Armed Forces International

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Fri, 09 May 2008 14:58:47 GMT

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Victory Day Parade Showcases Russian T-90 Tanks, Topol-M Ballistic Missiles

Fri, 09 May 2008 13:44:50 GMT

Russia’s annual Victory Day parade has taken place in Moscow featuring – for the first time in many years – intercontinental missile launchers and tanks among the military hardware on show.

According to recently-inaugurated Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, the Russian Navy and Russian Army were growing in strength.

Russian Armed Forces

A number of analysts have said that the parade’s purpose was to showcase the power and might of the Russian armed forces. However, according to the Kremlin, the parade – a yearly commemoration of the end of World War Two – was not intended as a threatening statement.

“Our army and navy are gaining strength", Mr Medvedev said, adding: “... in their power today lies the historical glory of Russian arms, therein lies the traditions of victory and the high spirit of our army."

Earlier on, former President Vladimir Putin had stressed that the inclusion of heavy armament in the event was “not sabre-rattling”, rather “a demonstration of our growing defence capability”.

T-90 Tanks, Topol-M Ballistic Missiles

On the ground, 8,000 Russian Army soldiers marched by, while T-90 tanks and Topol-M ballistic missiles were also on show.

Warplanes, Transport Aircraft Flypasts

In the air, images broadcast from the event showed flypasts made by warplanes and transport aircraft. These included an Antonov An-124 heavylift transporter flanked by two Sukhoi combat jets, followed by a Tupolev Tu-160 Blackjack strategic bomber, this time with a Mig 25/31 off each wing.

Subsequently, the crowds below watched as four Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoots passed over Red Square, then a nine-ship formation featuring elements of the Russian Air Force’s two display teams – the Russian Knights and the Swifts.

According to reports, Red Square’s cobbles were strengthened prior to the parade, in order to support the heavy machinery that rolled over them during the event.

Long-Range Patrol Flights

In August 2007, Russia formally resumed the practice of long-range patrol flights, frequently undertaken by Cold War-era Tupolev Tu-95 Bears.

However, despite these, and the military display put on today in Moscow, there remain serious deficits within the Russian armed forces, analysts say.

They highlight financial issues, a lack of training and low morale amongst personnel, as well as other factors.

Source – Armed Forces International’s East European Correspondent

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Babcock Marine is a strategic UK provider of engineering and support services to the Royal Navy.

British Army FRES Programme - Piranha Vehicle Provisionally Chosen

Thu, 08 May 2008 15:07:39 GMT

The Ministry of Defence said on the 8^th May that it had provisionally chosen the General Dynamics Piranha as the new armoured vehicle to equip the future British Army.

Future Rapid Effect System/ FRES

The Piranha – along with the Boxer and VBC1 designs – was competing in the Army’s Future Rapid Effect System (FRES) programme, through which up to 3,000 new vehicles will be acquired.

Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Procurement, described the FRES programme as “a major investment in the future of our Armed Forces.”

“I am pleased to announce the provisional selection of PIRANHA 5 as the preferred design for the FRES Utility Vehicle and I look forward to working with General Dynamics UK Ltd during the next stage of the FRES Utility Vehicle programme”, she said.

"FRES is a long term programme to be delivered in stages to meet the Army's needs over the next thirty years. Today marks an important milestone."

The Head of the British Army, General Sir Richard Dannatt, added: "The provisional selection of PIRANHA 5 as the FRES Utility Vehicle design heralds the start of a new era for the Army in terms of capability.”

“It maintains the progress of the FRES programme which is at the heart of the British Army's equipment programme and is my highest priority after support to operations. This will form the backbone of the Army's future armoured vehicle requirements.

"Whilst our Protected Personnel Vehicles such as MASTIFF are a very successful addition to meet specific operational requirements in both Iraq and Afghanistan, it is the FRES medium weight capability which will allow the Army to conduct a considerably wider range of operations in an uncertain and changing world.

“I am therefore delighted that we are maintaining progress on this vital programme."

The FRES Programme will provide replacements for the British Army’s fleet of CVR(T), FV 430 and Saxon vehicles.

Utility, Specialist Vehicles

Its delivery will occur in phases, initially introducing new Utility Vehicles and, subsequently, Specialist Vehicles – taking in Reconnaissance, Medium Armour, Manoeuvre Support and Basic Capability-geared types.

FRES stands as the largest programme in British Army history.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Political Correspondent

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Russia Threatens Troop Increase in Abkhazia

Thu, 08 May 2008 13:38:21 GMT

News agencies in Russia reported on the 8^th May that the country had threatened to increase the number of troops it has deployed in the Georgian breakaway region of Abkhazia if Georgia strengthens its armed forces presence there.

"Further steps by Georgia's military structures adding to the deployment of troops in the conflict zone can only lead to necessary and adequate measures by the Russian side to raise the peacekeeping contingent to the maximum number allowed", news agencies RIA Novosti and Interfax quoted the Russian defence ministry as having stated.

Abkhazia Troop Deployment

The same statement detailed how, at present, 2,542 Russian troops were deployed in Abkhazia.

According to a Russian/Georgian agreement, the highest number that could ever be there is 3,000.

Russian Warnings

Russia’s raising the prospect of sending nearly 500 more soldiers came hot on the heels of warnings issued it last week to exercise caution and avoid entering heated verbal exchanges with Georgia.

