Newsdesk – Military Aviation

Many Tu-228 have suffered inflight failures of their 50,000lb thrust (with reheat) Kuznetsov turbofans, resulting in single engined landings while spare parts are impossible to get once the guarantee period has expired, resulting in some aircraft being grounded for as long as six months.

Other Soviet combat types are also suffering from unreliability and a lack of spares. and there is a shortage of crucial pilot equipment such as helmets, oxygen masks, throat microphones and even flying boots.

 Oz Technology for the World:

The Defence Science and Technology. Organisation’s Aeronautical Research Laboratory has developed a computer controlled Automatic Hydraulic Test System (AHTS) which has great export potential for both civil and military aviation.

Reliable, cheaper and safer aircraft maintenance will hopefully result from AHTS, a system designed to test complex aircraft components. AHTS was developed to replace obsolete and ageing test equipment used by the RAAF for maintaining F-111 hydraulic components, particularly those associated with units driving the rudder, air brakes and lift control valves.

The system accelerates and simplifies component testing and results in mantenance time savings of up to 400%. It also greatly improves test reliability and accuracy and will self diagnose its own equipment faults. Australian firm Rosebank Engineering has been selected as the DSTO’s partner in the project and will market and further develop AHTS.

More Orions Needed:

The US Navy. is planning to acquire new production Lock- heed P-3C Orions to replace ageing early build aircraft and to fulfill most of the requirements of the cancelled P-7 project.

The P-7 was based on a substantially modified Orion airframe but with a lengthened fuselage and a new wing, powerplants and systems. Called the P-3C Plus, the newly proposed Orion may still incorporate new powerplants and the Update IV avionics specified for the P-7 combined with a less. highly modified airframe. The P-3C Plus” range would be slightly less than the P-7’s.

The Onion line is being reopened to fill an order for Korea (12 aircraft) while the United Kingdom and Germany could have a requirement for 20 and 12, respectively. The USN requirement for the P-7 was 180 aircraft; it is believed its P-3C Plus request will be for a similar number.

 Lead-in Fighter Project Maturing:

Prospects of acquiring a day fighter were boosted recently when the Chief of Air Staff, AM Ray Funnell, revealed his thoughts on the eventual Macchi 326 replacement at a recent specialist media briefing, reports Tom Muir in the Australian Defence intelligence.

Emphasising that the project was in the 10 year program (with a decision about 1995-96) AM Funnell went on to say that when people are taken out of the advanced trainer with their wings “we instruct them in methods of fighter and strike training so that they can graduate safely to F/A-18 and F-111 aircraft.

“A personal view here is that the advanced trainer is not the way you would go in Australia. We are too small an air force, we are too small a defence force, we are too small a nation to have an aircraft of those sorts of capabilities that aren’t seen from the very beginning as possessing combat potential.

“I would much rather see them referred to as a day fighter, an aircraft that can, under certain circumstances, play a significant role in support of the land battle and under certain circumstances in support of the RAN. “Paying that sort of money for aircraft that are just going to be seen as trainers I believe we just can’t afford. ” Funnell also made brief reference to the possibility of some joint training with New Zealand on RNZAF Macchi 339s. The push for joint training appears to be politically

Wanaka Filling Fast

Our special tour to next year’s Wanaka air show in picturesque New Zealand is filling fast.

Scheduled for next Easter, the now famous warbird fly-in should be the best ever with planned representation from Australia and the USA. Australian Aviation’s special tour departs Sydney and Melbourne on 15 April and returns on the 20th.

Obviously the concept of a short duration, low cost all inclusive tour has proven very popular with our readers so if you are interested in joining us for what should be one very good week then check out our full page advert in the Warbirds column in this issue.

driven and the concept raises very serious questions about the impact it could have on training quality and costs. More importantly perhaps it could adversely affect defence preparedness.

One of the proposals canvassed by the RAAF/RNZAF pilot training study is for RAAF and RNZAF pilots to undertake their flying training on RAAF PC-9s. On being awarded their wings, those streamed to fly fast jets, (F/A-18 or F/RF-111C, and presumably A-4s in the case of the Kiwis) would then undertake lead-in fighter training on the RNZAF Macchi 339s.

