Maritime Simulation Centre in Asia

There are few Simulator Training Center In Asia that offer a good and important navigation, ship handling courses to mariner. Malaysia will have another one training Centre  that will offer the same scope but with more focus towards naval application with latest of art  naval technology.    The scope will include tactical operation, naval navigation, combat management system and ship bridge management. Lets compare what are the other training center offers.

        

           1. Bourbon inaugurated its Training Center Asia and its AHTS simulator in Singapore in the premises of Bourbon Offshore Asia. The opening of this second Bourbon Training Center in Asia follows the opening of the Manila’s (Philippines) center in October 2007 dedicated to Dynamic Positioning (DP).

2.      FORCE Simulator  in Singapore Police Coast Guard Ctr

The Singapore Police Coast Guard commission their new training simulator. The Australian Danish company FORCE Technology has supplied a new generation of software for the simulator.

3.      SMA – ISC AT Singapore Polytechnic

a.      In the Marine Machinery Simulator, the comprehensive, realistic, interactive and dynamic systems simulate real-world ship propulsion plants. It is housed in a purpose-built complex to support the following learning objectives:  ·

b.      The Full Mission Bridge Simulator has: Four own-ship booths, representing ship bridges, each containing True Motion radar, ARPA,  shiphandling controls, and electronic navigational aids display. Each booth is provided with intercommunication, VHF radio and quadraphonic sound systems. The main bridge is fully equipped with state-of-the -art Computer Generated Image (CGI) system to create a highly realistic environment on a large circular screen. ·        A computerised simulation system for generating exercise area, electronic navigational aids data, ship models and environmental conditions. ·        An instructor's console for the setting, monitoring and control of the exercise. ·        A record / replay system to facilitate exercise debriefing.

c.      The Electronic Navigation Simulator Laboratory, an Electronic Navigation Systems (ENS) laboratory, is for training students in the proper and safe use of electronic navigation systems for position fixing. In addition to facilitating R&D in the field of navigation, the simulator will also facilitate the following: ·        Basic bridge work for cadets. ·        Basic operation, capabilities, errors, limitations of ENS. ·        Use of Radar, ARPA and other navigational aids.                   ·        Bridge team work. ·        Shiphandling. ·        Bridge resource management.

d.      The GMDSS Simulator consists of 10 PC based workstations for training,an Instructor Station on the outer loop and 3 PC based orkstations for examination in the inner loop. The simulator can train candidates to meet the requirements of the Global Maritime Distress & Safety Systems (GMDSS ) using authentic simulated equipment. In addition, there is 'Live GMDSS' radio equipment to enhance the training.

e.      The Boiler House provides a learning environment similar to  that found in steam generation plants. It is equipped with two operational boilers to support the following learning objectives: ·

f.       The ECDIS Centre has an Electronic Chart and Display Information Systems that includes an instructor station connected to 10 individual workstations (Bridges). Apart from the ECDIS, the system contains some common shipboard Electronic Navigation Aids and is also capable of desktop ship handling simulation.

The Maritime I.T. Laboratory is equipped with latest shipmanagement software programmes. From this laboratory students can access PSA's Portnet and Tradenet on-line.        4. KASI Maritime Simulation Centre Commissioned in 2009, KASI's maritime simulation centre is Malaysia's first dedicated marine simulation research and development facility. Powered by a state-of-the-art hydrodynamic model, the latest shiphandling simulator faithfully simulates the effect of environmental conditions and interaction effects such as bank, squat and ship-ship interaction on a vast library of vessel types. Complex and flexible scenarios can be created for research and training, in all conditions of weather and traffic to challenge a trainee or test the design of a new port facility. The new "Seagull" visualisation system generates an out-of-window view that is stunningly realistic and each bridge is equipped with the controls and instrumentation to fully simulate real shiphandling.    Main Bridge Main Bridge With a visual system providing Secondary Bridge The secondary bridge is itself a self-contained bridge simulator, equipped with the same comprehensive controls and instrumentation as the main bridge. However, with supplementary Voith Schneider and tug winch controls, the 180 degree HFOV bridge is used primarily to provide tug support to the main bridge during research and training and also to allow dedicated training for tug handling. Controls Lilaas LF80 Follow up steering Tiller (+90-0-90) Dual engine order telegraph Multi Truster panel with LF90D telegraph Real Steering Wheel (Sperry +-70deg) POD/AZIMUTH/Water Jet Propulsion with real instruments/handles Instrumentation Port and Starboard Radar, ECDIS, ARPA RPM and PITCH Analogue Indicators Gyro Repeater Panel & Rate of Turn Panels for Engine, Shapes, Log, Lights, Fire Alarm, Anchors, Sound Signals   

Thailand - Domestic Defense Industry

Before the 1970s, domestic defense production was extremely limited. Local industrial plants made items such as uniforms, storage batteries, glassware, preserved foods, some electronic devices, and certain pharmaceutical and chemical products. The production of armaments, began on a modest scale in 1969 and received increasing government assistance. In August 1976, the Ministry of Defense announced that it had invested more than US$200 million since 1969 in developing domestic production of ordnance items. This investment resulted in the local production of 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and .30 calibre ammunition. In addition, the government operated facilities for limited rebuilding and modernization of military vehicles, aircraft engines, and helicopters. A modern dockyard provided similar improvements as well as maintenance on naval vessels and their armaments. Most of these capabilities were achieved with American technical assistance. In December 1977, Prime Minister Kriangsak announced plans to establish a number of new factories to increase the strength of the country's arms industry. In particular, he hoped to meet internal security requirements for ammunition and light weapons. The industrial expansion called for private as well as government-owned facilities. The primary vehicle for this was a privately owned company called Thai Interarms, which received substantial government aid. Divided into four subunits, the company manufactured small arms, ammunition, gunpowder, and other explosives. In addition, a factory established in Ta Khli, a joint venture between the Thai government and the Winchester Company of the United States, had a projected production capability of 1 million tons of ammunition annually, including rockets. To strengthen the navy's combat readiness, the government expanded its naval repair facilities with aid from the United States, Italy, and Japan. As a result, Thailand produced a variety of naval vessels, including six fast coastal patrol boats, and had an LST (landing ship, tank) under construction in 1987. Despite the ambitious scope of plans for a domestic defense industry, however, production failed to reach the levels desired. Data as of September 1987

Thailand looks to defence industry collaboration in frigate procurement

By Jon Grevatt

9/25/2012

Defence industrial collaboration will be a key consideration in Thailand's USD1 billion programme to procure two modern frigates over the next few years, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has revealed to IHS Jane's .

