impetus to the space programmes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given it a new direction exhorting space scientists to come up with programmes that would benefit the immediate neighbourhood – the SAARC countries and also be a global launcher for satellites.

At the successful launch of five foreign satellites from four countries on board Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-23 rocket from Sriharikota, the Prime Minister called upon the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to develop a SAARC satellite.

ISRO has so far launched 35 satellites from 19 countries like Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Singapore, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Turkey and United Kingdom.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is known to work long hours, has been taking exceptional interest in defence, space and other programmes which would further boost India’s standing in the comity of nations. Referring to space programmes, starting with scientists transporting rocket components on bicycles, he said India had come a long way. A visibly elated Modi, who said it was a ‘privilege’ to witness the event, congratulated our brilliant space scientists for a successful launch. “This fills every Indian’s heart with pride and I can see the joy reflected on your face,” he said from the Mission Control Room, adding today’s successful launch of foreign satellites was a “global endorsement of India’s space capability”.

Fully Indigenous Modi said “We can be proud of the Indian space programme, which is fully indigenous, developed in the face of great interna-

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Space Launch

Photograph: Isro

T

ISRO’s PSLV C-23 launch successful

he Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is a four-stage enlarge the footprint of its navigation systems to all of South Asia space vehicle that employs solid and liquid propulsion and went on to advise the scientific community on the need to systems alternately in its four stages. The launch develop capabilities to launch heavier satellites with the aim to system was designed and developed by the Indian Space become the launch service provider of the world.

India’s space endeavour has indeed come a long way from Research Organisation (ISRO) in the 1990s and has the capability to insert Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites into the humble beginnings when rockets were transported on carriers Sun synchronous orbit as also to launch small size satellites into of bicycles. Today, with the impressive track record of the most reliable workhorse, the PSLV, ISRO geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). As is in a position to compete with the of 2014, ISRO has launched a total major players in the field and capture of 65 satellites with the PSLV. Of a sizeable part of the global satellite these, 35 have been launched for 19 launch market that is estimated to countries around the globe including be around $55 billion over the next Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, ten years. A unique feature of the Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Indian space programme is that Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, compared with the leading players, Luxembourg, Singapore, Switzerland, ISRO’s projects are relatively most the Netherlands, Turkey and United cost-effective. “Our scientists have Kingdom. shown the world a new paradigm of The PSLV has proved itself to be frugal engineering and the power of the most successful launch vehicle imagination,” said the Prime Minister. that ISRO has designed and developed Stressing that space technology is for till date. To quote G. Madhavan Nair, the common man and not just for the a former Chairman of ISRO, “The elite, Modi made a pitch for India to be PSLV C-23 is one of world’s most the world’s low-cost space technology. reliable space launch vehicles”.

Not forgetting his primary national The success rate has indeed been agenda of development, Prime Minister impressive with the PSLV recording Modi laid stress on the need for 26 consecutively successful flights technological innovations and said, out of the 27 launches so far. Some “Technology is central to development. of the noteworthy payloads carried It touches one and all and is an into space by the PSLV include India’s important instrument of progress Chandrayaan-1 lunar probe and the of our nation. Such technology is Mars Orbiter Mission. Compared fundamentally connected with the to other segments of the Indian common man and as an agent of aerospace industry, the space sector change, it can empower and connect to has performed extraordinarily well. transform his life. Continued progress ISRO’s feat in space on June in space therefore must remain a 30 was the 27th launch of the PSLV “India’s space programme is a national mission”. and was carried out with textbook perfect example of my vision Recounting the ways in which precision. The PSLV C-23 placed all of Scale, Speed and Skill and space technology impacts the masses five satellites into their intended orbits, in India, Prime Minister Modi said that one after the other between 17 and 19 is driven by a vision of service technology had a critical role in realising minutes after liftoff. A space launch of to humanity and not by a desire the vision of a Digital India – the power this type would normally have been a of 125 crore connected Indians. GIS routine affair; but this particular event for power”. technology had transformed policy acquired special significance with the — Narendra Modi, PM planning, implementation and space presence on site of the newly elected imaging enabled modern management, Prime Minister Narendra Modi to conservation of water resources and had personally witness the launch instead of watching it on television in Delhi. While heaping praise on the also evolved into an invaluable asset in disaster management. Said Indian scientific community, the Prime Minister described the the Prime Minister: “India’s space programme is a perfect example successful mission as a “global endorsement of India’s space of my vision of Scale, Speed and Skill and is driven by a vision of capability”. He also defined a roadmap for the Indian space service to humanity and not by a desire for power”. The challenge scientists to aim for leadership in the regime of space technology before ISRO is to live up to the expectations of the nation. and develop a satellite for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations. The Prime Minister urged ISRO to —By Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

•

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ISSUE 7 • 2014

9

Space Launch

T

Sandra Bullock, George Clooney starrer Gravity costs more

he cost of sending an Indian rocket to space is less than the money invested to make the Hollywood film Gravity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the launch of PSLV C-23 in Sriharikota.

“I have heard about the movie Gravity. The cost of sending the Indian rocket to space is less than the money invested to make the movie,” said Modi after the successful launch. Gravity is a 2013 British-American 3D epic

science fiction thriller film. It was directed by Alfonso Cuarón and stars Sandra Bullock and George Clooney as astronauts involved in the mid-orbit destruction of a space shuttle and their attempt to return to Earth. The budget of the movie was over $100 million. Price tag for an Indian space mission is $75 million.

Major Milestones l India’s first satellite – Aryabhata launched on April

tional pressure and hurdles”. He described it as a domain where “we have pushed beyond mediocrity to achieve excellence.”

He said the moon mission was inspired by the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee. Referring to the benefits of space technology for the common man, the Prime Minister said it drives modern communication, empowers children in remote villages with quality education and ensures quality healthcare to all, through telemedicine. He said it has a critical role in realising the vision of a Digital India, the power of 125 crore connected Indians.

In Sync with ‘Scale, Speed and Skill’ Thanking the Department of Space and commending Dr K. Radhakrishnan, Chairman, ISRO, for his leadership, Modi said India’s space programme is a perfect example of my vision of ‘Scale, Speed and Skill’. “Technology is central to development.

It touches one and all, and is an important instrument of our national progress. Could we also think of developing a state-ofthe-art, interactive, digital space museum?”

“India has the potential, to be the launch service provider of the world. We must work towards this goal. Continued progress in space must remain a national mission. We must keep enhancing our space capabilities. I also ask you, to enlarge the footprint of our satellite-based navigation system, to cover all of South Asia.

Today, I ask our space community, to take up the challenge, of developing a SAARC satellite. India’s space programme is driven by a vision of service to humanity, not by a desire of power.”

Space Science in Governance He urged the department of space to proactively engage with all stakeholders, to maximise use of space science in governance and development. Accurate advance warning, and tracking of Cyclone Phailin, saved countless lives recently. Space technology has evolved into an invaluable asset in disaster management.

GIS technology has transformed policy planning, implementation. Space imaging enables modern management, conservation of water resources. “Our ancestors had conceived of ideas like ‘shunya’ (zero) and ‘flying objects’, long before others. Our space journey has come a long way from the humble beginnings. We are proud that our programme is indigenous. Generations of scientists have worked to make India a self-reliant space power.”

The Prime Minister said continued progress in space must remain a mission of high priority. He called for developing more advanced satellites and expanding our satellite foot-

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19, 1975.

2001.

l India’s first tryst to launch

l 10 Satellites in one launch

satellites into Earth’s orbit – SLV-3 Second Experimental flight on July 18, 1980. l Indian National Satellite, INSAT 1D (Communications, Meteorology) – June 12, 1990. l India enters global launch market – PSLV–C2, May 26, 1999. l India’s first high resolution remote sensing satellite – PSLV – C3, October 22,

– CARTOSAT-2A on April 28, 2008. l India’s first Lunar mission – Chandrayaan-1 Spacecraft on October 22, 2008. l India’s first microwave remote sensing satellite – PSLV-C19 on April 26, 2012. l India’s first interplanetary mission – Mars Orbiter Spacecraft on November 5, 2013. l In all 114 missions till date.

print. India has the potential to be the launch service provider of the world and must work towards this goal. Modi spoke of the “tapasya” made by generations of scientists, in a long journey from Upanishad to Upagrah. He remarked that he had met four generations of scientists during his visit to ISRO. ‘Yeh Dil Maange More’ Referencing a 1999 Kargil war hero’s famous slogan, the Prime Minister said, “We have done a lot but “yeh dil maange more” (the heart wants more). I have proposed to our scientists that they develop a SAARC satellite. This will help all our neighbours.”

Scientists said the Prime Minister’s speech reinforces that he is a space buff. When he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Modi had visited the state’s remote sensing centre a record 50 times.

Sources close to him say he is keen on ways of harnessing space technology in agriculture and other fields. Earlier, India used to buy images from countries like the US and France. The latest launch reinforces India’s success in launching satellites for the West; they are also buying remote sensing images from India.

Later this year India has agreed to take on the first test flight of its monster rocket geosynchronous launch vehicle (GSLV) MK III, which will carry as an experiment, India’s first crew module.

After a perfect lift off from the first launch pad in Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 9.52 a.m. on June 30, 2014, ISRO’s workhorse PSLV C-23 placed all five satellites into their intended orbits, one after the other between 17 and 19 minutes after liftoff, in textbook precision. Though the Mission Readiness Review Committee and Launch Authorisation Board had cleared the launch, the launch time was rescheduled to 9.52 a.m., a delay of three minutes, attributed to “probable space debris” coming in the rocket’s way.

Besides its primary payload of 714 kg French Earth Observation Satellite SPOT-7, PSLV C-23 carried and placed in orbit 14 kg AISAT of Germany, NLS7.1 (CAN-X4) and NLS7.2 (CAN-X5) of Canada each weighing 15 kg and the 7 kg VELOX-1 of Singapore.

These five satellites were launched under commercial arrangements that ANTRIX has entered with the respective foreign agencies. The Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs M. Venkaiah Naidu, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Dr Jitendra Singh, Secretary Space Dr Radhakrishnan, eminent scientists Professor U.R. Rao and Dr Kasturirangan were present on the occasion. SP

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Military

bi-lateral relations

France steps up defence cooperation Photograph: PIB

With multibillion-dollar deals in the last phases of negotiations in defence and nuclear sectors, France made it a point to become the first European country to dispatch its Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius to India

By Ranjeet Kumar

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www.sps-aviation.com

Military bi-lateral relations ENHANCING RELATIONSHIP: French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius calls on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Union Minister for External Affairs and Overseas Indian Affairs Sushma Swaraj is also seen.

W

With multibillion-dollar deals in the last phases of negotiations in defence and nuclear sectors, France made it a point to become the first European country to dispatch its Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius to India on June 30. He discussed under negotiation deals with Defence and Foreign Affairs Ministers of the one-month-old Narendra Modi Government and to impress them with proposed multibillion-dollar investment plans

by Airbus besides promising close cooperation with India in various international forums and support to India for membership of the exclusive nuclear club like the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

Fabius also handed over an invitation from the French President Hollande to Prime Minister Modi to visit Paris as soon as possible and even suggested dates as the last week of September or early October when Modi visits the United States. France wants to strengthen its strategic partnership with India on the two very strong pillars of defence and nuclear cooperation and expects a concrete decision from India by the time Modi arrives in Paris.

Hence, the visit of French Foreign Minister Fabius focused principally on these major areas of India-France cooperation.

In both these sectors France is eagerly waiting for the green signal from the Modi Government. The defence deals alone would be no less than $25 billion if India goes ahead with the Rafale

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fighter aircraft, Short-range surface-to-air missile (SRSAM) Maitri and the multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) aircraft Airbus A-330 deal while the under negotiation. Six EPR nuclear reactors in Jaitapur will ensure over $40-billion deal for the French nuclear equipment manufacturers in the coming decade.

The 126 Rafale medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) alone will cost anywhere around $15 to 20 billion.

And if the scope of the deal is expanded to include another “We are fully 66 more aitcraft, Dassault Aviation of France will earn committed to the a few billion dollars more. next stage of The SRSAM cooperation agreement envisages a conthe negotiations, tract of $6 billion while the and ultimately six MRTT Airbus A-330 will cost around $2 billion. When to providing the asked about these deals in IAF with what is the offing, Fabius said, “India unquestionably is an independent country, wants equipment of the highthe most advanced est quality including transfer tanker/transport of technology so that it can produce on Indian soil. The aircraft flying and proposal for the Rafale meets certified today” all these legitimate demands.

— french Foreign I am confident of the Rafale deal. This deal will have conMinister sequences for next 30 years.”

Laurent Fabius Regarding the MRTT deal, the Airbus Military CEO Domingo Ureña Raso had then reacted over IAF’s wish to acquire them: “We are grateful for the confidence shown in our company by the Government of India and the Indian Air Force and we appreciate the detailed and fair appraisal of the competing products which they have conducted. This has been a long and tough competition and we are honoured to have been selected. We are fully committed to the next stage of the negotiations and ultimately to providing the IAF with what is unquestionably the most advanced tanker/transport aircraft flying and certified today.”

Besides the MMRCA, the over $6 billion negotiation for the SRSAM was concluded during the visit of the President Francois Hollande in February 2013. The then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had commented, “Defence ties were poised to reach a ‘qualitatively’ new level. This SRSAM project once approved by the government will be co-developed and co-produced in India.”

Observers point out that since the deal was agreed between the two sovereign governments, the successor government cannot ignore them, especially when the Indian armed forces need them on an urgent basis.

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Military bi-lateral relations

Photographs: Dassault Aviation, AirBus Military

hopeful for signatures: (left) rafale fighter for indian air force’s mmrca requirement; (right) A330 mrtt for iAF’s MULTI-ROLE TANKER TRANSPORT requirement

Regarding the nuclear deal, Indian Prime Minister had tion from these reactors. The installation cost of these reactors then said, “We reviewed progress on the Jaitapur Nuclear are said to be the highest among all international nuclear reacPower Project and reiterated our commitment to its early tors. When asked about the cost-related issues the spokesman implementation as soon as the commercial and technical of the Indian External Affairs Ministry Sayeed Akbaruddin said, negotiations, which have made good progress, are com- ”The experts of Areva and the NPCIL will work out the technopleted,” When asked about the EPR nuclear reactors proposed commercial issues of these EPR reactors”.