But a number of interesting questions arise. Increasing advanced training hours on the PC-9s means reducing their life-of-type. Will the cost of earlier than anticipated replacement be reflected in the charges for training NZ pilots? Presumably NZ pilots undertaking lead-in

fighter training on the 339s are preparing themselves for flying their country’s only combat aircraft the RNZAF A-4 Skyhawk. This suggests a very different syllabus for RAAF pilots converting to far more sophisticated F/A-18s or F-111Cs. If the Australian Goverment decides against acquiring a lead-in fighter trainer what aircraft will be used to provide fleet support and training for the RAN after the RAAF Macchi 326s are finally scrapped?

Let’s hope that the politicians don’t get to interfere with this project and that it develops along the patently sensible lines proposed by CAS. As ADF personnel numbers dwindle so must this country’s defence capabilities be improved. The acquisition of a lightweight day fighter with roles ranging from combat training, operational conversion, fleet support and close air support for the Army, has to be the way to go.

And for the ultimate in cost effectiveness there are some in Canberra giving serious consideration to promoting the Czech Aero L-39MS, an upgraded version of the Albatross advanced trainer for this task. Now equipped with Western electronic avionics from Elbit and a more powerful 5,300lb st turbofan, it’s reputedly low cost ($2m a copy?) could make it an attractive proposition. Over 2,800 L-39s have been built to date.

A complete update on the new pilot training curriculum for the ADF is given elsewhere in this edition.

Composite Wings Needed:

There have been many lessons learned from the air operations of the Gulf War, and one of them now being considered by the USAF is the establishment of composite air wings com- prising fighter, attack, tanker and electronic warfare aircraft.

Such a multi role unit would provide an “instant air force” for quick response strikes. US Army General Norman Schwarzkopf has said that composite air wings would have given him far more options for a counterattack against Iraqi forces early in the conflict.

While it is generally agreed that a composite wing would be advantageous in these early stages, it is considered their value would decrease as overall force levels built up.

Harrier II Fatigue Problems:

US Marine Corps AV-8B Harriers and Royal Air Force Harrier GR. 5s are suffering from severe acoustic fatigue cracking of the fuselage, caused by the exhaust from the rear (hot) pair of nozzles.

Some 250 aircraft could be affected and an interim repair scheme is already underway, although ultimately the aircraft will require some reskinning and structural modifications. These will be incorporated when the Harriers retum to the factory for modification to night attack standard.

The RAF’s Harrier GR. 58 are also suffering from other problems including clearance to use the full range of-armament. Four years after entering service, the type has been cleared to fire only AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles and drop 3kg practice bombs and cluster bombs. The underfuselage twin 25mm cannon cannot be used yet and standard 1,000lb (454kg) bombs can be carried only in a training fit on just two pylons.

Space Ignored Again:

The recent Federal Budget has continued a great tradition of modern times it all but ignores the efforts and potential of an Australian space industry.

A mere $6. 7m has been allocated to the Australian Space Board and Australian Space Office, two bodies first established in 1986 to advise Canberra on space matters.

The ASO is particularly interesting in that it has developed a program to hasten the development of a local space industry, but is hampered by a lack of money. This leaves Australia increasingly dependent on overseas activities in areas such as remote sens-

ing and advanced communications, both of which have an important role to play in meteorology telecommunications, emergency services, mining, agriculture and other activities which are of benefit to the nation.

125 for Japan:

The Japan Air Self Defence Force has selected the British Aerospace 125-800 corporate jet as its next generation search and rescue aircraft.

The requirement is for 27 aircraft (to be designated U-125A) which will be delivered between 1995 and 2003. In order to perform their SAR duties, the 1258 will be fitted with a 360 degree scan radar, a forward looking infrared system (FLIR) and will be capable of dropping rescue equipment and marker.

flares.

The 125-800 had previously become the first non-American foreign built aircraft to serve with the JASDF, three were ordered for flight inspection tasks in 1989. When delivered, the JASDF will operate the world’s largest fleet of BAe 125s and the order takes total 125 sales well over the 800 mark.

More Prowlers for Usn?:

Grumman may be able to reopen the EA-6B Prowler advanced Electronic Counter Measures (ECM) aircraft production line following a US Navy request for up to 72 new-build aircraft from 1997.

Operation Desert Storm has revealed a new priority for additional support jamming capability. Under the USN proposal, the new Prowlers will be delivered over a period of six years. The type entered service in 1971 and 170 were delivered between then and last month. Grumman hopes to fill the gap between these batches with the remanufacture of 60 existing EA-6BS to the latest Improved Capability 2 (CAP-2) and Advanced Capability (ADV-CAP) standards.

 Usmc Harrier Upgrade:

Some of the lessons learned in Operation Desert Storm have resulted in a proposed upgrade package for the US Marine Corps’ AV-8B Harrier II VISTOL tactical fighters.