Russia claims that Georgia – once a part of the Soviet Union – is planning to use military force to get Abkhazia back under its control – accusations that Georgia has denied.

Georgian/Russian Tensions

So far, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations have all expressed concerns over the current Georgian/Russian tensions.

Last month, Russia was accused of having shot down a Georgian Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

Two days ago, the US called on Russia to “cease from further provocations” in respect both of Abkhazia and (another breakaway region) South Ossetia.

Source – Armed Forces International’s East European Correspondent

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US Transport Aircraft, Supplies Access to Burma Still Disallowed

Thu, 08 May 2008 12:18:43 GMT

Reports emerged early on the morning of May 8^th which indicated that Burma’s military government had allowed US military aircraft to fly emergency aid into the country which, six days ago, was hit by Cyclone Nagris.

However, the US has subsequently confirmed that this is not the case, and that access confirmation is still awaited.

According to Eric John, the US Ambassador to Thailand, it was not known whether the shifting situation represented a retraction, or whether the facts had been miscommunicated.

Speaking to the media, Mr John explained the situation as he understood it.

"This morning, we and our Thai allies thought we had a decision from the Burmese leadership to let the C-130 [Hercules] in”, he said.

“As of now, we don't have that decision.

"I don't know whether they rescinded the decision or if there was a miscommunication."

UN Relief Aircraft

Previously, United Nations-operated relief aircraft were also not permitted access to Burma.

Earlier today, however, the first one – loaded with food supplies – touched down in Rangoon.

Previously, the Association of South-East Asian Nations had called on Burma’s military leaders to permit aid missions into the country “before it’s too late.”

A similar call had come from China, which, updating its earlier pledge, has said it will now send $5.3 million in aid.

Burmese Soldiers

Burmese soldiers are making inroads into the parts of Burma most badly affected by the cyclone.

However, according to some reports, they are insufficiently equipped to deal effectively with the sheer scale of the disaster.

According to Burma, the cyclone claimed the lives of 22,980 people, and displaced some 40,000 more.

Other sources, however, think that the ultimate death-count could reach 100,000.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Far East Correspondent

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Pakistani Hatf VIII Cruise Missile Test-Fired One Day After Indian Agni-III Launch

Thu, 08 May 2008 09:26:38 GMT

Pakistan carried out a nuclear-capable missile test-launch on May 8th, just one day after a similar launch took place in India.

Hatf VIII/ Ra’ad

The missile fired was the Hatf VIII, or Ra’ad – a short-range cruise missile which can be loaded with a nuclear warhead.

According to a statement issued by the Pakistani military, the Hatf VIII – capable of striking targets up to 350 kilometres away – was developed solely for launch from aircraft.

The statement provided no information on where the Hatf VIII test-launch had taken place, but described the missile as having “special stealth capabilities”.

The –VIII was a "low altitude, terrain-following missile with high manoeuvrability", it said, adding that it could “deliver all types of warheads with great accuracy.”

Nuclear Power

Pakistan declared itself a nuclear power a decade ago when it carried out nuclear trials in reply to those carried out by India.

Since then, both countries have carried out frequent missile test-firings.

Agni-III

On May 7^th, India launched the Agni-III Missile, which had been involved in two previous tests. The first one of these, in 2006, was unsuccessful, but the second, last year, was successful.

According to Indian Defense Ministry spokesman Group Captain R.K.Das, the launch served to strengthen India’s position within "the select band of countries who have such surface-to-surface intermediate range ballistic missile capability as a deterrent."

India’s Longest-Range Missile

The Agni III – capable of striking targets up to 3,000 kilometres away - is the longest-range missile produced by India. Geographically speaking, it could therefore reach the Chinese mainland, in addition to sites within the Middle East.

It is thought that the missile can be equipped with a nuclear warhead up to 300 kilotons.

Indian/Pakistani Wars

Three wars have been fought between Pakistan and India over the past 61 years.

Pakistani/Indian relations, however, have become better more recently, since the two countries initiated discussions over the disputed area of Kashmir.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Middle East Correspondent

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RAF Nimrod Crash Inquest: Recording Played of Alrcraft's Final Moments

Wed, 07 May 2008 18:30:35 GMT

The relatives of fourteen members of the British armed forces, killed in an RAF Nimrod maritime patrol aircraft in Afghanistan, have been played a recording of the stricken aircraft’s final moments in the air.

The recording’s broadcast was made during the second day of the current inquest into the incident, which occurred in September 2006.

Nimrod Explosion

The Nimrod exploded shortly after taking on board more fuel, with the result that all onboard it perished. It – as well the majority of its crew – hailed from RAF Kinloss, Scotland.

The explosion caused the largest loss of life among the British armed forces from a single event since the Falklands Conflict 24 years previously.

During the playback, Coroner Andrew Walker requested that all those not related to the dead military personnel leave the court.

"I was told you had not heard that material yet. I was sorry to hear it and I want you to hear it immediately," he stated, adding:"Members of the families, you should have the opportunity to hear that tape.

“I think it's wholly wrong to delay the matter further still."

It is anticipated that the recording will be aired in less restrictive circumstances at a future point in the inquest.

Multiple Injuries: Pathologist

In further news from the inquest, RAF pathologist Wing Commander Graeme Maidment spoke of how those on board the aircraft had died as a result of multiple injuries, likely to have been inflicted after the aircraft’s impact with the ground, as opposed to during the explosion per se.

