tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31079201743776840312024-02-19T09:45:02.510+08:00Information, Insights and IntelDSGC REVIEW is a Malaysian blog on defence/military/security issues by Yusni Yussof, Danny Liew and Hanif Ismail. Contact us at editor.dsgc@gmail.comDSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.comBlogger269125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-21420844082842245872016-05-22T19:00:00.000+08:002016-05-22T19:00:07.243+08:00Defence Asset Procurement Policy - Threats - Part 2<div dir="ltr">
<i>Note: In the previous article, we have explored some of the </i><i>procurement</i><i> </i><i>methods</i><i> that are in practiced in several countries, including our own.</i><i> We also explored </i><i>how</i><i> failure to monitor procurement issue had led to a weakened RMN</i><i>. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i><i>Disclaimer:</i><br />
<i>Information shared in this article </i><i>could not</i><i> be </i><i>independently</i><i> verified</i><i>. And </i><i>even</i><i> if it has been </i><i>independently</i><i> </i><i>verified</i><i>, I do not and will not identify them to protect individuals who have </i><i>and</i><i> may </i><i>have</i><i> shared these information with me.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/88/Tun_Hussein_Onn_(MY_3rd_PM).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/88/Tun_Hussein_Onn_(MY_3rd_PM).jpg" width="128" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Tun Hussein Onn</td></tr>
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Military procurement doctrine is largely driven by threats that a country is facing. Malaysia does not run far from this. As mentioned in the first instalment of this article, the invasion threat and the Domino Effect theory had convinced our defence planners back then to convince then Prime Minister Tun Hussein Onn (father to the current Defence Minister, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Hishamuddin2014.jpg/200px-Hishamuddin2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Hishamuddin2014.jpg/200px-Hishamuddin2014.jpg" width="131" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Son, Datuk Seri Hishammudin Tun Hussein</td></tr>
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In fact, understanding the threat that Malaysia is facing today should be the driving reason in formulating a defence assets procurement policy to ensure that our defence forces stay current and is able to counter potential threats.</div>
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There are 2 forms of threats to a nation; external and internal threat.</div>
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<b>External Threat</b><br />
Traditionally, external threat refers to threats posed by another nation.</div>
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Addressing threat from another nation is very tacky. Due to diplomatic consideration, many of these threats have to be handled via back channels.</div>
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As a sovereign nation, Malaysia shares both maritime and land borders with 7 countries; Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Philippines, Vietnam and China.</div>
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<b>Thailand</b><br />
We have a long history with Thailand. Several northern states, Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu were once part of Siamese Kingdom.</div>
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With both governments are on very friendly terms, hostility between both nations are very unlikely. However, that was not the case about 10 years ago.</div>
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Then Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was embroiled in internal political strife. His heavy-handed policy in handling drug trade prevention had claimed many lives.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra</td></tr>
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Then, the Southern Thai insurgency exploded. There were insinuation that Malaysian Govt was involved in instigating the insurgency but no evidence were offered.</div>
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Soon, there were reports of men in dark clothes spying at Malaysian installation from Thailand. Situation was hot.</div>
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The Prime Minister went on a trip overseas, and Thai military took over. Immediate deescalation happened and border became calm.</div>
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Apparently, it was rumoured that the Prime Minister had had wanted a border skirmish to be made at Malaysian border to divert the people's attention away from his troubles. To ensure smooth coup d'etat, it was believed secret envoys were sent to both Malaysia and Singapore to apprise them of the situation.</div>
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<b>Potential Threat</b></div>
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Both Malaysian and Thai governments share very close relationship. Key influential individuals in Thailand had expressed good relationship with Malaysia.</div>
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Nevertheless, today's Thailand has moved closer in relationship to China. This was largely due to US Govt criticism of Thailand's implementation of Lèse majesté.</div>
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This in turn affects the balance of power in the region.</div>
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<b>Indonesia</b><br />
Malaysian - Indonesian relationship are like that of two siblings. Both nations bore nearly similar culture and language.</div>
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Yet, it was Indonesia that was the only one country which has officially sent their military personnel against our country during the Confrontation.</div>
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<b>Potential</b><b> Threat</b><br />
Due to the politicised past of Indonesia's armed forces, there is a possibility of rogue military personnel in the country.</div>
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As recent as last year, there was some altercation involving an Indonesian reporter whom had highlighted that Malaysia had built a lighthouse within Indonesian territory of Kalimantan Barat. The allegations were denied. Nevertheless, Malaysian military personnel took down the so-called lighthouse on goodwill. </div>
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The past 3 years saw Indonesia having expanded their military power. This includes enlarging of a military base located on Natuna Island, which is strategically located in the middle between Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah Sarawak.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.helitavia.com/Skyweaver/images/map_southchinasea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.helitavia.com/Skyweaver/images/map_southchinasea.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Natuna Island</td></tr>
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Thankfully, anti-Malaysia trend that is largely the work of vigilante group, Bendera has lessened. However, potentially the issue may flare up again from time to time, depending on issues like welfare of Indonesian workers in Malaysia and which Indonesian heritage is being claimed as stolen again.</div>
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Another potential point of contention is the overlapping claims between both countries over <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambalat" target="_blank">Ambalat</a>, located in the East of Sabah. </div>
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The oil-rich location has been contested by both nations, and in one occasion had resulted navies of both nations beings sent to the location. One Indonesian navy vessel was partially damaged after being knocked by a RMN vessel when both navy faced off. Fortunately, cooler head prevailed. </div>
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A potential issue that could be blown out of proportion by Malaysian media, both mainstream and alternative is the issue of Indonesian military blowing off foreign fishing boats found to have fish illegally in Indonesian waters. While there were prior cases of Indonesian personnel being arrested in Malaysian waters and hijacking Malaysian vessels to be towed to Indonesian waters, Indonesian Govt action is entirely legal as the boats that were marked for destruction were vessels which had been given green light by Indonesian Govt. In fact, the same have been done by Malaysian fishery department for years, albeit without the explosive fanfare. </div>
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<b>Philippines</b><br />
The Philippines was one of the two nations that had vigorously protested the formation of Malaysia as she claims Sabah as her own.</div>
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While she was not directly involved in the Confrontation, Manila became host to the A M Azahari, head of Parti Rakyat Brunei which led a bloody attempted coup against Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddein III, then ruler of Brunei (Channin, Eileen, 2013). It was with this pretext the Sultan later broke away from the negotiation to form Malaysia.</div>
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However, Manila's involvement in Confrontation was not as sinister as the infamous <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moro_attacks_on_Sabah" target="_blank">Oplan Merdeka</a>.</div>
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Knowing that any direct invasion of Sabah would not be acceptable by international community, a covert plan was formulated with the recruitment of Muslim Tausug (Suluk) youth. These youth were to infiltrate into Sabah and incite the local citizens against Malaysian Govt. These groups, masquerading as locals would then sent out pleas to international community for intervention and help. And the Philippines Govt would send their armed forces to provide relief to these men. With a superior armed forces, Malaysian Govt would capitulate and they would gain Sabah. Or so they thought would happen.</div>
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They did trained at least 1 unit of Muslim Tausug youths. However, due to unknown circumstances, the youths mutinied. A version claimed they mutinied as they had found out they were to be deployed to invade Malaysia. They would not fight against fellow Muslims. They were in the impression they would be deployed against New Philippines Army (NPA), military wing of banned Communist Party of Philippines. Thus, they revolted. Another version claimed their salaries were never paid.</div>
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Most stories pointed out all the youths were massacred save for one who brought the incident to the knowledge of Senator Benigno Aquino Sr. With the very damaging report, the incident, now known as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jabidah_massacre" target="_blank">Jabedah massacre</a>, was brought to the attention of Philippines House of Representatives. </div>
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The outcry that ensued led to Nur Misuari to form the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moro_National_Liberation_Front" target="_blank">Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)</a> which then brought Southern Philippines into an endless turmoil until today.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e4/Nur_Misuari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e4/Nur_Misuari.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Nur Misuari</td></tr>
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There were rumours of Malaysian involvement, ie training and arming but these were largely unproven. Despite Nur Misuari confirming such arrangement, these were made after he was arrested by Malaysian authorities while escaping a dragnet by Philippines authorities for another failed coup.</div>
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<b>Potential Threat</b><br />
While the Philippines' threat is not high, one must never discount their intention. With President Benigno Aquino Jr is going to step down, a couple of their presidential candidates have expressed that Philippines claim over Sabah will be part of their central policy.</div>
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Military-wise, the Philippines are not able to mount a full-scale offensive to wrestle Sabah. However, we must not discount they may use trained special operations troops or elite troops to wrestle Sabah.</div>
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As a conventional force, they would not be able to fight us but on the group, unit versus unit, they may have an upper hand.</div>
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Recently, they have embarked on several military modernization programme which includes purchasing of <a href="http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/15/1542888/navys-strategic-sealift-vessel-be-launched-indonesia" target="_blank">2 logistics ships</a> for their navy and <a href="http://thediplomat.com/2015/12/philippines-receives-2-new-fighter-jets-from-south-korea/" target="_blank">12 units of Korean-made FA50</a>.</div>
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Another potential threat from the Philippines is her insistent claim over several islands which are also claimed by several countries, including China and Malaysia. While the Philippines' antagonism is largely targeted against China, any conflict in South China Sea will severely affect Malaysia and we should not discount attempts to pull Malaysia into the <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-pacific-13748349" target="_blank">conflict</a>.</div>
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<b>Brunei</b><br />
Malaysia and Brunei have very warm ties. Interestingly, despite having warm ties both nations do have a border dispute.</div>
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Limbang Division, Sarawak is being claimed by Brunei as part of their territory. Incidentally, Limbang was one of the starting point for Brunei Rebellion which was led by A M Azahari.</div>
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The status of Brunei claim is currently unknown.</div>
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<b>Singapore</b></div>
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Malaysia - Singapore relationship is especially unique. Though historically intertwined with Peninsular Malaysia, both countries were administered separately by the British. Therefore, when Malaya gained her independence, she did not join. </div>
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In 1963, both countries together with Sabah and Sarawak joined hands to form Federation of Malaysia. However, it was soon apparent that years of separate administration has placed a large gap in expectation of both nations. Thus, on 9 August 1965, Singapore was 'booted' out of Malaysia. </div>
