Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces

Hatf V Ghauri missile

2013-02-05T07:34:00.001+05:00

Hatf V Ghauri missile

Pakistan on Wednesday test fired a nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a range of 1,300 kilometres (800 miles), the military said.
The military described the Hatf V Ghauri missile as a liquid fuel missile, which can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads.
It was Pakistan's eighth missile test so far this year and comes two months after its last test of a Hatf-VII with a range of 700 kilometres.

CF-105 Arrow - ,1957

2013-02-04T08:11:00.002+05:00

CF-105 Arrow - ,1957

A beautiful Canadian designed and built delta-winged aircraft - the Avro Arrow. It was a technical and aerodynamic achievement for the Canadian aviation industry as the CF-105 held the promise of Mach 2 speeds at altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet. It was an advance on its peers in other countries but unfortunately it was just too expensive for Canada at the time and the government of the day cancelled the program after only a few jets had been built. Too bad. Its first flight March 1958 and cancelled in February 1959. Only five were built to completion. This photo of the plane on the tarmac was supplied by gnomemeansgnome as was the overhead shot below..

AVRO CF-105 Arrow, 1957

CF-10Canuck fighter/interceptor -

2013-02-04T08:00:00.000+05:00

CF-10Canuck fighter/interceptor -

Designed and builin Canada by Avro Canada. It was the only Canadian-designed fighter to enter mass production. 692 (including 53 for Belgium) of the CF-100s were built and they were in service from 1952 to 1981. Excellent photo supplied by aeroman,

CL-13 Sabre Jet

2013-02-04T07:54:00.001+05:00

CL-13 Sabre Jet

The Sabre was introduced in 1950 and retired by the RCAF in 1962. A total of 1,815 aircraft were built by Canadair in Montreal. It was designed from the F-86 Sabre. This variant was considered one of the finest "dogfighters" of its day. The Golden Hawks acrobatic air team used the CL-13 Sabre until 1964 . Canadair Sabres were dominant in the two major conflicts in which they were employed: the Korean War where F-86 Sabres racked up an impressive 11-1 kill record and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

A nice photo here by Jay:Dee of a "Golden Hawk".

Russian air force puts X-38 air-to-surface missile into service

2013-02-03T08:00:00.000+05:00

The Russian Air Force has put the advanced X-38 air-to-surface missile into service. Although the short-range missile was developed for the T-50 fifth generation fighter jet, the existing bombers and fighter jets, including Su-34 and MiG-29 CMT will be equipped with these missiles.

The missile was tested in great secrecy in 2012, and was commissioned in late December. The delivery of missiles will be started shortly. The new missile will be equipped with independently guided warheads. This solves various tasks and increases the striking power of T-50 multipurpose fighter jets. The missiles will be placed inside the jet that is being developed using stealth technology, says editor-in-chief of the “Nezavisimoe Voennoe Obozrenie” magazine Victor Litovkin.

“A fighter jet may have special characteristics, including non-visibility to radar and other detecting equipment, but it is just an aircraft. But when it is equipped with high-precision guided missiles, this is a high-precision aviation complex. That can be considered a fifth generation fighter jet. The fact, that the missile on board the jet increases its low visibility,” Victor Litovkin said.

The missile will not reflect on the radar screen. It has another advanced feature. It can orient itself during the flight using the GLONASS space navigation system. The recent armed conflicts, including in Afghanistan and the Middle East have shown that it is difficult to discover targets from air even with the guidance from the ground because advanced camouflaging systems have been developed. These missiles will be guided to the target by a GLONASS satellite, says Victor Litovkin.

“The missile’s accuracy increases owing to the GLONASS satellite that sees the target and missile and combines these two points. When taking into account the fact that this is a supersonic missile, a complicated task is solved, a missile that is flying at a high speed is guided to a target. In short, this is a great achievement of Russian missile designers,” Victor Litovkin added.

The X-38 missile is capable of hitting manoeuvering armoured vehicles and hideouts at a distance from 3 to 40 kilometers. These missiles will upgrade the combat capacity of the Russian Air Force.

Pakistan Navy may get P3C Orion this year

2013-02-03T07:50:00.000+05:00

Pakistan Navy may get P3C Orion this year

Pakistan and the United States are expected to complete project of transfer of maritime surveillance P3C Orion aircraft from the US to Pakistan Navy this year in an indication of strengthening defence co-operation between the two countries. Islamabad’s ambassador to the US Sherry Rehman, who has been meeting with top American officials as part [...]

Rear Admiral Khan Hasham Bin Saddique

2013-02-03T07:43:00.002+05:00

Rear Admiral Khan Hasham Bin Saddique takes over helm of Pakistan navy fleet

Karachi: Rear Admiral Khan Hasham Bin Saddique has assumed the office of Commander Pakistan Fleet, today. On command’s assumption, he is now the operational in charge of all PN ships, Submarines, Missile boats and Aviation units. Rear Admiral Hasham joined Pakistan Navy in 1978 and was commissioned in 1980. He has a distinguished career [...]

2012-12-31T08:01:00.000+05:00

Iran will unveil a domestically manufactured missile-launching warship in the coming days, the country’s navy chief said. It comes days after Tehran accused the US Navy of conducting “illegal and provocative acts” in the Persian Gulf.
“One of the new achievements of the Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran is the Sinai 7 missile-launching warship… which will be unveiled on Wednesday,” Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari was quoted as saying by Press TV.
Iranian navy fires a Mehrab missile during the “Velayat-90″ naval wargames in the Strait of Hormuz in southern Iran on January12012.AFPPhoto Ebrahim Noroozi)
The Islamic Republic will hold a major naval drill, dubbed Velayat 91, between December 21 of 2012 and January 20 of 2013 in the country’s southeastern waters. Last December, Iran conducted naval drills in an area stretching from the east of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Aden.
Sayyari also said that the navy had plans to send a fleet of warships to the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Iranian Navy is considered to be the most powerful and efficient in the Persian Gulf, having at its disposal five corvettes, 20 missile and 20 torpedo boats, 13 amphibious ships, 28 auxiliary ships, three submarines, 22 aircraft and 15 helicopters.
Recently Iran unveiled its new, fifth navy base in the Strait of Hormuz, located near a major oil transit corridor, through which one fifth of the world’s oil passes from the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean. The Strait has recently become the focus of tensions, with Tehran threatening to block the route in retaliation for international sanctions over its alleged nuclear weapons program. The US has pledged to keep the strategic oil lane open.

Iran is constantly upgrading its military capabilities. In recent years, Iran declared it had made great achievements in the defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in essential military equipment and systems. The country produces its own tanks, self-propelled guns and multiple rocket launchers. One of its latest achievements is Jamaran, its first domestically-built destroyer, which was launched in the Persian Gulf in February 2010.
Iran is also actively engaged in missile development. Its Shahab-3 long-range ballistic rocket has range of 5,000 kilometers – meaning it could reach Israel and all US military bases in the Persian Gulf.
Tensions have been simmering in the region for several months, with Israel declaring that it is ready to strike Iran in order to prevent it from building an atomic weapon. Recently Israel said a decision over a military strike on Iran will have to be made in “eight to ten months.”
Washington has also said no options are off the table in regards to Iran, though it indicated that it would not support a unilateral Israeli attack on the country.
In the latest chapter of the standoff on Saturday, Iran accused the US Navy of “illegal and provocative acts” near its coastline, including violations of its airspace. Iran’s Envoy to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaee filed formal accusations of these charges with both UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the UN Security Council.
Israeli intelligence believe that Iran is accelerating the development of nuclear weapons, though experts around the world, including in the US, dispute the claim.
Iran has repeatedly assured other nations, especially its neighbors, that its nuclear program is for strictly civil purposes.
Iran is constantly upgrading its military capabilities. In recent years, Iran declared it had made great achievements in the defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in essential military equipment and systems. The country produces its own tanks, self-propelled guns and multiple rocket launchers. One of its latest achievements is Jamaran, its first domestically-built destroyer, which was launched in the Persian Gulf in February 2010.
Iran is also actively engaged in missile development. Its Shahab-3 long-range ballistic rocket has range of 5,000 kilometers – meaning it could reach Israel and all US military bases in the Persian Gulf.
Tensions have been simmering in the region for several months, with Israel declaring that it is ready to strike Iran in order to prevent it from building an atomic weapon. Recently Israel said a decision over a military strike on Iran will have to be made in “eight to ten months.”
Washington has also said no options are off the table in regards to Iran, though it indicated that it would not support a unilateral Israeli attack on the country.
In the latest chapter of the standoff on Saturday, Iran accused the US Navy of “illegal and provocative acts” near its coastline, including violations of its airspace. Iran’s Envoy to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaee filed formal accusations of these charges with both UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the UN Security Council.
Israeli intelligence believe that Iran is accelerating the development of nuclear weapons, though experts around the world, including in the US, dispute the claim.
Iran has repeatedly assured other nations, especially its neighbors, that its nuclear program is for strictly civil purposes.