In fact if the proposed defence and nuclear deals between to be established in Jaitapur and if the French Government had any issue with India’s Nuclear Liability Law, Fabius said, France and India materialise, the two countries will find themselves woven in very strong strings of strategic partnerships for “We have no problem.”

If this is really so, this will help India and weaken the stand decades, which will also prove to be a windfall gain to French defence and nuclear companies. France taken by other nuclear power countries has been strong supporter of India in like the United States, Japan and Caninternational bodies and had earlier ada who have expressed reservations extended moral support to India after on the Liability Law adopted by the India’s Pokhran nuclear explosion in Indian Parliament. However, one French “India wants equipment 1998 when India was isolated by the diplomatic source told this writer that of the highest quality world community led by the United the French Areva nuclear power comStates. France, had been a strong suppany is confident of the safety aspect of including transfer of porter for India’s claim to the permanent the design of EPR reactors, hence they technology so that it can membership in UN Security Council and are not worried about the fears of any both the countries have close cooperaaccident in the EPR reactor. The French produce on Indian soil. tion on many other international issues. source pointed out that countries like The proposal from Rafale These aspects will weigh very heavily in China have expressed confidence on the meets all these legitimate favour of France while taking a decision EPR reactors which are already under on the multibillion-dollar defence and execution and likely to become operademands.

I am confident of nuclear contracts. The UPA Government tional by 2016. In India the Areva has the Rafale deal. This deal has taken these defence and nuclear entered into a cooperation agreement negotiations to such a stage that it will with NPCIL for setting up six EPR reacwill have consequences for be difficult for the Narendra Modi Govtors each with 1,650 MW capacity. next 30 years.” ernment to back out from the commitHowever, there are strong concerns — Laurent Fabius ments already made. SP in India over the cost of energy produc-

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Military

Training all smile: Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha flew a sortie in the basic trainer Pilatus PC-7 MkII aircraft at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad

swiss precision The performance of the Pilatus fleet at AFA has inspired the IAF to plan for enhanced intake of trainees and increase the basic training syllabus

Photograph: IAF

By Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

O

On June 20, 2014, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) while on a visit to the Air Force Academy (AFA) at Dundigal near Hyderabad to review the passing out parade, flew a sortie in the Pilatus PC-7 MkII basic trainer aircraft, 75 of which have been procured for the Indian Air Force (IAF) with induction beginning in July 2013. Not only was the sortie flown by the CAS an event of glory and pres-

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tige for the premier flying training institution of the IAF, for the CAS himself the event was of immense significance but for an entirely different reason. It was 41 years ago in July 1973 that Flight Cadet Arup Raha after graduating from the National Defence Academy where he was awarded the President’s Gold Medal for standing first in the overall order of merit, joined the Elementary Flying School (EFS) then

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Military Training most of the aircraft delivered by the company continue in service today.

The IAF placed an initial order for 75 Pilatus PC-7 MkII aircraft. The contract was signed on May 24, 2012, and the first aircraft arrived at the AFA in February 2013, its debut in the IAF coinciding with Aero India 2013. All 75 aircraft ordered so far are scheduled to be delivered by early 2015 and given the track record of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland, there should Basic Trainers in the IAF The HT-2 and the Pilatus PC-7 MkII are both single engine be no doubt about the time lines declared by the company.

As for performance, experience of the IAF in operating aircraft designed, developed and produced for basic military flying training. But this is where the comparison ends. The the Pilatus PC-7 fleet at AFA indicates that the aircraft has HT-2 was a two-seat, single-engine tail-wheel aircraft with high reliability, requires low maintenance, has excellent sertandem seating arrangement and was powered by a 155 viceability and very high availability on the flight line genhorsepower Cirrus Major III piston engine. With this engine, erating high sortie rate. The performance of the Pilatus fleet the aircraft was capable of attaining a maximum speed of during the last 18 months of operation at AFA has inspired 185 kmph. The Pilatus PC-7 MkII is also a two-seat, single- the IAF to plan for enhanced intake of the number of trainengine aircraft again with tandem seating arrangement for ees and increase the basic training syllabus in terms of flight the crew. It was designed, developed and manufactured by hours in step with the growth in fleet size.

Given the criticality and the urgency of the need to build Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland. Compared with the HT-2, the Pilatus PC-7 MkII is a nose-wheel aircraft and has a much up a the basic trainer fleet to the desired level, the most expehigher level of performance as this basic trainer is powered dient option for the IAF would have been to procure off the by a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A turboprop engine shelf another 106 Pilatus aircraft. However, on account of the competing requirement to also focus capable of delivering 550 shaft horseon strengthening the domestic aeropower. The aircraft has a maximum space industry in accordance with the cruise speed of 412 kmph and a never Defence Procurement Procedure 2013, exceed speed of 500 kmph. this proposal did not find favour with The fleet of HT-2 basic trainer airGiven the track record the government. The next best and a craft that had served the IAF since the of Pilatus Aircraft viable option would have been producmid-1950s was phased out in 1989 foltion of the aircraft in the country under lowing a case of structural failure in of Switzerland, there licence following the acquisition of the flight. A highly experienced instructor should be no doubt first batch of 75. Although licensed proand an under training flying instructor duction has been HAL’s forte since the perished in the crash. The basic trainer about the time lines for days of the MiG-21, in the case of the HT-2 was replaced by the HPT-32, a delivery declared by the Pilatus PC-7 MkII, for some reason, HAL single piston engine aircraft with side company. categorically rejected the proposal and by side seating, also developed by HAL. insisted on pursuing their own proOne and a half decades later, the HPT-32 gramme to design and build 106 Hindufleet was permanently grounded by the stan Turbo Trainer 40 (HTT-40) aircraft IAF in July 2009 on account of a series of engine failures in flight, the final one resulting in the tragic to augment the trainer fleet of the IAF. In view of the track loss of two experienced flying instructors. The high rate of record of HAL in the development of original designs such engine shut down in flight on the HPT-32 that took the life of as the Tejas light combat aircraft, the IAF would never be 20 young pilots, reportedly was attributable to an inherent certain about the timeframe for delivery of the new HTT-40, design flaw in the fuel supply system that despite consider- a situation clearly untenable for the service. Besides, having two different types of aircraft in the basic trainer fleet would able effort, HAL was unable to resolve.

With the somewhat premature grounding of the HPT-32 generate its own set of problems and hence is an option best fleet, the IAF suddenly found itself without a basic trainer. avoided by the IAF. While the search for a way forward is yet to be found, it As HAL had not even begun planning a replacement of the HPT-32 fleet, on its part it had no ready solution to offer. Left is understood that orders for a second batch of 37 aircraft high and dry literally, the predicament the IAF was in, was have been placed on the OEM taking the total number to be indeed serious. Air Headquarters therefore had no option but procured directly from the Swiss manufacturer to 112. However, procurement of the remaining 69 aircraft continues to to explore the global market for a fast track solution. be a plagued with a degree of uncertainty. However, the IAF has now come up with a solution hitherto not even thought Enter the Pilatus PC-7 MkII In June 2011, through a global tender, the IAF selected the of. The IAF has in the recent past sent a proposal to the MinPilatus PC-7 MkII as the preferred platform for the basic istry of Defence to manufacture the aircraft under licence at stage (Stage I) training of its pilots. The Pilatus PC-7 aircraft its Base Repair Depot (BRD) in Sulur near Coimbatore. Over is fully aerobatic and is capable of undertaking all basic the years, the 16 BRDs in the IAF have grown and matured training exercises both by day and night including instru- enough to undertake licensed production of even combat airment and tactical flying. The aircraft in its different versions craft. Licensed production of the Pilatus PC-7 MkII should is operated by more than 20 air forces for ab initio training. therefore be well within their capability. Besides, the IAF will Since its introduction in 1978, close to 500 aircraft have been be able to exercise control over production, something that sold. The global fleet having clocked over one million hours, cannot do with HAL. SP located at Air Force Station Bidar in northern Karnataka. At EFS Bidar, Flight Cadet Arup Raha flew the basic trainer, the HT-2, designed and built by the Indian aerospace major the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). For the CAS, on June 20, 2014, it was indeed a red-letter day as for him, life had indeed come a full circle in the last over four decades with the IAF!

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military

policy

at last stage of signatures: Rafale C in flight shooting decoys. Loading Configuration 4 MICAs EM and one additional fuel tank of 1250L.

FDI in defence: a Welcome move Photograph: Dassault Aviation

By Ranjeet Kumar

Talk of security concerns have become irrelevant and the government must think of developing self-dependency in weapon systems by providing an enabling environment and congenial ecosystem to foreign partners to be able to establish defence facilities in India.

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T

military policy Though the new Defence Ministry under the Narendra from India, if it is over $300 million. However, since Indian Modi-led NDA Government will take time to decide on raising private sector in defence is still in its infancy, they have not yet the foreign direct investment (FDI) limits in Indian defence sec- developed enough expertise to take advantage of compulsorily tor, industry circles are gradually mentally adjusting to the new meeting the requirement of offset provisions. The foreign suppolicy regime of liberalised FDI in defence. They now seem to be plier also finds it difficult to find a suitable local partner who enthused over the prospects of foreign arms majors setting up can help source at least 30 per cent of the deal from India.

In this backdrop it has become more than necessary to cretheir independent facilities in India for fulfilling the long-term contractual obligations of the Indian armed forces. In May 2010, when ate an enabling policy regime which can attract the international the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) had first arms majors to set up their shops in India itself, which would not come out with the proposal for raising the FDI cap, the Confedera- only bring their high technology and management practices but tion of Indian Industry (CII) and the Federation of Indian Cham- also locally make available their high technology products, which bers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) had expressed apprehen- otherwise may be subject to sanctions in case bilateral relations sions over the move, and now they have welcomed the proposal go sour. The DIPP has said in its 15-page note to the Defence Ministry that the proposed 49 per cent limit in FDI should be allowed by the Commerce Ministry.

President of CII Ajay Shriram welcomed and fully endorsed in case of no technology transfer and 74 per cent if the interthe latest move to raise the limit on FDI in defence. The other national company agrees to transferring its technology to the industry chamber FICCI, welcoming the move, said that FICCI Indian partner. The DIPP has also proposed the 100 per cent or sees this proposal in the light of increasing the share of manu- no-cap proposal for those defence systems who will offer to bring facturing in the GDP to 25 per cent as enshrined in the national their state-of-the-art technology. According to Ajay Shriram, “CII manufacturing policy. Nikhil Gandhi, Chairman of Pipavav is very keen to see very high-tech and highly complex systems Defence, reacted positively to the move saying that “unless integration work being done in India and Indian industry is there is 100 per cent FDI in defence, foreign companies will ready to take this challenge and opportunities. Opening up various sectors have helped Indian industry not bring in technology. There should grow and become globally competitive.” be equal opportunity for them to earn Experts believe that if the foreign arms money from India.” majors come to India with their latest When the new Defence Minister Arun technology it will result in India becoming Jaitley reacted positively to the fresh DIPP it has become more than a major hub of arms production and will proposal, which is in accordance with also help India emerge as major outsourcNarendra Modi’s vision to revitalise the necessary to create an ing centre for defence-related spare parts, manufacturing sector in the country, the enabling policy regime which will provide a very long-term busichambers had maintained silence. Perwhich can attract the ness to the India-based facilities. They can haps the industry chambers fear losing also export their weapon systems from the ground to the multinational defence cominternational arms facilities they may establish in India. On panies, but they deliberately forget their majors to set up their the other hand, the Indian defence facilities lack of technical expertise in manufacturwere never able to export defence systems ing the state-of-the-art systems on their shops in India itself worth annually more than `250 crore. own or even in a joint venture mode with The eight defence public sector undertakforeign companies. Even the previous ings and over 40 ordnance factories are government allowed 49 per cent equity assisted by over 40 defence research laboparticipation, but no multinational company came forward to set up their facilities in India. Since the ratories, but they are only able to fulfil about 30 per cent of India’s Indian armed forces are expected to acquire arms and ammuni- defence imports. These defence facilities have set up a huge infrations worth over $100 billion in the next one decade, the coun- structure and have over the years generated a very good trained try will have to devise policy framework to encourage the inter- human resources. If the DIPP proposal is put into practice, these national companies to manufacture their systems in India itself strengths of Indian defence sector can be utilised by either Indian defence companies or by any foreign partner who can either set either with 49 or 74 or 100 per cent equity participation.

In spite of India developing a vast network and huge up a joint venture or work in technology transfer agreement to infrastructure of defence manufacturing facilities over the produce systems in India under an agreement. This will enable last six decades in almost every area of weapon systems, the Indian armed forces to acquire latest defence systems made in country still remains a major importer of arms and ammuni- India and which will also reduce the dependency on imports.

Whenever there is a move or proposal from an official tions. Since they all belong to the public sector, their bureaucratic style and culture of working perhaps were responsible agency or private sector to increase the FDI limit to 74 or even for India continuing to import over $8 billion worth of arms 100 per cent, concerns have been expressed relating to security since 2007 every year and the country has emerged as the and an ignorant Defence Ministry leadership develop cold feet top ten arms importer. This trend will continue and India will and the proposals are kept in abeyance. But in today’s transremain dependent on imports if the policy makers of the coun- parent world nothing remains secret. During the Cold War days try remain mired in cold war mindset of security leaks and the defence companies of one block could have exported their threats. Though in recent years the government has encour- products only to their partner countries. But today two rival aged private sector to enter into defence sector in a big way nations like India and Pakistan get their supplies from the same but the ecosystem needed for a flourishing defence indus- country and even same company. So the talk of security contry was never created. The Ministry of Defence has also in cerns have become irrelevant and the government must think recent years adopted Defence Procurement Policy with spe- of developing self-dependency in weapon systems by providing cial emphasis on offset rules which compels the foreign arms an enabling environment and congenial ecosystem to foreign majors to source at least 30 to 50 per cent of the total deal partners to be able to establish defence facilities in India. SP

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military

policy

how FDI can help modernisation of aerospace and defence?

By ViveK Lall

T

he evolving geopolitical scenarios on India’s borders and the strong underlying economic growth will require and result in increased spending on defence in the coming years. New procurement will be required to replace obsolete equipment and keep the forces in a state of combat readiness. Internal security requirements are also increasing and will drive demand for homeland security equipment.