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Probably, the word 'booted' out sounds too harsh. However, that was what the mainstream history teaches us, until 2015 when Singapore Govt decided to declassify information pertaining to <a href="http://singaporedesk.blogspot.my/2010/05/secret-goh-is-carrying-to-his-grave.html" target="_blank">Operation Albatross</a> that was kept by then Singapore's Finance Minister, Goh Keng Swee. Details of Operation Albatross claimed that negotiation for separation had happened soon after the formation of Malaysia and was with the tacit approval from Malaysian Govt.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/51/GohKS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/51/GohKS.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Mr. Goh Keng Swee</td></tr>
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While we shall never know for sure if this is true, as the water had flowed under the bridge, let bygones be bygones. </div>
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Relationship between both nations soured in 1980's when Tun Mahathir took over the helm of the nation. With the clashing personalities of both Tun and then Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Kwan Yew, it seemed to be an one up-manship show. </div>
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1997 financial crisis so the relationship worsened when Tun Mahathir's request for financial assistance from Singapore was rebuffed. The soured relationship climaxed with the suggestion to destroy the Causeway and replace it with a crooked bridge. </div>
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When Tun Mahathir stepped down, relationship between both nations began to thaw and under the current Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, the relationship is at the best.</div>
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<b>Potential Threat</b></div>
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Singapore has the strongest military in Southeast Asia and has the most advanced defence research industry in the region. </div>
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Of all Malaysian neighbours, Singapore is also the only country that had a military training scenario of invading Malaysia. The Mersing Line was part of Singapore's military training which calls for occupation of Malaysian territory up to Mersing. Status of whether the training scenario is still being used is unknown. </div>
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While the Mersing Line may seems to be a threat towards Malaysia, it is likely to have been promulgated due to perceived instability in Malaysia. </div>
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As Singapore does not have defensive depth, they have chose to implement total defence and forward defence. Hence, building of defensive line at another country, ie Malaysia. </div>
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When the plan was promulgated, Singapore may have been worried about the seemingly belligerent Malaysia and antagonistic behaviour some of our leaders. Hence, the creation of the Mersing Line. This was not helped that in 1991, both Malaysia and Indonesia had chosen to conduct a large scale airborne exercise near Johor, forcing Singapore to mobilise their reservists. </div>
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As mentioned earlier, Singapore does not have a defensive depth. Thus, despite all the military prowess they have mustered, they are still vulnerable. If Malaysia fell into chaos, Singapore would likely to implement their Mersing line, not to occupy Malaysian territory, but to ensure Singapore would have a defensive buffer, much like the French's Maginot Line.</div>
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<b>Vietnam</b></div>
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Relationship between Malaysia and Vietnam actually goes back a few centuries. However, the relationship was adversarial in nature. Vietnamese kingdom ambushed and slaughtered Malay envoys sent to China from Malacca, which resulted in a raid by Malacca Navy supported by Chinese Navy and Japanese Navy as observer.<br />
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During Vietnam War, Malaysia had provided both morale support and supplies to the South Vietnamese Govt. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._C._Too" target="_blank">Tan Sri C C Too</a>, who played an important role in the war against Communist Party of Malaya was seconded to the US Govt to help prepare a propaganda module to be implemented in South Vietnam.<br />
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Also rumoured, but yet to be confirmed and proven, that Malaysia had secretly sent at least 1 unit of Rangers and 1 unit of <a href="http://dsgcreview.blogspot.my/2013/12/senoi-praaq-brief-history-of-war-people.html" target="_blank">Senoi Praaq</a> to assist in CIA operations in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. The Rangers were brought back, but the Senoi was said to have been abandoned by CIA in Vietnam. Not much of a trouble though as the men were rumoured to have fought their way back to Malaysia and returned to service in the famed Senoi Praaq battalion.<br />
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Post-Vietnam War saw that Vietnam as a potential threat against Malaysia. Captured US weaponry and Soviet supplies were found to have made their ways to Communist guerrillas hiding in the jungles of Betong.<br />
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Vietnamese Air Force were also detected to have infiltrated our airspace at least on 2 occasions.<br />
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<b>Potential Threat</b><br />
We still have overlapping claims with Vietnam overs the Spratly's. Thus, they are potentially an enemy.</div>
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However, they are known to be pragmatic. Despite being in confrontation with China on the Spratly's issue, both nations remain cordial. </div>
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Vietnamese has also largely forgiven the Americans for Vietnam War. </div>
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Militarily, Vietnam can be considered as a middle power. With <a href="http://tuoitrenews.vn/politics/28254/vietnam-to-receive-two-more-gepardclass-warships-soon-govt-site" target="_blank">4 Gepard class frigates</a>, <a href="http://thediplomat.com/2015/12/vietnam-to-get-fifth-kilo-submarine-from-russia-in-early-2016/" target="_blank">6 Advanced Kilo submarines</a> and 36 units of SU30 of various variant, Vietnam can certain pack a punch if not handled properly. Not to mention with a large fleet of war reserve, we may see ourselves outclassed by the Vietnamese. </div>
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Thankfully, business relationship between both nations have probably made it difficult for Vietnam to go against us in a conflict. Thus, paving way for diplomatic settlement. </div>
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However, as Vietnam still retains communism as central ideology, any signs of protest against a foreign country can be seen as a govt-sanctioned event. Thus, it would be a good indicator for Malaysia to observe. </div>
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<b>China</b></div>
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Malaysia - China relationship is a very unique relationship. Diplomatic relationship established since the Ming Empire have passed from one successor to another. </div>
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With modern day Malaysia is being viewed by China as natural successor to the Malaccan Sultanate, the communist government has been known to handle Malaysian affairs differently as compared to rest of Southeast Asia. </div>
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The last 5 years have seen foreign direct investment from China soaring high. These were largely due to friendly relationship between the leadership of both nations. </div>
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The recently concluded sales of 1MDB assets to a Chinese energy firm also saw their confidence in political stability of the country; such strategic assets are usually being targeted for nationalisation by nationalistic populist parties. Case in point would be Venezuela. </div>
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The recently concluded signing of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement which is a US foreign trade agreement is also a likely reason for increased in Chinese foreign direct investment; a key purpose of the trade agreement was to create a trade barrier to Chinese products so to slow down Chinese military expansion. By having the factories in Malaysia, Chinese companies would be able to circumvent the trade agreement. </div>
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Even with the missing Beijing-bound MH370 did not put much dent in the relationship of both nations. </div>
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<b>Potential Threat</b></div>
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As recent as March 2013, PLA - Navy had came to <a href="http://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1200564/pla-navy-amphibious-task-force-reaches-james-shoal-near-malaysia" target="_blank">James Shoal </a>which they called as Zhenmu Reef to conduct military exercise. Using 4 navy ships, the exercise was successfully conducted in an area located about 80 nautical miles from Bintulu. The event did not catch public attention as Malaysia was then in the midst of eliminating Suluk intruders in Eastern Sabah. </div>
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Recently, there was an uproar that Chinese Navy vessels were seen patrolling in the coastal waters of Sarawak. There were also allegations that China had planted their border marker on Beting Patinggi Ali, which was later debunked.</div>
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While I did received photos of alleged Chinese Navy vessels in our waters, discussion with fellow defence watchers and observers, particularly those from Malaysia Military Power, we agreed that the vessels in concern were in fact Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), which is considered as civilian vessel. Interestingly, in our discussion we had to agree that technically we do not have reasons to prevent them from entering the area during peace time. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Mr. Huang Huikang and Sarawak's Chief Minister, Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Haji Adenan Satem</td></tr>
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However, we should be able to put the issue to rest as Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, <a href="http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2016/03/10/no-china-vessel-anchored-off-sarawak-coast/" target="_blank">Mr. Huang Huikang</a> during his courtesy visit to Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Haji Adenan Satem has clarified that no Chinese vessels are operating in Beting Patinggi Ali vicinity and if they are, they do not anchor down. The announcement itself can be considered as a tacit recognition that Beting Patinggi Ali as part of Malaysian territorial waters. </div>
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However, threat from China remains. </div>
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With China building massive structures at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mischief_Reef" target="_blank">Mischief Reef</a>, it has now placed Malaysian territory within reach of China's fighter jets.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e2/Liaoning_aircraft_carrier_Sept_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e2/Liaoning_aircraft_carrier_Sept_2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">PLA - Navy Liaoning</td></tr>
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Additionally, introduction of Liaoning into PLA - Navy's inventory would see that China would be able to increase her power projection capability. </div>
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This would be interesting as to see if China would adopt similar doctrine with USN to have multiple screening vessels. </div>
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Thus, methods to counter China's threat would need to be dynamic and according to what they would probably use against her neighbours. </div>
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<i>In our next article (tentatively to be ready by end of March 2016), we will look at non-traditional threats. This was supposed to be discussed together in this article. But the article had turned out to be too long. Thus, I decided to break the article here. </i><br />
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<i>Note: first published at <a href="http://themalaysianpatriot.blogspot.my/2016/03/defence-procurement-policy-threats-part.html">My Musing</a> on 14 March 2016</i></div>
Danny Liewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03295022851205233703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-10088174355551356932016-03-26T16:01:00.001+08:002016-04-08T03:06:54.043+08:00Defence Asset Procurement Policy - A Need<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The last major large scale defence asset procurement made under a single programme was under the PERISTA (Program Pembangunan Rancangan Istimewa ATM) which began in the late 70's which trickled through the 1980's.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The programme which saw Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) underwent a large scale modernization programme which changed it's face from a counter-insurgency centric defence force into a largely capable semi-conventional armed forces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoYZKMLjolycczsSxTknxbXyHJXtfiOESM3yak6ZwN7URqLHe5fTizx4HHg5yHh6mwOPWQIXCphduQZiNIIZ_LebhGafpc9WjmzJVUiWiWgL_Xq32b7rj_xMcbBXwPQw0bHJ4MCRmBF1Ln/s1600/PERISTA+Purchase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="41" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoYZKMLjolycczsSxTknxbXyHJXtfiOESM3yak6ZwN7URqLHe5fTizx4HHg5yHh6mwOPWQIXCphduQZiNIIZ_LebhGafpc9WjmzJVUiWiWgL_Xq32b7rj_xMcbBXwPQw0bHJ4MCRmBF1Ln/s400/PERISTA+Purchase.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Part of PERISTA Programme. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of material on PERISTA purchases.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The programme, ostensibly to strengthen the military to be able to defend the nation from external threat in view of declining threat from communist terrorist activities, were actually in response to direct threat from Vietnam. The convention back then was that the fall of Vietnam will precipitate the beginning of Domino Effect that would see the whole region to fall into war against communism, a war which thankfully did not materialise. (The war did not materialise largely due to the fact that China, Vietnam and Soviet Union found themselves at opposite end of each other's crosshair, that itself worth an article on its own right).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>Mass Asset Obsolescence Threat</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The last assets purchased under the programme were inducted into our order of battle more 30 years ago. Some of these assets have since been retired due to heavy wear and tear. Others rendered obsolete due to technological advancement and changing geopolitical and geostrategic threats. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">However, Malaysian Govt to-date has yet been able to replace most of these assets due to myriad of reasons, from the prohibitive cost all the way to political reasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>Prohibitive Cost</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Wagging war isn't cheap. So is maintaining peace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">With cost of many defence assets are in the range of millions to billions of ringgit, any major purchases would be very prohibitive on paper. For example, the recent SGPV contract is costing the Govt RM6 billion with a ceiling price of RM9 billion for 6 Gowind class ships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">This is far different from defence asset purchases made in the past, where between 2 or 3 assets of similar class can be purchased with the same price. (Assets of similar class but very different in capabilities as modern assets are better equipped)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Modern assets are also likely to be able to have multiple functions. Examples would be aircrafts in the past are mostly single role functions. Jets like F14 are interceptors while SU24 are bombers. Compare this with Rafale and Super Hornet which are multi-role combat aircrafts, meaning a single platform can be used for ground attack, naval warfare and air interdiction. All these increased capabilities have resulted in a more expensive platform. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The prohibitive costs had resulted in many governments choosing the following ways in replacing their combat assets:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>Minimal Number of Assets Purchased </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Minimum number of assets is purchased and thus is able to show budget consumption. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Usually, the numbers purchased are sufficient for the nation to operate at least a squadron of the equipment. These nations would then increase the number of the assets by purchasing one or two units of the same assets until they reach the optimum number required. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Based on past records, Malaysia did practised this method. Our Nuri helicopters for example, were purchased using this method. Using this method, RMAF slowly became the largest operator of Sikorsy S61A4. First bought in 1967, the giant beast is still operating till today. Just last Sunday, I saw one unit flew past my home in PUTD (Pasukan Udara Tentera Darat) colours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzqgtnMHr3Govcki-Su7OYSGp-WFnmCoTur1f0muTeuKnm20JYJf-Xep41A_707c02J1lH-dkF6cAJvbKqNeA1wW-Kt8x6PHQDow94Z6z1AFT_iE7_HWmqekyePYSuYHFP7ZVuHQ-nm7_/s1600/TUDM+wiki+heli.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzqgtnMHr3Govcki-Su7OYSGp-WFnmCoTur1f0muTeuKnm20JYJf-Xep41A_707c02J1lH-dkF6cAJvbKqNeA1wW-Kt8x6PHQDow94Z6z1AFT_iE7_HWmqekyePYSuYHFP7ZVuHQ-nm7_/s400/TUDM+wiki+heli.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">RMAF Helicopters. Take note of RMAF S61A4 Nuri. We were once the world's largest operator of S61A4 heli.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8dEkmEp3oj1IxWUKWiMu7SPBICKA-k0_Bes1XW43_nsERzdnzCfB3uW0waj5YDtKIgx-XwYr3XOqIPK7rdWiXQG5Nkzr9ui1xFg0OmoPzC_zBS6e5-W72YSos38ckq3z3CIvtxKpBlcL/s1600/Nuri+Digital.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8dEkmEp3oj1IxWUKWiMu7SPBICKA-k0_Bes1XW43_nsERzdnzCfB3uW0waj5YDtKIgx-XwYr3XOqIPK7rdWiXQG5Nkzr9ui1xFg0OmoPzC_zBS6e5-W72YSos38ckq3z3CIvtxKpBlcL/s400/Nuri+Digital.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">S61A4 Nuri in Malaysian Army Air Corp colours.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDRfUDXf_3OXpVB4V5Azf0t7wzCcdXHZEJJSSsWUAxwDctJp-y5KcLda3XmLtMD8mbZ9TLBg5N9N11ujRKoCK2fSyn2V6AHc4eRAb5Yv_TL3H47lKbIbvrbQVqGIUIGbs67TCYG9bqrS2/s320/resup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDRfUDXf_3OXpVB4V5Azf0t7wzCcdXHZEJJSSsWUAxwDctJp-y5KcLda3XmLtMD8mbZ9TLBg5N9N11ujRKoCK2fSyn2V6AHc4eRAb5Yv_TL3H47lKbIbvrbQVqGIUIGbs67TCYG9bqrS2/s320/resup.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">S61A4 during a resupply during Insurgency - Credit Maj (R) Nor Ibrahim, Perajurit and Hamzah Dollah (ex-RMN)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">However, we seemed to have forgotten the lesson when after the procurement of 8 units FA18D and 18 MiG29N back in the mid-90, we did not follow through with additional purchases. This had resulted in RMAF being unable to operate at least 5 combat squadrons. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFno7gEIA6tIT00pUWn1LpabLboHOtqeVQkKlz2hs24Y4KdqKz8g-LOuFYo8gtJQzr-_RmRJpz9UDXgzM6tybCxlMI9ppMRTBhWvui6DSsYIZT7zHjaau7npXqnJQ5sjRvae1e-ijDFQc/s1600/RMAF+Orbat+Wiki.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFno7gEIA6tIT00pUWn1LpabLboHOtqeVQkKlz2hs24Y4KdqKz8g-LOuFYo8gtJQzr-_RmRJpz9UDXgzM6tybCxlMI9ppMRTBhWvui6DSsYIZT7zHjaau7npXqnJQ5sjRvae1e-ijDFQc/s400/RMAF+Orbat+Wiki.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Both RMAF combat jets and trainers. The low number had resulted in serious wear and tear that had forced quite a few to be retired. Credit wikipedia</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Concurrently, with minimal number of jets available, RMAF had to increase the operational tempo for both planes, resulting in wear and tear that had forced several units had to be retired. In fact, RMAF would be retiring her MiG29N which was purchased in 1993, much earlier than RMAF S61A4 Nuri which is entering its 50 years in service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theaviationist.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mig-29N-RMAF-from-F18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://theaviationist.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mig-29N-RMAF-from-F18.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">RMAF MiG29N. Purchased in 1993, it is expected to be retired from RMAF service in 2015. But so far, no official confirmation on the retirement. Credit airliners.net</span></td></tr>
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<b style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Buying Basic Model </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Another measure taken by some governments in increasing their military presence is by procuring basic model for their armed forces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">For this method, let's look at the practice that had been used by 3 nations; United Kingdom, Malaysia and Indonesia. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>United Kingdom<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">UK's Eurofighter Typhoon is the prime example of buying basic model to beef up their air force. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.fast-air.co.uk/Typhoon-Block-Tranche-Summary/RAF-Eurofighter-Typhoon-F2-ZJ927-photo-900x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.fast-air.co.uk/Typhoon-Block-Tranche-Summary/RAF-Eurofighter-Typhoon-F2-ZJ927-photo-900x.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">RAF Tranche 1 Eurofighter Typhoon. Credit http://www.fast-air.co.uk/typhoon-block-tranche-summary/</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">With only Tranche III aircrafts are considered as MRCA, UK had entered the war in Libya and against Daish with only Tranche I Typhoons, which incidentally was only purposed as air-to-air superiority fighter and interceptor. With Tranche III Typhoon have yet to reach operational capabilities, the task to bomb targets in Libya and Syria had to fall on Panavia Tornado GR4.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/RAF_Panavia_Tornado_GR4_Lofting-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/RAF_Panavia_Tornado_GR4_Lofting-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Panavia Tornado GR4. The jets were once offered to RMAF by the British Govt. But due to unknown reasons, we purchased BAe Hawk 208 and 108 instead. Considering that Tornado is going to be phased out by RAF, it is no love lost for RMAF. Credit - wikipedia</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>Indonesia<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Before we discuss about our own predicament, let's look at Indonesia's experience. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Economic crisis had resulted in Indonesia being unable to upgrade their military in the late 90's up to 2010 (this no longer holds true and Indonesia together with Vietnam are probably the second and third largest military spenders in the region).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.klimg.com/merdeka.com/i/w/news/2014/07/11/397982/670x335/ini-wajah-f-16-block-52-id-kekuatan-baru-tni-au-dari-amerika.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.klimg.com/merdeka.com/i/w/news/2014/07/11/397982/670x335/ini-wajah-f-16-block-52-id-kekuatan-baru-tni-au-dari-amerika.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Newer versions of F16 Block 52 which Indonesia had managed to purchase after the end of the sanctions. Credit - http://www.merdeka.com/peristiwa/ini-wajah-f-16-block-52-id-kekuatan-baru-tni-au-dari-amerika.html</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">With large number of their F16 unable to fly due to sanctions for human rights-related issue in East Timor, they opted to purchase Russian-made SU-27 and SU-30 Flanker. Unlike Malaysian and Indian approach of buying full specs aircraft, they opted for basic model, ie being able to fly but without the modern avionics, which would hamper its ability to interdict modern combat aircraft with full capabilities. (Avionics play large part in ensuring the missile system, counter-missile system and electronic warfare suite can be operational. Otherwise, it would be like just flying a fast-moving jet of Second World War).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_SU-27SK_Indonesian_Pitch_Black_2012_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media.defenceindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_SU-27SK_Indonesian_Pitch_Black_2012_lg.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">TNI AU SU27SK<br />
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/indonesias-air-force-adds-more-flankers-03691/</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">It was envisioned that the planes would be upgraded when they have sufficient budget to do so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>Malaysia <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The best example for Malaysia is the purchase of the Kedah class New Generation Patrol Vessel (NGPV). Using the Meko 100 design, it was envisioned to be the platform for RMN to become the maritime powerhouse in Southeast Asia. 27 platforms of the ship was to be procured under 3 Tranche, with 6 units is to be built in the first Tranche at the cost of RM6 billion. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://defense-update.com/images_large2/kd_pahang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://defense-update.com/images_large2/kd_pahang.jpg" height="216" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.56px; line-height: 14.784px;">KD Pahang of the Kedah class patrol vessels</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.56px; line-height: 14.784px;">Credit - Defence Update</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The company, PSC Naval Dockyard promoted the ship as a cost-effective measure for RMN as the ships would be introducing a novel concept called Fitted For But Not With, or in short, FFBNW, which was successfully implemented by Royal Australian Navy with their Anzac class frigate. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.navy.gov.au/sites/default/files/ships/20141114ran8566787_033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.navy.gov.au/sites/default/files/ships/20141114ran8566787_033.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">HMAS Anzac frigate of Royal Australian Navy</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">In this concept, modules to accept weapons platform are built onto the ships and the ship's CIC (Combat Information Centre) has the capability to accept any weapons system that is plugged into the module. Similar to the plug-&-play found on today's PC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">In a way, it was supposed to be a novel approach. With a planned capacity of 27 ships, this option gives RMN the flexibility of not needing to buy 27 units of equipment to be placed on all 27 ships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllgeHPyqGHNVAqlZxQq2QkfNJzp57ZQzafgs58D8b73kTGHT8rzlTHC19n9rq5vLqgvCIRbaB9ZSyEQ3PeIMtvd37576H9lhUkI-CxKWRmY8y88rGP6KNxSJsHyCTyeWRu3OueIgbp985/s1600/FFBNW.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllgeHPyqGHNVAqlZxQq2QkfNJzp57ZQzafgs58D8b73kTGHT8rzlTHC19n9rq5vLqgvCIRbaB9ZSyEQ3PeIMtvd37576H9lhUkI-CxKWRmY8y88rGP6KNxSJsHyCTyeWRu3OueIgbp985/s400/FFBNW.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">A comment made by my friend. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The option also RMN to be able to replace damaged system easily when required. It was a beautiful concept. But like any other concept, it was flawed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Signs of trouble began when the ships were built at PSC Naval Dockyard at Lumut. Rumours of subcontractors not being paid their due began to surface. The company was in trouble. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Boustead Holding was asked to be the White Knight and came up with a rescue plan. (Boustead Holdings main shareholder is Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera or LTAT. Which is logical for them to rescue the PSC Naval Dockyard as the future of their members is at stake).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Later, the Parliament Accountability Committee or PAC determined there were improprieties in the company that led to the financial problem. However, the person responsible for the problem has yet to be prosecuted and is believed to have fled the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Today, to strengthen the Kedah class vessels, RMN had assigned Super Lynx helicopters armed with Sea Skua missiles. While the missiles are battle-tested in the Gulf War, it lacked the distance and destruction power.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The screw-up from this black mark in RMN history can still be felt today, as today’s RMN lacks sufficient capable surface combatants. Worse still, all 6 Kedah class vessels are still naked vessels, armed only with 76mm and 30mm cannons, when regional navies, even Royal Brunei Navy has since moved to arming missiles on their ships. 6 naked ships, if our Govt does not upgrade these naked ships, these would be coffins for our sailors with anything better than 76mm peashooter in the event of hostilities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><i>Note:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><i>In my next article, we would explore on potential threat to Malaysia. Not going to be a nice topic, as not many people would like the acknowledge the ugly truth that not all of our neighbours love us. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><i>This would be followed by logistical consideration in procurement, which unfortunately seems to bizarrely escape the thought process when deciding which assets to be procured. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><i>Followed by diplomatic consideration, or in other words, preventing arms race and also war. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18px;"><i>The last article in this series, we will look into economic consideration. This includes payment methods. And finally, impact of politics in defence procurement. </i></span></div>