Iran powers photo

2012-12-30T09:17:00.001+05:00

Philippines: Gazmin presents budget 2013 Budget to Congress PH Navy to get Italian Maestrale class frigates

2012-12-29T07:53:00.000+05:00

manila

110 IFV’s for Philippine Army (UPDATED)

The Philippine News Agency reports, that the Department of National Defense (DND) has presented its 2013 budget to congress. “One of the largest procurement plans ever for the armed forces of the Philippines.” say defense officials . Overall the Philippine Navy sees a major boost to its capability and regaining anti-submarine warfare capability.

High on the list are two Italian Meastrale Class Frigates, that PNA reports will cost, “US$ 30 million (P6 billion) each to upgrade the Philippines’ defense capabilities.” the Maestrale’s are modern well armed frigates are seen as a major jump to 21st century technology for a navy who for decades operated some of the oldest naval vessels in the world.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, speaking at the hearing of the House of Representatives’ appropriations committee on the DND’s proposed 2013 P121.6-billion budget, Italian frigates are a ‘key part’ of the DND’s modernization plan.
The 2013 budget is P15 billion higher than this 2012 SND Gazmin told congressmen the budget increase would be used for investments to “beef up territorial defense.”

60 infantry fighting vehicles and at least 38 mobile gun systems and two to three dozen MBT’s has also been revealed for the Philippine Amry’s three mechanized infantry battalions. The plan which, if accepted is for the Army. The DND is looking to aquire a mix of tracked and wheeled AFV’s. Congressional, defense industry, and, Military sources tell MikeinManila that with the increased participation in UN peacekeeping missions. The Army making the bulk of the contribution to these units needs to be capable to handle UN equiptment issued to them during those operations as soon as they arrive in assigned areas. “This will eliminate the down time to familiarize our forces and make them more effective peacekeepers.” one source revealed per the MBT units. “One training squadron and perhaps two active for supporting the Army infantry mechanized units is ideal.”

Philippine Navy officers inspecting the hoped for Maestrale of the Italian Navy

Spanish and Italian as well as French MBT’s have been offered the Leopard 2, AMX30, and, upgraded M60A4 models which have the gun and turret system of the US M1A! Abrams tank are under consideration.
Three Squadrons of 12 MBTs are seen as needed to make the Mechanized infrantry units more
capable in urabn and rural combat situations where the gun systems on the MBT;s can engage tagets at up 10km away. While only a proposal it may see more discussion in 2013 – but – the sources noted MBT’s if procured would likley not be used in internal security operations since most current roads and bridges would be limited to ten ton or less vehicles.
Italy already has offered to bundle purchase options for the Frigates with IFV’s and the idea is considered to be an attractive one. However, these may be for the Philippine Marines. Other AFP units looking at IFV’s are the air force for air base and facilities security in particular those with Anti-Air capabilities.

Iran Navy develops new missile launching

2012-12-28T14:47:00.001+05:00

Iran’s Navy has developed a missile launching system which aims to increase the precision and range of anti-ship missiles.

The new system has been designed in collaboration with the Iranian Defense Ministry and Imam Khomeini Maritime University.

Given that all naval units are equipped with short-range and medium-range surface-to-surface Cruise missiles, using the new system will be a major move towards improving the missile capabilities of these units at sea.

Meanwhile, Commander of Iran Navy Rear-Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said that the missile system could be installed on all vessels and announced that it would become operational in the near future.

Sayyari said on Tuesday that Iran’s naval forces are to conduct weeklong massive exercises across one million square kilometers of southern waters as of December 28.

He said that the exercises would involve submarines, destroyers, missiles, surface and subsurface combat, torpedoes, homegrown drones and electronic warfare.

Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces: Anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM)

2012-12-27T21:44:00.001+05:00

Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces: Anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM)

Sub Machine Gun SMG-PK, PK1

2012-12-27T07:47:00.000+05:00

smg PK is one of the most reliable & compact sub-machine guns in production at the Pakistan Ordnance Factories. Based on the Famous H&K delayed roller locked blowback system, this 9mm sub-machine gun can be employed for Close Quarter Battle (CQB) and is popular among para medics, military personnel, signal personnel, para jumpers, SSG officers on special duty, military police and civil law enforcing agencies. SMG-PK presents complete versatility and mobility coupled with the punching power of 9mm Para.

These SMGs come with universal carrying sling, spare magazines and option accessories.

TECHNICAL DATA
Calibre
9 x 19 mm Para
Feed Device
15 Rounds Magazine
Type of Fire
Single & Automatic
Rate of Fire
900 RPM
Muzzle Velocity
375 m/sec
Sights
Rigid Front Sight & Rotary Rear Sight
Length of Weapon
340 mm
Length of Barrel
115 mm
Weight of Weapon
2.0 kg

T-50 Golden Eagle, South Korea

2012-12-26T08:23:00.000+05:00

The T-50 Golden Eagle, formerly known as the KTX-2, jet trainer and light attack aircraft was built for the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF). The aircraft was developed in the T-50A advanced trainer and T-50B lead in fighter trainer versions.
The T-50 LIFT is called the A-50 by the RoKAF.

The T-50 Golden Eagle, formerly known as the KTX-2, jet trainer and light attack aircraft was built for the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF). The aircraft was developed in the T-50A advanced trainer and T-50B lead in fighter trainer versions.
The T-50 LIFT is called the A-50 by the RoKAF. The T-50 is designed to provide pilot training for current next-generation .

T-50 Golden Eagle programme and orders

The first flight of the T-50 took place in August 2002. The RoKAF has a requirement for 50 T-50 trainers and 44 T-50 LIFTs. RoKAF placed a production contract for the first 25 T-50 in December 2003 and the first production aircraft was rolled out in August 2005.
The first two aircraft were delivered to RoKAF in December 2005 and entered service in April 2007. A total of 13 aircraft were deployed for training purposes in 2007.
Two squadrons (30 to 40 aircraft) began operations by 2008. The 50th and final T-50 was delivered to the RoKAF in May 2010.

"The first flight of the T-50 took place in August 2002."

One thousand flights have been completed in the test programme. The A-50 made its first flight in September 2003. A programme of weapon delivery flight testing was completed and deliveries of the A-50 began in 2009.
In December 2006, the RoKAF placed a second production contract for 50 T-50 and A-50 aircraft.
KAI developed a fighter version based on the T-50, called the FA-50 for the RoKAF, which has a requirement for 60 aircraft to replace the F-5.
In December 2011, KAI signed a production contract with Defense Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) to deliver 20 FA-50 aircraft by 2014. The aircraft obtained type certificate in November 2012. The FA-50 is fitted with air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, 20mm cannon, Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and Sensor Fused Weapon (SFW).

The TA-50, the maiden armed variant of T-50, was introduced in January 2011 for deployment in lead-in fighter training operations. Indonesia awarded a $400m contract to KAI in May 2011 to supply 16 T-50s. Deliveries will be completed by the end of 2013.