Traditionally, most capital spending by India on defence was done through inter-governmental purchases that often include a significant role for the defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs) which are licensed to produce the contracted equipment. The DPSUs dominate the Indian market while the private sector manufacturing base is fragmented. In terms of existing capability, there is severe gap in the ‘Design to Production’ capability, and with our domestic industry not in a position to develop and supply the range of required equipment, the dependence on imports is only set to increase, unless the Government of India takes measures to develop an ecosystem for defence manufacturing in the country.

While good manufacturing infrastructure, research and development capability, talent, domain experts in the field, and an enabling tax regime are essential components of this ‘ecosystem’, we must incentivise global OEMs to share their technological expertise which will help India realise our vision of selfreliance in defence production. The current cap of 26 per cent on foreign direct investment (FDI) in defence production does not provide comfort to global OEMs to share their proprietary technology and this is proven by the abysmal FDI inflows in the sector since it was opened up 13 years back.

When we speak of self-reliance in this increasing globalised world, we mean the ability to ensure defence preparedness with platforms that we can develop and their life-cycle support. This can be achieved when we have some control over its production and supply. There have been instances in the past when India faced disruption of its supplies due to either geopolitical reasons or simply because the OEMs had stopped production of the particular system. It would only serve our interest if global OEMs can be made to set up manufacturing facilities in the country. From the security

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perspective, it is much more preferable to encourage global OEMs to produce the systems in India than to rely on imports.

The defence manufacturing industry is a multi-technology sector.

Defence products are complex systems that encompass knowledge from many scientific disciplines and technological fields. An increase in FDI would bring in core and critical technologies in defence. We need to get over the mindset that we can develop these range of technologies on our own, and take pragmatic measures to develop on the existing defence industrial base.

There are apprehensions that increasing FDI limit will result in stunting the growth of the domestic industry. However, if one were to do an assessment of the capability and achievements of the domestic industry, the gaps will become very evident: while there is expertise in assembly, development is a missing link.

Raising the FDI cap will lead to joint ventures between the Indian industry, particularly private sector, which must play a much bigger role in defence production. Collaborations between OEMs that generate technology consistent with international standards and the private sector must be actively encouraged. The Government must keep a vision of encouraging OEMs to share technology that is consistent with India’s defence objectives as outlined in the 15-year ‘Indian Armed Forces Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan’.

Having outlined the compelling reasons that justify and increase in FDI, it is also worth noting that the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), on June 26, 2014, issued its Press Note No. 3, giving list of defence items that require industrial licence. Per this list, which is based on ITC (HS) Code, only full weapon systems, defence aircraft, warship, etc. require an industrial licence. It is understood that the Government’s intent is to permit 100 per cent FDI under the automatic route in items that are not covered in this list. An explicit clarification to this effect from the Government will remove ambiguities and provide clarity and assurance to investors.

As we develop the other components of the defence manufacturing ‘ecosystem’ in the country, let us take decisive steps to open the sector to FDI that will bring in advanced technologies and enable India to become a part of the supply chain of the global OEMs. SP —The writer is President and CEO (New Venture), Reliance Industries

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SPECIAL

feature

Russian air defences for India: Reliable protection and national defence industry driver

India’s geographical position, its territory, rich natural resources and the status of a major military and political power dictate the urgent need to have a reliable and capable national air defense system.

Expanding the mutually beneficial strategic partnership, Rosoboronexport, Russia’s major exporter of the entire range of the final defense and dual-use products and services, offers its strategic partner the best models of advanced air defense systems.

Among the most capable weapons meeting the Indian Ministry of Defense’s needs is the newest Tor-M2KM short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system. Its successful tests ended in Russia in 2012 and today it is one of the most advanced systems in the world market.

The Tor-M2KM latest-generation highly automated, multichannel SAM system was developed to counter massive air attacks by aircraft and helicopters and, which is especially relevant, to destroy PGW submunitions, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles flying at medium, low and extremely low altitudes. A battery comprising four Tor-M2KM combat vehicles is capable of simultaneously engaging up to 16 targets flying from different directions at ranges up to 15 km and at altitudes up to 10 km in any weather, day or night, even in a difficult air situation and when the enemy uses various countermeasures.

The Tor-M2KMs are delivered by Rosoboronexport on wheeled chassis and can be mounted on the Indian-made TATA truck chassis; they are also available in a modular version for the installation on semi-trailers, rail platforms, ships and barges, as well as on prepared ground sites. According to experts, no SAM system outside of Russia can match the TorM2KM in terms of operational effectiveness.

Automatic interaction between the combat vehicles operating in tandem is implemented at a new level. They share information and allocate targets between themselves. A high degree of automation has reduced the Tor-M2KM’s crew size to just two men (commander and operator), as well as facilitated crew training. It is of importance for countries where such SAM systems have not been previously in service.

The newest Pantsir-S1 air defense gun/missile system is another formidable barrier against air threats at short ranges With its capabilities, it can counter all types of modern manned and unmanned vehicles, including those carrying PGW. It can also be used to engage lightly armored ground and surface targets, enemy manpower. Its combined missile and gun armament can provide a continuous kill zone. This is one of the main distinguishing features of the Pantsir-S1. A battery consisting of six combat vehicles is capable of engaging up to 24 targets at ranges between 0.2 km and 20 km and at

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PANTSIR

Tor-M2KM

the altitudes of 0.005 km to 15 km. The system has a modular design and is available in self-propelled (wheeled or tracked) and container versions.

In addition, another Pantsir-S1 version, with guns removed and 18 SAMs instead of 12, is unmatched in the world today. The operational effectiveness of missiles has increased 1.5 times. SP

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Business Aviation

Global Forecast

EMBRAER BELIEVES THAT the imminent arrival of the Legacy 450/500 series should accelerate the company’s growth

Gaining Traction All signs point to the upcoming recovery in business jet production rates being relatively gradual and measured

Photograph: Embraer

By R. Chandrakanth

V

Various forecasts by international market intelligence agencies have indicated that the global business aviation industry has shifted gears, moving into a positive mode, though there are hiccups, here and there. Coming out of the severe market crash in late 2008, it has been difficult for the sector, but resilient companies have held on and that has been largely responsible for the imminent turnaround. With better performance by emerging economies, the world economy is said to grow at 3.2 per cent per year on average over the next 20 years and if this is not going to prop up the business aviation segment, nothing will.

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Honeywell Aerospace, Bombardier Aerospace, Embraer Executive Jets, Avinode Business Intelligence and Forecast International are all reflecting optimism in the business aviation segment.

Embraer Forecasts ‘Mild Growth’ Embraer of Brazil, the third largest aircraft manufacturer has forecast that the business jet market would witness a mild growth in the next ten years, estimating the global demand at 9,250 private worth $ 250 billion.

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Business Aviation Global Forecast 50 per cent and Asia-Pacific 20 per cent. In Asia-Pacific, half of the sales were in China.

He said that 2013 had been good for Embraer with sales of 119 jets, thus going up in market share to 17.6 per cent behind Bombardier which was at 27 per cent.

Richard Aboulafia, Vice President at TEAL Consultancy, said: “Embraer’s growth has slowed somewhat, but it still has enjoyed the fruits of its long-term project to become a major business jet player. In 2013, it attained a 3.4 per cent market share by value reaching a new high. But the Phenom 100 very light jet continues to suffer low numbers, along with the entire over-hyped very light jet segment. However, the imminent arrival of the Legacy 450/500 series should accelerate the company’s growth.”

Bombardier predicts 24,000 business jet deliveries valued at $650 billion from now till 2032. It anticipates 9,800 deliveries worth $269 billion from 2013 to 2022 and 14,200 deliveries worth $381 billion from 2023 to 2032. Bombardier expects the worldwide business jet fleet to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7 per cent over the forecast period, from 14,875 aircraft in 2012 to 30,975 by 2032, net of retirements.

Bombardier said the growth of business aviation is directly related to the growth of wealthy individuals and corporate houses.

A March 2013 report from Forbes estimated a record number of billionaires at 1,426 worldwide, a 16 per cent increase over Forbes’ 2012 estimate. Just like in 2011, the most significant growth in billionaires occurred in Latin America which, during 2012, saw a year-over-year increase of 54 per cent, followed by the Asia-Pacific region which saw an increase of 29 per cent.

The Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Embraer Executive Jets, Jose Eduardo Costas said that in the last decade, the number of jets sold was over 8,000 with the US accounting for nearly

Honeywell Hints at Modest Recovery Honeywell in October last forecast that up to 9,250 new business jet deliveries worth over $250 billion would be done from 2013 to 2022.

The 2013 Honeywell outlook reflects an approximate three to four percent increase in projected delivery value over the 2012 forecast. Despite slightly lower unit deliveries, the expected value comes from pricing increases and a continued change in

forecast of deliveries during 2013-2022 Embraer

Bombardier

9,800

9,250 ($250 biliion)

2013-22

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($269 biliion)

2013-22

Honeywell

Forecast International

9,575

9,250 ($250 biliion)

($235 biliion)

2013-22

2013-22

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Business Aviation Global Forecast setting new standards: DASSAULT BELIEVES THAT FALCON 8X WILL HELP EXPAND THE BUSINESS AVIATION MARKET WITH INCREASED SALES

expected business jet delivery mix, which reflects the ongoing trend toward larger business jet models. “2014 industry deliveries are anticipated to be up modestly, reflecting recovery in supply side constraints and some gains linked to the projected pace of global economic recovery,” said Rob Wilson, President, Honeywell Business and General Aviation.

Photograph: Dassault Aviation

Avinode Forecasts Imminent Turnaround Avinode Business Intelligence forecasts a positive 2014 for the business aviation markets in Europe and the United States. It projects a 0.7 per cent increase in business jet flights in the US. In Europe, despite several years of negative growth, the prediction is that the market will remain flat with a marginal 0.1 per cent growth.

Healthy Forecast l World economy growth over the next 20 years: 3.2 per cent. l Embraer forecasts in the next ten years: 9,250 new private

jets at $250 billion. l Bombardier figure: 9,800 deliveres at $269 billion. l Forbes estimated figures: 1,426 billionaires in 2013

worldwide, up 16 per cent over 2012. l Large jets trending.

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The US economy has begun too slowly, but steadily stabilise driving up the GDP, stock markets and corporate profits. It said that the US regions would be a bag of mixed fortunes. While most of the regions are predicted to fare well over the coming year, the South and West are expected to once again, lead the pack with 1.0 per cent and 0.9 per cent growth respectively.

Meanwhile, the Midwest is projected to remain fairly level with a marginal 0.1 per cent decline in flight activity, while the Northeast is forecast to see an increase of 0.4 per cent during 2014.

Avinode predicts that 2014 will be a mixed bag for the two regions that make up the European continent. Northern Europe, which tends towards business travel, is forecast to experience a 0.9 per cent decline in actual flights during 2014. The more leisure travel oriented southern region on the other hand, is predicted to see a flight activity increase of 0.7 per cent next year. After several years of decline this should be a welcome break for southern Europe, though it will not bring the region back to the previous high water mark.

Europe Rebounds In the middle of 2013 the outlook for European business jet activity was bleak. The year had started the same way that 2012 ended, in a vast sea of red. Business jet departures out of Europe dropped an average of 3.3 per cent from 2012 numbers and in March alone they fell 8.2 per cent. In August, however, fortunes changed. Departures started to increase and with that hope

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Business Aviation Global Forecast finally returned to the aviation community. September, October and November continued this positive trend by finishing on par with 2012 levels.. December took it one step further by finishing 2.2 per cent ahead of the same month in 2012, which left the total activity level of 2013 down only 1.7 per cent from 2012, Avinode pointed out.

“The worst of the Euro crisis seems to be over and, although four months of stable activity is not nearly enough to cement a turnaround, we do believe that we’re now seeing the first steps of a very slow stabilisation and recovery. While we don’t anticipate a return to 2007-08 levels in the near future, we do expect that growth will return,” Avinode said.

As regards the future, Avinode said investments would start flowing once again with confidence levels up, but it cautioned that the model of seat-sharing which surfaced during the crisis was not the right one. A lot of the benefits of flying a private jet, like on demand service and complete privacy, are lost with the seat sharing model. When the price per seat is on par with or higher than a first class ticket and the business jet only serves a few fixed routes, it simply cannot be competitive.

Looking East With the West taking a beating, the industry looked eastwards, particularly towards China. There were a number of of interesting developments in the region during 2013 such as NetJets’ Chinese joint venture and DeerJet getting into fractional shares.

Embraer has forecast that China would require 805 executive jets over the next decade. The large-cabin business jet class is expected to represent 51 per cent of this demand, accounting for 78 per cent of the total value of deliveries.

China’s fleet of executive jets has experienced an average annual expansion of 27 per cent, fuelled by a 26 per cent growth of the wealthiest population, from 2008 to 2012.

turers produced more than 1,300 business jets. The company expected production to increase in 2014 with 708 aircraft forecast to be built and continue to rise steadily each year through 2020. In 2020, the peak production year of the forecast timeframe, about 1,166 business jets is expected to be produced.

Forecast International does not expect annual business jet production to return to the 2008 level of more than 1,300 aircraft at any time during the 2013-22 forecast period. According to Forecast International senior aerospace analyst Raymond Jaworowski, “All signs point to the upcoming recovery in business jet production rates being relatively gradual and measured. Most market indicators, such as economic growth rates, flight activity and used inventories, are somewhat mixed. On the positive side, corporate profits are strong but, amid economic and regulatory uncertainty, corporations are holding onto their money rather than spending it on new assets such as aircraft.

Continuing economic improvement, however sluggish, will help unlock underlying demand in the market.”

At least initially, the recovery is expected to vary considerably in strength from region to region. Demand is already growing strongly in emerging markets in Asia, Latin America and Russia. The large North American market is showing signs of life. The European market, though, continues to be moribund.

Forecast International’s market forecast indicates that, in terms of unit production, Cessna, Bombardier and Embraer will be the top three business jet manufacturers during 2013-22.