Funds for the frigate purchase were approved by the Thai cabinet on 18 September. The programme had been delayed by more than a decade due to a shortage of funds but finally received government support on the back of economic expansion in the Southeast Asian country and a growing RTN requirement to enhance combat capability.

A senior source within the RTN, who is involved in acquisitions, said the programme provides Thailand with an opportunity to not only procure "world-class" frigates but also develop a high level of industry capability that will benefit the RTN.

He also said that following cabinet approval of the funds the RTN has formed a frigate committee to identify the most suitable platforms for Thailand's needs and to formalise a potential industrial collaboration programme that would benefit local industry. The committee is expected to issue request-for-information documents soon and submit its plan to government by the end of the year or in early 2013.

ASEAN Defense: Thai military guided public defense industry unit, targets “Arms Export” in two years

By Stingray, Thai Intel’s national security journalist

Matichon, a newspaper for the intellect here in Thailand, just reported that the Thai military guided, public defense industry unit, is targeting to be able to export internal-Thailand developed arms equipment-within two years.
Matichon gave an array of equipment that the Thai military public unit is working on-including a few cutting-edge tropical area specifics infantry soldier equipment-on exhibition in last week local arms industry show.
Mentioned, was also, rockets and missiles, however, based on earlier reports of Thailand’s advancement in rockets and missiles development-these equipment were not on exhibition.
Germany, through the Thai German Technical Assistance Program, have signed an agreement with the Thai arms manufacturing public unit-for transfer of technology. The unit, established by Taksin, aims mainly to produce advance missiles.
Within ASEAN, Indonesia is most active in developing a local arms industry, having signed agreement with S.Korea, for fighter jest and submarine development. Malaysia is also active in the area.
Thai prime minster, Yingluck, said in the Thai parliament, that developing Thailand’s local arms industry, is one of her policy. ASEAN recently, proposed a paper on building up of an ASEAN arms industry.

Thailand will focus on building-up “Internal” arms industry

By Stingray, Thai Intel’s national security journalist

• The Issue:

ASEAN as a whole, particularly, Indonesia and Malaysia-have been building up a local defense industry-with last year, ASEAN making statements about jointly-developing an ASEAN Defense industry. However, out-side ASEAN defense industry, through lobbying and corruption, have held much of the ASEAN market in control.
Thai Intel just got a comment, from Aldo, on an earlier report about Indonesian internal submarine development efforts:

“Indonesia also successfully built LPD Makassar class in cooperation with SKorea. They even try to sell it to Philippines… In addition to that, they are now involved in research and production of stealth KFX jet fighters with SKorea…it seems that Indonesia has a long perspective in building their defense system in relation to local economic development.”

• Back-Ground on Thailand:

For a background, Thailand have had a burgeoning private local arms industry for a very long time-with local development of armored personal carriers. Then the Thai armed forces have long invested in building artillery pieces and also multiple-rocket launchers-and also small naval patrol vessels.
However, Thailand joined the modern age in development of a local arms industry-when Taksin, the former prime minister who was ouster by the 2006 coup, establishing and giving budget to the development of a local “Missile” industry. That missile unit, eventually, received aid from Germany.

• The following is from Thai Intel’s earlier report:

The Thai missile research and development unit main mission is a 5 year plan to develop Thailand missile capabilities-with a budget said open-ended on top of about US$70 million initial public stated release figures.
The unit had completed its first factory in Nakornsawan province.
The unit is currently experimenting with solid fuels and guidance systems.
Test site is considered to be at the former Vietnam War era naval base at Sattahep-with targets site in the gulf of Thailand. Estimates is that within 1 a year test would begin-as reports said new know-how is supplementing long built up know-how in basic guidance systems and rocket fuels.
The current German government is considered close to the Thai government. An arms catch in Bangkok included moderately advance missiles-to which no one claims and is on hold in Thailand.
US Congress had in the past rejected Thailand request to purchase sophisticated missiles-based on concerns that Thailand would pass on the technology to China and on concerns of equipping Thailand with such advance defense capabilities

Defence Industry - Indonesia

Indonesia - Assessing our defense industry

Adhi Priamarizki, Singapore | Opinion | Mon, January 09 2012, 8:30 PM

A-AA+

Recently the Indonesian Defense Ministry stated that they would implement a “defense support economy” principle in the country’s arms procurement business. The purpose of this principle is to synergize defense enforcement with improvements to the national economy. In other words, the Defense Ministry believes that defense and development have a positive relationship.

This positive relationship occurs because arms procurement stimulates economic activities. The defense industry creates a lot of new job opportunities. Further, the defense industry absorbs products from other industries.

For example, a ship consists of various things, such as computer systems, wires, steel, and so on. The defense industry therefore stimulates production in other industries, especially manufacturing. However, the end of the Cold War had an effect in reducing the defense budgets in most countries around the world.

The next knock-on effect was to the defense industry. Since demand was low, some companies in this industry closed or merged with other companies, resulting in the emergence of several mega-defense firms.

The companies are Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, BAE Systems, Thales, and DASA see Richard Bitzinger, “Introduction: Challenges Facing the Global Arms Industry in the 21st Century,” in Richard Bitzinger (ed.) The Modern Defense Industry: Political, Economic, and Technological Issues, (Oxford; Praeger, 2009) page 4.

Even though defense budget trends in recent years have been increasing, competition in the international defense market is generally tough for newcomers.

The global defense market has become an oligopolistic market, since there are only a few suppliers as a result of the mergers during the 1990s. Thus, the global defense market offers a promising income for every player in the industry as the global market provides a great many consumers.

In this environment, there are big challenges for Indonesia’s defense industry. Although the defense industry in Indonesia belongs to the government in the form of a company, the industry must keep its profits in balance in order to survive.

Further, there is the possibility that Indonesia’s defense industry will be working in a monopsony market, meaning a market that only has one buyer; in this case, the Defense Ministry. If this occurs, Indonesia’s defense industry will need strong regulations to ensure the business runs properly. Moreover, without making a profit, the defense industry will rely heavily on government assistance.

It will thus become a burden for the government. The relationship between defense and development will then become a negative relationship. Eventually, the classic issue of “guns versus butter” will appear.

Besides that, the commitment from the Indonesian government to use its own national products is crucial. The defense industry has a limited number of consumers and has tight relations with bureaucratic systems. With these characteristics, it provides room for corruption in order to smooth contract negotiations. The regulations must not only dictate terms for contract negotiations, but also policies to oversee competition in order to win contracts.