Danny Liewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03295022851205233703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-82149076150004014352016-03-21T09:36:00.003+08:002016-03-21T09:36:52.794+08:00No US base in Sabah, says armed forces chief<div style="text-align: justify;">
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18: The Malaysian Armed Forces today dismissed rumours that the United States is setting up a military base in Sabah.</div>
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Armed Forces chief General Zulkifeli Mohd Zin said in a statement that the rumours were “untrue”.</div>
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He said the Defence Ministry and the Armed Forces had no intention of allowing a foreign military base to be established in Malaysia.</div>
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Last Wednesday reported that sacked Rural and Regional Development Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal had asked in the Dewan Rakyat if it was true that Putrajaya had allowed the US to build an army base in Sabah.</div>
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He said that if the rumours were true, it would only show that Malaysia was unable to defend itself. (BERNAMA)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-68375099453613886242016-03-18T08:54:00.002+08:002016-03-18T08:54:49.478+08:00M’sia not joining military ops - Hishamuddin<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXX6satkCkeMKF9aNAWXDeAEyG1Bp1jBKXAYHD5D7PPeQJ26GIEkOG292Nq9LkvD_0-S6uJIoLzonspuXLb5cOpJY9zPdGHgboywaBP-d1oAS_Gs34sSXqNRiuKRZY96_SFZ7KqN-Aqjcv/s400/North_Thunder+Malaysia+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXX6satkCkeMKF9aNAWXDeAEyG1Bp1jBKXAYHD5D7PPeQJ26GIEkOG292Nq9LkvD_0-S6uJIoLzonspuXLb5cOpJY9zPdGHgboywaBP-d1oAS_Gs34sSXqNRiuKRZY96_SFZ7KqN-Aqjcv/s320/North_Thunder+Malaysia+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exercise Northern Thunder. Source: Internet</td></tr>
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Malaysia will not take part in military operations should Saudi Arabia decide to go on a large-scale war against the Islamic State.</div>
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Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, in saying this, added that Malaysian armed forces personnel based in Riyadh were not involved in “offensive action”.</div>
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“They are not designed and not trained to go on the offensive.</div>
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“Also, they do not have the required assets. Their main role there is to ensure that the aircraft are serviceable and safe to be used by peacekeeping missions,” he said in reply to Tian Chua (PKR-Batu).</div>
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He denied that two Royal Malaysian Air Force C-130 aircraft, and about 31 officers and 56 other personnel in Riyadh had been involved in recent military campaigns in Yemen.</div>
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Hishammuddin explained that the team had actually gone for a joint training exercise on the invitation of the Saudi government.</div>
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“This is the first time the Malaysian army was invited to join such an exercise, and it was a golden opportunity to improve their skills and share knowledge with about 19 other countries involved,” he said, adding that the exercise, conducted between Feb 16 and March 10, was in the Hafar Al Batin and Tabuk training grounds in the northern region.</div>
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He said Yemen was closer to the southern region border.</div>
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On the situation in Yemen, Hishammuddin noted that there were no positive signs for peace just yet. There were 398 Malaysians in Yemen as of last month, he added.</div>
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“The Malaysian government is consistent in its stand that Malaysia supports all efforts to prevent militant activities, but our army was not involved in any military operation in Yemen,” he said. (The Star)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-58316546905484526202016-03-17T11:37:00.000+08:002016-03-17T11:37:17.894+08:00Konfrantasi hero recounts tragedy: 'They were caught off guard and shot' <div style="text-align: justify;">
On this day, 51 years earlier, a young Army officer walked out of the jungle in Kota Tinggi, Johor, his 7.62mm self-loading rifle slung to his shoulder and his fatigues covered in mud.</div>
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He had just completed a risky mission to search for Indonesian guerillas who had killed nine of his platoon mates.</div>
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Although trained for urban settings, retired Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Daljeet Singh and his men were successful.</div>
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They killed and captured a number of the guerillas. Pictures of his men from 2SIR carrying the dead and captured guerillas have not been seen in decades.</div>
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The stories of the men who were at the front line in North Borneo (now called Sabah) and in the swamps of Pasir Laba have not been told often enough.</div>
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Even now, Mr Singh's voice cracks and tears well up in his eyes, as he recalls the day he had to break the news of a fellow soldier's death to the man's wife.</div>
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He said: "She (the widow) just collapsed before I could complete (what I had to say). This was extremely touching to me because I was only 24 years old at that time."</div>
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The soldier was one of the eight men killed in an ambush in Kota Tinggi. The remains of another soldier was found days later.</div>
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Mr Singh was then mortar platoon commander at 2SIR, which was part of the 4th Malaysian Infantry Brigade. Mr Singh and the rest of 2SIR were deployed at Kota Tinggi.</div>
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He said: "We were mainly trained for internal security roles. Later, we were sent for jungle training in Ulu Tiram, Johor, before being deployed at Kota Tinggi."</div>
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Recalling the ambush, Mr Singh said: "On Feb 28, 1965, one of our platoons, which was led by the platoon sergeant, a man named Sergeant Ahmad, was deployed in the jungle to search for some Indonesian saboteurs."</div>
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As evening fell and daylight faded, the platoon prepared to camp for the night at the foot of a hill called Bukit Lebam.</div>
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He said: "Unknown to them, Indonesian soldiers were observing them from higher ground and they later opened fire on the platoon.</div>
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"The platoon was caught off guard and eight members of the platoon, including Sgt Ahmad, were killed on the spot."</div>
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CAPTURED</div>
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Mr Singh said another platoon mate was taken prisoner by the Indonesians, but the remaining soldiers returned to the Company HQ.</div>
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He said they were all shaken by the news.</div>
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D Company 2SIR, under the command of Capt Mackintosh, was assigned the task of recovering the bodies of the ambushed soldiers.</div>
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His voice cracking, Mr Singh said: "We took the bodies back to Camp Temasek in Singapore (where 2SIR was located) and administered the burial rites."</div>
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On March 3, 2nd Lt Singh's mortar platoon was airlifted by helicopter from Seletar Airbase to Kampong Bahru, Johor. The next day, acting on information from a villager, they encountered the Indonesians infiltrators. There was a hail of bullets and one guerilla was killed.</div>
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Four other Indonesian infiltrators were killed in another encounter on March 6 and another two were killed on March 12.</div>
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But he wasn't done.</div>
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"Our Commanding Officer did not want to return without finding out what had happened to the ninth soldier, the one who was taken prisoner by the Indonesians.</div>
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"The villager said the Indonesians shot him about two days after he was captured and left his body along the jungle route where the other eight soldiers were ambushed," said Mr Singh.</div>
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"We retraced our steps along the route and found his remains along the route."</div>
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Mr Singh said the Indonesian infiltrators were well-trained and disciplined.</div>
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He said: "They had been brainwashed into thinking that Malaysia was ready for an uprising and that the people were waiting for the Indonesians to liberate them from the British.</div>
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"But the reality was actually the opposite."</div>
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The tragedy may have taken place 51 years ago. But for soldiers who were there, the hurt remains.</div>
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He chose SAF instead of medicine</div>
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The medals in his Bukit Timah Road home speak volumes of a military career spanning over 30 years.</div>
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Mr Daljeet Singh, 75, proudly showed his Independence Medal, his 30-year Long Service Medal, his 25-year Long Service Medal and the medal he received for his role as an army officer during the Konfrontasi period.</div>
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He recalled how he became a soldier after finishing his Senior Cambridge exams (the O-level examinations-equivalent of his time) in March 1959.</div>
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"My father wanted me to study medicine in India, which I was unwilling to do," he said.</div>
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Several months after his exam results were released, one of Mr Singh's former teachers learnt about the formation of the Singapore Military Forces, in anticipation of eventual self-government for Singapore in 1959.</div>
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Mr Singh said: "My former teacher advised me to consider soldiering as a career.</div>
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"So I joined First Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (1SIR) in July 1959 as a recruit. I was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in July 1962.</div>
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"When Singapore joined Malaysia, 1SIR and 2SIR became part of the Malaysian armed forces."</div>
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Before retiring from the SAF, Mr Singh held several appointments, including Brigade Group Commander, HQ 21SIB from 1981 to 1991.</div>
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After his retirement, the grandfather of three spent 10 years working for the Singapore Technologies group.</div>
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His experience during Konfrontasi affirmed his belief in National Service.</div>
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He said: "We have a unique history and Singapore had a unique birth. What we have is worth defending." (aruljohn@sph.com.sg)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-17587198987045603692016-03-16T10:35:00.000+08:002016-03-16T10:35:04.325+08:00Beijing accuses Tokyo over patrol planes for Philippines <div style="text-align: justify;">
BEIJING: Beijing on Thursday accused Tokyo of interfering in the South China Sea after Manila said it would lease five Japanese military planes to patrol areas it claims in the heavily disputed waters.</div>
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Beijing claims almost all of the strategically vital South China Sea, and is embroiled in a separate row with Tokyo over disputed islands in the East China Sea that has seen relations between the Asian powers sour badly in recent years.</div>
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Philippine President Benigno Aquino said Wednesday that Manila would lease five TC-90 training aircraft from Japan to “help our navy patrol our territory”, pointing out the disputed area in particular.</div>
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China’s foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Beijing was “firmly opposed” to challenges to its sovereignty and security and would “remain on high alert”.</div>
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“Japan is not a party directly concerned in the South China Sea dispute,” he added.</div>
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“We urge the Japanese side to mind its words and actions and refrain from undermining the peace and stability of the region,” he said.</div>
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Tensions in the South China Sea — through which one-third of the world’s oil passes — have mounted in recent months since China transformed contested Spratly reefs into artificial islands capable of supporting military facilities.</div>
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China claims almost all of sea, including those Spratly islands currently controlled by the Philippines.</div>
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Several other littoral state have competing claims in the region, as does Taiwan.</div>
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Aquino — whose government has infuriated Beijing by taking the South China Sea issue to an international tribunal in The Hague — is looking to upgrade one of Asia’s most badly-equipped armed forces.</div>
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Hong’s comments came after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said there were “little grounds for optimism” in Sino-Japanese relations and accused the world’s third-largest economy — a major Chinese trading partner — of “two-faced” behaviour.</div>
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“On the one hand the Japanese government and leaders are constantly claiming they want to improve Sino-Japanese relations, and on the other are constantly making trouble for China everywhere,” Wang said Tuesday on the sidelines of the annual meeting of the National People’s Congress (NPC), the country’s Communist-controlled legislature.</div>
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“This is actually a kind of approach typical of a ‘two-faced person’.” (AFP)</div>