When the market is calculated in terms of the monetary value of production, the top three companies are expected to be Gulfstream, Bombardier and Dassault. SP

Photograph: Bombardier

Long-Range Trending Honeywell said that higher purchase expectations continue to focus on larger cabin aircraft class ranging from super-midsize through the ultra-long range and business liner, implying these types of aircraft will command the bulk of the value billed from now until 2023. This large cabin group is expected to account for more than 80 per cent of all expenditures on new business jets in the near term. Volume growth between now and 2023 will be led by this class of aircraft, reflecting nearly 60 per cent of additional units and nearly 85 per cent of additional retail value.

“The trend toward larger cabin aircraft with ever-increasing range expectations and advanced avionics is seen more strongly than ever in this year’s survey,” Wilson said. “As a full-spectrum supplier to the industry, Honeywell has been successful in anticipating the needs of and advancing the technological capabilities of the popular super-midsize and larger aircraft in production or scheduled to enter service over the next few years.”

Forecast International‘s Forecast Forecast International predicts that manufacturers will build 9,575 business jets during the ten-year period between 2013 and 2022. The Connecticut-based market research firm estimates the value of this production at $235 billion. Business jet production has declined each year since 2008, when manufac-

Bombardier predicts 24,000 business jet deliveries valued at $650 billion from now till 2032

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ENVIRONMENT

AIR TRANSPORT

Green Initiatives

PHOTOGRAPHS: AIRBUS GROUP

Airlines, airports and other stakeholders are working towards improving fuel efficiency, reduced noise pollution, efficient use of various materials, all to ensure a sustainable aviation sector

BY R. CHANDRAKANTH

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O

ON MARCH 11, 2014, Airbus Group had the first-ever flight of the fully electric E-Fan aircraft, thus heralding a major research initiative that is going to transform aviation at least environmentally. At the moment, the E-Fan aircraft, a two-seater, is slated for 2017 entry into service, but Airbus is toying with the idea of an electric-powered regional aircraft of up to 80 seats.

Highly ambitious, but scientific perseverance has shown that it is doable, albeit it may take time. Concerned about the longterm when there would be considerable pressure on fuel, Airbus, like other airframers, is working on developing this technology,

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ENVIRONMENT

AIR TRANSPORT

AIRBUS’ E-THRUST IS AN ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTED PROPULSION SYSTEM CONCEPT FOR LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION, FEWER EMISSIONS AND LESS NOISE; (INSET) AN ILLUSTRATION OF THE AIRCRAFT

aiming g to re reduce further the carbon dioxide emiss missio attributed to aircraft. emissions aircraf craft aft has h been designed for The E-Fan aircraft electrical propulsion, on, from fr its energy manfety ty features fe agement system to safety and without environment mental tal footprint. Airbus doubt has a solid environmental Innova Inno ovation Officer, Group’s Chief Technical and Innovation Botti said, said “It’s a very different entt way w of flyfly Jean Botti, ing, absolutely no noise, no emissions.””

A series of lithium-ion batteries fitted into the wings ngs of

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the plane are the sole power source for the E-Fan’s two 30-kilowatt (kW) electric motors.

A 6-kW electric motor in the main wheel provides extra power during acceleration and taxiing to reduce electrical power consumption on the ground. The E-Fan presently which is in an experimental stage can fly for one-hour which means it has to keep an airport in the vicinity and fly. To combat range anxiety, the plane is outfitted with a backup battery for landing purposes and a parachute that can be deployed as high as 2,000 feet.

There is a gauge on the dashboard which indicates how much energy is still in the batteries and when it needs to recharge.

Airbus is working on the E-Fan and is looking at a hybridelectric commuter jet which will have a three-hour flying time, maybe by 2050. Initial designs of the E-Thrust aircraft show the plane with six electric-powered fans that will be powered by a gas-fuelled energy storage unit during the ascent and cruise phase and then glide using electric power alone while descending. In the next step toward achieving this, Airbus will make a next-generation two-seater electric plane, set for launch in 2017 and a four-seater electric plane with a gas-powered range extender, set for launch in 2019.

SUGAR COATED Similarly, the other mega aerospace major, Boeing is working on green designs. Two teams led by Boeing Research & Technology (BR&T) have completed 18-month studies on that question and have submitted their findings to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under a programme called N+3, which denotes three generations beyond the current transport fleet.

After examining various subsonic and supersonic concepts, the teams have come up with potential configurations that may offer dramatic improvements in operational and environmental improvem performance over the aircraft of today to meet aggressive goals a set by NASA. The Boeing subsonic subson team, which includes BR&T, Boeing Commercial Commer Co mercial Airplanes, General Electric and Georgia Tech, has looked ked att five fiv concepts as part of the SUGAR (Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Airc ft Research) R Researc project. The concepts include two conventionall re reference referen rence configurations, similar in appearance to a 737 (nicknamed (nickna (nic am SUGAR Free and Refined SUGAR), two versionss of o a new ne design high span, strut-braced wing aircraft to as SUGAR High and aircrafft (referred (re SUGAR Volt), wing body configuration Volt), and a hybrid hyb w (called SUGAR SUGA AR Ray).

In a report report submitted to o NASA in late February 2012, titled “N+4 Advanced Ad dvanced Vehicle cle Concept Study,” the team described the performance aircraft perfo ormance of a methane-fuelled methan concept and the development dev velopment of o several advanced fuel and energy technology y options for f 2040 to 2050.These include hybrid battery-gas fuel cells, fuel battery--gas turbine turb rbine propulsion, prop cell-gas turbine propulsion systems, cryoturb bine hybrid h pro genic fuels gas/methane and fue els (liquefied (liq liquefied natural n hydrogen), cooled engines and hydrog gen) n), cryogenically cryogen associated technologies, advanced a batteries batterie and open rotor/turboprop technologies. techn NEW SOLAR IMPULSE CHALLENGE ON THE HORIZON Several commercial air carriers, Lufthansa, Alaska Air and United Airlines are also including Lufth hansa, Ala reducing their footprints by developing and testing their ir carbon fo

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environment air transport

Boeing’s Subsonic Ultra Green Aircraft Research, or SUGAR

Photograph: Nasa/Boeing

planes on biofuels. To help increase fuel availability, British Airways announced a partnership to create a new jet fuel from municipal waste.

IATA Roadmap Since the early days of jet aircraft, aviation has dramatically improved its environmental performance. Since the 1960s, fuel efficiency has improved by some 70 per cent per passenger km.

Today’s aircraft are 75 per cent quieter than those manufactured 50 years ago and levels of carbon monoxide have come down by 50 per cent and unburned hydrocarbons and smoke by around 90 per cent. IATA encourages the use of voluntary initiatives to address environmental impacts from aviation and promotes the use of industry best practices where possible.

Voluntary initiatives can be tailored to the specific needs of governments, industry and other stakeholders. They provide more flexibility and cost savings than regulatory measures, especially market-based measures.

In order to further reduce aviation’s impact on the environment, IATA has set up several programmes to assist airlines in improving their environmental performance: Alternative fuels, Carbon Offset Programme and Environmental Assessment. IATA is also working on several initiatives on cargo sustainability. In partnership with industry stakeholders and governments, IATA is focused on developing sensible environmental policies to enable and promote sustainable and eco-efficient air transport. IATA advocates that as a global industry, aviation requires global solutions.

Euruopean Union’s Flight Path 2050 A highly environmentally conscious Europe has defined the environmental footprint in its Flight Path 2050. The goals it has set for 2050 include a 75 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger kilometre to support the ATAG target and a 90 per cent reduction in NOx emissions, perceived noise emission of flying aircraft reduced by 65 per cent, Aircraft movements are emission-free when taxiing, recyclable air vehicles etc.

Fly-360-Green Fly-360-Green is a third-party certification programme developed by the World Green Aviation Council (WorldGAC) to provide airlines and aircraft operators a common framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable processes, innovative practices, operations and maintenance solutions. It is a performance-based green aviation assessment tool and a benchmark for High Performing Airlines/Aircraft Operators. It is a point based rating system where points are earned for aviation attributes considered environmentally beneficial. Fly-360-Green differs from other rating systems in that it has quantified most of the “green credits”. This ensures that airlines are environmentally compatible, retain high quality standards and are profitable. The WorldGAC is an international organisation dedicated to advancing a greener and more sustainable aviation industry through fuel efficiency, water conservation, noise and greenhouse gas reduction. WorldGAC reviews, certifies and verifies airlines and operators to best determine compliance to Fly-360-Green certification standards, a world standard for sustainable aviation.

A highly environmentally conscious Europe has defined the environmental footprint in its Flight Path 2050.

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environment air transport

successful first public flight of the electric E-Fan experimental aircraft

Photograph: AirBus Group

First Sustainable Airport in the US While airlines/aircraft continue to work on improving aircraft efficiency, on ground the airports too are investing in sustainable airports. The Chicago Department of Aviation is the first in the US to develop sustainable guidelines for design and construction at airports. The Sustainable Airport Manual was created as an integral part of Chicago’s ongoing efforts toward implementing more environmentally sustainable initiatives across all airport activities.

Hong Kong World’s Greenest Airport?

To become the world’s greenest airport, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is using a three-year environmental plan. This plan was established in 2011 and updated in 2012, when it was made into a rolling plan consisting of more than 120 initiatives that address a range of issues such as carbon reduction, energy savings, air quality management, waste and water management.

HKIA participates Airport Carbon Accreditation, a programme started in Europe by Airports Council International that assesses airports’ efforts to manage and reduce their carbon emissions. In March 2013, it received an “Optimisation” certificate and became the first and only airport in the Asia-Pacific region to reach this standard.

The optimisation level is the programme’s second-highest level and the highest rating achieved by an airport in the region.

To attain this accreditation, an airport must engage with stakeholders including airlines, caterers, ground handlers and others to calculate and lower their carbon footprints together.

Sustainable Airport Solutions Green Sustainable Airports (GSA), formerly known as Sustainable Airport Solutions, is an international cooperation project focusing on accelerating the process of ‘greening’ airport operations. Unfortunately, every day airport operations entail considerable impact on the environment. The Ground Power Units (GPUs) for example, are responsible for noise and CO2 emissions, while runway lighting requires an enormous energy use.

In order to design a more sustainable and environmental friendly future of airport operations, the GSA partnership is developing a joint strategy, toolkit and model on eco-efficient airport operations. At Groningen Airport, bio-diesel powered GPUs is being jointly developed and tested, while Southend Airport is working towards a certification of energy-efficient LED runway lighting. Further, Billund Airport is developing and implementing specific components, radiators and compressors for green aircraft heating and cooling through green energy supply and geothermal cooling.

One can see that airlines, airports and other stakeholders are concerned about the environment and have invested time and money in coming up with green initiatives that are sustainable. As green aviation involves activities to improve aircraft fuel efficiency, develop the next generation of efficient air traffic control and develop new technologies/systems engineering processes to reach the future of carbon-neutral air transportation across the globe. SP

To help increase fuel availability, British Airways announced a partnership to create a new jet fuel from municipal waste.

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environment Regional Aviation

Environment Conscious The International Civil Aviation Organisation resolution has set out a clear path towards 2020, from which point emissions attributable to aviation will not increase

Photograph: Bombardier

By R. Chandrakanth

I

In the US, the airlines are ranked annually based on their fuel-efficiency and in 2011-12 Alaska Airlines took the top spot, thanks to its regional subsidiary Horizon Air which flies turboprop aircraft. Horizon Air is said to have propped up the airline’s fuel-efficiency ratings substantially, otherwise Alaska would have been lower in ranking. Fuel-efficiency is one key factor that impacts climate. The aviation sector is said to account for about 11 per cent of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector (four per cent of the total). Globally, aviation greenhouse gas emissions are rising from three per cent to four per cent annually and are on a pace

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to quadruple soon. The contribution of regional aviation is substantial, considering that over 40 per cent passenger movement is accounted for by regional airlines in the US. Regional Footprint Regional airline network is growing across the world and efforts are on to continuously improve their environment footprint.

The rapid growth of air travel in recent years is contributing to an increase in total pollution attributable to aviation. There is an ongoing debate about possible taxation of air travel and the inclusion of aviation in an emissions trading scheme, with a

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environment Regional Aviation

bombardier CSeries offers advanced technology, reduced environmental impact and unsurpassed economics

Three major

environmental goals l Limit or reduce the number of people affected by significant

aircraft noise. l Limit or reduce the impact of aviation emissions on local

air quality. l Limit or reduce the impact of aviation greenhouse gas

emissions on the global climate. view to ensuring that total external costs of aviation are taken into account.

Turboprops Fare Better Today, compared to jet airliners, turboprop aircraft, probably in part because of their lower cruising speeds and altitudes similar to the piston-powered airliners in the days gone by play an obvious role in the overall fuel-efficiency of regional airlines which have a mix of turboprops and jets.

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ATR ‘Green Aircraft’ Vision ATR is an exclusive turboprop airframer that has expanded its market solely on the premise that they are best suited for shorthaul flights. Irrespective of the distances these aircraft fly, being environment-friendly remains at the core. ATR and its partners are participating in the international research and project development to have environment-friendly products and solutions. The Clean Sky Project is a Joint Technology Initiative for Aeronautics and Air Transport in the framework of ACARE goals in terms of lowering gaseous emissions and noise. In 2011, ATR renewed and expanded its ISO 14001 certification, concerning businesses’ adherence to environmental standards. The broadening in scope of the certification enables ATR to become the first regional aircraft manufacturer to obtain the certification covering the entire life-cycle of the aircraft.

ATR has already made considerable progress in being environment-friendly. It has the lowest greenhouse gas emissions, the carbon dioxide and fuel consumption have been reduced by nearly 50 per cent per passenger kilometre and the company is in full compliance with the Chapter 4 Noise Regulations.

ATR’s environmental vision is to make its ISO 14001 environmental management system (EMS) a reference by continuously improving the EMS applicable to ATR aircraft and sites, maintain regulatory conformity to the requirements applicable to aircraft and sites, make the environment a company culture etc. It intends to reduce the environmental footprint of its aircraft by introducing an even “greener” life-cycle throughout the life of the aircraft. There is meticulous planning from design, control and/or reduce the use of hazardous substances, the consumption of natural resources and generated waste. The company communicates good environmental practices to its suppliers and partners by integrating its environmental requirements from design, taking the environment into account in choice criteria and communicating good operational, maintenance/recycling practices for aircraft to its customers.