The other solution to this problem is to build joint-venture cooperation with other defense companies or larger, well-established global defense corporations. No one can escape from globalization; this condition also applies to the defense industry.

The creation of the European Aeronautic Defense and Spain Company (EADS) is one of the examples of globalization in the defense industry. The company’s latest project is the Eurofighter Typhoon, a fighter jet, which is part of Europe’s largest, collaborative military program in recent years.

In conclusion, there is a way to improve our defense industry. Although it is possible to mold the defense industry in order to strengthen the economy, the mismanagement of this industry would make it become a new burden for the government.

There are always risks with every policy, but they can be avoided depending on how we manage our potency in a proper way. Like the old, English proverb says, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

The writer is a student at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.

Defense industries: Waking up Indonesia's slumbering giants

The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network
Thursday, Oct 06, 2011

INDONESIA - Indonesia may be Southeast Asia's biggest economy. But the nation's status as a regional military power has dissipated.
The Indonesian Military's (TNI)strength was at its peak in the 1960s, when the nation forced the Dutch to give up their claim to the resource-rich region of West Irian, now the provinces of Papua and West Papua.Then president Sukarno developed the TNI with foreign aid and equipment, principally from the former Soviet Union, turning the TNI into Asia's second most powerful military, behind the People's Liberation Army in China."The Indonesian Military had an effective deterrent. Without such a powerful force, our history might have gone in a different direction," former Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal (ret.) Chappy Hakim said.The TNI could boast of the air superiority and long-range strike capability of its many Soviet-made state-of-the-art MiG-17 and MiG-21 fighter jets and TU-16 bombers, Chappy said, as well of its fleet of Soviet-made warships and submarines.However, a reliance on Soviet-made equipment kept Indonesia's defense industry in its infancy - despite a history of domestic production dating to the 19th century, when the Dutch created companies such as NV de Broom, NV de Vulcaan and NV de Industrie to arm its colonial forces.Not long after gaining independence on Aug. 17, 1945, Indonesia, under the leadership of prime minister Djuanda Kartawijaya, nationalized local Dutch arms companies.The policy made way for the establishment of state-owned defense companies such as PN Boma, PN Bisma, PN Indra, PN Barata and PN Sabang Merauke.The companies were an embryo for the eventual development of 10 state defense companies, including aircraft maker PT Dirgantara Indonesia, shipyard PT PAL Indonesia, arms maker PT Pindad and explosives maker PT Dahana.Other non-weapon strategic companies include steel maker PT Krakatau Steel, heavy equipment company PT Barata Indonesia, diesel and machinery company PT Boma Bisma Indra, train maker PT INKA, telecommunication company PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia and electronic component maker PT LEN Industri.However, it was not until the mid-1970s that Indonesia's defense industries were professionally managed.Then president Soeharto handpicked a genius - German-educated aeronautical scientist Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie - to plan and develop the industrialization of the nation with full assistance from the West.In 1974, at the age of 38, Habibie was named a presidential advisor for technology. Four years later, he was made minister of research and technology, a position he held for 20 years before his appointment as vice president in 1998.Under Habibie's management, 10 strategic industries were consolidated under a single organization, the Strategic Industry Regulatory Body (BPIS), in 1989 to "build and develop the country's defense industry as well as defense and security sovereignty".Habibie also had an ambitious goal to bolster the nation's maritime and aviation industries by 2015.With support from state budget, Habibie's huge investments in Pindad, PAL and IPTN (Dirgantara's previous name) reaped benefits in the early 1990s, as local companies designed and produced the CN-235 cargo plane and the N-250 passenger aircraft, warships and various rifles and types of ammunition.However, the TNI also went on a shopping spree, buying weapons systems from Western countries, including the US, the UK, Germany and France.The move was driven by the personal interests of TNI officers, who pocketed fees from arms brokers employed by foreign arms companies.Several weapon systems that might have been supplied by domestic producers were ordered from overseas vendors.The TNI's unwritten doctrine during the Soeharto era that placed the Army ahead of the Air Force and the Navy was also hampering the development of shipyards and aviation companies that might have been more useful in protecting an archipelago comprised of 17,000 islands and spanning more than 1.9 million square kilometers.Budget constraints imposed by the 1997/1998 Asian financial crisis and the absence of a grand design for defense and industrialization after Soeharto's fall have continued to plague the TNI and the nation's defense industries.Worse, the TNI currently relies heavily on foreign arms suppliers, leaving local companies with underdeveloped core competencies due to limited orders."This unhealthy reliance has left our country prone to military embargoes, just as the US and European Union did to us in 1999," legislator T.B. Hasanuddin, deputy chairman of The House of Representatives' Commission I overseeing defense, said.Hasanuddin referred to the western embargo of arms and spare parts sales to Indonesia following allegations of human rights abuse committed by the TNI in the former province of East Timor, now Timor Leste.The International Monetary Fund, which provided financial aid to Indonesia during the crisis, also instructed Indonesia in 1998 to end its financial support of what it called inefficient local high-technology companies, leading to the dissolution of the BPIS.The government's move to save the 10 strategic companies through establishing a holding company, PT Bahana Pakarya Industri Strategis, in 1998, had no significant impact.Following the company's liquidation in 2002, the companies have operated independently under the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry.Most of the companies are currently in an unhealthy state due to mismanagement, bad loans and limited capital.PAL and Dirgantara, for instance, are striving to get rid of loans that have haunted their businesses for more than a decade, while Pindad, although having secured a small profit, is far from a prosperous company.The government's preference for importing arms, coupled with unscrupulous officials, has also contributed to the fall of the nation's defense industries and created disorientation in the defense system."Nowadays, our weapons system management is chaotic. We use a lot of different models for our defense systems: local, US, Russian and Chinese systems," Chappy said."Not only that it is more costly but also it requires more technicians to learn the different systems."The prioritization of the Army has also remained, meaning the TNI is focused on domestic security and not deterrence or power projection.The Army regularly absorbs almost half the TNI's budget, receiving Rp 21.5 trillion (S$3.2 billion) of the military's Rp 44 trillion budget for 2010 alone.This has affected funding for new warships and fighter jets, which Chappy said should be prioritized."Our defense industry is always tied to our defense policy. Since the Army is always a priority, we don't expect companies like PAL and Dirgantara to get a lot of orders. Our defense policy is basically saying let the enemies come and we'll beat them in our house, instead of preventing them stepping into our yard," Chappy said.