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DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-7569420432110836672016-03-14T09:56:00.002+08:002016-03-14T09:56:48.825+08:00No China Coast Guard Vessel Anchored At Gugusan Beting Patinggi Ali - Chinese Envoy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ww.daliulian.net/imgs/image/32/3235201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ww.daliulian.net/imgs/image/32/3235201.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luconia Shoals/Beting Patinggi Ali. Source: daliulian.net</td></tr>
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KUCHING, March 10 (Bernama) -- China has dismissed as untrue the reported permanent presence of a China Coast Guard vessel at the reef complex of Gugusan Beting Patinggi Ali in the South China Sea within the Malaysian exclusive economic zone.</div>
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A vessel of the China Coast Guard had come to the area but it is not anchored there, said China's Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Huang Huikang. Gugusan Beting Patinggi Ali is located north of Sarawak.</div>
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Huang spoke at a press conference after paying a courtesy call on Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem here Thursday.</div>
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"I can let you know...now there is no China Coast Guard vessel staying and anchored there (at Gugusan Beting Patinggi Ali)," he said, adding that such a vessel might have come there for an inspection.</div>
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"However, now they are not staying and anchored in the area. So this is, somewhat I think, the correct information on the real picture," he said.</div>
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Asked whether the reported presence of the vessel was discussed at the meeting with Adenan, Huang said: "No".</div>
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"Actually this matter has been in the media for a while. And, frankly speaking, we did not discuss this matter because it seems to me it's a matter suitable to be discussed between the Federal Government and the Chinese Government," he said.</div>
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Huang also dismissed a report that Malaysian fisherman from Sarawak were threatened by China Coast Guard vessels.</div>
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"I checked that with Beijing. The official answer I have got is that Chinese law enforcement agencies and China Coast Guard vessels have never done so," he said.</div>
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Huang said China was glad "to have important consensus" with Malaysia and he said he thought it was a good model for other countries to follow.</div>
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"China and Malaysia have a consistent, comprehensive and strategic partnership. We will not let some differences and disputes to affect our relationship.</div>
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"If there is any dispute, we can manage it by ourselves. In fact, we have done very well and wish to continue such process," he said.</div>
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Earlier, Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Wira Mohd Johari Baharum and several officials of the Royal Malaysian Navy called on Adenan.</div>
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The chief minister also had a visit from several representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (BERNAMA) </div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-31231504862433225332016-03-11T09:21:00.000+08:002016-03-11T09:21:23.787+08:00RMN moves to strengthen country’s maritime security<div style="text-align: justify;">
LUMUT, March 9: The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is set to consolidate all its naval units from 15 classes to five in an effort to strengthen the country’s maritime security.</div>
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Navy chief Datuk Seri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin said this is part of the RMN’s transformation programme to strengthen its armada and also to be cost effective.</div>
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“The replacement process will be done in stages. We will focus on the abilities of the local industry and from 15 classes we will consolidate it to five classes.</div>
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“The five classes are New Generation Patrol Vessels (NGPV), Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), submarines, Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) and Multi Support Ships.</div>
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“This will be done in accordance with the allocation set by the Government,” he said after accompanying Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein to launch the keel-laying ceremony for the first of six LCS’ at the Boustead Naval Shipyard here yesterday.</div>
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The RMN is set to be bolstered by six LCS built by Bousted, an associate company under Bousted Heavy Industries Corporation Berhad (BHIC).</div>
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The six ships, estimated to be worth RM9bil, will be equipped with superior four-dimensional warfare capabilities for electronic, air, surface and underwater threats integrated with state-of-the-art systems.</div>
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One interesting part of the ship is its stealth capability, which reduces radar reflection to minimise visibility and detection and it is also capable of rapid launch and recovery of boats.</div>
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BHIC executive deputy chairman Tan Sri Ahmad Ramli Mohd Nor said the shipyard has contributed significantly in enhancing the assets of the armed forces and naval sector.</div>
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Hishammuddin said the LCS will be the biggest combat ship built in the Malaysian armada and added that even though the economy is slow, the security and defence aspect of the country will not be compromised.</div>
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The first LCS vessel is expected to be completed in early 2019, with subsequent vessels to be completed at 10-month intervals thereafter.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-2280772552419490162016-03-10T12:01:00.002+08:002016-03-10T12:01:58.159+08:00Dewan told of IS bids to kidnap Najib, Zahid and Hisham<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWjdhA_KSS16J6XefsxyngWmfNXj9umIW2hfn1k2jmc6mL4TdNt6JqpIBVt5fT29HDXSLQeHTnmOL906y9zIK4coM-AA66TDPsLnQ1hQaiYh3xqHVtzVW6Jvk0FVY3ryhuyx3N2mfPzFo/s1600/malaysia-militant-600x338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWjdhA_KSS16J6XefsxyngWmfNXj9umIW2hfn1k2jmc6mL4TdNt6JqpIBVt5fT29HDXSLQeHTnmOL906y9zIK4coM-AA66TDPsLnQ1hQaiYh3xqHVtzVW6Jvk0FVY3ryhuyx3N2mfPzFo/s320/malaysia-militant-600x338.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RMP works around the clock to contain the threat of Daesh. Source: Bicaranews</td></tr>
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Kuala Lumpur: The nation's security forces have succeeded in curbing and thwarting several attempts by the Daesh militant group to kidnap the country's leaders including the Prime Minister, the Dewan Rakyat was told Tuesday.</div>
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Deputy Prime Minister and Home Affairs Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi revealed that apart from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, he and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein had also been the targets.</div>
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"On Jan 30, 2015, a total of 13 individuals associated with the Daesh militant group plotted to kidnap the country's top leaders including the Prime Minister, Home and Defence Ministers," he said.</div>
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Ahmad Zahid was responding to a question from Datuk Abdul Manan Ismail (BN-Paya Besar) who wanted clarification on the Royal Malaysia Police's (PDRM) success in preventing terrorist attack by Daesh militants in the country.</div>
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Elaborating, he said besides the plot to kidnap, the group also planned attacks on places of worship and public places, steal firearms from army camps as well as robbing cash to finance their activities.</div>
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He said although there were no Daesh branches in the country, those influenced by the militant group ideology received instructions directly from the group in Syria led by Abu Bakar al-Baghdadi.</div>
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According to Ahmad Zahid, Daesh militant group activities in this country were evident throughout Sept 2014 to May 2015 and in that period, the security forces detected four plots by the group to attack several locations in Kedah, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.</div>
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"Looking at the developments on this terrorist threat, we saw a need for an integrated and holistic action and to handle the situation, the Home Ministry and the police resorted to information-sharing cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies, particularly with Asean countries," he said.</div>
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According to him, as a result of the cooperation, close monitoring was conducted to keep track of those involved with the militant group and names of individuals involved were extended to the Immigration Department to be put on the blacklist and suspects list.</div>
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He added that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission also monitored social media which had become the communication medium of groups influenced by Daesh.</div>
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He said the Home Ministry and security forces were actively tracking down elements of violence, increasing security and control at locations at risk of becoming targets such as tourist spots, embassies and government buildings, as well as building closer rapport with the public, encouraging them to report of any suspicious activity.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-47170791369503442872016-03-09T09:30:00.002+08:002016-03-09T09:32:39.443+08:00‘Sultanate commanders’ in Sabah<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://travelmalaysiaguide.com/images/Maps/sabah-map-big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://travelmalaysiaguide.com/images/Maps/sabah-map-big.jpg" height="222" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Sabah. Source: travelmalaysiaguide.com</td></tr>
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KOTA KINABALU: Intelligence conducted by security forces has shown the existence of ‘panglima kesultanan’ (a sultanate commander) in all state constituencies in Sabah and it was seen as a threat to the nation, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.</div>
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He said security threats posed by militant groups were no longer confined to Sabah’s east coast as they had spread to the west coast areas as well, he added.</div>
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It is a new challenge to the security forces.</div>
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“It used to be threats in the East Coast of Sabah but due to tight security by the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) and the Malaysian Armed Forces, a new threat has emerged in the West Coast.</div>
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“Therefore, both the RMP and the Malaysian Armed Forces together with other security agencies will expand their scope of operations in both regions.</div>
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“I, therefore, would like to remind those who think or plan to intrude or claim Sabah as their own to be cautious because if such threats do occur, not only the Malaysian security forces will come out to fight but the people of Sabah will be at the forefront to defend this country,” he said at the opening of a seminar on ‘Security and Public Order’ (SEKAM) 2016 at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Chancellor Hall here yesterday.</div>
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Ahmad Zahid and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the university and the Home Ministry for the setting up of the Sabah Strategic Research and Security Centre (SASSREC).</div>
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At the event, Ahmad Zahid also accepted his appointment as Adjunct Professor to SASSREC for his effort in the collaboration between UMS and the Home Ministry.</div>
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He said outsiders could never claim Sabah as their own as the state is part of Malaysia since independence.</div>
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“It is our duty as Malaysians and Sabahans to defend our country from any internal or external threats.</div>
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“It is imperative that everybody stands together in regard to race and religion to defend our nation.</div>
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“Certain parties have tried to claim Sabah but remember, Sabah had gained its independence with Malaya in 1963 which is now Malaysia,” he said.</div>
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Ahmad Zahid said laws in Malaysia, such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA), were enacted as an element of prevention to ensure that security and safety of the country would not be compromised.</div>
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“Therefore, the Government will not compromise on the issue of security in Sabah, and have ensured that Malaysian security forces expand their operations statewide to counter this threat,” he said.</div>
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Ahmad Zahid added that the issue of security is the responsibility of all Malaysians in Sabah and not only the security forces.</div>
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“We will ensure that Sabah will be safe from all security threats notwithstanding internal or external. To achieve this, we need the cooperation and assistance from the rakyat through HANRUH or the total defence concept,” he stressed.</div>
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Ahmad Zahid also disclosed that although the government had drawn up punitive laws such as the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2015 (POTA) and Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA), efforts against security threats should also be preventive.</div>
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“Preventive laws mean that security issues cannot be compromised,” he said and reiterated that the government would continue to make the security and development in Sabah a priority.</div>