ATR’s aims are to innovate to reach gas emission objectives, reduce NOx emissions by 60 per cent and C02 emissions by 20 per cent. ATR promises its partners and suppliers to ensure 100 per cent regulatory conformity, circulate its requirements and good environmental practices as well as share its strategic “green” aircraft vision.

Embraer ‘Natural’ Links Over 30 per cent of the world’s rainforests are in Brazil. That is why Brazil in general and Embraer in particular accept a special responsibility to do its share in preserving the “lungs of the world” and the Amazon’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide and generate fresh air for planet Earth. Embraer’s backyard is the rainforest.

Embraer regards environmental quality an important segment within the company’s operations aimed at creating awareness and guiding all its employees, as well as research work. Because of its constant concern for the environment, Embraer has set up documents, procedures and plans for monitoring and measuring, from time to time, the main aspects of the company’s operations and activities that may have a significant impact on the environment. This is in addition to other procedures and plans to improve the quality of life at work and lessen the environmental impact.

The Brazilian giant recognises the importance of ISO 14001.

It actively works in all Embraer national units and obtains it for the international ones by significantly investing in the development of its environmental, occupational health, safety and

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environment Regional Aviation quality integrated management system, internally called SIGMASSQ. Embraer units in Brazil are certified by the ISO 14001 norm and it was the first aeronautical company in the world to accomplish that goal. Embraer is recycling more than 80 per cent of production materials.

Embraer always considers the recyclability of materials produced by day-to-day activities, from packaging to organic residues to metal particles arising from its manufacturing processes. Wood, pastics, styrofoam, paper and cardboard—all of these are carefully managed to ensure the highest rates of reuse.

The company is continually investing in green facilities, including improving the efficiency of its compressed air network in the São José dos Campos factory complex and powering airconditioning in buildings by natural gas. Embraer has been recognised twice by the Federation of industries of the State of São Paulo for its progressive energy consumption programme.

Alternative Fuel In 2012, Azul Brazilian Airlines launched an Embraer E-195 demonstration flight using a 50:50 blend of conventional jet fuel and AMJ 700, a renewable fuel produced from the fermentation

and Environment Council guides the company’s environmental strategy and the implementation of the HSE Preventive Culture.

Bombardier’s ambitious project CSeries, which has been delayed, nevertheless boasts of environment-friendly aircraft.

The CSeries aircraft contain 70 per cent advanced materials comprising 46 per cent composite materials and 24 per cent aluminium lithium which allows for a 15 per cent lower seatmile cost and a significant reduction in maintenance costs. The CSeries aircraft will also permit a significant fuel burn advantage and noise reduction.

Bombardier’s long-term environmental strategy includes mitigating environmental impact while growing its business, decreasing the amount of natural resources such as water, energy and raw materials used in production processes as well as minimising/eliminating the use of hazardous substances.

Bombardier reduced its energy consumption by 11 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 23 per cent between 2009 and 2013, exceeding its goal of ten per cent reduction. It reduced its water consumption by six per cent, between 2012 and 2013, exceeding its goal of one per cent reduction.

Bombardier has stated that as it continues to increase its

Photographs: ATR, Amyris

(left) ATR has the lowest greenhouse gas emissions, the carbon dioxide and fuel consumption have been reduced by nearly 50 per cent per passenger kilometre; (right) embraer e-195 demonstrated a flight using a 50:50 blend of conventional jet fuel and AMJ 700, a renewable fuel produced from the fermentation of Brazilian sugarcane.

of Brazilian sugarcane. The demonstration flight was part of the Azul+Verde (meaning a greener blue in Portuguese) Renewable Jet Fuel project, which was jointly developed with Embraer, GE and Amyris Inc from November 2009.

According to Embraer, AMJ 700 fuel is made using modified microorganisms that function as living factories, converting sugar into pure renewable hydrocarbon. Such a process results in a renewable jet fuel that, once approved, will meet the most rigorous requirements of the aviation industry as well as the American Society for Testing and Materials.

Bombardier’s Sustainable Products The leading manufacturer of planes and trains has committed itself to an environment-friendly path. It is creating sustainable products, while maintaining significant focus on improving the environmental performance of its manufacturing, service and other operating facilities worldwide. Bombardier’s Health, Safety

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production and footprint, the goal is to continue to mitigate its environmental impact across all its businesses. “While we have been concentrating our resources on new product programmes in order to grow our business, we have had to put on hold some of the investments we would like to make in the environmental performance of our sites. Nevertheless, we continue to improve the efficiency of our facilities.”

All regional airframers are keeping themselves abreast of developments that are in sync with environmental concerns.

The ICAO resolution has set out a clear path towards 2020, from which point emissions attributable to aviation will not increase. In practical terms this means no matter how fast the industry grows, the emissions from current and new aircraft will be reduced through improved design, more efficient operations, better use of infrastructure, use of sustainable alternative fuels and by offsetting aviation emissions against reductions which can be made in other industries and projects more efficiently and effectively. SP

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environment TECHNOLOGY

egts Enormous Gains

Photograph: Honeywell

Electric Green Taxiing System when introduced in 2017 is expected to transform airline operations and environment footprint. Honeywell Aerospace which is celebrating 100 years of its journey, recently invited a select gathering of 30 odd International Media from all over the world, to visit its Technology Labs in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. SP Guide Publications (SP’s Aviation and SP’s Airbuz) was the sole representative from not just India, but South Asia.

By R. Chandrakanth Reporting from Phoenix, Arizona

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T

The flight from Bengaluru to Phoenix, had two major stopovers – at Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris and Atlanta International Airport. At both the airports, the aircraft taxiing time was fairly long as the airports are huge and traffic density is high. It was clear that the aircraft was burning substantial quantities of precious aviation turbine fuel while taxiing. Once at Honeywell Aerospace facility, being the sole representative from India among the 30 from the international media, it was comforting to know that Honeywell was working on several technologies to make air travel comfortable, safe, secure, low-cost and environment-friendly. The international media got a peek into what Jim Fusaro, Vice President, Honeywell Aerospace, calls ‘transformational type of product in

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environment TECHNOLOGY aviation’ – the Electric Green Taxing SysHoneywell, Safran Initiative tem (EGTS). Research is progressing at a In 2011, Honeywell and Safran joined frenetic pace by Honeywell and Safran forces to develop an innovative solujointly, to introduce EGTS by 2017. tion, the EGTS, that can significantly Fusaro pointed out that there would improve an airline’s operational effibe substantial savings on fuel and his ciency, reducing fuel and other taxiguestimate was that one narrow-body ing-related costs. It also provides enviaircraft would save about $2,00,000 ronmental benefits by slashing carbon worth of fuel for an airline in a year, if and other emissions created during the average taxiing time per sortie is ground operations. EGTS combines taken at 20 minutes. Fusaro said that Safran’s extensive experience in inteit would be an option that the original grated landing gear systems with Honequipment manufacturers (OEMs) offer eywell’s heritage in auxiliary power to airline operators and going by the unit (APU) innovation. Their combined savings prospects, the assessment is experience gives airlines an attractive that it would become a norm. proposition and represents a viable With oil prices are expected to remain and credible solution when it becomes at record levels and with the persistent available in 2017. volatility in the market, airlines continue EGTS uses power from the aircraft’s Jim Fusaro to look for new ways to save fuel and APU generator to drive electric motors Vice President, Honeywell Aerospace reduce cost of operations. Fuel costs are connected to the main landing gear an ever-increasing drain on airline revewheels. The system allows an aircraft to nues – accounting for around 45 per cent of direct operating costs. pushback without tug assistance and taxi to the runway without the main engines running. The main engines are started just before the aircraft enters the runway. On clearing the runway Fuel Consumed in Taxiing Taxiing operations represent up to six per cent of total fuel after landing, the the main engines are shut down. The aircraft consumption for short-haul fleets operating single-aisle air- can then taxi to the parking gate using EGTS. Today’s turbofan engines are optimised for flying, not for craft from congested airports. A single-aisle aircraft operates an average 2.3 hours on the ground during eight to ten daily powering aircraft on the ground. To taxi between gate and runrotations. In fact, the global family of short-haul aircraft burns way, an airliner burns sizeable quantity of fuel. This problem around five million tonnes of fuel per year during taxiing opera- is more acute with short- and medium-haul aircraft that spend tions alone. This also amounts to an output of around 13 million relatively longer time taxiing between runway and gate, as tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. Despite the introduction of against time in the air. more fuel-efficient and less polluting turbofan and turboprop engines, the rapid growth of air travel in recent years has contributed to an increase in total pollution attributable to aviation.

Research efforts are directed towards reducing fuel burn and Lower Fuel Burn being environment-friendly. l EGTS can result in savings of up to four per cent of total block fuel consumption Doing Away With Tugs l EGTS expected to generate a projected savings of more than The reliance on tugs for aircraft pushback can often result in $2,00,000 per single-aisle aircraft annually. delay. Milan Cornelsen, Director Fleet and Asset Management

Huge Savings

TUIfly, explained, “Electric taxiing would bring independence and fuel reduction to our fleet. Independence, as we will not need any push-back cart at any outstations and destinations.If the push-back cart is defective or occupied or the driver is on strike, our passengers currently have to wait for their departure. With an electric taxi system we would just need the marshal to help guide us.” Any solution that could eliminate the need for tugs is an added bonus and would make the dispatch process faster and more autonomous.

The benefits to passengers of a tug-less approach to aircraft dispatches would be faster turnaround. And if the aircraft’s engines were not running when the aircraft arrives at the gate, ground-handling staff would be able to access the aircraft more quickly as well as disembark passengers and off-load baggage faster. The need for an alternative solution to traditional aircraft taxiing operations, which reduces fuel burn and delivers environmental benefits, is now greater than ever. As a result, a number of initiatives are underway to develop electric taxi solutions, an effort that has been going on since the oil crisis of the 1970s.

Currently both Boeing and Airbus are exploring possibilities of autonomous taxiing solutions and there are a number of these being brought to the market.

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Improved “On-Time” Performance l Aircraft equipped with the system are able to “push-back and go” more quickly l Reduces both gate and tarmac congestion l Offers significant advantages for airports, including up to a two-minute improvement on each dispatch l Optimised aircraft ground traffic l Reduced turnaround times l Faster passenger disembarkation l Earlier luggage delivery Greener Operation l Noise reduction l Offers a reduction of up to 75 per cent in carbon (CO2/HC/ CO) and up to 50 per cent nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

Added Value l Eliminates the need for aircraft push back and repositioning via a tug tractor l Reduces brake wear, extending main engine life l Decreases engine maintenance by limiting foreign object debris damage caused by material being ingested into the engines while taxiing.

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environment TECHNOLOGY

EGTS Milestones l Q1 2012: System architecture frozen l Q3 2012: Manufacturing of first components l Q1 2013: System integration testing begins l Q2 2013: TRL4 targeted l Mid 2013: Fully integrated prototype system test on aircraft l Q4 2013: TRL5 targeted l Q1 2014: Expected full scale development programme launch l End 2016: Target EIS

Michel Laudy, Short and Medium Haul Fleet Director, Air France–KLM, hopes that electric taxiing would be a major boon.

“Green taxiing could add some value to Air France. At Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG) airport we typically have around 70 single-aisle aircraft operating on routes less than 500 nautical miles every day and the time per aircraft for manoeuvring on ground averages 17 minutes. At Orly (ORY) it is around ten minutes. The fuel savings with an electric solution would be significant. It would also give greater autonomy to the aircraft and reduce handling costs.”

Noise Levels EGTS would also have a considerable impact on airport noise and emission levels, offering a reduction of up to 75 per cent in carbon (CO2/HC/CO) and up to 50 per cent Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions. Michel Laudy said that with both CDG and ORY being close to Paris, any reduction in emissions and noise would be vitally important. “Among the options on a new Airbus aircraft, a green taxi solution would certainly be worth considering.”Airbus A-320 Captain, Uwe Leberl of Lufthansa AG believes that the benefits of an e-taxi solution are wide-ranging in terms of fuel saving, drastically reduced push-back charges, reduced emissions and noise. “This sends a signal out to the world that something is being done to reduce the impact of our industry on the environment.”

He added, “We have around 90 aircraft that could benefit from an electric taxi solution. There are still some aspects that I would like to know more about, such as the human-machine interface for operating such a system, but in principle, I think, it is a good idea. I think the time savings in what would have been the push-back phase are also worth considering – it would certainly accelerate the process.

Advantages Galore An e-taxi solution would require a significant change to the workflow required to dispatch an aircraft, including Air Traffic Control (ATC) procedures and that needs to be carefully considered. Alain Chapgier, Corporate Strategy Manager at Aéroports de Paris, said that an autonomous e-taxi solution brought other benefits too.

“Such a system would work at any airport, both during the dispatch and landing phases. It could also be used to move aircraft to maintenance facilities or parking stands as well. This saves time and money for both the airline and the airport handling teams. “As our average airport taxi-out time is around 25 minutes in total, we think that any solution must have certain minimum parameters, such as a taxi speed of at least 20 knots with good acceleration up to 10 knots. It must also be able to deal with slopes and have good integration with the aircraft’s existing systems.”

And there are other benefits too. Line maintenance time would be lowered because brake wear will be reduced and

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engine life extended. Engines are prone to ingest large amounts of dust and debris when powering up on the ground at an airport. With EGTS the problem is reduced considerably.

The project has received a lot of interest from the aviation industry. James Crites, Executive Vice President of Operations at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, said, “When I first saw the presentation on electric taxiing I thought this was potentially another tool that we could consider to address the emissions challenge that we all face.” Apart from the environmental benefits it is also attractive in terms of reducing operating costs. Damage and injury caused by debris and equipment blown by engines being run up on the ramp would also be eliminated,” he said.

Honeywell, Safran Synergies The EGTS initiative was first announced at the Paris Airshow in June 2011, where Honeywell and Safran signed a memorandum of understanding to create a joint venture company called EGTS International to deliver innovative new electric green taxiing system solutions for new and existing aircraft. The joint venture encompasses joint system development, production, marketing and support.

The partnership provides systems expertise with a combined over eight years of electric taxi research and development experience. This combines Honeywell’s extensive knowledge of avionics and auxiliary power systems with Safran expertise in landing gear systems. Both bring complementary capabilities in terms of electric power products and systems integration, calling on the expertise of more than 200 engineers at 16 locations worldwide, from France, the US, Canada, UK, India and Mexico.