Development of the T-50 Golden Eagle

The aircraft's development was funded 13% by Lockheed Martin, 17% by Korea Aerospace Industries and 70% by the Government of South Korea. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is the Republic of Korea's national aerospace company, established in 1999 with the consolidation of Samsung Aerospace, Daewoo Heavy Industries and the Hyundai Space and Aircraft Company. The T-50 was built at the KAI facility in Sachon.
KAI is the prime contractor and is responsible for the design of the fuselage and tail unit. The mid-mounted variable camber wings are manufactured by Lockheed Martin Fort Worth. Lockheed Martin is also responsible for the avionics and electrical flight control system, as well as for general technical consulting.
Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems and KAI created the T-50 International Company, known as TFIC, to pursue export markets outside Korea. The aircraft is considered as a candidate for the F-5 replacement market.

Cockpit

The full authority digital flight control system and avionics were developed by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Division at Fort Worth.
The flight equipment includes a navigation / attack system, a Honeywell H-764G embedded global positioning / inertial navigation system and HG9550 radar altimeter, Rockwell Collins VIR-130A integrated VOR / instrument landing system and ARN-153V advanced digital tactical aid to navigation, and Raytheon ARC-232 VHF radio.
The AN/APG-67(V)4 multi-mode radar, supplied by Lockheed Martin, is installed in the nose of the LIFT version.
The two-crew, tandem-stepped cockpit is fitted with an onboard oxygen generating system (OBOGS) and ejection seats supplied by Martin Baker of Uxbridge, UK.

T-50 weapons

The aircraft has seven external hardpoints for carrying weapons, one on the centreline under the fuselage, two hardpoints under each wing and an air-to-air missile launch rail at the two wingtips.
The wingtip launch rails can carry AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles. The underwing and centreline hardpoints can carry rocket pods, air-to-surface missiles or air-to-air missiles according to the mission requirements, for example, AGM-65 Maverick missiles or mk82 / 83/ 84 bombs or rocket launchers.
In November 2005, the A-50 successfully test-fired an AIM-9L air-to-air missile.
A 20mm General Dynamics Armaments three-barrel M61 cannon is installed internally on the A-50 LIFT version. The gun is mounted behind the cockpit and carries 205 rounds of ammunition in a linear linkless feed system. The A-50 LIFT can carry electronic warfare pods and a radar warning receiver.

Engines

The T-50 Golden Eagle is powered by a single General Electric turbofan engine, type F404-GE-102, with full authority digital electronic control (FADEC). It is a derivative of the 402 with additional improvements in the turbine and afterburner. The engine has twin side-mounted air intakes on either side of the fuselage under the wing.

"The wingtip launch rails can carry AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles."

The engine, with a three-fan stage and seven axial stage arrangement, is equipped with full authority digital engine control and generates 78.7kN with afterburn.
The aircraft has seven internal fuel tanks, five in the fuselage and two in the wings, which can carry 2,655l of fuel with the option of three additional 570l external fuel tanks.
The aircraft is fitted with an Argo-Tech fuel system. The power generator is supplied by Hamilton Sundstrand.

Landing gear

The aircraft is equipped with Messier Dowty retractable tricycle-type landing gear. Each unit is single wheeled and fitted with oleo pneumatic shock absorbers. The main wheels are retracted into the trunks of the engine air intakes. The nose wheel retracts forward.

T-50 performance

The T-50 can fly at a maximum speed of 1,837km per hour. The range and service ceiling of the aircraft are 1,851km and 16,764m respectively. The service life is 10,000 hours.

China lands J-15 jet on Liaoning aircraft carrier

2012-12-26T08:05:00.002+05:00

The Chinese-built J-15 fighter bomber carried out the manoeuvre during exercises earlier this week

China has successfully landed a jet fighter on its new aircraft carrier for the first time, officials say.

A Chinese-made J-15 fighter landed on the 300m (990ft) former Soviet carrier during recent exercises, China's defence ministry said on Sunday.
The Liaoning, China's first aircraft carrier, entered into service in September.
China says the vessel has had extensive sea trials and will increase its capacity to defend state interests.
Analysts say the aircraft carrier will allow Beijing to help project its military might in territorial disputes.
China's state TV showed a hook on the rear of the J-15 catching hold of a cable on the deck of the vessel to slow the plane to a halt during the drill.

China had not previously announced that its navy possessed such highly technical landing technology, according to the AFP news agency.

The J-15 can carry anti-ship, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles as well as precision-guided bombs, China's official news agency Xinhua reported, citing unnamed naval sources

Pakistan racing to develop armed drones: experts

2012-12-25T08:22:00.002+05:00

KARACHI: Pakistan is secretly racing to develop its own armed drones, industry experts say, but is struggling in its initial tests with a lack of precision munitions and advanced targeting technology.
One of Islamabad’s closest allies, China, has offered to help by selling Pakistan armed drones it developed. But industry experts say there is still uncertainty about the capabilities of the Chinese aircraft. Pakistan has demanded the US provide it with armed drones, claiming it could more effectively carry out attacks against militants. Washington has refused because of the sensitive nature of the technology and doubts that Pakistan would reliably target US enemies. The US has held talks with Pakistan about providing unarmed surveillance drones, but Islamabad already has several types of these aircraft in operation, and the discussions have gone nowhere. Inaugurating a defense exhibition in the southern city of Karachi last week, Pakistani Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf indicated Islamabad would look for help from Beijing in response to US intransigence. “Pakistan can also benefit from China in defense collaboration, offsetting the undeclared technological apartheid,” said Ashraf. Pakistan has also been working to develop armed drones on its own, said Pakistani military officials and civilians involved in the domestic drone industry, all of whom spoke on condition of anonymity because of the classified nature of the work. Pakistan first began weapons tests seven or eight months ago with the Falco, an Italian drone used by the Pakistani air force for surveillance that has been modified to carry rockets, said a civilian with knowledge of the secret program. The military is also conducting similar tests with the country’s newest drone, the Shahpur, he said. An unarmed version of the Shahpur was unveiled for the first time at the Karachi exhibition. The weapons tests have been limited to a handful of aircraft, and no strikes have been carried out in combat, said the civilian.
Lack of precision, targeting technology
Pakistan lacks laser-guided missiles like the Hellfire used on US Predator and Reaper drones and the advanced targeting system that goes with it, so the military has been using unguided rockets that are much less accurate. While Hellfire missiles are said to have pinpoint accuracy, the rockets used by Pakistan have a margin of error of about 30 meters at best, and an unexpected gust of wind could take them 300 meters from their intended target, said the civilian. Even if Pakistan possessed Hellfires and the guidance system to use them, the missile’s weight and drag would be a challenge for the small drones produced by the country. Pakistan’s largest drone, the Shahpur, has a wingspan of about seven meters and can carry 50 kilograms. The US Predator, which can be equipped with two Hellfire missiles, has a wingspan more than twice that and a payload capacity over four times as great. Pakistani drones also have much more limited range than those produced in the US because they are operated based on “line of sight” using radio waves, rather than military satellites. The Shahpur has a maximum range of 250 kilometers, while the Predator can fly over five times that distance. The British newspaper The Guardian reported Tuesday that Pakistan was working on an armed drone but did not provide details. The market for drones has exploded in Pakistan and other countries around the world in recent years, as shown by the array of aircraft on display at the defense exhibition in Karachi. Hoping to tap into a worldwide market worth billions of dollars a year, public and private companies wheeled out over a dozen drones that ranged in size from hand-held models meant to be carried in a backpack to larger aircraft like the Shahpur. All the Pakistani drones on display were advertised as unarmed and meant for surveillance only. One private company, Integrated Dynamics, even promotes its aircraft under the slogan “Drones for Peace.” But several models developed by the Chinese government were marketed as capable of carrying precision missiles and bombs.
China offering drones
The Chinese government has offered to sell Pakistan an armed drone it has produced, the CH-3, which can carry two laser-guided missiles or bombs, industry insiders said. Also being offered to Pakistan is a more advanced drone, the CH-4, which closely resembles a US Reaper and can carry four laser-guided missiles or bombs, according to Li Xiaoli, a representative of the Chinese state-owned company that produces both the CH-3 and CH-4, Aerospace Long-march International Trade Co., Ltd. Pakistan has yet to purchase any armed Chinese drones because their capabilities have yet to be proven, but is likely to do so in the future, said the civilian with knowledge of the Pakistani military’s drone program. Only a few countries, including the US, Britain and Israel, are known to have actually used armed drones in military operations. “China is a bit of a tough nut to crack as you’d expect,” said Huw Williams, a drone expert at Jane’s International Defence Review. “They frequently wheel out exciting looking aircraft but are yet to really demonstrate anything earth shattering.”