Lockheed Martin, Indonesia Firm To Begin Long-Range Surveillance Radar Production

Thu, Nov 8, 2012 15:09 CET

Lockheed Martin and Indonesian firm PT CMI Teknologi (CMI) have recently completed a production readiness review that qualifies CMI to begin in-country manufacturing for the TPS-77 and FPS-117 long-range surveillance radars.

Lockheed Martin and CMI are jointly pursuing the National Airspace Surveillance – Republic of Indonesia (NASRI) program, with the intent to produce more than 20 new radars to improve airspace surveillance, safety, and management over the Indonesian Archipelago in support of the government’s defense revitalization initiative.

“The success of the production readiness review shows that CMI’s workforce is ready to begin the assembly of radar row receivers, which is a major step in the qualification process,” said James Gribbon, Asia Pacific regional president for Lockheed Martin. “These are key assemblies in the solid-state design and L-band operation of these high-performing radars that are already operating in 25 countries around the world”.

The production readiness review is the latest step in supporting the Indonesian government’s efforts to greatly enhance air sovereignty and surveillance over the country’s more than 17,000 islands, and to expand Indonesia’s industrial capabilities.

Data feeds from the new network will also enhance civilian air traffic control, including commercial air traffic management, which is currently handled by radars in nearby Singapore.

 

The Real Navy Man

Manly Men

SINGAPORE DEFENCE INDUSTRY

The Singapore shipyard ST Marine and Thales Nederland have signed a contract for the delivery and installation of sensors and a combat management system that will be installed on the four Al-Ofouq class patrol vessels that are to be built for the Sultanate of Oman. Thales will supply the Tacticos Combat Management System, the Variant surveillance radar and the STIR 1.2 EO Mk2 radar E/O tracking system and the ESM system. Thales is also responsible for all Combat System Integration activities.

STIR 1.2 EO Mk2 Radar and EO tracking system (picture: Thales)

Thales Nederland CEO Gerben Edelijn says: “We are very proud to have been awarded this contract as the international competition was fierce. This says very much about Thales’ reputation and excellent technical solutions.”

ST Marine's Fearless 75 Patrol Vessel (picture: ST Marine)

This contract is a confirmation of the excellent relation Thales enjoys with the Sultanate of Oman. It reinforces Thales’ presence in the Middle East. Furthermore it adds a new shipyard to the long list of international Naval shipbuilders that Thales works with worldwide, thus widening the scope as a yard-independent Naval system supplier.

DCNS floats Gowind OPV

 The first DCNS Gowind-type offshore patrol vessel has been launched just one year after construction work began. Meeting this milestone highlights the programme's excellent progress. The building and outfitting of the L'Adroit in record time - less than 20 months - has been made possible by new, improved design and production methods.

From 'first cut' on 7 May 2010 to float-out on 18 May 2011 took just 12 months. This innovative maritime safety & security vessel programme is consistent with DCNS's ambitious shipbuilding targets.

"The floating of Gowind-type OPV L'Adroit demonstrates DCNS's ability to design and build a highly innovative ship on time - in this case less than 20 months - and on budget," says Marc Maynard, the Group's Gowind OPV programme manager. "This highly symbolic event gives the management team an opportunity to thank everyone working on the programme and to say how happy it is with the contributions of all the DCNS teams involved as well as all investors, partners and co-contractors, along with the French Navy which is supporting both the programme and the planned export drive. All have contributed directly to the success achieved to date. The Gowind family of OPV/corvettes is a key element of the Group's strategic growth plan."

Eleven companies are supplying systems and equipment for the L'Adroit free of charge. In all, over 50 co-contractors are contributing to this showcase programme and will contribute further to the drive to promote the Gowind family and its systems and equipment.

The float-out or launch - always a major milestone - involved many people and considerable preparation. Last weekend, special-purpose crawlers moved the ship from its assembly hall to a nearby wharf, then to a barge on the Scorff estuary. From there, L'Adroit was taken to a drydock to be floated out.

Gowind-type OPV L'Adroit is now moored at a DCNS outfitting wharf for work on the upper deck equipment compartments and the installation of the single enclosed mast. Major tasks scheduled for June include the installation of the main radome and electronic systems. When quayside testing of the electronic systems and equipment has been completed, advanced-technology OPV L'Adroit will begin sea trials scheduled for the coming summer.

OPV L'Adroit is being built under a DCNS-funded programme.
On completion, the ship will be made available to the French Navy.

A three-year operational loan will enable the Navy to grant 'sea proven' and 'operations qualified' seals of approval, thereby giving DCNS two key arguments when promoting the Gowind family on the international market.

This loan introduces an innovative form of cooperation between the French government and a private company.

The Navy will demonstrate the Gowind's relevance and operational worth for current and emerging missions on the high seas from area surveillance to anti-piracy, counter-terrorism, fisheries policing, drug interdiction, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, search & rescue and maritime safety & security.

Gowind-type OPVs offer three weeks' blue-water endurance, a range of 8,000 nautical miles and a top speed of 21 knots. L'Adroit has a length overall of 87 metres. The design also includes full provision for reduced crewing by a complement of 30 and space for 30 passengers.

Innovations and capabilities of special interest to ship-based naval, commando and coast guard forces include a panoramic bridge offering 360o visibility, a single enclosed mast offering 360o sensor visibility, covert deployment of fast commando boats in less than five minutes and full provision for unmanned aerial and surface vehicles (UAVs and USVs). The Gowind family also benefits from DCNS's vast experience in IT and command information systems. These vessels can be readily tailored for extended area surveillance and, when working in conjunction with shore-based control centres and other networked ships, for the automatic detection of suspicious behaviour by ships and other craft.

Source : DCNS

Navy goes high-tech with computer-simulated war games

Jun 2005 - My sales track record

WAR SIMULATOR: Maritime Tactical Centre commandant Kapten Dr Mohd Hassan Omar (left) briefing L/Madya Mohamad (right) on the simulation system at the centre in Lumut yesterday.

LUMUT: After a lapse of seven years, the Royal Malaysian Navy has resumed warfare tactical training, but this time via computer simulation.
The RM21mil system from Germany, called the System Action Speed Tactical Trainer, was commissioned in April. Fleet operation commander Laksamana Madya Datuk Mohamad Nik described the system as among the most-sophisticated procured by the navy so far. He said the system was capable of strategising surface, underwater and air tactical moves in three dimension. “The objective of using the equipment is to enhance the professionalism and skill of our navy officers when facing real conflicts,” he told reporters after launching the war games using the equipment at the Maritime Tactical Centre here. The 25th Kerismas annual military exercise was between KD Jebat and KD Seri Indra Sakti. The simulation involved 16 warships from Kuantan and Labuan in the South China Sea.