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Present at the event were Deputy Minister of Home Affairs II Masir Kujat, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman, Ministry of Home Affairs Secretary General Alwi Haji Ibrahim, Deputy Inspector General of Police Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun and UMS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Datuk Dr. Mohd Harun Abdullah. (The Borneo Post)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-2549814499317564502016-03-08T11:02:00.000+08:002016-03-08T11:02:39.866+08:00MAF team departs for Philippines on March 6 to monitor ceasefire with MILF<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.rappler.com/43AA4B9815CB44C1911BE8DC236FE797/img/398C9C65521341AB8C8535C1E04CEBA6/milf-returns-saf-weapons-maguindanao-20150218-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://assets.rappler.com/43AA4B9815CB44C1911BE8DC236FE797/img/398C9C65521341AB8C8535C1E04CEBA6/milf-returns-saf-weapons-maguindanao-20150218-001.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IMT plays an important role in monitoring ceasefire between the Philippine Government and the MILF. Source: Rappler</td></tr>
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KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian International Monitoring Team - Mindanao 11 (IMT–M11) will depart for Mindanao in the Philippines on March 6 and 13 to continue monitoring and overseeing the ceasefire between the Philippines government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).</div>
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Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) chief Jen Tan Sri Roslan Saad told a press conference on March 4 that the team, comprising of 16 personnel will be in Mindanao for 12 months.</div>
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"The sending of IMT-M11 is a continuation of the IMT-M10 which has been serving there for 12 months since March 14, 2015.</div>
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"This new team will be led by Maj-Gen Datuk Wira Zamrose Mohd Zain in two groups," Roslan said at Wisma Tanjung, here.</div>
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He said the first team will depart by commercial aircraft with the mission chief and four officers on March 6.</div>
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Meanwhile, he added that the second team will depart on March 13 on the C130H aircraft.</div>
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He said, besides Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Japan and Norway will also be sending teams to monitor the ceasefire.</div>
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"However, Malaysia is a lead agency in this operations," he said, adding that the IMT-M10 will end their service in Mindanao on March 14.</div>
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The IMT was first established on Aug, 24 2004 to monitor the ceasefire between the Philippines government and the MILF. (The Sun Daily)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-4731965898465284442016-03-07T10:38:00.000+08:002016-03-07T10:38:30.431+08:00Cambridge Pixel Supplies Radar Simulator Software to OSI Maritime for Malaysian Navy Contract<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Cambridge Pixel, an award-winning developer of radar display, tracking and simulation subsystems, has supplied radar simulator software to OSI Maritime Systems (OSI), a world-leading provider of integrated navigation and tactical solutions for the naval market.</div>
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OSI is supplying an Integrated Bridge System to the Royal Malaysian Navy for use in the soon-to-be commissioned Littoral Combat Ship (LCS). The fully-functioning radar simulator supports OSI's need to perform integration activities in advance of installation and commissioning on the vessel, and includes comprehensive software emulation of the radar control interface.</div>
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The emulator is based upon Cambridge Pixel's established SPx Radar Simulator product. The simulator includes powerful multi-channel radar video generation with full modelling for realistic terrain and clutter returns. Multiple targets may be defined, each either located in a fixed position (such as a buoy or lighthouse) or moving along motion profiles defined as part of the simulator's scenario or under remote control from an external source.</div>
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Commenting for OSI, Ken Kirkpatrick, president & CEO, said, "We selected Cambridge Pixel because of their existing highly flexible and powerful radar simulation capability and their experience with the Kelvin Hughes SharpEye radar. The company's engineers were able to respond quickly to the requirement to extend this capability to include full radar control and status emulation, providing us in a timely manner with an invaluable tool to support our own software development and significantly accelerate and de-risk our integration activities."</div>
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David Johnson, CEO of Cambridge Pixel, said, "We were delighted to work alongside OSI to support their activities on this significant programme. The modular approach which we bring to all our software products meant that enhancing our existing simulation capability to meet the customer's detailed requirements was a low-risk development and could be delivered on time and fully compliant.</div>
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"Our radar simulation software and hardware products have supported many customers needing a realistic radar source that can be used to fully exercise tracking and display functionality," added Mr Johnson. "We have been able to build on this capability to meet OSI's needs."</div>
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To enhance the realism of the generated video, the simulator can also take real-world recordings obtained from a radar installation and superimpose synthetic targets, each with specific characteristics such as dimensions and radar cross-section. Furthermore, movement of the simulated radar itself can be controlled either by an external navigation feed to the simulator or via a predefined motion profile. The simulator's local display includes a provision for tiled maps and world vector shoreline displays as an underlay to the primary radar video.</div>
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To provide a full emulation capability for OSI, Cambridge Pixel augmented the existing radar simulator by emulating the control and status interface of the Kelvin Hughes SharpEye radar used on the Littoral Combat Ship. The resulting emulator can be used to fully exercise the radar control, tracking and display functions of OSI's application software. </div>
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Radar video using the ASTERIX network digital format is generated along with synthesised Automatic Identification System (AIS) reports which would normally be sent by a vessel's transponder. The emulated radar control interface allows the integrator to set radar mode and turning rate, define multiple blind sectors and mimic real radar alarm and fault conditions.</div>
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Cambridge Pixel's technology is used in naval, air traffic control, vessel traffic, commercial shipping, security, surveillance and airborne radar applications.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-49077311966556996552016-03-03T14:32:00.001+08:002016-03-03T14:32:24.948+08:00Malaysian Aviation body takes flight<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.qantas.com/img/760x200/frequent-flyer/malaysia-airlines-760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="84" src="https://www.qantas.com/img/760x200/frequent-flyer/malaysia-airlines-760.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Qantas</td></tr>
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PETALING JAYA: A new agency that will manage the economic side of Malaysia’s aviation industry has taken off.</div>
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The Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAC) will have its eye on commercial flights here and, among others, manage airline licences, traffic rights and routes.</div>
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Speaking to The Star, its executive chairman Jen (Rtd) Tan Sri Abdullah Ahmad expressed surprise over his appointment.</div>
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“It’s a real surprise to me that the Government still considered me to lead this very important course in the aviation industry,” he said.</div>
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Formerly in the Royal Malaysian Air Force , Abdullah said he retired from service about 10 years ago.</div>
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He said he was grateful to the Prime Minister for picking him to serve in the role, adding that he only found out about it a week ago.</div>
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He declined to say what the commission’s first order of the day would be because it was still new.</div>
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The commission was formed through a Bill that was passed in Parliament last year.</div>
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An 11th Malaysia Plan document said the agency was incorporated in July 2015.</div>
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It was also reported that the commission would be taking over some areas that the Civil Aviation Department (DCA) had been handling previously.</div>
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The DCA will still manage safety and security with oversight of airlines and airports in the country.</div>
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In a statement, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai introduced the commission, adding that it started work yesterday.</div>
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It comprised six other members – former Cabinet minister Tan Sri Chor Chee Heung, former Court of Appeal judge Datuk Mah Weng Kwai, ex-Transport Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Long See Wool, former Khazanah executive director Dr Nungsari Ahmad Radhi, Bagan Umno chief Datuk Dr Shaik Hussein Mydin and former Finance Ministry official Datuk Fauziah Yaacob.</div>
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The commission will be overseen by the Transport Ministry.</div>
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Mah told The Star that a few commission members had been informally briefed on their roles, adding that the group had yet to meet.</div>
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It was learned that the commission would have an office in Kuala Lumpur.</div>
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Maybank Investment Bank senior analyst Mohshin Aziz said there was a need for an effective commission to deal with airline issues and crises.</div>
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He said a similar agency in South Korea had come up with discounted landing fees and other costs after an outbreak of the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) there affected its industry.</div>
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“They did it fast. You need an agency that is on its feet, not just sitting down wondering what’s going on,” he said, adding that there were no concerted efforts to woo back consumers following the airline incidents of 2014.</div>
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An aviation analyst who declined to be named suggested that the commission could look into operational standards and improve them.</div>
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“What needs to be boosted is aspects of maintenance, repair and overhaul,” he said.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-58197699615453314232016-03-02T12:46:00.000+08:002016-03-02T12:46:31.561+08:00RAKAM Is Best Communication Network For Maritime Community And Enforcement Agencies<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
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KOTA KINABALU, Feb 29 (Bernama) -- The Maritime Community Friendly Interaction Programme (RAKAM) is the best communication and discussion network between the maritime community and enforcement agencies.</div>
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Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Region 2 commander, Rear Admiral Datuk Khairul Anuar Yahya said via RAKAM, enforcement agencies including the RMN, marine police, Fisheries Department, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the maritime community could conduct discussions to solve problems in the community.</div>
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"We have set three objectives in RAKAM, including boosting awareness in the maritime community that the RMN and other enforcement agencies are highly committed to ensuring the security of the nation's territorial waters.</div>
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"We also endeavour to foster good ties with the local maritime community to strengthen cooperation, especially in disseminating information," he said in his speech at a dialogue at the RMN base in Teluk Sepangar, near here, today.</div>
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He said RMN had created an initiative to speed up the dissemination of information by distributing cards containing the telephone and fax numbers of the operations rooms of MMEA and RMN to the maritime community.</div>
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"Both the operations rooms of the MMEA and RMN operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are contactable via WhatsApp. One only needs to take a picture of an incident and send it to the operations room, with information on its location and date," he said. (BERNAMA)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-28286497867618285792016-03-01T12:08:00.000+08:002016-03-01T12:08:01.552+08:00Malaysian Army To Get Used Blackhawks From Brunei<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://borneobulletin.com.bn/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/PAGE01_150128_A1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://borneobulletin.com.bn/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/PAGE01_150128_A1.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sikorsky S-70A Black Hawk. Source: BorneoBulletin</td></tr>
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KUALA LUMPUR: The army is expected to receive four used Sikorsky S-70A Black Hawk helicopters from Brunei this year, said army chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor.</div>
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Raja Mohamed Affandi said those helicopters will strengthen the security in Sabah.</div>
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On top of that, he added that the army is also expecting the delivery of 56 units of locally-assembled Armour Vehicles 8x8 (AV8) in stages this year, which will be sent to Sabah.</div>
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"So far, we have 27 units of AV8 in Tawau, Sabah. We believe all of these assets including Black Hawks will provide full protection for people in the east of Sabah," said Raja Mohamed Affandi, during a media conference in conjunction with the 83rd Malaysian Armed Forces Day at Wisma Perwira Tentera Darat, Kem Perdana Sungai Besi. (New Straits Times)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-87976786731083192522016-02-29T11:55:00.001+08:002016-02-29T11:55:29.019+08:00Cambodia Requests 2 Warships From China<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2012-07/04/123367183_11n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2012-07/04/123367183_11n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PLAN Type 054A Frigate (Source: Xinhuanet)</td></tr>