Pakistan test fires 700 km range Hatf-VII nuke missile

2012-12-25T08:12:00.000+05:00

Islamabad: Pakistan today successfully test fired the nuclear-capable Hatf-VII cruise missile with a range of 700 km, the latest in a series of tests of missiles that can hit targets deep within India. The military said the test, conducted at an undisclosed location, was successful. This was the fifth missile test by Pakistan since late last month. "The test will consolidate Pakistan's strategic deterrence capability and further strengthen national security," the military said in a statement. The military described the Hatf-VII or Babur as an indigenously developed multi-tube cruise missile system. The missile is a "low flying, terrain-hugging" weapon with "high manoeuvrability, pinpoint accuracy and radar avoidance features". The Hatf-VII can carry nuclear or conventional warheads and has stealth capabilities. It incorporates the "terrain contour matching" and "digital scene matching and area co-relation" technologies, which enhance the missile's precision and effectiveness manifold, the military claimed. The missile was launched from a multi-tube missile launch vehicle that "significantly enhances the targeting and employment options" of the Hatf-VII in both conventional and nuclear modes, the statement said. The test was witnessed by Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman General Khalid Shameem Wynne, Strategic Plans Division Director General Lt Gen (retired) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, senior officers of the armed forces and strategic organisations and scientists. The President and Prime Minister congratulated the scientists and engineers, the statement said. Pakistan has tested a wide array of missiles since late last month. On April 25, it tested an improved version of the nuclear-capable Hatf-IV intermediate range ballistic missile with the range of 1,000 km. The launch came just six days after India tested the Agni-V missile with a range of 5,000 km. On May 10, Pakistan tested the nuclear-capable Hatf-III ballistic missile with a range of 290 km. The launch was conducted at the conclusion of an annual field training exercise of the Army Strategic Force Command. The nuclear-capable Hatf-IX missile with a range of 60 km was tested on May 29, reflecting the Pakistani military's thrust on developing tactical weapons aimed at deterring India's purported Cold Start doctrine. The Hatf-IX missile system possesses shoot and scoot attributes. On May 31, the military tested a version of the Hatf-VIII cruise missile with a range of over 350 km. The military said this test had helped Pakistan "achieve strategic standoff capability on land and at sea".

Iran to unveil Qadir cruise missile: Deputy defense minister

2012-12-24T08:22:00.002+05:00

Iran's deputy defense minister has announced the country is set to unveil a domestically-manufactured cruise missile, called Qadir, in the near future. “Our missiles, including the Zafar, Nasr, Nour, Qader and the forthcoming Qadir cruise missiles, can be fired from vessels with a speed of over 30 knots,” Brigadier General Mehdi Farahi, who is also the director of Defense Ministry’s Aerospace Organization, said on Monday. The Iranian commander added that Iran’s cruise and coast-to-sea missiles are capable of adjusting their tactics according to the type of threat they face. In recent years, Iran has made great achievements in the defense sector and gained self-sufficiency in essential military hardware and defense systems. Iran has repeatedly assured other nations, especially regional neighbors, that its military might poses no threat to other countries, insisting that its defense doctrine is merely based on deterrence.

Intercontinental ballistic missile

2012-12-24T07:50:00.001+05:00

An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a ballistic missile with a range of more than 5,500 kilometres (3,400 mi)[1] typically designed for nuclear weapons delivery (delivering one or more nuclear warheads). Most modern designs support multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), allowing a single missile to carry several warheads, each of which can strike a different target. Early ICBMs had limited accuracy that allowed them to be used only against the largest targets such as cities. They were seen as a "safe" basing option, one that would keep the deterrent force close to home where it would be difficult to attack. Attacks against military targets, if desired, still demanded the use of a manned bomber. Second and third generation designs dramatically improved accuracy to the point where even the smallest point targets can be successfully attacked. Similar evolution in size has allowed similar missiles to be placed on submarines, where they are known as submarine launched ballistic missiles, or SLBMs. Submarines are an even safer basing option than land-based missiles, able to move about the ocean at will. This evolution in capability has pushed the manned bomber from the front-line deterrent forces, and land-based ICBMs have similarly given way largely to SLBMs. ICBMs are differentiated by having greater range and speed than other ballistic missiles: intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs), medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs), short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs)—these shorter range ballistic missiles are known collectively as theatre ballistic missiles. There is no single, standardized definition of what ranges would be categorized as intercontinental, intermediate, medium, or short. Additionally, ICBMs are generally considered to be nuclear only; although several conceptual designs of conventionally armed missiles have been considered, the launch of such a weapon would be such a threat that it would demand a nuclear response, eliminating any military value of such a weapon.

Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces: The Pakistan Navy Custodian of The Country's Coastline

2012-12-23T22:20:00.003+05:00

Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces: The Pakistan Navy Custodian of The Country's Coastline

2012-12-23T22:20:00.001+05:00

Pakistan Air Army Navey Forces: The Pakistan Navy Custodian of The Country's Coastline

The Pakistan Navy Custodian of The Country's Coastline

2011-09-29T17:02:00.000+05:00

As the custodian of the country's coastline, territorial waters, and Sea Lines Of Communications (SLOCs) the Pakistan Navy has a vital role to play in the defence set-up of the country.

The Pakistan Navy's primary role is to guard the country's territorial waters and oversee enforcement of jurisdiction over nearly 240,000 square miles of waters constituting Pakistan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The navy is also tasked with protection of Pakistan's SLOCs, its 960km long coastline and its ports, especially the port of Karachi. Barely 150 km from the Indian border, Karachi has the only developed berthing facilities for handling the bulk of Pakistan's trade, naval dockyards, repair and overhauling facilities as well as the strategic national petroleum reserves. Another port of significance is Port Qasim, a more modern commercial port designed primarily for grain exports, but without naval shore facilities. Of lesser importance are the subsidiary ports of Pasni. Jiwani and Gwadar. Critical SLOCs are the maritime routes running from Karachi to the Persian Gulf, the Suez Canal, East Africa and the Far East.

After the Passing of the UN Law of Sea Convention of 1982, Pakistan acquired an EEZ of about 240,000 square miles. In order to provide protection to this vast area, the Pakistan Government decided to raise the Maritime Security Agency (MSA), which was formally inaugurated on 1 January 1987. The MSA implements the local and international laws in the EEZ, and provides surveillance against poaching by illegal vessels and unauthorised survey by foreign craft. It also conducts SAR missions, and implements measures for control of pollution and fishery protection. Available SAR facilities include aircraft, surface vessels and a network for the reception of distress signals.

Secondary navy's mission comprise coastal surveillance; SAR duties, hydro-graphic surveys, maintaining navigational aids, and law enforcement. As regards in particular the latter, in recent years the navy's role has been expended to include narcotics interdiction, anti-terrorist operations, anti-smuggling, elimination of piracy and combating environmental pollution. The naval headquarters is situated at Islamabad but the fleet as logistic commands are in Karachi, together with most of the training facilities. During the late 1980s, in association with the expansion of the fleet, the Pakistan Government ordered the construction of a new major base at Ormara, 200km west of Karachi. The Ormara Project was named "Jinnah Naval Base" after the founder of the nation.