The upgrades have emerged from two main problem areas discovered during the battle a susceptibility to shoulder fired infrared missiles and reduced effectiveness in night and bad weather operations. If the Marines had been able to field night fighting Harriers during the war, the major battle of Khafji could have been prevented as Iraqi troops would have been forced to remain in their trenches during the night as well as the day, or risk running the gauntlet of the patrolling Harriers. A remanufacturing program covering 114

day attack Harriers and converting them to AV-8B Harrier II Plus standards is planned, incorporating APG-65 radar (ex F/A-18). night attack equipment, a more powerful version of the Rolls-Royce F406 (Pegasus) engine, an active infrared countermeasures.

AA Takes on Observers’ Distribution

Australian Aviation is pleased to announce that we have secured the rights to sell the renowned Observers Book of Aircraft by direct mail. Additionally we have also secured rights for the popular Observers Airliners, the latest edition of which has just been published.

The annual Observers Book of Aircraft needs little introduction to the keen aviation professional. Of all the books, journals and reference works in AA’s vast library, the little Observers are the ones that are referred to most when we need to know. So highly thought of are these books that good condition copies from the fifties and sixties now fetch high prices. You, our reader, won’t have to pay a fortune however to have your own personal copy as we have priced both books at a very competitive $14. 00 post free. Considering the hassle most people have in buying these difficult to find books then this has to be a magic deal.

Simply complete the coupon on the advert elsewhere in this edition or mail your cheque or credit card order direct to Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd, PO Box 3105, Weston Creek, ACT, 2611. Fax orders can be taken on (06) 288 2021 and card orders on (06) 288 1677. Don’t delay though as stocks are strictly limited. and waming system and new exhaust nozzles which will reduce the Harrier’s infrared signature by as much as 50%.

Unlike most combat aircraft, the Harrier’s hot exhaust nozzles are located amidships, very close to vital systems and the engine itself. None of the aircraft hit by heat seeking SAMS in the conflict survived. The remanufactured Harrier would also incorporate leading edge root extensions (LEFX) for improved manoeuvrability.

Interestingly, a package of upgrades to help the survivability chances of the Harrier and other US types had earlier been dropped by the Pentagon despite a very low unit cost. Other cost pressures relegated the proposals to the back-bumer because “too many people were thinking the US would not have to go to war”, according to a former US Defence Department official. The plan was finally vetoed in 1989.

Joyride a Mig!:

This cooperation business between East and West is getting ridiculous! Several US air shows being held in the northern hemisphere’s late summer/autumn period are offering joyrides in a Soviet MiG-29 fighter. Mikoyan chief test pilot Valery Menitsky has made himself available for the enterprise, charging customers $US10,000 for a 10 minute ride in the two seat Fulcrum. The Soviets are fast learning the ways of the West- as well as the rides they will also be selling MiG-29 related t-shirts, badges and other odds and sods at the shows.

 Bureaucracy in Action:

It makes you realise that “Yes Prime Minister” isn’t really funny at all.

It has been revealed that Pentagon paperwork actually makes it cheaper for Rockwell International to give away, rather than sell $US1m worth per year of commercial integrated circuit wafers to the military side of its electronics operation. If the military was charged for the wafers, the cost of the reporting requirements alone would outweigh any returns! No comment is necessary.

 Don’t Miss Richmond:

Don’t forget the RAAF 70th Anniversary Air Show at RAAF Richmond on October 11, 12 and 13, one of the biggest air shows ever staged in Australia.

It will feature something for everyone, ranging from flying and static displays of civil and military aircraft, warbirds, light aircraft, historical aircraft and aerobatic flying to extensive ground attractions such as company displays and exhibitions, stalls, markets and numerous other delights. In other words something for everyone and a must. for anyone with any interest in aviation.

Organised by the same team that put together the highly successful Bicentennial Air Show at Richmond in 1988, the overriding theme of this month’s event is the 70th birthday of the Royal Australian Air Force, one of the oldest in the world and in fact only three years younger than Britain’s Royal Air Force. Obviously, the RAAF’s presence will be strong both on the ground and in the air and most current types will be there including the F/A-18, F-111, Orion, Hercules, Caribou, PC-9 and Boeing 707 tanker. Australian Aviation magazine will have a stand at the show, so don’t miss the opportunity to come along and say hello to us.