So, how does it work? Using the APU generator to power electric motors integrated into main landing gear, the EGTS system allows aircraft to push-back autonomously from the gate without the need for a tug and taxi between gate and runway without requiring the use of aircraft engines. Two of the main wheels are equipped with an electric motor, reduction gearbox and clutch assembly to drive the aircraft. The main landing gear wheels were chosen for maximised performance, traction and agility.

Olivier Savin, EGTS Program Vice President at Safran, explained, “The primary driver for powering the main wheels rather than the nose wheel is traction. Less than ten per cent of the aircraft weight is on the aircraft nose gear making it difficult to achieve the taxi performance required by airlines in all operating conditions. The EGTS will work on any type of taxiway condition – rain, ice or snow, where greater tire ground friction is required.” Each of the aircraft’s powered wheels is equipped with an electro-mechanical actuator, while power electronics and system controllers give pilots total control of the aircraft’s speed and direction during taxi operations.

The initial EGTS tests were completed in Montpellier, France, on an Airbus A320. The tests were to evaluate runway conditions and calculate the necessary loads needed for moving the aircraft on the ground. Brian Wenig, EGTS Program Vice President at Honeywell, explained further, “What became clear was that the decision to power the main wheels and not the nose wheels was the right one. Under certain conditions such as when the ground is icy, wet or there is an incline, poor adhesion (grip) can occur if the front wheels are driven. But when mounted on the main landing gear wheels, closer to the aircraft’s centre of gravity, the problem is eliminated.”

The big benefit of EGTS is that it is a fully-integrated solution, including the cockpit interface, controls, APU integration, wheel mounted motors, actuators and much more. SP

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Show Preview

Farnborough 2014

Photograph: Farnborough Airshow

Window Of Opportunity Farnborough, which began life as a shop window exclusively for the British aerospace industry, now attracts 56 per cent of international exhibitors

By R. Chandrakanth

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SHOW Preview Farnborough 2014 and airport development are happening at a rapid pace and all such development require technology, equipment, manpower, expertise, finance, etc. There cannot be a better place than Farnborough to scout for these.

The week-long event from July 14 to 20, 2014, that combines a major trade exhibition for the aerospace and defence industries with a public airshow, remains pivotal to the growth of the aviation sector per se. The challenge for the organisers, in this case the Farnborough International Limited (FIL), a whollyowned subsidiary of ADS Group Limited, is mammoth, not just in organising the event, but bringing new ideas, new aircraft and new beginnings to the table.

Raising the Game The Chief Executive of FIL, Shaun Omrod, said, “We have had to raise the game to attract both industry professionals and the public. The Farnborough International Airshow is the meeting place for the aerospace community. No other event allows visitors and exhibitors the opportunity to meet new and potential business partners, colleagues and existing business customers. While the major manufacturers use the event to display their ‘muscle’ with major announcements and showcase aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II and the Airbus A350 on display, it is the unrecorded supply-chain business that is created as a result of the show that is the true key to this event’s success. As show organisers, it is our business to facilitate that.”

Innovations this year include a new row A of permanent chalets facing the flight line, an extended conference programme and a scheme to make it more affordable for the small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK to exhibit. Farnborough began life as a shop window exclusively for the British aerospace industry and UK-based companies still account for 44 per cent of exhibitors. This year there are 18 international pavilions including Norway and Malaysia making their debut.

At the time of writing, 70 aircraft had confirmed participation in the static and flying display. The list includes the Airbus A350-900, MSN-4, A380, an A320 with sharklets and a Boeing 787-8 on static display. There will be 23 aircraft demonstrating their prowess in the skies.

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It appears that international airshows are coming in quick succession, calling for ingenuity on the part of exhibitors, not just to grab headlines, but to stay ahead of the competition.

While the airshows at Le Bourget, Paris, and Farnborough, UK, are crème de la crème, shows at Berlin, Dubai, Singapore and even Bengaluru are strategically important and have been marketed accordingly. Nevertheless, Farnborough and Paris remain the trendsetters of aviation, they give an insight into what the future of aviation holds with new technologies coming into the marketplace; new ideas being thrown up at discussions; new partnerships getting sealed and a new world aviation order getting shape.

India and China are top on the agenda where there is humongous potential in terms of commercial aviation, regional aviation, general aviation and airport development. For instance, India is expected to order as many as 400 aircraft in 2014-15. So is the story in China where aircraft acquisition

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100 Years of Aviation The theme for the public airshow this year is 100 years of aviation and will feature aircraft from every decade of the past century. The public weekend will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I with a display by the Great War Display team. FIL has secured more flying and static display aircraft than ever before appearing for the public. A highlight of the new look public area this year will be a ‘training zone’ with military training aircraft on show from the past century.

show facts l 20 bespoke buildings for individual exhibitors l 18 international pavilions, two new: Norway and Malaysia l 56 per cent international exhibitors; 44 per cent UK exhibitors l Three new countries participating, including Tunisia, Malaysia

and Thailand l 26 per cent of exhibitors are new to Farnborough Air Show l 15 per cent of exhibitors have increased space over 2012

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SHOW Preview Farnborough 2014 Another new feature of the static display will be the vintage aircraft collection tent from the dawn of aviation up to and including World War I such as the Sopwith Camel, Wright Flyer and Bleriot XI. Large US Contingent Reflecting positive and growing business relationships between the United States and Great Britain, airshow organisers FIL has confirmed increased presence of American companies. Kallman Worldwide, organisers of the US Pavilion indicate they have over 230 companies taking part within the pavilion taking over 7,500 square metres of exhibition space.

The US primes have also secured prominent positions at the show with participation from Lockheed Martin, Boeing, L-3 Communications, Bell Helicopters, UTC and Raytheon, to name a few. Furthermore, the show will see a strong presence from the US Department of Defense, which is occupying a new larger area of the static display line-up.

Defence Secretary, Philip Hammond, said that the decision to fly the combat aircraft outside of the United States for the first time, following discussions with his US counterpart, Secretary Hagel, is a further demonstration of the progress with the Lightning II programme. The selection of two UK airshows also demonstrates the significant role that Britain has in the programme.

Approximately 15 per cent of every aircraft is built in the UK. Hammond added, “The US and the UK have worked closely together on the F-35 project from the beginning. We are the only country that is a first-tier partner in the project, which is sustaining tens of thousands of jobs in the UK. This fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft will be a major boost to British combat air power and it is entirely fitting that the F-35’s first stop outside the United States will be in the UK.” Dedicated General Aviation Park This year, FIL is introducing a dedicated General Aviation (GA) Park as part of the new look Farnborough Airshow. The GA

Photographs: AirBus, Lockheed Martin

The double-deck A380, the world’s largest commercial aircraft flying, will be on display at Farnborough International Airshow 2014; As part of its UK debut, the event will also see the F-35 Lightning II flying at the show.

As part of its UK debut, the event will also see the F-35 Lightning II flying at the show. Led by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 programme is another example of strong relations between the two countries with the UK being the only country to be a first-tier partner in the project securing tens of thousands of jobs in the UK. Speaking about the strong US participation, FIL Commercial Director, Amanda Stainer said, ‘The US is our largest exhibitor, second only to the UK. The Paris Airshow last year saw very little presence of US companies and no participation from the US Department of Defense. We are delighted to see that US aerospace companies, both large and small, have chosen the Farnborough International Airshow as their platform from which to do business. It is extremely positive news.”

The F-35 Lightning II’s presence also mark’s a unique aviation first with the aircraft’s VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) predecessor the Sea Harrier, also being present at the show.

Ormrod said, “The Harrier has played a distinct role in modern aviation history, a hero of the Falklands War and a superb example of aviation technology. The opportunity to see the last and next-generation of vertical thrust aircraft at the same venue marks a milestone in aviation history.”

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Park will showcase the latest in private and recreational flying and hopes to attract all the leading aircraft and helicopter manufacturers and distributors in the category.

FIL Director heading the public airshow development, Trevor Barratt, said, “The GA Park will bridge the gap between the public and trade event. It will allow even more manufacturers and distributors to attend the world-class exhibition and showcase their products and will introduce a new consumer audience to the show.” The GA Park is just one element of Farnborough Airshow’s public weekend. The new look show will form a stand-alone consumer event with its own branding and deliver an even wider offering to visitors.

In 2012, Farnborough attracted 1,09,000 trade visitors over the first five days and 1,00,000 public visitors on Saturday and Sunday. Orders and commitments for 758 aircraft $72 billion were announced..

With forecasts of 35,280 new airplane acquisitions by 2032, valued at $4.8 trillion, the prospects of the aviation industry is good, but certainly not without its set of challenges, be it economic, regulatory, fuel related and pilot related. And Farnborough can throw up solutions to these challenges. SP

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Business Aviation

India

Cooperation: the Way Forward

With a seemingly proactive government in place, the Business Aircraft Operators Association is hopeful that the bottlenecks affecting the growth of the sector would be addressed soon

By R. Chandrakanth

Photograph: Sp guide pubns

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Last year was pretty bad for the general aviation sector in India with about 19 business jets from India getting sold in the overseas markets, while the addition was just three. Business in this segment of the industry was becoming difficult, particularly with a lackadaisical approach of the government.

At India Aviation, Hyderabad in March this year, there was a mixed feeling about the sector, despair on the one hand and hope on the other.

The air was thick with anticipation that a stable government would come in place and address not just the needs of the business aviation sector; but also of various sectors, all of which had been hit by policy paralysis. And then came the elections soon after, and the campaign by Narendra Modi of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has become a trail-blazer in Indian elections.

The Prime Ministerial-candidate criss-crossed the nation by private aircraft in one of the most invigorating campaigns ever.

The impact of his campaign is there for all to see. Modi led the BJP to a thumping win, a good sign for the country which was looking forward to a stable government, away from coalition government that has had negative impact on decision-making.

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Cooperation and Not Confrontation Till recently, the government has been at loggerheads with the Business Aircraft Operators Association and at the crux of all this was the perspective of those in the government that business aviation was for the rich and famous and that it did not need any support.

The three-year old BAOA has often mentioned that the Association was being unfairly targeted about safety standards in the industry. “It is dismaying to find that undue and subjective publicity is being given to the inspection reports of DGCA, involving aircraft of NSOP holders and private operators. We would like to submit that such subjective and adverse publicity is totally uncalled for, especially since these inspections are a matter of routine,” the BAOA had noted in a letter addressed to the Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The BAOA has also clarified in the letter that these inspections should not be connected with the recent downgrade of India by the US Federal Aviation Administration. These are two independent events. Non-scheduled operators operate fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters that can be hired by anyone to fly to any destination that has landing facilities.

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Business Aviation India

After the general election, there is widespread optimism that governance would change for the better. Here the Secretary of Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA), Group Captain (Retd) R.K. Bali mentions the efforts being undertaken to impress upon the government the importance of general aviation.

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): Prime Minister, Narendra Modi as also other political entities used private aircraft extensively in their election campaigns. Having found enormous benefits of private aircraft, is the government making life better for business aviation or does the plight continue?

Group Captain (Retd) R.K. Bali (Bali): Having understood the benefits that business aviation affords in terms of flexibility and efficiency of operations, we expect the new government to do everything possible for ensuring optimal growth of general aviation (GA) and Business Aviation (BA) sectors in India. We believe the recent elections have underscored the importance of General and Business Aviation in terms of providing connectivity to the hinterland. GA & BA are an important tool to enable business, similarly it has enabled political leaders to reach out to the masses across length and breadth of our country.

SP’s: Have you approached the new government with pressing issues regulatory, particularly of the business aviation sector? If yes, could you give an update?

Bali: Yes. We have been doing so for the last two years. But

“It is not fair to make Indian non-scheduled aircraft operators a scapegoat to showcase DGCA’s authority by subjective reporting of the observations during these inspections,” the letter said. DGCA officials had dismissed the allegations saying media reports are about cases where there have been genuine lapses by the operators.

“We cannot do anything about the concerns they have over reportage by the media,” a DGCA official has been quoted in the media.

On March 24, to ensure safety of operations during the election season, the DGCA had issued stringent safety guidelines and threatened to cancel the air operators’ permit of business jets and helicopters which failed to conform to these rules.

The guidelines were reissued after the aviation regulator found discrepancies in operating standards by a few nonscheduled operators. On March 22, DGCA had grounded a business jet owned by Reliance Commercial Dealers Ltd, as its safety equipment such as fire extinguisher and personal breathing device, were beyond expiry dates and the commander was found without his flying licence. The commander was suspended for this lapse. The plane was allowed to fly after the safety requirements were met with. The regulator also said an aircraft registered with Jindal Steel and Power had come under scrutiny on the same day. But since it had not made any major violation, it was not grounded. Four days after the guidelines were reissued, a Hawker 800 XP of SRC Aviation, which was to fly from Delhi to Colombo, was not allowed to takeoff.

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there is a renewed effort with greater enthusiasm. We recently had a meeting with the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, both of whom have agreed to address the key issues on infrastructure, taxation and regulatory impediments on high priority SP’s: In the recent past, the DGCA has eased regulatory nod for charter operators to fly to foreign destinations facilitating one-day approvals. How much of a difference will it make? Also is the regulator moving away from a rigid approach to business aviation?

Bali: This decision was taken last year. However, the implementation had left much to be desired. BAOA believes that these clearances to fly abroad should be dispensed with, keeping in mind the standard practices across the world.

SP’s: Is the negative growth continuing and fleet sizes are going down? How alarming is it?

Bali: It was alarming till the last year. However, things seem to have stabilised now and we are optimistic that the growth will return to the positive regime.

•

The unanimous opinion in the industry is that the authorities need to formulate policies after mutual consultations and dialogue. Thereafter, if the operator violates rules, the DGCA could then be at liberty to take strict action. Cooperation is the way forward.

One-day clearance of charter flights The DGCA has issued an Air Transport Circular on June 12, 2014, which gives clearances for private charter flights with just one day notice.

The DGCA said in order to facilitate the Non-Scheduled Operators’ Permit (NSOP) holders for obtaining flight clearance of Air Ambulances on Saturdays, Sundays and other holidays, it has authorised officers of DGCA to entertain such requests even at their residence. The DGCA has also decided that this facility will be extended to any other charter flights to be operated by Indian operators to destinations abroad. However, it said that minimum one day notice will be required for charter flights other than ambulance flights.