During the 1980s, the Pakistan Navy went through an unprecedented period of growth. It virtually doubled its surface fleet from nine main surface combatants in 1980 up to 16 by 1989, also acquiring sophisticated long-range anti-ship missiles and enhancing its maritime reconnaissance capabilities. This expansion process also proved the navy's ability to manage the added administrative, maintenance and operational loads.

The submarine force currently consists of two HASTMAT class (AGOSTA type) built between 1976 and 1980, four HANGOR class (DAPHNE type) built between 1967 and 1970 and one KHALID class (AGOSTA 90B type), all of these boats being of French origin. The HASHMATs were modified in 1985 to fire Sub-HARPOON depth-to-surface anti-ship missiles. The HANGOR class boats, now close to obsolescence, will be replaced by three new AGOSTA 90B type submarines, first of which has already been inducted into Pakistan navy.

The main assets of the naval air wing currently consist of two P-3C ORION and four improved Breguet ATLANTIC anti-submarine and maritime patrol aircraft, four F-27 maritime surveillance and EW aircraft, plus thirteen ship-borne helicopters, comprising six Mk45 SEAKINGs, three LYNX ASW/attack types and four SA-319B ALOUETTE IIIs. The Marine Corps is the youngest force in the Pakistan Navy. With its establishment the navy has become capable of operations on four dimensions, i.e., on the sea with surface combatants, under the sea with submarines, in the air with naval aircraft and on the ground with the Marine Corps.

The Pakistan Navy is moving from the old to new technologies at a rapid pace. The navy will have to consolidate the new weaponry, which will take time as this will involve a basic restructuring of personnel and logistics to suit future needs.

The Evolution of The Pakistan Army

2011-09-28T16:54:00.000+05:00

By Brig. (Ret.) Noor A. Husain The story of the evolution of the Pakistan Army is the story of the birth of Pakistan itself against heavy odds. It is a story of unflinching determination of the Founding Fathers led by the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and of officers and men to create a nation and its armed forces. On 3 June 1947, the British Government announced the plan for the partition of the sub-continent between India and Pakistan, and for the transfer of power to the two new states on 15 August 1947. On 30 June 1947, the procedure for the division of the armed forces was agreed upon by the Partition Council, chaired by the Viceroy of India Lord Mountbatten and consisting of the top leaders of the Muslim League and the Indian Congress. Field Marshal Auchinleck, then C-in-C India, was appointed Supreme Commander under Mountbatten to ensure smooth division of units, stores and so on. It was announced on 1 July 1947, that both countries would have operational control of their respective armed forces by 15 August 1947. The Early Years Under the Partition Council a Joint Defence Council was formed with Viceroy Mountbatten as chairman, under which was an Armed Forces Reconstitution Committee under FM Auchinleck, consisting of representatives of the future Indian and Pakistani armies. Between 1939-195, the strength of the Indian Army grew to a maximum of 2,018,196 personnel. On the eve of Partition in 1947, the figure had come down to about 11,800 officers, 450,000 other ranks plus about 50,000 of Indian Princely State Forces. It is noteworthy that at that time (as per policy of the British Raj since 1857) there were only two completely Muslim combat units (1/15 Punjab Regiment and 3/16 Punjab Regiment), although there were several completely Hindu and Sikh units and regiments of the combat arms. The original agreement called for the armed forces and other assets to be divided to the ration of 64% for India and 36% for Pakistan, but Pakistan was later forced to accept an 1/3 share of assets. Of the total 46 training establishments; only nine were located in Pakistan; all of the 17 Ordnance Depots were located in India, as were most of the Ordnance Depots and Engineer Store Depots. In addition to Pakistan receiving far less stores than originally stipulated, most of the stores received were of general nature, perishable, unwanted and obsolete. The move of 150,000 Pakistani personnel as well 508 units and sub units of various sizes was to be carried out by rail through Indian Punjab and Sikh Princely States. After 53 trains carrying personnel and their families were attacked, detailed and massacred by armed bands of Sikhs and Hindus in connivance with the railway authorities, the sea route from Bombay to Karachi was adopted. The Punjab Boundary Force consisting of five brigades under MajGen Rees was created by FM Auchinleck's Supreme HQ in August 1947 to escort refugees from border districts of the two Punjabs across the international borders. Its area of responsibility covered 37,500 square miles and a population of 14,5 million. It was a gigantic task for a limited force manned largely by neutral British officers. About seven million Muslims migrated to Pakistan, and five million Sikhs and Hindus to India; a million perished. Against an estimated requirement for about 4,000 officers, Pakistan had initially only about 2,300 - the gap being filled up on Quaid-e-Azam's appeal, to some extent, by 484 experienced and qualified British officers, who volunteered to stay and help Pakistan and the Pakistan Army in difficult times. Many Polish and Hungarian officers also volunteered for the medical corps. Prior to August 1947, the most senior Pakistani (and Indian) officers were in ranks of brigadiers; after independence, the command of Army units had to be given to officers in their early 30s with eighteen years service, many of whom had combat experience and had won battlefield awards in Word War II. Similarly, brigade commanders had 13-15 years service and division commanders 19-20 years. Out of the Northern Command HQ nucleus, the GHQ was organised at its present location. LtGen Messervy, the then GOC-in-C Northern Command, was promoted and appointed Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) Pakistan Army. The GHQ started functioning on 15 August 1947 without adequate staff or records, these held back in New Delhi. By August 1947, the 7th Division (located in Rawalpindi with two brigades) was the Pakistan Army's only division. There also were static HQ designated "Areas" and "Sub-areas", having brigades and battalions at more than 50% below strength. In the following months, as Pakistani personnel kept arriving from all over India, Middle East and South East Asia by rail and sea, the 8th Division was organised out of the Sind-Balochistan Area, and the 9th (F) Division was created out of brigades of the Peshawar and Wazirstan Areas. Similarly, the Lahore Area was re-organised as 10th Division, and the 12th Division was raised in November 1948. The forces in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) were designated as East Pakistan Army, then a Sub-area and finally in December 1948 as HQ 14th Division, initially with only two battalions that eventually were built up to brigade strength. By October 1947, guarding 5,000 miles of West and East Pakistan's frontiers were about ten infantry brigades at less then 50% strength, and an armoured brigade with only 13 running STUART tanks. The Army has ammunition reserves for less than one week. In a Joint Defence Council Meeting, both Mountbatten and Supreme Commander Auchinleck had made it clear to Pakistan that in case of war with India, no other member of the Commonwealth would come to Pakistan's help. Field Marshal Ayub Khan, the first Pakistani C-in-C, was to recall in later years: "It would always be a matter of pride and glory for this army when history will recall how heavy a burden was placed on its young shoulders and how creditably it always rose to the occasion". After the fraudulent accession of Kashmir by the Maharaja on 27 October, Mountbatten and Nehru air-launched the Indian Army into the Srinagar Valley. The India Army's offensive was halted at the Ceasefire Line (now Line of Control) initially by Azad Kashmir Forces, and from April 1948 with support of the ill-organised Pakistan Army without adequate logistic support. At midnight on 30 December, GHQ India asked for a ceasefire to become effective on 1 January 1949. Pakistan accepted, as the fate of Jammu and Kashmir had been taken over by the UNO. Thus ended the six-month war in Kashmir. By the end of 1948 five infantry divisions had been organised, but these were still lacking their full complement of supporting arms and services. The few artillery regiments received at partition were grouped into three Artillery Groups under independent headquarters to ensure maximum flexibility. By early 1949, the Pakistan Army had completed its formative stage and had been bloodied in battle experience, and continued its re-organisation. On integration of Bahawalpur State in January 1949, the 6th (B) Division was created, but this was disbanded in 1956 on the re-organisation of the army. Evolution And Conflicts Back in August 1947, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, foreseeing the financial and military difficulties ahead, asked for US economic and military aid. Incidentally, the same request had also been submitted by New Delhi and Kabul. After an evaluation of Pakistan's strategic location at the crossroads of South-, Central-and West Asia in proximity to both China and the Soviet Union, the USA acceded to Pakistan's request under the American Mutual Security Legislation. In early 1954, Pakistan and the USA signed a Mutual Defence Assistance Agreement. Between 1954-1965, Pakistan received US$650 million in military grants, US$619 million in defence support assistance, and US$55 million in cash or commercial purchases. This aid enhanced Pakistani defence capability by increasing the firepower and mobility, and improving C3I facilities of five and a half divisions. The armed forces were modernised in keeping with the world trends; two Corps HQ were also catered for. Many senior and junior officers went for training and orientation to USA; new cantonments were built, and existing ones were expanded and modernised. The Ran of Kutch Conflict (April 1965) India and Pakistan became engaged in a short but sharp conflict into Pakistani claimed-area in the Ran of Kutch in April 1965. Both armies had fully mobilised. Pakistan eventually proposed a ceasefire, which India accepted; an agreement was signed, and the forces disengaged. The Award by the Arbitration Tribunal vindicated Pakistan's position. India then shifted the centre of gravity of operations to the Northern Areas. The Kashmir War (September 1965) After several ceasefire violations, India attacked across the international border from Sialkot to Sind sectors. The attacks were halted on all fronts, and in a series of counter-attacks the Pakistan Army penetrated six-eight miles inside Indian territory capturing more territory than the Indian Army. The biggest tank battle since World War II was fought at Chawinda, inflicting heavy casualties. India eventually asked for a ceasefire, arranged by the UN on 23 September 1965. The Third Evolution Phase (1966 - 1970) In 1966, commenced the third phase of the evolution of the Pakistan Army, which was able to at least partially enhance its defence capability over these five years. The US embargo on military aid to Pakistan, and the continued Soviet heavy build-up of Indian forces, forced Pakistan to turn China, North Korea, Germany, Italy and France for its defence procurement programmes. China, a time-tested friend and neighbour, enabled Pakistan to raise three fully equipped infantry divisions with gun and vehicles, 900 Chinese tanks, and MiG-19F aircraft for the air force. France supplied MIRAGE aircraft and submarines. In 1968, the Soviet Union offered US$30 million worth of aid to Pakistan and supplied 100 T-55 tanks, Mi-8 helicopters, guns and vehicles; in 1969, however, Soviet support was abruptly stopped under Indian pressure. The 1971 War 1971 was the most tragic year in Pakistan's history, a year of political crises and conflict. Unable to resolve a political problem by political means, the then Martial Law regime resorted to Military action in East Pakistan on the night on 25/26 March. Widespread insurgency broke out, covertly aided by Indian trained infiltrators and India's Border Security Forces. In the first week of April, personnel of two infantry divisions and civil armed forces were airlifted in Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) planes with a 6,000-mile non-stop route via Sri Lanka - the longest operational air move by the army. Quick reaction by the Pakistani authorities restored 80% normalcy in the eastern wing of the country. Covert operations having failed, India concentrated about 400,000 regular army personnel in 12 divisions supported by five tank regiments, seven air force squadrons and Indian Navy. These forces, further strengthened by about 100,000 guerrilla (Mukti Bahini) attacked from all directions on 20 fronts across the international border on 21 November, without a formal declaration of war. Intense fighting raged till 16 December in both Pakistan's wings; no town or battalion position could be overrun, till a ceasefire accepted by Pakistan was perfidiously changed into surrender by Indian-Soviet machinations. 1979 To Present In December 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. The US offered US$400 million worth of military aid, which was however spurned by Pakistan as inadequate for a "frontline state". Apprehensive of the two front threats to Pakistan, in 1981 the US again offered a package of US$1.5 billion worth of military aid. This was accepted and in five years provided 40 F-16 fighters, 100 M-48 tanks, 64 M-109 155mm SP howitzers, 40 M-110 203mm SP howitzers, 75 towed howitzers, and 1,005 TOW anti-tank missile system, considerably enhancing Pakistan's defence capability. In 1984, Indian forces, violating the 1949 Ceasefire Agreement and the 1972 Simla Accord, launched a military aggression into the Siachen Glacier. Pakistan's fast counter-move against their aggression blocked a threat from developing to Pakistan's strategically vital Northern Areas and the Karakoram Highway. India and Pakistan are now engaged into a military conflict on the world's highest battlefield. By 1989, the Soviet Union - having suffered heavy losses in men and material, and unable to withstand the Jehad - commenced withdrawing its forces from Afghanistan. Under the Pressler Amendment, the US again imposed an embargo on all economical and military aid to Pakistan, which continued for five years. In 1995, the Brown Amendment authorised a one-time delivery of US military equipment, contracted for prior to October 1990, worth US$368 million. However, the additional 28 F-16 aircraft costing US$658 million and already paid for by Pakistan were not delivered. Concluding Remarks The Pakistan Army, like Pakistan, started virtually from a scratch on 14 August 1947, in the face of heavy odds. During these 50 years, the army, like the navy and air force, has evolved into a highly motivated and modern force defending the ideological and geographical frontiers of Pakistan. Today, almost 66 infantry brigades, 15 armoured brigades, 30 artillery brigades, eight air defence brigades, 17 army aviation squadrons, all equipped with state-of-the-art weapon systems, organised under about 19 division HQs and 9 Corps HQs, stand alert and ready as to Warden of the Marches.