Maidment additionally apologised to those relatives that may have suffered distress from early complications with the servicemen’s DNA that resulted in some being misidentified.

"Whatever role the error played in this case, the distress it caused to the families cannot be quantified", he said.

Nimrod Crash Report

A report on the Nimrod crash was released in 2007 which attributed the likely cause to a fuel leak.

The 14 British servicemen that died in the Nimrod were:

Flight Lieutenant Steven Johnson
Flight Lieutenant Leigh Anthony Mitchelmore
Flight Lieutenant Gareth Rodney Nicholas
Flight Lieutenant Allan James Squires
Flight Lieutenant Steven Swarbrick.
Flight Sergeant Gary Wayne Andrews
Flight Sergeant Stephen Beattie
Flight Sergeant Gerard Martin Bell
Flight Sergeant Adrian Davies
Sergeant Benjamin James Knight
Sergeant John Joseph Langton
Sergeant Gary Paul Quilliam
Lance Corporal Oliver Simon Dicketts
Royal Marine Joseph David Windall

Relatives of the above visited RAF Brize Norton on May 6^th to study a similar aircraft to the one that crashed.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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Recoilless Disruptors/De-Armers

Wed, 07 May 2008 17:00:24 GMT

ABP manufacture a wide range of Conventional disruptors and De-armers for use against a variety of IED’s or conventional munitions, now including ‘Stand Back Attack’ options.

Missile Defence Shield Could Spark Cold War, says Gorbachev

Wed, 07 May 2008 15:34:18 GMT

According to Mikhail Gorbachev, former Soviet President, the US risks sparking a 21^st century Cold War with the planned construction of its Missile Defence Shield.

The US Missile Defence Shield is a measure which, according to Washington, is designed to counter attacks launched by “rogue” states such as Iran. As far as Gorbachev is concerned, however, such statements are untrustworthy.

President Medvedev

The build-up of military assets, he stated – along with NATO’s easterly growth into areas traditionally under Russia’s control – was actually aimed at reigning in buoyant Russia, which today sees Dmitry Medvedev become its new President.

In comments made to the Daily Telegraph newspaper, he said: "The United States cannot tolerate anyone acting independently”, adding: "Every US president has to have a war."

Vladimir Putin, now Russia’s ex-Prime Minister, is "not going to start a war with the United States or any other country for that matter", Gorbachev asserted.

"Yet we see the United States approving a military budget and the defence secretary pledging to strengthen conventional forces because of the possibility of a war with China or Russia."

"I sometimes have a feeling that the United States is going to wage war against the entire world."

Russian Security

Gorbachev’s statements are not allied with recent Russian opinion. When the notion of the shield was first introduced, Russia was vociferously opposed to it, but, more recently, it has toned down its rhetoric, seemingly now focusing on obtaining guarantees of security.

The shield’s erection, said Gorbachev, takes “ ...the arms race to the next level...it is a very dangerous step."

"The American's promised that NATO wouldn't move beyond the boundaries of Germany after the Cold War but now half of central and eastern Europe are members, so what happened to their promises?

"It shows they cannot be trusted."

Source – Armed Forces International’s East European Correspondent

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RAF Typhoons, Chinooks, Army Troops in London Fundraising Event

Wed, 07 May 2008 12:21:57 GMT

An event involving ground-based and airborne British armed forces participation is to take place later on today in London, the aim of which is to raise money for injured military personnel.

Royal Air Force Flypast

City Salute – to be attended by Prince Harry and Prince William – will include a Royal Air Force flypast, as well as troop parades and a military band.

Both Princes are patrons of the City Salute Appeal.

The flypast will feature RAF Typhoon combat jets and Chinook helicopters, while among the units represented on the ground will be the Household Cavalry, the Irish Guards and the Ghurkhas.

The event will also feature a son et lumiere presentation, with St Paul’s Cathedral as the backdrop.

Headley Court

Those involved in City Salute’s organisation are hoping that members of the public watching tonight’s spectacle will give money, which will be used to part-fund the construction of new facilities at the military rehabilitation centre, Headley Court.

City Salute Appeal

The City Salute Appeal aims to raise funds for armed forces charities the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, and Help for Heroes.

Headley Court itself was in the news yesterday when it was announced that it would be given an additional £24 million – funds that will be used towards the build of a larger prosthetic limb workshop, as well as other new features at the Surrey-based centre.

Headley Court cares for 180 patients – all members of the armed forces injured whilst on deployment in Iraq or Afghanistan.

In the City Salute event brochure, William and Harry write:"We are both currently enjoying the privilege of seeing at first hand the simply remarkable job which the men and women of our Armed Forces do.

"Their professionalism is coupled with quite extraordinary personal qualities of courage, resilience, modesty, and humour - qualities which they display in good times and in bad, and which are humbling and inspiring beyond measure.

"Our servicemen and women need to know that we as a people can display those same qualities - that we will support them in good times and in bad; and they need to know just how grateful we are for the job which they do on our behalf so uncomplainingly and so well."

City Salute begins at around 8.00PM tonight

Source – Armed Forces International’s Political Correspondent

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Marine CBRN

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CBRN Collective Protection Systems for marine applications from Portsmouth Aviation

CBRN Collective Protection Systems

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3,500 US 'Surge' Troops to Leave Iraq, says Military

Wed, 07 May 2008 09:13:16 GMT

The US Military has issued a statement confirming that 3,500 troops are set to be withdrawn from Iraq.