Ex-navy advised to join cooperative

MEMBERS of the Ex-Royal Malaysian Navy Association who are interested in venturing into business, should join its cooperative.
Its deputy president, Cmdr (R) Juma’noh Abdul Bunga said the cooperative was formed to help members kickstart small businesses.
“Some of them, who have joined the Koperasi Tentera Laut Bersara Bhd are doing well selling engine lubricants,” he said during the opening of the association’s state-level annual general meeting.

Kind gesture: Dr Zambry pinning a medal of appreciation on recipient Lef Cmdr (R) Abdul Aziz Ahmad (right), 55, while Cmdr (R) Juma’noh looks on.

He urged members to find out how they could benefit from the cooperative by visiting its premises in Desa Raya Manjung, Lumut.
State president Cmdr (R) Ahmad Bakhtiar Nordin Ali hoped the cooperative could be a viable alternative for its members in the complex business world.
“We need to help one another in order to keep ourselves competitive in the market,” he said.
Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the large population of ex-Navy men was one of the pillars of Manjung’s economy.
“The municipal council is now the state’s economic capital as it has the fastest economic growth,” he said. Dr Zambry, who is also Pangkor assemblyman, said the state government had the interest of ex-navy personnel at heart. One of the examples, he highlighted, was the allocation of 7,000 housing lots to former soldiers and policemen under the Planned Housing Programme.
He also presented medals to five former armed forces personnel in appreciation of their contribution

Lumut owes its prosperity to the Royal Malaysian Navy

It was a quiet fishing village in Manjung district in the good old days. Lumut underwent rapid transformation when the Royal Malaysian Navy made the town the “Home of the Navy” in 1979. It never look back since then.

Lumut MP Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said the population influx had also led to the development of new townships in the district, such as Seri Manjung, about 8km from Lumut, to meet their housing needs.

Not a sleepy hollow: Lumut enjoys growth potential thanks to a bustling maritime industry.

There are about 19,000 navy personnel at the Lumut Naval Base out of the 223,800 population in Manjung.

Kong said many retired navy personnel and their family members also chose to stay here and contribute to the district’s population, growth and development.

He said there were ample maritime-related job opportunities available in Lumut for retired navy personnel who possessed relevant skills.

Born and bred in Sitiawan — about 10km from Lumut — Kong recalled Lumut as a quiet fishing village with few residents living in wooden houses three decades ago; a stark contrast to the busy tourist town it is now.

“Manjung experienced expansion of its road network, telecommunication system and mushrooming of public amenities since the navy descended on Lumut.

“The locals have not only adapted well to the change, but also participated alongside the development of Lumut and its neighbouring towns,” said Kong, who has been serving as Lumut’s MP for three terms.

But development does come with a price though.

Doing their bit: The large population of navy and ex-navy personnel and their families are a major drive for Manjung’s economy.

Manjung municipal councillor Loo Ming Cheong said there was a 500% increase in the price of single storey terrace houses now compared to in the 1970s.
“A single storey terrace house in Seri Manjung cost about RM100,000 now,” he said, adding that the township also housed the local administrative building, Manjung Hospital, sports complexes and shops.
Loo said Lumut was more of a commercial district nowadays, adding that many people who set up their business in the navy town were staying in Sitiawan or neighouring townships.
He said the navy — apart from being a growth catalyst — also played an active role in community development.
For instance, they organised activities to help the poor and made recommendations to the local council on how to improve their living conditions

Isu harga RIV untuk elit tentera disiasat

Zahid Hamidi: Isu harga RIV untuk elit tentera disiasat

7:43PM Sep 10 2012

Perbezaan harga Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) yang diutarakan Sultan Johor Sultan Ibrahim dalam titah baginda Sabtu lepas akan disiasat, kata Menteri Pertahanan Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid
Hamidi.

Beliau berkata kementeriannya mengambil secara positif komen tersebut dengan menganggapnya sebagai satu keprihatinan yang ditunjukkan Sultan Ibrahim yang juga Kolonel Komandan Rejimen Gerak Khas.

"Kementerian Pertahanan mengambil maklum terhadap komen baginda dengan cara positif di mana saya sendiri akan lakukan penyiasatan terhadap perbezaan di antara harga RIV yang dianugerahkan oleh Tuanku Sultan Johor berharga RM150,000 berbanding RM690,000 yang dijual oleh pihak pembekal.

"Mungkin terdapat spesifikasi yang berbeda yang akan saya teliti," katanya kepada pemberita ketika mengulas mengenai titah Sultan Johor pada majlis ulang tahun Rejimen Gerak Khas ke-47 di Kem Iskandar, Mersing, Johor Sabtu lepas.

Ahmad Zahid yang ditemui selepas menerima kunjungan hormat Timbalan Ketua Staf Angkatan Tentera Republik China, Jeneral Ma Xiaotian di Kementerian Pertahanan di Kuala Lumpur, berkata beliau menghargai pandangan tersebut dan sekali gus menunjukkan keprihatinan baginda terhadap peralatan yang sedang dan terus digunakan oleh Rejimen Gerak Khas.

"Keprihatinan ini adalah suatu yang perlu dihargai oleh kementerian (pertahanan) dan tentunya akan diambil kira sebagai panduan terutamanya dalam pembelian aset-aset dan peralatan di bawah naungan baginda," katanya.

Sultan Johor Sultan Ibrahim pada Sabtu lepas melahirkan rasa dukacita kerana kelengkapan ketenteraan yang dibekalkan kepada Kor Gerak Khas bukan sahaja tidak mencukupi tetapi juga tidak bermutu dan tidak menepati spesifikasi.

Baginda bertitah dalam usaha kerajaan mengawal belanjawan dan perbelanjaan, pihak Kementerian Pertahanan hendaklah meneliti satu persatu pembelian yang dibuat dan memastikan peralatan yang diperolehi bertepatan dengan keperluan dan mempunyai kualiti yang tinggi.

Di samping itu Sultan Johor juga mengingatkan pihak yang berkenaan agar tidak mengambil kesempatan dalam usaha pihak tentera melengkapkan kor itu dengan peralatan terkini.

"...janganlah bekalkan peralatan yang kurang berkualiti tetapi meletakkan harga yang berlipat kali ganda," titah Sultan Ibrahim.