The officers who could be contacted at residence for approvals are Sunil Rathee, Assistant Director of Operations (Air Transport) 011–27570196 (Residence) and 8527154777 (Mobile) and Ved Prakash, Deputy Director of Operations (Air Transport) 011–25643622 (Residence) and 9958100896 (Mobile) 9958100896. SP

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H

hall of fame History works in strange ways.

William Mitchell, a United States Army general, was court-martialled not for any grave wrongdoing but because of “conduct of a nature to bring discredit upon the military service.” In truth he had antagonised several high-ranking figures in the US defence establishment with his arguments and criticism, accusing them of an “almost treasonable administration of the national defence” for investing in battleships instead of aircraft carriers.

Although he was effectively sidelined for the rest of his life, his ideas eventually prevailed, and the US at last began building a competent aerial capability.

By the time it entered World War II, the country was the world’s most potent air power. And today, Mitchell is regarded as the father of the US Air Force, a service he was never part of because it was only established 12 years after his death!

William “Billy” Mitchell was born in Nice, France, on December 29, 1879, and grew up in Milwaukee. In 1906, flight was in its infancy, yet he accurately predicted that future conflicts would predominantly occur in the air, not on the ground. In 1915, he joined the aviation section of the US Army’s Signal Corps. Although he was too old to qualify for military flight training, his keen interest in aviation led him to sign up for civilian flight lessons at his own expense.

After the US entered World War I, Mitchell served in France. In September 1918, he planned and led the first massive coordinated airland offensive in history. The air phase of the Battle of Saint-Mihiel involved 98 British, French and Italian squadrons massed under his tactical command. Almost 1,500 aircraft operating in unending waves along the 130-km front were able to stamp tactical superiority over the Germans.

But Mitchell’s real battle began once the War ended. Appointed Deputy Director of the Air Service, he began advocating increased investment in air power. Hardly any country in the world had an independent air force, yet he argued that air power would very soon become the dominant feature of warfighting and that the US must create an independent air arm on par with its Army and Navy. He criticised America’s excessive depen-

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dence on the US Navy as its first line of defence against an overseas enemy, insisting that the Navy could offer no cover against strategic bombardment.

Indeed, a fleet of anti-shipping aircraft could defend a coastline far better than a combination of coastal guns and naval vessels. He declared that it was better to build a thousand swift bombers than to expend resources fruitlessly on one lumbering battleship.

William Mitchell (1879–1936) William Mitchell criticised America’s excessive dependence on the US Navy as its first line of defence against an overseas enemy, insisting that the Navy could offer no cover against strategic bombardment

Most controversially, Billy Mitchell claimed that bombers could sink battleships even under war conditions.

Newton D. Baker, US Secretary of War, responded, “That idea is so damned nonsensical and impossible that I’m willing to stand on the bridge of a battleship while that nitwit tries to hit if from the air.” In May 1921, Mitchell organised a series of bombing missions against stationary ships that had been captured

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from the Germans, in an effort to conclusively demonstrate his theory. Alexander Seversky, a veteran pilot, suggested that near-miss bombs would inflict more damage than direct hits because the expanding water pressure of underwater blasts could push in and separate the vessel’s hull plates. After successfully sinking some small ships, the demonstrations came to a head on July 21, when the US Navy deployed the battleship Ostfriedland, the pride of the erstwhile German fleet considered to be unsinkable. Martin MB-2 bombers dropped six 2,000-pound bombs in quick succession and in just 21 minutes the Ostfriedland sank to the bottom of the sea. That settled the debate in spectacular fashion. Thankfully, Secretary Baker was not on the bridge.

Mitchell was an expert at milking the media by doing or making others do whatever would keep aviation in the news. However, in October 1925 he went too far. He issued a stinging press statement in response to two major naval aviation disasters that resulted in the loss of three seaplanes and the airship USS Shenandoah. “These incidents are the direct result of the incompetency, criminal negligence and almost treasonable administration of the national defence by the Navy and War Departments,” Mitchell stated. “The bodies of my former companions in the air moulder under the soil in America and Asia, Europe and Africa, many, yes a great many, sent there directly by official stupidity.” President Calvin Coolidge ordered that he be court-martialled for insubordination. He was found guilty and his subsequent resignation on February 1, 1926, marked the end of a brilliant military career.

Billy Mitchell died on February 19, 1936. During his years spent in the forefront of aviation he made a number of visionary predictions. In 1917 he said, “The British Isles will someday be vulnerable to mass aerial attack.” In 1940 the German Luftwaffe proved him right. In 1925 he warned “Japan may unleash a war in the Pacific. She could attack America by striking first at Hawaii, some fine Sunday morning.” The Japanese forces did attack Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941, a Sunday. SP — Joseph Noronha

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focus india / SP’S SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT / News Digest HAL For ReDesign Of HJT-36 Sitara IJT The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has published a request for information announcing a requirement for technical assistance from global aviation firms to reduce the weight and optimise the HJT-36 Sitara intermediate jet trainer (IJT), essentially a structural redesign of the platform. Affirming that the aircraft, 85 of which are on order, is to enter squadron service with the IAF within the year, there is little clarity on whether the fresh requirement impinges on existing timelines, principally final operational clearance (FOC) officially fixed for December 2014. Earlier this year, the Indian Air Force had also sent out an RFI inviting interest in a potential deal for intermediate trainer jets. HAL’s RFI for the redesign provides a detailed list of the major substructures that go into the overall build of the HJT-36. HAL has identified a weight reduction as the only way the aircraft can fully meet the IAF’s requirements. As things stand, it remains unclear whether the December 2014 deadline for FOC still stands, or could be pushed further.

Private test pilots required for AEW&C programme The DRDO is looking for two fully qualified test pilots from the private sector to speed up testing on the AEW&C programme. With two aircraft Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft fully fitted with the Indian sensors and mission systems, the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) has published a requirement for two additional pilots (preferably retired IAF test pilots, both Indian nationals) from a qualified service provider to aid the development flight trial phase, currently being conducted by CABS and the IAF’s ASTE. The new test pilots will be required to log about 300 flight hours per year, participate in technical meetings for the evaluation of mission systems. The DRDO has said preference will be given to pilots with multi-engine flying experience, knowledge of flight testing mission systems and avionics, experience of at least 1,500 flying hours, a good safety record, cleared by ASTE for flight testing.

The DRDO has stipulated that the service provider needs to be a recognised firm already operating a fleet of aircraft/MRO/

Military

General advised it to “wait” before taking any action in this regard in view of the ongoing probes in the case in both India and Italy.

Asia-Pacific Jaitley to review AgustaWestland Helicopter Case

Defence Minister Arun Jaitley will review the `3,600-crore AgustaWestland helicopter deal with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) preparing a presentation for him on the procurement which was scrapped after allegations of bribery and payment of kickbacks. The deal pertains to 12 AW-101 VVIP helicopters procured for the Indian Air Force. The MoD will also provide details of the steps taken to recover bank guarantees and the stand to be taken during legal proceedings in Italian courts in the future. The MoD recently received a big boost when an Italian court allowed it to encash over `1,800 crore out of `2,200 crore deposited as bank guarantees in an Italian bank. It had already encashed bank guarantees worth over `200 crore from Indian banks.

India has been working on procedures to claim over `5,470 crore from the company in the form of seizure of bank guarantees and imposing penalties.

The MoD had also initiated the process to blacklist the firm but the Solicitor

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chartered aircraft or an aircraft manufacturer in its own right.

IAF launches mobile air combat game The Indian Air Force recently released its long-awaited mobile air combat game, titled ‘Guardians Of The Skies’ (GOTS) on July 3. Touted to be India’s first 3D air combat game, GOTS features playability across mobile platforms and was released by the IAF’s Air Officer Personnel in the presence of children, who were invited to try out the game live. Users of the game will initially only be able to fly the Su-30MKI in a range of missions. The second phase of the game will introduce other platforms including the Mi-17 chopper, Mirage 2000 and Tejas fighters. Missions are expected to include interdiction, air-to-air combat, reconnaissance, air dominance, precision strike and maritime strike. Helicopter missions will include humanitarian missions and special heliborne operations both at land and sea. • For complete versions log on to: www.sps-aviation.com & www.spsmai.com

Su-34 FrontLine Bombers transferred to the Russian Air Force

European and US helicopter makers bid for $2 billion Japan deal

Japan is in early talks with top global helicopter makers and their Japanese partners about a deal worth around $2 billion to build transport aircraft for its military that would also be sold overseas. The talks represent another milestone in Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s bid to nurture a domestic military export industry that would also bring down Japan’s defence procurement costs at a time of rising tensions between Tokyo and an increasingly assertive China. The project, dubbed the UH-X, is meant to replace around 150 of Japan’s ageing fleet of troop-carrying Huey helicopters. It is learnt that Airbus Helicopters, a division of the European aerospace giant, has joined with defence contractor Kawasaki Heavy Industries, while Bell Helicopter has partnered with Fuji Heavy Industries. AgustaWestland is planning to sell Japan helicopters through Japanese trading company Mitsui & Co which would be assembled

by Fuji Heavy.

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Sukhoi Company has transferred to the Russian Air Force the first batch of serial Su-34 frontline bombers under the 2014 State Defence Order. The new bombers were delivered according to the 2012 State Contract for a large batch of Su-34s. The five-year State Contract for Su-34s signed in 2008 was fulfilled last December. Government contracts for Su-34s signed during 2008 and 2012, are the largest orders for combat aircraft under the State Armaments Program for the years 2011-20. Their fulfillment guarantees a stable work load of the Sukhoi Company and its partner companies in the long run. The features of the new generation frontline bomber include an increased range up to 4,000 km, maximum speed of up to 1,900

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News Digest kmph, eight tonnes payload, new weapon system and an air refuelling system.

UAVs and unmanned combat air vehicle business segments.

Russian Mi-35 Helicopters for Pakistan

Americas

Head of the Russian delegation at the Eurosatory 2014, Igor Sevastyanov, said that Russia plans to supply Pakistan with Mi-35 combat helicopters to fight drug trafficking. Head of Russia’s Rostec Corporation, a high-tech industrial producer and exporter, Sergei Chemezov earlier stated that supplies of military equipment including Mi-35 helicopters to Pakistan are to resume. At the same time, a source in Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry told RIA Novosti that Russia never fully adhered to the embargo on military deliveries to Pakistan. Indian media reported the Indian Government was concerned about Russia’s plans to sell military equipment to its long-time regional rival and will watch the next steps very closely. At the same time Rostec stated that India has always been and still is Russia’s strategic partner in military cooperation in the region, “however expanding our activities to other counties in South and South East Asia has always been on the agenda and Pakistan is no exception.”

HAL to embark on Large-Scale Modernisation

While speaking at the Aeronautical Society of India in Hyderabad, Dr R.K. Tyagi disclosed that as part of business development initiatives the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) intends to diversify into civil aviation and is making efforts to re-open HAL Bengaluru airport for shorthaul operations. “We are already in a position to operate civil aircraft at HAL, Ojhar (Nasik), just about 200 km from Mumbai and 220 km from Pune. This should give boost to regional economy”, he added.

Dr Tyagi felt that modernisation is key to any business, especially in the aerospace sector. HAL has cleared modernisation proposals worth `6,000 crore in this direction besides focusing on redefining the customer sourcing philosophy, advance resource planning and strengthening project and contract management.

HAL will take up more activities involving

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Sikorsky awarded contract to develop combat rescue helicopter

Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp, has been awarded a US Air Force contract to develop new combat search and rescue helicopters.

Sikorsky will develop a derivative of the UH-60M Black Hawk for the Air Force’s rescue mission. The award of an estimated $1.28 billion engineering & manufacturing development contract includes development and integration of the rescue mission systems, delivery of four combat rescue helicopters as well as seven aircrew and maintainer training systems. Initial training of Air Force aircrew and maintainers and five combat rescue helicopters are also expected to be delivered by 2020, once additional aircraft and training options are exercised. This contract is the first step in the eventual production and fielding of up to 112 aircraft with a potential value of approximately $7.9 billion.

US Navy’s latest Aircraft Launch System, EMALS

The past and future overlapped recently on a land-based test site at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, when the near-silent armature of the US Navy’s new Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) propelled an F/A-18C Hornet. EMALS is the newest carrier catapult technology in 60 years which has completed the second and final phase of aircraft compatibility testing (ACT) this spring with the first-ever launches of the legacy Hornet. EMALS is replacing the steam launch system beginning with the new Ford-class carriers. USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is under construction at the Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyard in Newport News, Virginia, where nearly all EMALS hardware components have been delivered and installed. More than 25 years of technology development has gone into EMALS, resulting in the current configuration being installed on CVN 78.

Civil Aviation Asia-Pacific Boeing, Japanese partners reach agreement on 777X supplier work Boeing has announced that it has reached an agreement with five key

QuickRoundUp

Airbus

Delta will grow its A320 Family with an order for 15 A321ceo (current engine option) aircraft to offset jet retirements. The airline has selected CFM56-5B engines from CFM International to power the newly ordered A321ceo aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery starting in 2018.

CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran) and GE. Airbus confirms that Emirates Airline has decided to cancel its order of 70 A350 XWB aircraft. The decision follows ongoing discussions with the airline in light of their fleet requirement review, as demonstrated by their order of 50 additional A380 at the last Dubai Air Show and their continuous interest in the programme.

Airbus Helicopters

The first “built-in-Brazil” EC-725 was delivered to the Brazilian Navy on June 13, marking a major milestone in Airbus Helicopters’ cooperation with the country to supply missionready multi-role rotorcraft for its three military services and to develop a capable national helicopter industry.

Airbus Defence and Space

Prince Feisal bin Al Hussein of Jordan attended the announcement that the King Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau, ATK and Airbus Defence and Space signed an agreement to cooperatively work together on a C-295 gunship version. Two AC-235 gunships have already been delivered to Jordan by ATK at SOFEX. The AC-235 Light Gunship includes integrated mission and fire control systems, electro-optical and radar sensors, Hellfire missiles, ATK’s side-mounted M230 30mm chain gun, an integrated defensive suite and 2.75-inch guided rockets.