These soldiers – members of the Fort Benning, Georgia-based 3^rd Infantry Division - formed part of the 30,000-strong US troop 'surge' that entered the country in 2007.

The withdrawal, according to to the statement, is set to occur in coming weeks.

US Troop Withdrawals Pause

General Patraeus, head of US forces in Iraq, has recommended that the US cease withdrawing troops from Iraq after July and pause to re-evaluate the issue of troop numbers in the country.

"The continued draw down of surge brigades demonstrates continued progress in Iraq”, Brigadier General Dan Allyn said in yesterday’s statement.

"After July, commanders will assess our security posture for about 45 days and determine future force requirements."

Violence in Iraq

The troop surge – combined with a greater number of Sunni fighters working alongside allied forces – has been viewed as a measure through which violence in Iraq has dropped substantially in recent months.

156,000 US Troops Deployed

According to the US military, 156,000 US troops remain deployed in Iraq at this moment in time.

10,000 other soldiers, meanwhile, are also stationed there – these provided by other nations within the allied coalition.

The number of US troops killed this year while serving in Iraq is understood to be at least 166 while, since US forces invaded the country over five years ago, 4,071 soldiers have lost their lives.

Source – Armed Forces International’s US Correspondent

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Navy Boats, Transport Aircraft Feed Supplies into Cyclone-hit Burma

Tue, 06 May 2008 12:15:38 GMT

As many as 15,000 people are now thought to have died in the cyclone that struck Burma on May 3^rd.

Many thousands more are understood to be without shelter or a clean supply of water, as a result of Cyclone Nagris' impact.

Emergency Teams

The United Nations, as well as overseas aid agencies, rapidly deployed emergency teams to the parts of Burma that were most badly affected. In the main, their reports are yet to come, meaning the ultimate scale of the disaster may not yet be known.

"We have a major humanitarian catastrophe on our hands", the UN's Chris Kaye said.

"The numbers are harrowing. Certainly, we know that in areas in the southern delta, towns like Bogalay and Laputta were very, very badly affected by the storm surge. A surge in low-lying areas coupled with high winds served to flatten areas, taking villages and villagers with it.

"It's a tragic and serious situation."

United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, said that "whatever [was necessary] to provide urgent humanitarian assistance" would be done, while Burma's military government has said it will be receptive to international aid pledges.

Relief Efforts

A number of countries are contributing to the relief efforts through the capabilities of their militaries.

Thailand, for example, has flown in a Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, full up with medicines and food.

India, meanwhile, is sending a pair of Navy boats to the area, carrying tents, clothing, blankets, medicines and food.

Japan has pledged to send $270,000 worth of aid - electric power generators, shelters and other emergency supplies.

Other nations - Singapore, New Zealand, and Australia to name but three - have all said they will help.

So has South Korea, which is set to dispatch $100,000 worth of aid, while the US has supplied a preliminary figure of $250,000.

Source - Armed Forces International's Asian Correspondent

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Air Force Grounds Talon Trainers after Second Fatal Crash

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:48:11 GMT

The United States Air Force has grounded its fleet of Northrop T-38C Talon jet trainers after another example of the type crashed on May 1^st.

The incident - in which both of the T-38's pilots were killed - took place at Texas' Sheppard Air Force Base.

Columbus T-38 Crash

Just eight days earlier, a T-38C Talon had crashed at Mississippi's Columbus Air Force Base, again, killing both pilots.

According to a spokesman the aircraft involved in yesterday's fatal incident belonged to the 80^th Flying Training Wing, which provides training to future NATO fast-jet pilots.

The type-wide grounding is in effect while investigations take place into both crashes.

"At this point we have no indication that there was any tie between the two [crashes]", Captain John Severns, Randolph AFB's Chief of Media Relations for Air Education Training Command, said.

No information has been released regarding the names or nationalities of the pilots.

Sheppard's Sixth Crash

The incident marked the sixth aircraft crash, where pilots have been killed, to take place at Sheppard AFB since 1998.

Since 1997, seven examples of the T-38 aircraft have been involved in crashes.

Supersonic Trainer

The T-38 carries a crew of two - usually comprised of instructor and student who sit in tandem. In its capacity as a trainer, the Talon is used by the student pilot to practice and hone aerobatic and formation skills, night flying, supersonic flying and to understand general maintenance procedures, among others.

Sheppard AFB's runways are shared with Wichita Falls' Municipal Airport.

All flights there were cancelled in light of the crash.

Source - Armed Forces International's US Correspondent

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New Pentagon Policy for US Soldiers with Mental Health Histories

Thu, 01 May 2008 13:00:52 GMT

Those that support notions of improved mental health care for soldiers have highlighted how a new Pentagon policy to be shortly announced could mark an important development, albeit a small one.

Mental Health Stigma

The policy is geared towards lessening the stigma attached to mental conditions.

When in place, it will effectively mean that US soldiers are not obliged to disclose information relating to previous therapy when applying for security clearances.

The policy’s introduction came, in part, after the discovery that a substantial number of soldiers in need of mental health treatment fail to obtain it, fearing that such a move could impact negatively on their careers, as well as cause them embarrassment.