- Bernama

MINDEF Probes On RIV Acquisition

Posted on September 21, 2012by hafizuddinsulaiman

 

The Defence Ministry has began probing the acquisition of the Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV), its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

GGK RIV during Army Day Exhibition 2011

He said legal actions would also be taken against those involved in any misappropriation in the purchase of the vehicles.

I have been collecting evidence from the preliminary investigation and if the allegation by Sultan Ibrahim of Johor is proven right, legal action will be taken against the supplier.
“The ministry will not compromise with anyone. If misappropriation is involved in the purchase of the RIV, we will take action,” he said in response to the vast difference in prices of the RIV supplied to the GGK as mentioned by Sultan Ibrahim last Saturday.


Sultan Johor dukacita kelengkapan Gerak Khas tidak bermutu

08/09/2012 5:12pm

MERSING — Sultan Johor Sultan Ibrahim melahirkan rasa dukacita kerana kelengkapan ketenteraan yang dibekalkan kepada Kor Gerak Khas bukan sahaja tidak mencukupi tetapi juga tidak bermutu dan tidak menepati spesifikasi.
Baginda turut meluahkan rasa kecewa kerana permintaan untuk mempertingkat kelengkapan kor itu tidak diendahkan, seolah-olah Kor Gerak Khas dianaktirikan."Saya amat menghargai nilai nyawa anggota Gerak Khas kerana ia adalah modal insan yang terlatih, namun jika anggota itu dilengkapkan dengan peralatan yang tidak bermutu dan tidak menepati standard spesifikasi, maka peluang untuk mereka terbunuh adalah amat tinggi.
"Sekiranya perkara ini berterusan yang mana cara pembelian peralatan tidak menepati kehendak Gerak Khas dan dengan harga yang tidak berpatutan, maka saya rasa lebih baik saya mengambil alih pembelian peralatan tersebut,” titah baginda.
Sultan Ibrahim yang juga Kolonel Komandan Rejimen Gerak Khas bertitah pada majlis ulang tahun Rejimen Gerak Khas ke-47 di Kem Iskandar di sini hari ini. — BERNAMA

CAE And Armour Sentral To Pursue Land Simulation Solutions With National Defence University

Tue, May 22, 2012 08:16 CET

CAE and Armour Sentral, a Malaysia-based technology management and services firm have signed a joint agreement with the National Defence University of Malaysia to develop simulation-based training solutions for the land systems market in Malaysia and the surrounding Asia region.

The duo along with the NDU will define and develop simulation-based solutions for the land systems market, including synthetic training equipment such as driver and crew gunnery simulators; region-specific dynamic terrain synthetic databases; and training needs and training delivery analysis professional services.

"Simulation is poised to have a transformational effect on how militaries prepare for operations," said Dato Jesbil Singh, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the National Defence University of Malaysia. "We are excited to cooperate with Armour Sentral and CAE to explore how education and training can be enhanced with simulation throughout the leadership development process at the university, as well as to offer our subject matter expertise in the development of land simulation solutions for military forces in Asia".

"Balancing live field training with the increased use of high-fidelity constructive and virtual training will be more cost-effective, and also contribute to better trained and more confident soldiers," said Maj Sheikh Mohd Mustaffa (Rtd), Managing Director, Armour Sentral.

"We are excited to be working in partnership with Armour Sentral and the National Defence University of Malaysia to develop world-class training solutions for the land market in Malaysia," said Kevin Speed, CAE's Vice President and Business Leader - Asia. "We strongly believe that defence customers, including those in Asia, will increasingly turn to simulation-based training as they seek ways to maintain readiness at a lower cost."

Boustead secures RM70m Mindef job

KUALA LUMPUR: Boustead Holdings Bhd’s unit, Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS), has received a letter of award from the Defence Ministry (Mindef).

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, Boustead Holdings said the RM70mil contract was for the supply and delivery of spare parts, maintenance services and training for a period of three years.

A formal contract agreement between the Government and BNS would be signed at a later date, it said. — Bernama

THE STAR 12 september 2012, wednesday

KUALA LUMPUR: Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation Bhd (BHIC) has secured a RM70mil contract from the Defence Ministry to supply spare parts, maintenance services and training.

BHIC said on Tuesday its associate Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd had received a letter of award to provide the parts and services to the 23rd frigate squadron of the navy over a three-year period.

"A formal contract between the government of Malaysia and BNS will be signed at a later date," it said.

KLSE Wednesday, 12 September 2012

Boustead: Gets RM70m Mindef contract

Boustead Holdings Bhd's subsidiary Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS) has received a letter of award for a contract worth RM70m from the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) to supply and deliver spare parts and train the 23rd Navy Frigate Squadron. In a filing, Boustead said a formal contract agreement between the government and BNS will be signed at a later date.

Boustead gives out vessel job worth RM203.8m

Boustead gives out vessel job worth RM203.8m

October 02, 2012

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 – Boustead Holdings Bhd’s unit, Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS), has issued a letter of award (LOA) to Contraves Advanced Devices Sdn Bhd (CAD), in relation to the RM203.79 million contract for Second Generation Patrol Vessels/Littoral Combat Ships.
CAD is a subsidiary of Boustead Heavy Industries Corp (BHIC).
The LOA covers an implementation period of up to 10 years.
“The commencement date of the awarded works is Oct 2, 2012,” said Boustead Holdings in a filing to Bursa Malaysia today.
The company added that the LOA awards to CAD, a contract to procure, engineer, and integrate into the DCNS SETIS Combat Management System, a Combined Integrated Communication System and Communications ESM system.
The awarded works are expected to have a positive impact on the earnings of the company for the financial year ending Dec. 31, 2012 and subsequent financial years, as the tenure of the awarded works is long term in nature. – Bernama

BTIMES
Contraves wins combat vessel job
Boustead Holdings Bhd's unit, Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS), has issued a letter of award (LOA) to Contraves
Advanced Devices Sdn Bhd (CAD), in relation to the RM203.79 million contract for Second Generation Patrol Vessels/Littoral Combat Ships.
CAD is a subsidiary of Boustead Heavy Industries Corp (BHIC). The LOA covers an implementation period of up to 10 years.
"The commencement date of the awarded works is Oct 2, 2012," said Boustead Holdings in a filing to Bursa Malaysia today.
The company added that the LOA awards to CAD, a contract to procure, engineer, and integrate into the DCNS SETIS Combat Management System, a Combined Integrated Communication System and Communications ESM system.
The awarded works are expected to have a positive impact on the earnings of the company for the financial year ending Dec. 31, 2012 and subsequent financial years, as the tenure of the awarded works is long term in nature. -- Bernama