The cost of entry is just $12 for adults and $6 for children (general admission per day). or those who want to do it in style can purchase Silver or Gold passes for $55 and $85 per day, respectively, with discounts for three day purchases. Silver passes give you special parking and a grandstand seat while Gold passes include the best reserved seating in the house, special parking arrangements, private toilet facilities and access to quality food and refreshments. For more information call (02) 630 2000.

 Flight Test Society of Australia 1991 Symposium:

The Flight Test Society of Australia will hold its 1991 symposium at the RSL Headquarters, Constitution Ave, Campbell, ACT on 24/25 October.

Formed in 1986, the primary aim of the Society is to promote the development of closer communication and understanding between personnel and organisations having a specialist professional interest in the field of aeronautical research, development, test and evaluation. Membership is open to pilots, navigators and flight test engineers who have either formal training or extensive experience in the specialist field. Corporate membership is also available to appropriate aerospace organisations.

Themes for this year are to be Stability and Control, and Engine Performance Testing. Air Marshal Sir James Rowland, a former CAS and more recently Governor of NSW, himself a test pilot, is Patron of the Society. Air Commodore Jock Thompson RAAF (Rid) is President.

 Fulcrums Will Stay:

The 24 MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters inherited by the Luftwaffe following the unification of Germany will remain in service until the end of the decade.

Earlier discussion had suggested the MiGs might be disposed of, but it has now been suggested they will be used for air defence in eastern Germany and for air to air combat training. The aircraft will reach the end of their useful lives by the year 2000.

There are sufficient spares available to keep the MiGs flying and so far none have flown the 500 to 750 hours required for the first major overhaul.

Vectored Thrust F-16:

Israel could become the first nation to fit vectoring exhaust nozzles to its F-16 fighters if planned trials are successful.

General Dynamics, engine manufacturer General Electric and the Israelis are working together to demonstrate a multi axis thrust vectoring nozzle on the F-16, with tests scheduled to take place next year. GE com

Centrespread

It’s been a long time since we have had a flying boat as the subject of our cen- trespread, let alone one that is actually in production.

Canadair’s CL-215 design has in recent times received a shot in the arm via the addition of PW&C PW123 turboprops in place of the original R-2800 radials. First flying in 1967, a total of 125 piston engined CL-2158 were built and all are now available for upgrading to the latest -215T standard. The Quebec Goverment is upgrading its fire bomber fleet to T standards as is Spain while the French Govemment has recently signed for 12 new build aircraft.

Operating from any viable water source near a forest fire, the CL-215T can scoop up 6,130 litres of water in just 12 seconds. In one hour the aircraft can deliver over 100 tonnes of water onto a target operating up to 20 missions in that timeground tests of a static nozzle in 1990 while it is planned to run a fully articulated nozzle on an F110-129 engine at the Edwards Air Force Base test rig about now.

The nozzles are able to direct thrust in pitch and yaw and individual petals can be moved to deflect thrust by up to 20 degrees without hampering adjustments to nozzle area in response to throttle movement. The result is enhanced takeoff performance and manoeuvrability.

Some F-16s are powered by Pratt & Whitney F110 engines and that manufacturer is also developing a vectoring nozzle. Like GE’s design, the P&amp nozzie will bolt onto the engine. The F100 and F110 engines between them power the USA’s major fighter aircraft including the F-16, F-15 Eagle and F-14 Tomcat.

 A-10 Is Tough:

The designed-in sur- vivability of the USAF’s A-10 Thunderbolt *tankbuster” was routinely put to the test during the Gulf War and dramatically proven by one noteworthy incident involving the aircraft of Captain Paul Johnson, a pilot with the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing.

Johnson flew his A-10 back to base with an enormous hole in its starboard wing after taking a direct hit from a surface to air missile. The blast from the missile also ruptured hydraulic lines, damaged the remaining Maverick missile mounted under the wing. blew away the main undercarriage housing and caused the starboard GE TF34 engine to lose power for about ten seconds as it ingested various pieces of shrapnel. The engine spat out the bits and spooled up again.

Johnson initially lost control of the A-10 but regained it just as he was about to eject. The aircraft would not climb above 6,000ft and fly any faster than 190kts so the objective at that stage was to get it over friendly territory and then punch out.

Ejecting the ordnance under the wings helped, so the decision was made to try to fly the A-10 back to base. An in-flight refuelling followed and the undercarriage came down successfully, allowing a normal landing marred only by a shredding tyre.

Johnson had earlier participated in a search and rescue mission which had resulted in the rescue of a downed pilot from deep inside Iraq. He was awarded the Air Force Cross for courage in action.