PTSD Centre

As these words were written, Robert Gates, US Defense Secretary, was set to unveil the policy at a centre in Texas which treats soldiers recovering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Information on Gates’ planned announcement was given by officials, on condition that they not be named.

"I think it will help", Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America’s Executive Director, Paul Riechoff, commented.

"This needs to be followed by a mental health campaign — not just for service members but for their families as well. But I really do think it's a significant evolution."

American Psychiatric Association Survey

On the 30^th April, the American Psychiatric Association issued a survey which quantified the number of US military personnel that considered a request related to mental health to be potentially detrimental to their careers at around three-in-five.

"The military has made strides in raising awareness of mental health, but it's going to take a tremendous commitment to overcome attitudes that are ingrained in the military culture", Dr. Carolyn B. Robinowitz, president of the association, stated.

Security Clearance

The new policy effectively updates a current question asked when applying for security clearance, and referring to whether the applicant has consulted a professional working within mental health over the past seven years. If answered in the affirmative, the question then asks the applicant to provide in-depth information on who they saw, and when.

The updated one to be detailed by Gates is – according to the unnamed officials – less taxing.

"No service member should fail to seek professional care because he doesn't want to answer a security clearance question", House Armed Services Committee chairman, Ike Skelton, said.

"This small step may pay big dividends by encouraging our forces to get the help they need."

According to the Pentagon, notions of stigma for applicants with a history of mental health issues go beyond the real life situation.

Source – Armed Forces International’s US Correspondent

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RAF Typhoon Damaged after Landing with Undercarriage Raised

Thu, 01 May 2008 11:57:31 GMT

A Royal Air Force Typhoon was damaged when, during a large-scale training exercise in the US, it landed with its wheels still up.

It is thought in some quarters that the landing was the result of pilot error, with one source having informed another news publication: “Everything points to the pilot forgetting to lower the wheels, which does happen from time to time”.

The MoD, however, has emphasised that air force investigators have not yet reached a conclusion on the reason(s) for the incident – a ministry spokesman stating:

“The damage to the aircraft is still to be fully assessed and as a Board of Inquiry has been convened it would not be appropriate to comment further until the investigation is complete.”

Training Exercise

The Typhoon involved in the landing belonged to 17 Squadron – aircraft from which were participating in a training exercise at California’s China Lake Air Base.

Landing Gear Warning System

The Typhoon – as with the majority of modern jet fighters – is equipped with a warning system that activates if the undercarriage remains raised.

It is understood that the Typhoon’s landing speed in its wheels-up configuration was around 130 miles per hour.

Airframe Repairs

The aircraft will now be ferried back to the UK for assessment. According to the spokesman from the MoD, subsequent repairs to the airframe were likely.

The same figure emphasised that the incident was not indicative of a wider issue with the RAF’s fleet of Typhoons.

“There is no evidence at present to suggest that the airworthiness of the aircraft has been compromised and the aircraft therefore remains safe to fly”, he said, adding: “We are pleased to say that neither the pilot nor anyone else was injured in this incident.”

50 RAF Typhoons in Service

The Royal Air Force now has nearly 50 Typhoons serving with four squadrons – 3, 11 and 17 and 29 Reserves.

Initial examples of the aircraft entered RAF service in December 2003.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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Iran Complains to UN Over Clinton’s Attack Comments

Thu, 01 May 2008 10:38:33 GMT

The United Nations has received a complaint from Iran over comments made in recent days by US Presidential hopeful Hilary Clinton.

Speaking last week, she asserted that the US (military) had the capability to “totally obliterate” Iran, if the latter launched an attack on Israel.

Iranian Nuclear Programme

Iran – adamant that its nuclear programme is intended purely for civilian energy production – described Clinton’ remarks as “provocative and irresponsible.”

The comments, it added, represented a “flagrant violation” of the United Nations Charter.

Iran’s complaint to the UN took the form of a letter written by Iranian Deputy Ambassador Mehdi Danesh-Yazdi, and addressed to Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary General.

In it, Danesh-Yazdi said Clinton had “unwarrantedly and under erroneous and false pretexts threatened to use force against the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

Clinton’s comments came during an interview broadcast on US television by ABC.

Quizzed on the response she would give in the event of Iran launching nuclear weapons on Israel, she replied:

"If I'm the president, we will attack Iran... we would be able to totally obliterate them."

"That's a terrible thing to say, but those people who run Iran need to understand that, because that perhaps will deter them from doing something that would be reckless, foolish and tragic."

The US remains concerned over Iran’s nuclear programme, fearing the prospect of weapons production.

US Navy Carrier in Gulf

Earlier this week, news broke that a US Navy aircraft carrier had been deployed to the Gulf. The move, said US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, “could be seen...as a reminder” to Iran.

Source – Armed Forces International’s US Correspondent

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Boeing pulls F/A-18E/F out of Swiss Combat Aircraft Comp.

Thu, 01 May 2008 09:28:10 GMT

Boeing announced on the 30^th April that it had withdrawn its F/A-18E/F Super Hornet from a competition to provide the Swiss Air Force with a new combat aircraft to replace its fleet of Northrop F-5E Tiger IIs.

Boeing’s pull of the Super Hornet – which came before proposal submission – was linked to what it considered a gap between the aircraft and Switzerland’s requirements, as described by the manufacturer in a statement.