2011-03-22T16:02:00.002+05:00

Air Force
History
Founding years

Shortly after the end of World War II, the Korean Air Construction Association was founded on August 10, 1946 to publicize the importance of air power. Despite the then-scanty status of Korean armed forces, the first air unit was formed on May 5, 1948 under the direction of Dong Wi-bu, the forerunner to the modern Korean Ministry of National Defence. On September 13, 1949, the United States contributed 10 L-4 Grasshopper observation aircraft to the Korean air unit. An Army Air Academy was founded on January, 1949, and the ROKAF was officially founded on October, 1949.
The outbreak of the Korean War and the 1950s
F-51D fighters were among the first aircraft deployed by the ROKAF.

The 1950s were a critical time for the ROKAF as it expanded tremendously during the Korean War. At the outbreak of the war, the ROKAF consisted of 1,800 personnel but was equipped with only 20 trainer and liaison aircraft, including 10 T-6 Texan (Korean:건국기, Hanja: 建國機, Geongukgi) advanced trainers purchased from Canada. The North Korean air force had acquired a considerable number of Yak-9 and La-7 fighters from the Soviet Union, dwarfing the ROKAF in terms of size and strength. However, during the course of the war, the ROKAF acquired 110 aircraft: 79 fighter-bombers, three fighter squadrons, and one fighter wing. The first combat aircraft received were F-51D Mustangs, along with a contingent of US Air Force instructor pilots under the command of Major Dean Hess. The ROKAF participated in bombing operations and flew independent sorties. After the war, the ROKAF Headquarters was moved to Daebangdong, Seoul. Air Force University was also founded in 1956.
The 1960s

To counter the threat of possible North Korean aggression, the ROKAF underwent a substantial capability enhancement. The ROKAF acquired T-28 trainers, F-86D night- and all-weather interceptors, F-5 fighters and F-4D fighter bombers. Air Force Operations Command was established in 1961 to secure efficient command and control facilities. Air Force logistics Command was established in 1966, and emergency runways were constructed for emergency use during wartime. Eunma Unit was founded in 1966 to aid the United States during the Vietnam War.
The 1970s
The former ROKAF roundel similar to the American one. It was used until 2000.