From Fudzail.blogpost.com
CURRENT GFP RANK	27  Malaysia	41 Singapore
Total Population	28,728,607	4,740,737
Military Manpower Available	14,817,517	1,255,902
Fit for Military Service	12,422,580	2,105,973
Reaching Military Age Yearly	519,280	52,466
Active Military Personnel	124,000	72,000
Active Military Reserves	640,199	300,000
Total Aircraft	258	422
Total Land-Based Weapons	2,465	8,001
Total Naval Units	65	47
Towed Artillery	54	208
Merchant Marine Strength	321	1,422
Major Ports and Terminals	5	1
Aircraft Carriers	0	0
Destroyers	0	0
Frigates	4	6
Submarines	2	6
Patrol Coastal Craft	37	18
Mine Warfare Craft	4	4
Amphibious Operations Craft	1	4
Defense Budget / Expenditure	$3,500,000,000	$9,829,496,000
Foreign Reserves	$106,500,000,000	$225,800,000,000
Purchasing Power	$414,400,000,000	$291,900,000,000
Oil Production	693,700 bbl	10,910 bbl
Oil Consumption	536,000 bbl	927,000 bbl
Proven Oil Reserves	2,900,000,000 bbl	0 bbl
Total Labor Force	12,200,000	3,075,000
Roadway Coverage	98,721 km	3,356 km
Railway Coverage	1,849 km	0 km
Waterway Coverage	7,200 km	10 km
Coastline Coverage	4,675 km	193 km
Major Serviceable Airports	118	8
Square Land Area	329,847 km	697 km

Berita KD SRI INDERAPURA

2013 budget: No additional sum for Mindef

Sept 13, 2012

There will be no additional allocation for the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) in the 2013 Budget so as to give more space to the government to focus on improving the people's socio-economy, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the ministry was satisfied with the discussions held with the Finance Ministry and was not expecting any increase in allocation for it in the coming budget.
"This is because we feel that socio-economic programmes should be given priority.
"As for defence activities, we will continue with the existing training and preparing ourselves for readiness to face any potential threat," he said on the 2013 Budget, here, yesterday.
He said although there would be no additional allocation for the ministry in the new budget, safeguarding national security and sovereignty remained a priority without any compromise. —

from Bernama

Malaysia Pushes For Maritime Surveillance Aircraft Lease

FROM
Leithen Francis -

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is pushing for a budget to acquire fixed-wing maritime surveillance aircraft on long-term wet-lease, since its existing agreement with Bombardier for maritime patrol has lapsed.
The MMEA also is hoping to renew a customer support pact with Bombardier that lapsed a while ago, according to the agency’s director general, Adm. Amdan bin Kurish. “The Bombardier planes have not been flying for some time,” he says.
Amdan attributes the failure to “bureaucracy and haggling over price.” He cites instances where his agency and Bombardier would reach agreement, but MMEA would have trouble getting approval from senior government officials. The process of going back and forth on negotiations was time-consuming and led to the contract lapsing before a new one was ready, he says.
Without a support contract , MMEA’s two Bombardier 415 amphibious aircraft have been grounded at its base at Kuala Lumpur Subang Airport. Amdan predicts the 415s will fly again soon, although he cannot say precisely when. He also says the MMEA’s amphibious aircraft pilots will have to travel overseas for simulator training to regain some of their proficiency.
MMEA’s customer support agreement with AgustaWestland also expired, but that was less of an issue because the helicopter maker decided to roll over the agreement on a month-to-month basis until a new one could be reached.

The RMN Update

From Defence Journal - Mr Marhalim Abas

 In conjunction with RMN’s 78th anniversary, its chief Tan Sri Aziz Jaafar hold a press conference to announce various events organised for the celebrations. There will be open days at all RMN bases, on April 27 and 28, 2012.

During the press conference, the CN also gave some updates on RMN’s assets and development plans.

1) KD Tunku Abdul Rahman and KD Tun Razak has been declared operational. Both are undergoing operations.

2) The contract for the Submarine Escape and Rescue service (SMERV) had been awarded to Target Resources Sdn Bhd. The LOA was awarded recently. The contract had been in abeyance for the last four years as the Finance Ministry wants the Defence Ministry to renegotiate the price of the contract – RM8.2 million monthly for 20 years or RM98.4 million annually. Apparently the LOA was given at the original contract price. The CN said the mothership is being built in Singapore and is expected to be ready soon. In the meantime, RMN had worked out deal wtth regional navies in case of emergencies.

3) The LCS design will be finalised by July at the latest. The hull remained the Gowind and SETIS is the CMS. Only the other systems have yet to be confirmed. “It will be equipped with a gun capable of anti-aircraft capability, modern surface-to-surface missiles, medium-range SAM, a modern radar and a towed array sonar. The deck will be designed to accept the Cougar for take-offs and landings only,” the CN said. He declined to be more specific as in naming brands but look at my previous stories on the LCS on the type of weapons and systems to be chosen for the ships.
TS Aziz said the requirement of ASW helos remained and had been registered with the Defence Ministry. (He had previously said the Navy has the requirements for six ASW helicopters, so I am guessing they still want six).

4) The Navy has receive offers from the US Navy to purchase retired or soon to be retired, LPDs and frigates. He said the offer has been registered with the Defence Ministry. TS Aziz did not specify numbers, but I hazard to guess, it will be more likely one LPD and two frigates, if they wanted to finalise the offer. The LPDs available from the US are the Austin-class LPDs (three stwhile the frigates are the Oliver Hazard Perry class. Asked about the other ships available from navies from Europe, he said they have yet to receive any offer from this countries.

USS Rodney M Davis

USS Nashville

5) The navy has put forward plans to equip the Kedah-class ships with their “fitted for but not equipped” weapon systems. No details on the weapons under considerations but the Kedah class were originally designed for the RAM and the Exocets. I am assuming the Exocets are a safe bet if the Block 3s are chosen for the LCS while the RAM could be ditched if funding becomes an issue. Cheaper alternatives include the SADRAL or Tetral launchers from MBDA. RMN is hoping to secure the funding for the second part of RMK10 or the next plan (which is more likely).
6) KD Pari and KD Mutiara will be repaired. KD Mutiara repairs will be borne by Malaysian Marine and Heavy Engineering Sdn Bhd (MMHE). The ship caught fire while undergoing maintenance work at the yard in early January this year. As I mentioned in an earlier post, the tender to repair KD Pari has been made public two months ago.
7) The two training ship contracted to NGV Tech Sdn Bhd with the cooperation of DSME are under progress. The ships, to be armed with guns only is expected to be delivered by next year.