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PHNOM PENH, Feb 25—Cambodian defense officials have requested two warships from China, saying they are needed to help Cambodia defend its maritime territory.</div>
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Cambodian Navy Admiral Tea Vinh asked for the two modern military vessels during a meeting with Chinese Rear Admiral Yu Manjian. Their talks in Phnom Penh followed joint maritime rescue drills conducted by the countries' naval forces, which ended Wednesday.</div>
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During the exercise, three Chinese ships - two frigates armed with guided missiles and a supply ship - were docked on display at the port of Sihanoukville.</div>
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"When I went to inspect them, the ships are very good," Tea Vinh said in a statement.</div>
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Meas Tang, a spokesman for the Cambodian navy, said the request was more like a "wish list," and that it remains unclear whether China will accept such a request.</div>
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Saying South China Sea tensions were discussed during his meeting with Yu, Tea Vinh said Cambodia maintains the same stance with ASEAN naval leaders, including those in dispute with China.</div>
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"I say this should be resolved amongst themselves peacefully," he said.</div>
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Tea Vinh also affirmed Cambodia’s one-China policy, which does not recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state.</div>
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This week's maritime drills, consisting primarily of fire and rescue exercises, signal increased military cooperation between the countries.</div>
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The arrival of the display ships, which were open to the public Thursday, come amid news that China has continued to build up infrastructure amid disputed islands in the South China Sea, and just after ASEAN leaders met with U.S. President Barack Obama in talks that included the contentious sea issue. (Voice of America)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-80125576049811246092016-02-26T09:04:00.000+08:002016-02-26T09:04:25.737+08:00Australia unveils ‘massive’ increase in defence spending<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/cache/5003/DefenceImagery/2016/S20160225/20160225ran8100087_064.t56cf756b.m600.xa6f59304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/cache/5003/DefenceImagery/2016/S20160225/20160225ran8100087_064.t56cf756b.m600.xa6f59304.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Operation FIJI ASSIST 2016. Source: Australian DOD</td></tr>
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<br />SYDNEY: Australia unveiled a massive new investment in the nation’s defence capabilities on Thursday to address what Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull called “high stakes” and “momentous times” in Asia.<br /><br />Citing increased defence spending around the region and potential flashpoints in the South China Sea and the Korean peninsula, he said the government was committed to combating the most challenging strategic environment “we have faced in peacetime”.<br /><br />“These are momentous times. The stakes are high. And as the opportunities expand, so does the cost of losing them,” Turnbull said in launching a new Defence White Paper in Canberra.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />“A stronger Australia supports a safer Australia, a safer region and a safer world.”<br /><br />The government said it would spend Aus$195 billion (US$139 billion) over the next decade, including a doubling of its submarine fleet to 24, three additional destroyers, nine new frigates and 12 offshore patrol boats.<br /><br />Maritime surveillance would also be boosted by the purchase of seven US-made MQ-4C Triton drones and eight P-8A Poseidon aircraft.<br /><br />New air defence weapons would boost the force’s capabilities with 72 F-35s, known as Joint Strike Fighters, added from 2020, while the army’s equipment and armoured vehicle fleet will be upgraded.<br /><br />Some 2,500 new military roles will be created to expand the total defence force to 62,400 personnel, with 900 jobs focused on improved cyber, intelligence and space security.<br /><br />The cash injection would take Australia’s defence spending to two percent of GDP by 2020-21, three years earlier than previously outlined, Turnbull said. The 2016-17 defence budget is Aus$32.4 billion, with the additional investment boosting the annual funding to Aus$58.7 billion in 2025-26.<br /><br /><b>Regional tensions</b><br /><br />The announcement comes with Australia’s close ally the United States pursuing a foreign policy “pivot” towards Asia, while Beijing flexes its muscles in the region through a military build-up in the contested South China Sea.<br /><br />At the same time, tensions are high on the Korean peninsula after North Korea’s January nuclear test and a rocket launch this month.<br /><br />Turnbull said that in the next two decades, there would be increased military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, including “half the world’s submarines and half the world’s combat aircraft”.<br /><br />“We would be concerned if the competition for influence and the growth in military capability were to lead to instability and threaten Australia’s interests, whether in the South China Sea, the Korean peninsula or further afield,” he added.<br /><br />“We have a strong, vital, vested interest in the maintenance of peace, stability and respect for the rule of law. The decisions we take now will impact on our defence capability and outlook for decades to come.”<br /><br />At a regular press briefing Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said that China was “dissatisfied” with statements it found “negative” in the white paper about its South China Sea policy.<br /><br />“In the hopes of relieving tensions and the possibility of arms race, we hope that relevant countries can give up joint drills and stop increasing their military presence in the region,” she said.<br /><br />John Blaxland, a military expert at the Australian National University’s Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, said Canberra’s boost was consistent with other nations, adding that the global average for defence spending was between 2.1-2.3 percent of GDP.<br /><br />“In a world where the clouds are getting darker and where power dynamics are shifting and that shifting is creating rub points that could turn into spark points, the insurance policy which is the... Australian Defence Force is becoming less politically contentious,” Blaxland told AFP.<br /><br />Three international bidders -- DCNS of France, Germany’s TKMS and the Japanese government -- are competing for a submarine project worth some Aus$50 billion (US$36 billion) to replace Australia’s current diesel and electric-powered Collins Class submarines.<br /><br />A decision on the winner is due this year.<br /><br />Australia is part of the US-led campaign against the Islamic State group in Iraq, contributing military jets and special forces. It also started carrying out air strikes against IS targets in Syria last year. (AFP)DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-38023127567690450252016-02-25T11:56:00.000+08:002016-02-25T11:56:01.515+08:00The Edesix VideoBadge - Body Worn Cameras for Security Professionals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJRwHj28zJAff96xv4As8Hs2nFlqdH-7IRZI1qgGVS5xwkAnUAW7GmcWRcoVc3YUev1J6YwKOwHWb6wXi9do1hVMon5yt51unZP0cTv4xwLB9ark8UFGGrn8ZL6YxwkYvirk-bha4IUTi/s1600/Retail-Img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJRwHj28zJAff96xv4As8Hs2nFlqdH-7IRZI1qgGVS5xwkAnUAW7GmcWRcoVc3YUev1J6YwKOwHWb6wXi9do1hVMon5yt51unZP0cTv4xwLB9ark8UFGGrn8ZL6YxwkYvirk-bha4IUTi/s320/Retail-Img1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The VideoBadge series from Edesix consists of easy-to-use, robust and secure body worn cameras (BWC), capable of efficiently recording evidence-ready HD video and audio footage. Together with Edesix’s custom developed VideoManager software, these BWCs offer frontline workers the capability to deter aggression, capture evidential footage and store & share data from a multitude of locations.</div>
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Edesix’s VideoBadge Series consists of the VideoBadge VB-100, VB-200 and VB-300, these unique BWCs, often styled as an ID holder, were designed to meet the daily needs of the frontline worker. Each badge is fully encrypted, has day and night recording capability along with a comprehensive audit trail, ensuring evidential footage is protected from camera to court.</div>
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The VB-300 series is the first generation of WiFi enabled VideoBadges from Edesix. This unique BWC is equipped with the same security and footage protection features found in the VB-100 & VB-200, but with increased memory capacity, longer battery life and a wider field of view. The WiFi feature enables VB-300 series cameras to stream video and audio to VideoManager while simultaneously storing evidential quality recordings for later download and review.</div>
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The VideoBadge is currently used by security personnel, police, paramedics, civil enforcement officers and prison officers across the globe. These BWCs have proven to deter aggression towards wearers, provide robust evidential footage if required, and are simple to use in any situation.</div>
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VideoManager, designed to accompany the VideoBadge, is an advanced back-office management software suite from Edesix, developed for managing VideoBadge footage or, if required, video from 3rd party cameras. This user-friendly, web-based back-office is designed to facilitate the secure creation, redaction, and sharing of evidence-ready footage. VideoManager requires minimal user training, and evidential incidents created in VideoManager are admissible in court and can be viewed and shared from any location. The platform is equipped with encryption keys to protect data upload, and keeps a comprehensive audit trail of all actions taken. VideoManager implements a sophisticated multi-level role-based access control system, allowing footage access only to those with the appropriate level of authorisation.</div>
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Not only will VideoManager allow access and management of third party camera footage, its comprehensive Application Programming Interface (API) enables integration with most Security & Information Management Systems.</div>
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“All the studies examining body worn video cameras show they make a real difference in protecting frontline staff and the public,” explains Richie McBride, CEO of Edesix.</div>
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“Body Worn Cameras help prevent crime and anti-social behaviour, and record unbiased evidential footage for criminal prosecution. There can be no doubt that cameras deter aggression and in many cases eliminate the need to activate a panic alarm or radio during an incident. When members of the public know they are being recorded, their behaviour tends to change to a more positive attitude. BWC’s also help staff feel safer and more protected.”</div>
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Edesix was established in 2002, and is based in Edinburgh (UK) where it designs, develops and manufactures a range of innovative BWC solutions to help solve complex industry challenges for those in public facing roles. Since its introduction to the market, VideoBadges have been successfully adopted in a wide variety of industries, such as Police & Criminal Justice; Parking & Civil Enforcement; Emergency Services; Lone Workers & Field Agents; Security Companies and Prison Services.</div>
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DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-12283668676143384622016-02-21T23:21:00.000+08:002016-02-21T23:21:15.519+08:00Malaysia's DPM: Militants can't come homeKUCHING - Over 130 Malaysians who are now in Syria and Iraq fighting for the Islamic State (IS) will not be allowed to return home, said Datuk Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.<br /><br />The Deputy Prime Minister said police were working with Interpol to ensure that these militants do not come back to Malaysia.<br /><br />"The decision to bar them from returning home is to safeguard the country's peace and stability," said Dr Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />He said a total of 132 Malaysians had been identified to be still fighting for IS in Syria and Iraq.<br /><br />"Malaysia belongs to all ethnic groups and we want to maintain peace and stability in the country. The Prime Minister has given his commitment that peace and harmony will be given priority.<br /><br />"As Home Minister, I am translating his commitment," he said at a Chinese New Year gathering organised by Kuching South City Council yesterday.<br /><br />Speaking to reporters at the Prison Department's Day here later, Dr Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia had achieved a 97 per cent de-radicalisation rate among those detained for militancy and extremism.<br /><br />As such, he said Malaysia's programme could be considered the best in the world, adding that the Government's anti-terrorism rehabilitation methods were recognised as effective by the United Nations and Interpol.<br /><br />"We are the most successful. Ours is a global model.<br /><br />"That is why we were the host of a recent conference on de-radicalisation and countering violent extremism."<br /><br />He said there were about 130 people in prison for involvement with militants, radicals and extremists.<br /><br />"They do no mix with the general prison inmates.<br /><br />"They are isolated, rehabilitated and de-radicalised," he said, adding that help from psychologists and non-governmental bodies were key factors to the department's success. (The Star/ANN)<br /><div>
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On one hand the Minister is saying that Malaysia have a good de-radicalisation programme, on the other hand he is afraid that by allowing the return of the 132 radicalised Malaysians from Syria, it will disrupt peace and stability in the country. Does that mean he doesn't have faith in the de-radicalisation programme after all?</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-89277951697777212352016-02-19T09:57:00.002+08:002016-02-19T09:57:24.688+08:00BHIC gets three-year extension to service Navy’s helicopters<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.airbushelicopters.com/w1/jrotor/73/iso_album/rol73_page_14_500x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.airbushelicopters.com/w1/jrotor/73/iso_album/rol73_page_14_500x600.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RMN Fennec. Source: Airbus Helicopters </td></tr>