The ROKAF was posed with a security risk, with an increasingly belligerent North Korea throughout the 1970s. The South Korean government increased its expenditure on the ROKAF, resulting in purchase of F-5E fighters in August 1974 and F-4E fighter bombers. Support aircraft, such as C-123s and S-2s were also purchased at the time. Great emphasis was placed in the flight training program; new trainer aircraft (T-41 and T-37) were purchased, and the Air Force Education & Training Command was also founded in 1973 to consolidate and enhance the quality of personnel training.
The 1980s and 1990s

The ROKAF concentrated on qualitative expansion of aircraft to catch up to the strength of North Korean Air Force. In 1982, Korean variants of the F-5E, the Jegong-ho (hangul:제공호, hanja: 制空號) were first produced. The ROKAF gathered a good deal of information on the North Korean Air Force when Captain Lee Woong-Pyeong, a North Korean pilot, defected to South Korea. The Korean Combat Operations Information center was soon formed and the Air Defence System was automated to attain air superiority against North Korea. When the 1988 Seoul Olympics was held in South Korea, the ROKAF contributed to the success of this event by helping to oversee the entire security system. The ROKAF also moved its headquarters and the Air Force Education & Training Command to other locations. Forty F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters were obtained by South Korea in 1989.

South Korea committed its support for the coalition force during the Persian Gulf War. The Bima Unit was formed to participate in Operation Desert Storm. The ROKAF also provided airlift support for peacekeeping operations in Somalia in 1993. The increased participation in international operations depicted the ROKAF's elevated international position. Over 180 KF-16 fighters of F-16 Block 52 specifications were introduced as part of the Peace Bridge II & III program from 1994. In 1997, for the first time in Korean aviation history, female cadets were accepted into the Korean Air Force Academy.
Present

South Korea maintains the modern South Korean Air Force in order to defend itself from various threats, including that of the North Korean Army and North Korean Air Force, which fields about twice as many aircraft (mostly older and obsolescent Soviet-designed fighters). As of 2008, the South Korean Air Force flew more than 180 KF-16, 174 F-5E/F, 130 F-4D/E, 39 F-15K (with 21 additional F-15Ks expected to be delivered between 2010 and 2012), and a number of South Korean-made T-50 among its combat aircraft. The last of the old South Korean 60 F-5A/B fighters were all retired in August 2007, and they are being replaced with the F-15K and FA-50. The South Korean variant the of F-15E were named the F-15K Slam Eagles due to their capability to launch the SLAM-ER missiles and Harpoon Missiles. South Korea became one of the world's few aircraft exporters when it sold 19 KT-1B trainer aircraft to Indonesia in 2003. Korean Aerospace Industries, the South Korean national aerospace company, has plans to export more KT-1 and T-50 Golden Eagle supersonic trainer aircraft to other countries. In addition, the Ilyushin Il-103 prop-driven trainer has replaced the T-41 in the primary training role.

The Republic of Korea Air Force also expressed interests in acquiring the RQ-4 Global Hawk remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) and a number of Joint Direct Attack Munition conversion kits to further improve its intelligence and offensive capabilities.

On 20 October 2009, Bruce S. Lemkin, deputy undersecretary of the U.S. Air Force said that the ROKAF's limited intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities increased the risk of instability on the Korean Peninsula and suggested the purchase of American systems such as the F-35 Lightning II to close this gap.

2011-03-22T15:55:00.002+05:00

Navy History
The independence Armed Corps established on November 11, 1945 was the origin of to-day's ROK Navy. In January 1949, the first 600-ton warship (PC) was purchased from the US, and the Marine Corps was established. During the Korean War, the ROK navy along with allied forces played a decisive role in winning the war by protecting sea lines of communications, securing the control of the sea, and successfully conducting the Inchon Amphibious Operation. In 1963, a destroyer was introduced, and in 1972, a Korean high speed boat was built. In 1975, Korean combat ships were built to re-invigorate its naval force. In the 1980s, the ROK Navy began to change its character by establishing close cooperation with Pacific nations through several combined exercises such as the "RIMPAC Exercise" to be the "Ocean-Going Navy." In 1993, the ROK introduced and built submarines, and in 1995, introduced maritime patrol aircraft P-3Cs to increase antisubmarine capabilities.

The Koreans have made their living by fishing and gathering seaweeds since the ancient times as their homeland, the Korean Peninsula, is surrounded by sea in three directions and has long coastline. Based on their long experiences of marine life and the development of productive power, they have accumulated abundant experiences of the marine activities by going to the sea on board the ship they made. Even in the Ancient Chosun period, they built the naval forces against the invasion and their maritime activities were very lively.

In time of the Three Kingdoms, each kingdom had exerted their all-out efforts for securing maritime control while executing various oceanic activities such as sea battles, overseas expeditions, and establishing bases based on strong maritime forces, the people of Paekche, called Asiatic Phoenician, secured the maritime control around the peninsula based on their strong naval power, and governed the vast territories stretching from Shantung, Liaosi to partial Japan islands. While monopolizing the maritime trade, they played a significant role in the dissemination of culture to Japan such as Wang-In's introduction of the Analects of Confucius and other Chinese classics to Japan. And Kingdom of Koguryo, the powerful ancient empire, defeated the Paekche naval forces toward the end of the 4th century A.D. under the rule of the King Kwanggeto the Great, thereby grasping the maritime control of the sea from the Gulf of Pohai to Cheju island.

Moreover, the people of Koguryo repelled amphibious operations by the Sui Dynasty, China, at the Battle of Yellow Sea and the Battle of Salsoo through their excellent naval forces from the end of the 6th century through the beginning of the 7th century.

During the period of the Unified Silla, naval forces were established for the defense of the coastal area, and trade with foreign countries was rather vigorous. In the period of the year 828 through 846, Commissioner Chang Bo-Go ran a major maritime management, establishing Chunghaejin post at Wando island, and seized the control of the Northeast Asian maritime traffic. Commissioner Chang bo-go has been praised, through this kind of maritime management, as great maritime king in the ancient history afterward.

The Kingdom of Koryo, which unified the Later-Three Kingdoms, also inherited the powerful maritime traditions. The ancestor of Taejo, Wang Kun was a local leader who held independent maritime forces and became a man of great wealth through maritime trade with China. Wang Kun was able to build power base for founding Koryo Kingdom later by winning the assault on Najoo(904~935), the strategic point of the Later Paekche Kingdom and the sea battle at Dukjinpo port. As mentioned above, the Koryo Kingdom was the nation that had powerful maritime tradition and power, and so she could endure the world conqueror Mongolian aggression for about half a century. In 1380, she destroyed a group of over 500 Japanese battleships at Jinpo port by naval guns, and this was about two centuries earlier than the West in using naval guns in sea battle then.

Entering the Chosun Dynasty, the powerful maritime forces and its tradition in the early years were gradually weakened by the various factors such as the policy of agriculture first and embargo, contemptuous tendency toward maritime forces, and Confucius ideology. Consequently there were frequent Japanese invasions such as the small war at Sampo port. In the end, in 1592 Japanese general Invasion, endangered the nations fate like a candle before the wind, erupted. In the ground battles, the Japanese offensives were so strong that the army of the Chosun dynasty suffered consecutive losses leading to the capture by the Japanese of the capital city and the nation was in danger of imminent collapse such as to the limit that the king made way to the northern boundary with China.

However in the sea, Admiral Yi Sun-Shin and Chosun naval forces under his command had prepared thoroughly, based on the nation's maritime tradition, against the possible Japanese aggression, and therefore they were victorious in the sea battles, blocking the enemy's further advance and turned the war situation into firm foundation for winning the war, and thereby rescued the nation.
The Military Organization Period
(November 11, 1945 - June 24, 1950)

On August 21, 1945, right after the liberation from Japan, Haesadae(maritime affairs corps) was organized by the late Admiral Sohn Won-Yil as the central figure, and it was integrated with Haesabogukdan(maritime affairs corps to defend the nation) on September 30, thereby establishing The Association of Maritime Affairs. Also on November 11, the Coastal Defense Forces(Haebangbyongdan) was organized and assigned to the National Defense command on January 14, 1946, and later it was renamed, in accordance with the Military Government Ordinance No. 86, Finally on September 5, 1948, the Republic of Korea Navy was officially established following the foundation of the Republic of Korea Government on August 15, 1948.