“After a thorough review of Switzerland’s requirements for partial replacement of its Tiger fighter aircraft, Boeing has decided not to enter the competition due to the disparity between the requirements for an F-5 replacement aircraft and the next-generation capabilities of the F/A-18E/F Block II Super Hornet”, it said.

Typhoon, Rafale, Gripen

With the Super Hornet’s departure, three aircraft are likely to now be involved in the bidding.

These are the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Dassault Rafale and the Saab Gripen.

Indian Air Force Contract

All three types – as well as the Super Hornet - are also bidding to win the Indian Air Force jet fighter contract. This contract – the bidding deadline for which came earlier this week – is for the provision of 126 new combat aircraft for India.

Aside from these four aircraft, the Russian Mig 35 and US Lockheed Martin F-16 are also in the running.

Swiss F/A18 Hornets

As well as the older F-5E Tiger IIs, the Swiss Air Force also operates 33 F/A18 Hornets. Even though Boeing has withdrawn, it has pledged its ongoing commitment to modernizing and supporting these aircraft.

54 F-5E Tiger IIs are currently in service with the Swiss Air Force, but their retirement is planned to begin in two years time.

Patrouille Suisse

The 54 aircraft fly with thee squadrons – the 8^th and 19^th, and the Patrouille Suisse – the Swiss Air Force’s national display team.

There are nine Air Force bases in Switzerland, of which the chief site is Payerne.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer Crashes at Bidar Air Base, India

Thu, 01 May 2008 08:00:51 GMT

Indian officials confirmed on the 29^th April that a Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) had crashed during takeoff, but added that no serious injury was caused to either of the pilots.

This was the first accident that an Indian Air Force Hawk had been involved in.

The Air Force jet, according to the officials, crashed into a wall immediately after taking off from Bidar Air Base, Karnataka. Just how much damage occurred to the airframe is not yet known.

"Barely seconds after liftoff, there was apparently some technical snag”, one official said.

“One pilot ejected, while the other came down with the aircraft. Fortunately, none of them was seriously injured.”

Indian Hawk Order

Four years ago, India placed an order with the Hawk’s maker – BAE Systems – for the delivery of 66 of the type.

So far, ten are in service.

These ten are from an initial batch of 24 which are being delivered as complete airframes direct from BAE.

The remaining 42 are to be made locally by India’s HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) firm.

The Indian Air Force is proposing to acquire 40 more Hawks in a $1.25 billion dollar deal.

Air Force Hawks Grounded

After the crash, a grounding was imposed on the Indian Air Force’s nine other Hawks, pending completion of a investigation into what happened.

In a statement, BAE said it would be “inappropriate to speculate on the cause of the incident” until the investigation’s end.

"We will fully support IAF and the defence ministry in any investigation they undertake", a spokesman for the firm added.

61 Crashes, 30 Pilots Killed: Antony

On the same day that details emerged on the Hawk crash, A.K Antony, Indian Defence Minister, told Parliament that, since 2003, 61 Indian Air Force aircraft had been involved in crashes.

30 pilots, he added, had been killed.

"The main reasons behind these crashes were human error and technical faults, and continuous effort is under way in the Indian Air Force to enhance and upgrade flight safety", Antony said.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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NATO Warns Russia Over Troop Build-Ups

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:06:41 GMT

A warning has been issued to Russia by NATO concerning its build-up of troops in two Georgian breakaway regions – South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Such a troop concentration, said the alliance, effectively weakens Georgian territorial integrity.

According to a spokesman for NATO, local tensions have had consequent cause to rise.

Georgia Planning Invasion: Russia

Russia has said that Georgia is planning to carry out an invasion of Abkhazia, adding that it will strengthen its troop deployment both there and in South Ossetia.

"The steps that have been taken [by Russia] and the rhetoric have increased tensions and undermined Georgia's territorial integrity", James Appathurai, spokesman for NATO, said.

He added that Moscow and its Georgian equivalent, Tbilisi, should avoid heated verbal exchanges.

Gordon Johndroe, spokesman for the UN Security Council, said on the 30^th April that the US was “concerned about reports from the region.”

The EU, meanwhile, has called for caution to be exercised. Deploying more troops to South Ossetia and Abkhazia, it said, would not be wise amidst the present tensions.

Recently, Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, highlighted the prospect of “retaliatory measures” to be enacted if Georgia used violence against either of the two regions.

According to Russia, a 1,500-strong mixed Georgian police/ soldier force was being built up in the sole area of Abkhazia that the government still has control over – the upper Kodori Gorge.

Russian Peacekeeping Troops

Consequently, said Russia, it was strengthening the level of Russian peacekeeping troops it presently has stationed in South Ossetia and in Abkhazia.

Russia, said Lavrov, has a duty to look after Russian nationals in the regions.

Georgia, however, has denied claims of it having amassed members of its armed forces, and, as far as it is concerned, Russia is being provocative.

"We think that this step, if they take it, will cause extreme destabilisation in the region," Lado Gurgenidze, Georgia’s Prime Minister, said.

He added: "From now on, we consider every [Russian] soldier or any unit of military equipment coming in [to the two regions] as illegal, potential aggressors and potential generators of destabilisation."

At present, around 2,000 Russian soldiers are deployed in Abkhazia.

1,000 more are in South Ossetia.

UAV Shoot-down Claims

Russian/Georgia relations have taken a recent downturn, most noticeably after claims of a Russian Air Force jet fighter having shot down a Georgian UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle).