Boeing

Boeing has announced that China Eastern Airlines has committed to purchase 80 737s, including next-generation 737 and 737 MAX airplanes. When finalised, the order will become China’s largest-ever purchase by an airline for single-aisle airplanes, worth more than $8 billion at current list prices.

Boeing Defense, Space and Security, St. Louis, Missouri, has been awarded an $80 million indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for Small Diameter Bomb Increment 1 (SDB 1) technical support. Work is expected to be completed by June 19, 2019.

China

China’s home-grown regional jet ARJ-21-700 coded 105, has accomplished its maiden flight in Shanghai. It will be the first airplane to be delivered to its first user Chengdu Airlines.

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News Digest QuickRoundUp

Dassault Aviation

Dassault Aviation SA is poised to win a contract from Qatar for 72 Rafale jets, a French Government official said, indicating the jet may have its first export contract before India signs a commitment for 126 units. A contract would probably come in two batches of 36 aircraft, the official added.

L-3 Communications

L-3 Communications, Platform Integration Division, has been awarded a not-to-exceed $41.5 million undefinitised contract action for the procurement and modification of four intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft, training and spares in support of the counterterrorism efforts in Yemen. Work is expected to be completed by September 30, 2015.

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co, Sunnyvale, has been awarded a $1,863 million modification to previously awarded contract for Space-Based Infrared Systems Geosynchronous Earth Orbit 5 and 6 satellites, including performance incentives and options for acoustic testing and launch operations. Work is expected to be completed

by September 30, 2022.

Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training, Moorestown, New Jersey, has been awarded a $915 million fixed-price-incentive-firm, cost-reimbursable and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for engineering, manufacturing and development, production and deployment for the Space Fence programme. The contractor will have 52 months after contract award to reach initial operational capability.

Lockheed Martin has received a contract from the US Air Force with an initial value of $109 million for sustainment of the reentry subsystem for the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co, has been awarded a $2,229 million fixed-price modification under contract FA8625-07-C-6471 for the C-5 Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program. The contract modification installs proven GE engine and 69 aircraft enhancements to improve reliability, maintainability and availability in order to extend the C-5M fleet life through 2040.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries The wings of the Mitsubishi Regional Jet’s (MRJ) first flight test aircraft have been mated with the fuselage at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ final-assembly factory which marks another major milestone towards MRJ’s completion.

Mitsubishi Aircraft took delivery of the pylon from Spirit AeroSystems and the PurePower PW1200G engine from Pratt & Whitney. Mitsubishi Aircraft will soon commence the engine-mounting process.

Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman Corporation has been awarded a contract from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute

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Japanese partners for significant work on the new 777X airplane. Japan Aircraft Industries (JAI) and Japan Aircraft Development Corporation (JADC) have signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) to provide approximately 21 per cent of the major airplane structure components for the 777X, including fuselage sections, centre wing sections. pressure bulkheads, main landing gear wells, passenger, cargo and main landing gear doors, wing components and wing-body fairings. JAI is a consortium of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Fuji Heavy Industries, ShinMaywa Industries and NIPPI Corporation. JADC is a nonprofit foundation established to enhance the competitiveness of the Japanese aircraft industry. Boeing has partnered with Japanese aerospace companies for nearly five decades to develop and manufacture the next-generation 737, 737 MAX, 747, 767, 777, 787 Dreamliner and now the 777X. In 2013, Boeing spent more than $4 billion on goods and services in Japan, supporting tens of thousands of aerospace jobs.

Europe A350 XWB Test Fleet now complete

Show Calendar 14–20 July Farnborough International Airshow Farnborough Airport, Farnborough, UK www.farnborough.com 28 July–3 August EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Wittman Regional Airport, Oshkosh, USA www.airventure.org 30–31 July Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles Kensington Close Hotel, London, UK www.ucavconference.com 12–14 August LABACE São Paulo, Brazil www.abag.org.br/labace2014 20–21 August Integrated Air & Missile Defence Asia Venue to be confirmed, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia www.air missiledefenceasia.com 10–11 September Business Aircraft Europe Expo London Biggin Hill Airport, UK www.miuevents.com/bae2014 16–18 September Military Airlift Kensington Close Hotel, London, UK www.militaryairliftevent.com

With the first flight of A350 MSN005, the five-strong development fleet is now complete. Being the second passenger cabin-equipped A350 and tasked with route proving and - Extended range Twin Operations (ETOPS) validation, MSN005 embodies the operationally definitive configuration for type certification duties. This milestone implies that the A350 XWB development programme is at full speed and on track for certification in the third quarter of this year, to be followed thereafter by delivery of the first customer aircraft to Qatar Airways in the fourth quarter. As of today, the A350 XWB programme has already achieved more than 2,000 flight test hours in around 500 flights and with this the programme is demonstrating the highest flying rate ever achieved in Airbus flight tests, with around 80 flight hours per aircraft per month.

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17–21 September Africa Aerospace and Defence 2014 Air Force Base Waterkloof, City of Tshwane, Centurion, South Africa www.aadexpo.co.za 22–23 September Military Flight Training Holiday Inn Regents Park, London, UK http://www.smi-online.co.uk/defence/ uk/conference/military-flight-training 25–28 September Istanbul Airshow Ataturk Airport, Istanbul, Turkey www.istanbulairshow.com 14–16 October Helitech International 2014 Amsterdam RAI, Netherlands www.helitechevents.com

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News Digest appointments

BELL HELICOPTER

Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc company, has appointed Paul Watts as General Manager of the new Lafayette Aircraft Assembly Facility.

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

Effective June 18, Northrop Grumman Corporation has appointed Ms Lisa R. Davis as Vice President, Communications, for the Electronic Systems Sector.

The company has also announced the appointment of Kevin A. Bell as Corporate Lead Executive for company business in Dayton, Ohio.

Industry Asia-Pacific First Advanced Composite Floor Beam for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner by TAL

TAL Manufacturing Solutions Ltd (TAL), a Tata enterprise and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Motors, celebrated delivery of its first advanced composite floor beam (ACFB) for the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The ACFB was produced in collaboration with Boeing by TAL at its dedicated world-class facility in MIHAN SEZ in Nagpur.

Boeing India President Pratyush Kumar called it a major milestone not just for Boeing and TAL but also for India.

“This is not just any part,” Kumar said, “it represents a highly advanced form of composite manufacturing that enhances India’s stature in the global supply chain network of Boeing. This is an excellent example of India bringing productivity and competitiveness to Boeing, and Boeing bringing cutting-edge technology to India – a truly win-win partnership.”

Finmeccanica signs Strategic Agreements with China

At the Italy-China Business Forum under way in Beijing, Mauro Moretti, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Finmeccanica, has signed two agreements of strategic importance for the Group in the presence of Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. The first agreement is a memorandum of understanding between Finmeccanica-AgustaWestland

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LOCKHEED MARTIN

Lockheed Martin has appointed John Rood as Vice President for Domestic Business Development and Operations effective June 23, 2014. The company has also appointed Steve O’Bryan as Vice President, International Strategy and Business Development, effective June 30, 2014.

QuickRoundUp

ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has recently nominated Major General (Res) Eyal Ben-Reuven as its new Land Systems Chief Coordinator. He will be IAI’s leading professional authority in the field of land warfare.

and Beijing Automotive Industrial Corporation to pave the way to industrial cooperation for the marketing, maintenance and training for helicopters to be used exclusively for public purposes. As a result of the agreement FinmeccanicaAgustaWestland may soon be supplying the Chinese market with 50 helicopters over a five-year period.

The second agreement concerns a memorandum between Ansaldo STS, a Finmeccanica company, and United Mechanical and Electrical Co Ltd, for the supply of signalling systems based on CBTC technology.

Space Americas First Space Operations Squadron assumes Space Surveillance Mission

The First Space Operations Squadron (SOPS) will assume command and control of the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) this summer. The satellites are a space-based capability that will operate in the neargeosynchronous orbit regime supporting US Strategic Command space surveillance operations as a dedicated Space Surveillance Network sensor. The first two GSSAP satellites are scheduled to launch July 23, aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV booster. The satellites will communicate information through worldwide Air Force Satellite Control Network ground stations to the first SOPS where satellite operators will oversee day-to-day operation of the satellites. •

to provide space inertial reference systems for the GEO-KOMPSAT-2 space satellite programme. Under a firm-fixed-price contract worth nearly $9 million, Northrop Grumman is providing its Scalable Space Inertial Reference Units for the GEO-KOMPSAT-2A and -2B satellites.

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp, has been awarded a $63 million modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Phase II continuation of post-demonstration activities in support of the Navy Unmanned Combat Air System programme. Work is expected to be completed in March 2015.

Raytheon

Raytheon Co has been awarded a $298 million firm-fixedprice and cost-plus-fixed-fee modification for FA870513-C-0005 for the Family of Advanced Beyond Line of Sight Terminals (FAB-T) Command Post Terminals (CPT) Production programme for the US Air Force. Fiscal 2013 through 2019 aircraft and other procurement funds are programmed for this effort, with $31,274 being obligated at time of award.

Raytheon Co, Missile Systems, has been awarded a $223 million fixed-price-incentive-firm contract for the procurement of 485 AIM-9X Block II All Up Round Tactical Low Rate Initial Production Lot 14 Missiles for the US Navy (161), US Air Force (158), and the Governments of Singapore (20), the Netherlands (28), Kuwait (1), and Turkey (117). Work is expected to be completed in December 2016.

Sikorsky

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp, Stratford, Connecticut, has been awarded $110 million for firm-fixed-price delivery order 4019 against a previously issued Basic Ordering Agreement. This order provides for non-recurring engineering and programme support for the production and delivery of nine MH-60R aircraft for the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation under the Foreign Military Sales programme.

Ufa Engine Industrial Association

A steering committee has been established for the PAK FA Prospective Engine Programme at the UFA Engine Industrial Association, which is a subsidiary of the United Engine Corporation. The new division will receive most of the authority to manage the project to build the engine for the fifth-generation fighter jet. India is also associated with PAK FA programme.

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Last word

Illustration: Anoop Kamath

REVAMP THE ENABLER: DPP The global tender for 126 medium multi-role combat appeared to be clouded in discomforting uncertainty generataircraft (MMRCA) for the Indian Air Force (IAF) was floated ing extreme frustration in the IAF. Some in high places were in August 2007, six years after having been initiated by Air even inclined to believe that hopes of the IAF achieving a quanHeadquarters. The MiG-21 fleet had been overtaken by obso- tum leap in operational capability through the acquisition of the lescence and the light combat aircraft was nowhere on the MMRCA or even just to prevent further erosion of operational horizon. In the context of the dwindling fleet, the IAF needed potential, had receded into oblivion.

For the IAF, the situation was precarious and continues to to induct modern multi-role fighters quickly to retain its operational edge. The request for proposal (RFP) for a new platform be so even today. As against a revised authorised strength of was thus initiated through a 211-page tender document formu- combat squadrons of 42 that the IAF is expected to attain by the lated in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure end of the decade, the service currently has just 34 squadrons.

(DPP) that had been crafted by the Ministry of Defence and Also, with the phasing out of the MiG-21 and MiG-27 fleets in first promulgated in 1992 post the collapse of the USSR. The the next three to five years, the strength of combat squadrons objectives were to provide a wider choice, best value for money will drop significantly and could well go down to 26, just 60 per and facilitate growth of the indigenous aerospace industry. cent of the required force level. The situation is hardly comfortThis document referred to as DPP 1992 laid down an inflex- ing for the IAF especially with the growing hostility with China, ible and complex procedure for defence procurement. The DPP the strengthening Sino-Pak nexus and the increasing role of airwas thereafter subjected to frequent modification after each of power in future wars.

However, with the Modi Government now at the helm of which, a new twist was added making the procurement procedure even more tedious. Of course all this was done with affairs in Delhi, there is hope for the IAF. The MMRCA tender entirely noble intentions and in the national interest! The RFP appears to have been infused with a fresh lease of life reviving for the MMRCA was drafted on the basis of DPP 2005 and cur- hopes of the award of contract in the near future to Dassault Aviation for 126 Rafale combat aircraft. The MMRCA project rently, the 2013 version in vogue.

For the MMRCA contract there were six contenders from the also received a powerful impetus from the French Government leading global aerospace majors in the US, Europe and Russia through the two-day visit of Laurent Fabius, the Foreign Minnamely Lockheed Martin Corporation and Boeing from the US, ister of France, that began on June 30, 2014. After his meeting Russian Air Corporation MiG, Saab of Sweden, Dassault Avia- with the his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj and discustion of France and EADS – a consortium of nations from Europe. sion on the $20-billion deal for the Rafale combat aircraft, the After a gruelling technical and flight evaluation, the Rafale French Foreign Minister stated that there had been some positive developments and expressed along with Eurofighter from EADS high level of confidence on the was shortlisted. Finally in January speedy finalisation of the contract.

2012, the IAF declared the Rafale The IAF is now brimming twin-engine fourth-generation with optimism and expects the fighter as the preferred platcontract to be awarded in the form based on lower commercial next few months and the Rafale bid. However, despite prolonged to boost its offensive capability and extensive contract negotiaby the end of the decade. The tions thereafter between the parModi Government has already ties concerned, both Indian and signalled the importance that French, finalisation of the deal and national security in its prioriaward of contract has remained ties and hence cost escalation is elusive. Issues related to fulfilunlikely to be an impediment. ment of offset obligations, transfer However, successful execution of technology, product support, of the MMRCA contract notwithmaintenance, life-cycle cost, crestanding, there is an urgent and ation of infrastructure for licensed unquestionable need to review production and partnership with and restructure the DPP to render Indian aerospace companies both it flexible and dynamic enough to in the public and private sector, all permit the Indian armed forces proved to be contentious and some to meet with the imperatives of being serious impediments during national security. SP the contract negotiations. The IAF The IAF is now brimming with optimism appeared helpless in the matter. In and expects the contract to be awarded fact, in the final months of the UPA —By Air Marshal (Retd) II regime, the deal for the Rafale B.K. Pandey soon

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ISSUE 7 • 2014

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TENTH ANNIVERSARY | 2014

Celebrating a decade of E-Jets.

1,000+ deliveries. 65 airlines. 45 countries.

10 years of changing the way the world flies.