Navy's major activities for its establishment until the outbreak of the Korean War can be listed as follows: to start education of officers with the establishment of Navy School on January 17, 1946; to carry out education of non-commissioned officers and enlisted men; to construct shipbuilding depot for ship's repair and maintenance on February 1, 1946; to establish officer rank system to set up the military discipline on February 1, 1946; and to institutionalize the rank system for non-commissioned officers and enlisted men on July 1, 1946. In the meantime, since having started coastal defense around Chinhae and the nearby seas on June 7, 1949, the Navy expanded fleet forces by taking over from the United states two military vessels of LCI and succeedingly a landing ship, an oiler, mine hunting ship on October 15.

On August 30, 1947, the Navy took over the task of the maritime defense south of the 38th parallel from the U.S. Navy. Beginning the establishment of Inchon base on April 15, 1946. the Navy expanded bases at main ports such as Mokpo, Mukho, Pusan, Kunsan, Pohang, and Chinhae. Since then the system for coastal defence has been arranged,and the participations in coastal blockade operations in Cheju island and the suppression operations at Yosu and Sunchon were carried out harvesting great victories with real experiences acquired in the battle.

Meanwhile, the Marine Corps, founded at Doksan airfield in Chinhae on April 15, 1949, achieved brilliant war successes at the suppression operations against the communist guerrillas in Chinju and Cheju, and thereby its name has become widely known in the nation.
The Korean War Period
(June 25, 1950 - July 27, 1953)

The Navy, without being prepared for the war, was brought under surprise attack by the overall aggression of the North Korean People's Army. In spite of inferiority in numbers of the armed forces and materiel at the outbreak of war, the Navy proceeded to overpower the enemy all over the seas of the East, the West, and the South.

Following up the victories of the naval battles at the early stages of war at Okgye and the Korea Straits, the Navy took the command of the sea in the south of the 38th parallel. Led by the Inchon Landing Operations as its occasion, the Navy secured the whole command of the seas along the Korean Peninsula. While neutralizing the Military installations of the enemy through the coastal blockade operations and ship gun firing, the Navy launched offensives against the North Korea through covering operations at Wonsan and Hmhung, a volunteer corps covering operations at Ongjin and Yeonbaek, securing operations of the strategic islands, and mine sweeping operations.

As the ground troops were withdrawing due to the intervention of Chinese Communists troops, the Navy played an important role in every type of withdrawal operations moving the refugees wishing for freedom as well as military forces and logistics at the East Sea and the West Sea. In addition, the Navy organized the land battle units mainly consisted of ground service troops on land in cooperation with ships. They occupied supply routes and conducted various ground operations. In particular, they won a brilliant success in the battle by participating in the Pohang retaking operation in which friendly forces won a great victory there since the outbreak of the war.

The Marine Corps has recorded the mighty Impression of "Ghost Buster Marine Corps" and "an invincible Marine Corps" in war history of Korea through winning the battles of Tongyong landing operation, Jindongri area, Inchon Landing Operation, Mt. Dosol Combat, and at such places as Kim Il-Sung hill and Mao hill.
Maintenance period After the War
(July 28, 1953 - March 3, 1965)

After the three-tear-long fratricidal war was over with signing of the cease fire agreement on July 27, 1953, the Korea Navy has begun to consolidate the foundation for the victorious Navy by overcoming the ordeal of the war.

The Navy Headquarters that had moved with the Government to Pusan returned to Seoul and modified its organization. On september 1, 1960, the Headquarters moved into moved into the new building at Taebang-dong, Seoul. While conduction maintenance and repair for the organization of the fleet and naval forces by establishing and reorganizing the Korea fleet, the Navy augmented to the landing forces.

Additionally, the Navy exerted its efforts to train human resources who would lead the Navy in future. It strengthened the functions of the support units by establishing shipbuilding depots, supply depots, medical groups, and naval hospitals.

Furthermore, the Navy widely informed to the allied nations of its mighty shape by commencing the cruise training for the 9th class of Naval cadets in 1954, that was intended to upgrade the quality of naval officers and to promote military diplomacy.

In the meantime, the Navy took over the maritime operational control from the United Nations Forces Command beginning March 1955, thereby assuming the defense independently for the entire Korean territorial waters. After the Navy went through the era of escort destroyers and fast transport ships as a means of securing maritime power, its power was greatly enhanced again in 1963 by introducing destroyers.
Build-up of War Potential Period
(March 4, 1965 - February 24, 1974)

In order to introduce many more warships with limited military resources and budget, ROKN fixed and recommissioned the ships taken up from U.S. fleet in reserve. On April of 1968, ROKN bought 2nd destroyer from the U.S. navy. After that ROKN bought 5 more destroyer until 1973.

On October of 1971, ROKN introduced PGMs and used the ships for patrolling and blocking operation. On November of 1972, ROKN had the christening ceremony of ROKS 'HAKSAENG' which was built by domestic technology. It was our first Korea-made PK which was built by 8 million students 2 hundred thousand teachers' defense donation. And Then on May of 1973, ROKN established the fleet-air squadron.

In the meantime, the Marine Corps was merged, in accordance with the functional reorganization of the military structure, to the Navy on October 10, 1973. Therefore, the Navy became to equip with enormous combat powers by holding the air unit that is capable of exercising modernized maritime powers and air operations together with the elite Marine Corps that is the mobile striking forces in landing operations.

The Navy conducted public information activities in the remote islets since September 1, 1969, thereby contributing greatly to the national solidarity by strengthening civil-military ties and also raised the image of the Navy as the people's military who give trust for love from the people.
Constructing Foundation for Self-Reliance National Defense
( February 25, 1974 - May 25, 1993)

The Navy has become to hold the mighty combat power to suppress and destroy the enemy's marital provocations by reorganizing the force structure that is centered around the main pillar of domestic-made war ships financed by defense taxes beginning in 1975 and by equipping ultra-modern marital weapons systems such as anti-submarine patrol aircraft, ship-based helicopters, and various missiles in other words a favorite child in the modern warfare.

The two times of test firings of the shop-to ship missiles in August 1975 were successfully carried out by domestic-made fast boat, thereby inspiring the Navy with confidence and pride in self-reliance national defense. Following the first construction and launch of a frigate by domestic technologies, Korea showed off the self-reliance national defense intentions and capabilities by domestically constructing and commissioning a series of frigates, patrol boats and fast boats.

Further, the Navy have maintained its maximum combat readiness by taking such steps as the rational reorganization of the force structure, research and development of the military tactics and doctrines, and efficient innovation of the logistics managements functions. In the Meantime, the Navy Maintains perfect maritime defense structure through the various maritime exercises such as antisubmarine operation exercises, and rescue exercises.

Additionally, the Navy further concreted its ties with navies of the friendly nations by participating in various combined exercises including Team Spirits Exercises. Particularly to be noted is that the Navy is acquiring new tactics while enhancing the status of the Korea Navy by participating for the first time in the 1990 RIMPAC Exercise, held biennially to promote close cooperations among countries along the pacific.
The Beginning Period for the Advanced Navy
(May 26, 1993 - )

Owing to the force development projects for the self-reliance of the national defense promoted since 1974, Korean indigenous ships such as fast boat, fast ship, and patrol boat, that are suitable to the defense of the Korean coastal area, have been constructed for the combat power, resulting in strengthening the coastal defense capability. In 1981, the Navy has become to carry out smoothly the operations in the offshore by commissioning home-made frigate. Since the introduction of ROKS CHANG BO-GO in 1992, a mass production system in country for submarines has been furnished, and additionally in 1995, P-3C ultra-modern maritime patrol aircraft was introduced. In 1998, ROKN introduced Korea-made destroyer, KWANGGETO GREAT.

However, in order to positively cope with changes in the maritime security environment around the Korean Peninsula, affected by the strengthening of naval powers in the neighbor countries of Northeast Asia, and to consolidate one step further the nation's status as a central state in the upcoming Asia-Pacific era, a change from the coastal navy to the Blue Water navy is required.