Source – Armed Forces International’s East European Correspondent

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RAF Jets Launched to Meet Russian Bombers on 21 Days: Minister

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:54:06 GMT

Over the past 12 months, Royal Air Force combat jets have been involved in at least 21 Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) launches to counter Russian military aircraft, it emerged on the 30^th April.

The news was delivered by Bob Ainsworth, Armed Forces Minister, in a written answer to the House of Commons.

Russian Air Force Patrol Flights

Russian Air Force patrol flights have become more frequent since August 2007, when President Putin formally announced their resumption.

UK Airspace

According to Mr Ainsworth, none of the Russian patrols included violations of UK airspace.

Some of them, however, infringed NATO skies.

QRA Launches

QRA scrambles have occurred on three days so far this year.

Since March 2007, however, they have happened on 21 days.

The aircraft involved have been either RAF Tornados or, on some occasions, the much-newer Eurofighter Typhoons.

"In the last 12 months no Russian aircraft have penetrated UK national airspace”, Ainsworth said.

“However Russian aircraft have approached or entered the NATO air policing area (APA) for which the UK has responsibility."

Ainsworth did not disclose any information on when the launches had occurred, or on their duration.

To do so, he said, “would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the armed forces".

At the end of 2007, a Russian Air Force official spoke of how, between August and December, the country’s air force had carried out more than 70 patrol flights.

RAF Typhoons took up QRA duties in June last year.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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US Navy Sailor Assessments after Murder in Japan

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 22:03:58 GMT

The United States Navy is to carry out background checks on the 20,000 military personnel and civilians it has stationed in Japan, it emerged on April 30^th.

The assessments come after a string of recent incidents - among them, a murder.

The Commander of US forces in Japan, Rear Admiral James Kelly, detailed the measure whilst visiting Yokosuka.

The survey, he said, will begin in May, and will involve lifestyle and attitude-themed questions being asked to all US Navy sailors in the area, as well as civilians.

A document given by the the USN to Yokosuka - a town housing Japan's largest naval base - said that those found during the questioning to have issues with their attitude, or a tendency to be violent, would be provided with training, as well as counselling.

"The program drawn by the US Navy in Japan this time will be proposed to the [other] US forces in Japan in the mid and long-term", it added.

Taxi Driver Murder - US Sailor Charged

The murdee - which took place in Yokosuka - was of a taxi driver. Last month, US Navy sailor Olatunbosun Ugbogu was charged.

According to his lawyer, Ugbogu had spoken of "voices" instructing him to carry out the killing.

The incident provoked anger across Japan mere months before the planned deployment of the USS George Washington in Yokosuka.

USS George Washington

This deployment in itself has sparked controversy. The USS George Washington is nuclear-powered and the deployment - scheduled to take place in four months time - will mark the first occasion that such a craft has been based in Japanese waters.

Japan remains the sole country to have suffered a nuclear attack.

Overall, over 40,000 members of the US armed forces are stationed in Japan.

Okinawa Rape

Two months ago, it was claimed that one of these - a US marine - raped a 14-year-old girl on Okinawa - a Japanese Island where nearly 20,000 US troops serve.

In recent days it has emerged that the Marine - Staff Sergeant Tyrone Hadnott - is to be court-martialled.

Source - Armed Forces International's US Correspondent

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400 Dead from US, Iraqi Clashes with Shia Insurgents: Hospitals

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:37:23 GMT

According to Baghdad-based hospital workers, the past month of violence involving allied and Shia forces has seen over 400 people killed.

The majority of the fighting has taken place in Sadr City.

Two US troopers were killed in the most recent of the city’s clashes, the US military has stated.

April 2008 has seen more US soldiers killed in Iraq than in any month since September 2007.

Roadside Bomb, Small-Arms Fire Fatalities

The two recent fatalities, said the US, occurred separately in Baghdad’s north-west. One happened when a roadside bomb struck the vehicle the soldier was travelling in, the other, as a result of small-arms fire.

The casualties came as US and Iraqi soldiers remained involved in heavy fighting with Shia insurgents. This fighting intensified on April 27^th after the insurgents attacked positions held by the coalition.

28 Insurgent Deaths: US Mil

On the 29^th April, further battles took place in Sadr City, resulting – according to the US military – in a minimum of 28 deaths among the insurgents.

Sadr City has two principal hospitals – the al Sadr General and the Imam Ali. Both have spoken of how the sheer number of new arrivals has left them struggling.

Over the past 30 days, say both, over 400 people have been killed, and nearly 2,500 more injured.

According to one correspondent, those working at the al Sadr General and the Imam Ali are concerned that clean water supplies will dry up, and fear that more severe trauma cases will turn up than there are specialists to treat them.

Recently, Moqtada Sadr told his followers to carry on “resisting” the US “occupation” of Iraq, but to avoid entering combat with Iraqis.

Sadr has rejected conditions set by the Iraqi government for putting its crackdown on the Mahdi Army to an end.

4,058 US Soldiers Killed in Iraq

According to one website, icasualties.org, over the past five years, an estimated 4,058 US soldiers have now been killed whilst serving in Iraq.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Middle East Correspondent

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USAF Ospreys Ready for Operations: US General

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:02:52 GMT

The USAF’s Boeing/ Bell V-22 Osprey tilt-rotors performed so well during operational evaluations that, according to an air force general, they could be operationally deployed prior to their formal “combat ready” deadline, sources close to the programme have told news agency Reuters.