 

 

Did Saab got the FCR contract for LCS/SGPV?

From Malaysia defence Journal - Marhalim Abas

I am speculating from the statement below, that Saab may has just secured the contract for the fire control radar for the LCS/SGPV contract. I am guessing as no one will confirm or deny it but from the release Saab is saying that development and deliveries will take place between 2012-2017 which fits the LCS/SGPV time line. The contract amount is around US$67 million.It is interesting to note that I reported before that Saab was the favourite to supply the FCR for the programme.
Although Saab did not identify the FCR, we may assume it is the 9LV FCS. Read Here. If indeed the solution has been chosen for the SGPV/LCS it is interesting to note that Saab itself stated that “9LV FCS can also be combined with the 9LV gunfire-control and SAM modules that provide precision control for any naval gun or fire-and-forget SAM missile system” which means that any type of missile can be chosen.
Among the ships fitted with the 9LV FCS are theVisby-class corvettes, the ANZAC frigates, Flyvefisken-class fast patrol boats, Skjold-class fast patrol boats and the Al Bushra-class fast patrol boats
However, since I could be wrong, about this, lets wait for a confirmation first before saying too much about this thing.

From Saab
Saab receives order for fire control and radar systems
Defence and security company Saab has received an order for naval fire control and radar systems.The order amounts to SEK 450 million and involves business areas Security and Defence Solutions and Electronic Defence Systems.
The fire control system and radar systems will be integrated with a third party combat management system. Development and deliveries will take place 2012-2017.
The defence and security industry’s nature is such that information regarding customers and products sometimes is subject to confidentiality agreements between Saab and its customers. For this reason further information about this order will not be announced.
–Malaysian Defence

Boustead Naval Shipyard gets RM70m contract from Ministry of Defence

By Surin Murugiah of theedgemalaysia.com | The Edge Malaysia – Tue, Sep 11, 2012

Boustead Holdings Bhd subsidiary Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS) has received a letter of award for a contract worth RM70 million from the Ministry of Defence to supply and deliver spare parts and train the 23^rd Navy Frigate Squadron.
In a filing Tuesday, Boustead said a formal contract agreement between the government of and BNS will be signed at a later date.

Probe Ministry of Defence’s procurement deals

FROM TMI The Malaysian Insider – Wed, Sep 12, 2012

By Ida Lim

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12 — Putrajaya should set up an independent committee in Parliament to investigate the Ministry of Defence's (Mindef) "controversial" contracts to buy defence vehicles, DAP's Tony Pua said today.

Pua's statement comes after the Sultan of Johor appeared to rap Mindef for its recent purchase of four Rapid Intervention Vehicles (RIV) for a total of RM2.76 million or RM690,000 each.
The Sultan of Johor had last Saturday reportedly compared an RIV to a personal vehicle that he bought for RM150,000, saying that "nobody should take advantage of the situation for personal gains when acquiring equipment for the Special Forces."
"The above acquisition follows a series of controversial procurement of defence vehicles by the Ministry of Defence that have raised major question marks over whether the taxpayers are getting value for their money," Pua (picture) said in a statement.
Pua said that such deals must be "investigated and scrutinised not (by) the Ministry of Defence itself, but by an independent Parliamentary Oversight Committee."
"Malaysians have no faith that the Ministry will be able to conduct an investigation that is fair and above board," Pua said.
He added that it would be "critical that the Ministry of Defence supports the set up of the Oversight Committee to prove that all is above board" in line with Putrajaya's transparency policy under the Government Transformation Programme (GTP).
"After all, if all the above transactions are of value for money to the government, then surely there is nothing to hide from this independent panel.
Pua listed a few "controversial" contracts, including Mindef's purchase of 12 helicopters for RM2.3 billion or RM193 million each in 2008 "despite the same model helicopter being acquired for only RM82.8million each by the Brazilian government."
Mindef had told the Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC) that the higher cost was due to "customisations" to the helicopters.
A RM6 billion contract given to Boustead Naval Shipyard last year for 6 offshore patrol vessels was "subsequently inflated" to RM9billion, said Pua.
DRB Hicom Bhd had last year received a RM7.55 billion contract for 257 units of 8x8 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC), but it was "exposed" that the company was buying them from a Turkish defence contractor for RM1.7 billion, said the PAC member.
Pua said it is "beyond reasonable belief" that "customisations" carried out by DRB-Hicom to the APS would "cause the bill to be inflated from RM1.7billion to RM7.55 billion."
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said on Monday that he "will look into the differences in prices between the RIV awarded by Sultan Ibrahim priced at RM150,000 compared with RM690,000 sold by the supplier."
He said that he would check whether the four RIVs had different specifications from the Sultan of Johor's vehicle

Reply from the Minister

Kementerian Pertahanan telah memulakan siasatan terhadap isu pembelian Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV), kata Menteri Pertahanan Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Beliau berkata tindakan undang-undang akan dikenakan terhadap pihak yang
melakukan penyelewengan terhadap urusan pembelian aset tersebut.
"Saya telah kumpul maklumat daripada penyiasatan awal yang dilakukan dan
jika didapati dakwaan Sultan Johor Sultan Ibrahim itu benar, maka tindakan
perundangan akan dilakukan terhadap syarikat pembekal berkenaan.
"Kementerian tidak akan berkrompromi dengan sesiapa saja pun. Jika didapati
benar-benar berlakunya penyelewengan di dalam pembelian RIV ini, kita akan ambil
tindakan," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian ketika mengulas siasatan yang dijalankan mengenai
perbezaan harga RIV yang didakwa Sultan Ibrahim lebih mahal daripada harga yang
dianugerahkan olehnya.
-- LAGI
ZAHID-RIV 2 (AKHIR) KUALA LUMPUR
Pada majlis ulang tahun Rejimen Gerak Khas ke-47 di Kem Iskandar, Mersing,
Johor, minggu lepas, baginda bertitah harga RIV yang dianugerahkan oleh baginda
(Sultan Johor) berharga RM150,000 berbanding RM690,000 yang dijual oleh pihak
pembekal.
Ahmad Zahid berkata kementeriannya tidak akan berkompromi, sama ada dengan
syarikat pembekal atau mana-mana pegawai yang masih bertugas atau sudah
meninggalkan kementerian, sekiranya mereka didapati terlibat dalam sebarang
penyelewengan dalam tawaran pembekalan RIV tersebut.
-- BERNAMA