50 USAF V-22s

50 V-22s are ultimately set to be delivered to the USAF.

In US Marine Corps service, meanwhile, the type has been serving in Iraq for six months now.

The V-22 features tilt-rotors that rotate 90 degrees. Pointing straight up, the rotors give the Osprey a helicopter-like profile but, when fully forward, it effectively becomes an aircraft.

War Funding

In March, a deal was signed between the Pentagon and Bell/Boeing for the provision of 167 V-22s over the next three years. The Pentagon additionally requested that funding be considered for five Ospreys in a dedicated war funding appeal.

One of those speaking to Reuters described how, during a dinner held on the 28^th April, USAF Special Operations Command head, Lieutenant General Donald Wurster, had spoken of his pleasure over how the trial V-22s had performed.

Wurster added that he would be prepared to deploy V-22s if conditions demanded, the (anonymous) source said.

Data assimilated from the evaluations is now being assessed, V-22 programme spokesman, Jamie Darcy, stated.

Darcy did not elaborate on the comments reported to have been made by Wurster, but said if the Air Force did want to deploy Ospreys prior to the deadline in February 2009, maintenance support and spare parts would be able to be provided.

At present, said Darcy, the USAF’s V-22 fleet comprises four combat-ready aircraft, in addition to four aircraft used for training, and a single test airframe.

Special Operations

In USAF service, it is planned that the Ospreys will be tasked with carrying out special operations engagements. Essentially, they will drop special operations forces into, and collect them out of, positions held by the enemy.

"There's a lot of enthusiasm for the capability of the aircraft", one source said.

"It's such a leap in capabilities above what anybody can do with a conventional helicopter that there's definitely missions out there waiting for it.

“People have a lot of good ideas about how this aircraft could potentially be used."

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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US Navy Deploys Aircraft Carrier to Gulf

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 12:53:04 GMT

A US Navy aircraft carrier has been deployed to the Gulf region in a move Robert Gates, US Defence Secretary, referred to on the 29^th April as a “reminder” to Iran.

He added, however, that the positioning of the vessel was not indicative of a heightened US military presence in the area.

Gates spoke to the media on the issue whilst travelling to Mexico, emphatically denying notions that, with two aircraft aircraft carriers now (temporarily) deployed in the Gulf, plans could exist for an attack on Iran.

"This deployment has been planned for a long time," he stated.

"I don't think we'll have two carriers there for a protracted period of time. So I don't see it as an escalation. I think it could be seen, though, as a reminder."

No further information was provided.

According to Geoff Morrell, spokesman for the Pentagon, the aircraft carrier’s Gulf deployment began on April 29^th. It is intended, he added, that it will soon take over duties from the one there at present, which is set to leave on May 1^st.

US/ Iranian Relations

The current state of US/Iranian relations has heightened speculation concerning the possibility of a US attack on Iran.

Earlier this month, US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Navy Admiral Mike Mullen, said that military options against Tehran did exist, but emphasised, however, that Washington would carry on using economic and diplomatic measures.

Nuclear Weapons Allegations

The US and Iran have become embattled in two key areas – allegations that Tehran is involved in the development of nuclear weapons, and claims that Iran is arming Iraqi insurgents.

Iran has repeatedly said that its uranium enrichment programme is intended to produce civilian energy.

Confrontations have also taken place out at sea, involving the US Navy and Iranian speedboats.

On the 21^st April, Gates issued a warning against launching military action against Tehran.

"Another war in the Middle East is the last thing we need and, in fact, I believe it would be disastrous on a number of levels", he said.

Source – Armed Forces International’s US Correspondent

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Royal Prince Meets British Troops in Afghanistan

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:32:06 GMT

Prince William secretly travelled to Afghanistan to meet with British troops deployed there, it emerged today.

RAF Wings Ceremony

Earlier this month, William received his RAF wings at a ceremony held at RAF Cranwell.

The Royal Prince flew to Afghanistan in an RAF Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, one of five now in service at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.

During the flight, William was given control of the military transporter for a segment of the journey.

Having arrived in Kandahar, the Prince stayed there for three hours before the return flight back to the UK.

A spokesman for Clarence House has said that permission for the trip had been given by both the Queen and Prince Charles.

The outbound flight began on Sunday 27^th April, and continued into the following day.

“The purpose of the trip was for the prince to familiarise himself with the operations of the RAF in theatre", the spokesman for Clarence House said.

The entire trip, he added, was around 30 hours in duration and ‘passed without a hitch’.

Prince Harry Deployment

It emerged earlier in 2008 that William’s brother, Prince Harry, had been serving in Afghanistan. It was intended that his deployment would receive no media coverage, but when this changed, Harry was pulled out of the country.

Prince William is now nearing the end of his four-month-long RAF training.

Tutor, Tucano, Helicopter Training

He initially flew the RAF’s basic trainer, the Grob Tutor, before moving on to the more potent Tucano.

He then moved on to helicopters: the Squirrel and, most recently, the Chinook.

Prince William’s RAF training is intended to give him insight into the air force’s purpose, heritage, and the role it plays.

In June, the Prince will begin another temporaryattachment – this time with the Royal Navy.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Political Correspondent

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