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KUALA LUMPUR: Boustead Heavy Industries Corp Bhd’s (BHIC) subsidiary BHIC AeroServices Sdn Bhd has received a three-year extension worth an additional RM30.8mil on its in-service support (ISS) contract for six Royal Malaysian Navy’s Fennec AS555SN helicopters.</div>
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BHIC told Bursa Malaysia that BHIC AeroServices previously had a three-year contract totaling RM32.4mil, expiring last month, and the consideration under the letter of agreement (LOA) and extended LOA had been revised to RM63.2mil.</div>
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The ISS contract extension is effective from Feb 7, 2016.</div>
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BHIC AeroServices is a joint venture between BHIC’s unit BHIC Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd (51%), Prestige Pillar Sdn Bhd (30%) and Airbus Helicopters Malaysia Sdn Bhd (19%).</div>
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BHIC shares were last traded on Monday at RM1.80.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-84251139728301473252016-02-17T12:46:00.000+08:002016-02-17T12:46:49.834+08:00Obama, SE Asian leaders seek resolution to maritime disputes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.sandiegouniontrib.com/img/photos/2016/02/16/10c11cdc86bfa408900f6a706700f2b0_tx600.JPEG?1cac1c26287decec7a3e591fce9b6936b1eddfe5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.sandiegouniontrib.com/img/photos/2016/02/16/10c11cdc86bfa408900f6a706700f2b0_tx600.JPEG?1cac1c26287decec7a3e591fce9b6936b1eddfe5" height="206" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: San Diego Tribune</td></tr>
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RANCHO MIRAGE, California: US President Barack Obama and the leaders of Southeast Asia called Tuesday for peaceful resolution of the region’s maritime disputes as they concluded a summit in California. </div>
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Obama told a news conference that disputes must be resolved by legal means, including a case brought by the Philippines challenging China’s sweeping claims over most of the South China Sea. China has refused to take part in the proceedings, but Obama said parties to the UN law of the seas are obligated to respect the ruling, expected later this year. </div>
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Obama has been hosting 10 leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or Asean, in the US for the first time. That sends a subtle message to China that the US remains an important force in the region. But the leaders’ joint statement after two days of talks avoided direct reference to China, reflecting the careful path that Asean members tread in their diplomacy with the world powers. </div>
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“Any disputes between claimants must be resolved peacefully through legal means such as the upcoming arbitration ruling under the UN Convention of the Law of the Seas, which the parties are obligated to respect and abide by,” Obama said. The Philippines brought its case in 2013 after Beijing refused to withdraw its ships from a disputed shoal under a US-brokered deal. Despite China’s refusal to participate, the arbitral tribunal based in The Hague has agreed to hear the case. </div>
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China says it has a historical right to virtually all of the South China Sea and has built seven artificial islands, some with airstrips, to assert its sovereignty. Taiwan and Asean members Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines also claim land features in these potentially resource-rich waters, an important thoroughfare for international shipping. Though not a claimant, the US has spoken out against China’s conduct and has angered Beijing by sailing US Navy ships near some of the artificial islands to demonstrate freedom to sail there despite China’s territorial claims. </div>
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Obama said the US will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, and it will support the right of other countries to do the same. The US has long argued for the maritime rights issue to be resolved peacefully and is looking for Asean to take a unified stance on the issue. The diverse group of countries includes governments that lean toward either Washington or Beijing. Only four Asean members are South China Sea claimants, leading to sometimes conflicting views on how to handle long-simmering rifts. </div>
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The US-Asean joint statement did not refer directly to the arbitration case brought by the Philippines, but it does urge “full respect for legal and diplomatic processes” in resolving disputes. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told a working dinner of the leaders on Monday night that China’s role in the region is expected to grow. Loong said China’s larger presence will likely lead to occasional frictions, uncertainties and anxieties, including on the South China Sea, but these issues must be managed peacefully to preserve regional stability and security, the Singapore-based Channel News Asia reported. </div>
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The summit is the latest effort by Obama to deepen US ties with the fast-growing economies of Southeast Asia — a commitment he described as “strong and enduring.” Obama plans to visit Vietnam in May, and then in the fall, become the first US president to visit Laos. Human rights activists have criticized Obama for hosting Southeast Asian leaders who have not come to power in free and fair elections. </div>
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Obama said the US would continue to stand with those in the region looking to advance rule of law and good governance. He encouraged the return of civilian rule in Thailand, a long-standing US ally, whose current prime minister came to power in a May 2014 military coup. The leaders concluded the summit by posing for the traditional family photo on the plush lawn outside a historic residence at Sunnylands, the storied California desert estate where the talks were held. </div>
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Sunnylands is also where Obama had his first formal meeting with China’s current president, Xi Jinping, in 2013. The leaders also discussed economic cooperation. ASEAN members Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam are all members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a free trade pact that is the main plank of Obama’s outreach to Asia. (AP)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-63643421967458893482016-02-16T10:08:00.000+08:002016-02-16T10:08:04.202+08:00Ministry sets up brigade to beef up border security<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4506/2119/1600/Backdoors-to-Sarawak.0.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4506/2119/1600/Backdoors-to-Sarawak.0.gif" height="201" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Asian Border Traveller</td></tr>
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LUNDU: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein has announced the setup of the Malaysian Army’s five-battalion-strong 31st Border Brigade, which will be based in Bintulu, to tighten border and national security.</div>
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The formation of this brigade would strengthen control and security along the borders of Sabah and Sarawak—Kalimantan, Indonesia, stretching 2,019.5km, he said at a press conference after visiting the Joint Border Post of Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and Indonesian National Army (TNI) at Biawak nere here yesterday.</div>
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“The setup of the 31st Border Brigade is another step by the Defence Ministry to tighten Malaysia’s border security,” Hishammuddin said, adding that the brigade would also assist the Royal Malaysia Police, local authorities and other agencies to look after public safety and order during security incidents or disasters.</div>
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The brigade will handle its own staffing needs once it gets the go-ahead from the Public Service Department and 1,021 members of the Malaysian Territorial Army will be absorbed as regulars.</div>
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The brigade will have a staff-strength of 5, 626 personnel when fully commissioned with a big number from Sarawak for their ‘local knowledge’.</div>
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Hishammuddin said the brigade would also be tasked with curbing illegal entry, human trafficking, smuggling and other criminal activities coming from across the border. He added that one of the threats the new force would look out for would be infiltration of ‘Daesh’ or ‘ISIS’ members from across the border.</div>
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Hishammuddin called on uniform bodies, state authorities, local communities and their leaders to support the brigade by cooperating with its personnel.</div>
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Later, the minister went to Kampung Jangkar to visit the ‘Jiwa Murni’ programme, under which the army had set up Civic Action Teams (Cats) to provide basic medical support for the people in the area.</div>
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Hishammuddin was accompanied by Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Mohd Johari Baharum, Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister and Mas Gading MP Anthony Nogeh Gumbek, Opar assemblyman Ranum Mina, Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Dr Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, Malaysian Army chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor, Eastern Zone Officer-In-Command (GOC) Lt Gen Datuk Mohd Zaki Mokhtar and First Infantry Division Commander Major General Datuk Stephen Mundaw, during the visit. (The Borneo Post)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-78195335255877031392016-02-15T17:00:00.002+08:002016-02-15T17:00:36.903+08:00Malaysia pursues diplomatic solution to Chinese coastguard vessels near Sarawak<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gambar hiasan. Source: Internet<br /></td></tr>
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KUCHING - Malaysia will continue to pursue a diplomatic solution to the presence of Chinese coastguard vessels near Beting Patinggi Ali off the Sarawak coast.</div>
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Defence Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Hussein said the situation was under control as diplomatic efforts were ongoing to resolve the issue.</div>
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"The diplomatic channel for handling territorial issues in the South China Sea comes under Wisma Putra. For the Defence Ministry and armed forces, we will wait for instructions but we will also continue our efforts through military diplomacy," he told reporters after visiting the Heroes Grave here recently.</div>
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He said this when asked to comment on recent reports of Chinese vessels encroaching into the waters around Beting Patinggi Ali, about 84 nautical miles from the coast of Miri.</div>
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In November last year, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim said Malaysia had been sending diplomatic notes every week about the presence of the ships.</div>
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However, Hishammuddin said he had been informed that the ships had lifted anchor and were not in Malaysian waters.</div>
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He also said he would arrange a courtesy visit by Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Huang Huikang with Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem as part of the diplomatic efforts.</div>
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"I have instructed the navy chief as well as my deputy minister to be present at the meeting, where the Chinese can explain to the state's top leadership their plans and intentions.</div>
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"I hope this direct communication between the Chief Minister and the Chinese ambassador will give confidence to the people of Sarawak that we have things under control," he said.</div>
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Hishammuddin also said territorial disputes in the South China Sea should be dealt with through diplomacy in order to maintain stability in the region.</div>
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"The geopolitical issues in the South China Sea are complex, involving various state actors and superpowers like China and the United States.</div>
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"It's not easy dealing with superpowers, but let us use the channels that we have so that there are no unintended accidents and incidents which may spiral out of control, which everybody will regret later on," he added. (AsiaOne)</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-37698426075744063352016-02-12T17:18:00.002+08:002016-02-12T17:18:42.236+08:00Hisham: Sabah security sufficient to thwart IS threat<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sabah. Source: Internet</td></tr>
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KUCHING: Sufficient measures have been taken to beef up security in Sabah to face the Islamic State (IS) threat, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said.</div>
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The Defence Minister, who is in Sarawak on a three-day working visit, said the best efforts had been put in to implement the measures in Sabah.</div>
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They include refurbishing two offshore oil platforms as offshore bases, upgrading the Hawk aircraft stationed in Sabah and equipping Blackhawk and Nuri helicopters with weapons.</div>
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“Lahad Datu will be turned into a helicopter base and Labuan airport will be upgraded. We have a new battalion in Sabah so that our assets are sufficiently deployed there.</div>
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“I believe what we have done is sufficient to face security threats,” he said after meeting Armed Forces personnel at Kem Penrissen here yesterday.</div>
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Hishammuddin was commenting on reports that Philippine militant groups like Abu Sayyaf and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front had pledged allegiance to IS.</div>
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He added that the measures put in place in Sabah would also include looking after Sarawak’s security.</div>
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Earlier in his speech, Hishammuddin said RM1.2bil had been allocated under the 11th Malaysia Plan to build 4,000 houses for Armed Forces personnel in 11 locations nationwide.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107920174377684031.post-23322636873107597982016-02-11T08:56:00.001+08:002016-02-11T08:56:06.379+08:00Cubic to Continue Supporting Simulation Training at the Joint Multinational Simulation Center with $33.7 Million Contract Award<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joint Multinational Simulation Center</td></tr>
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SAN DIEGO – February 10, 2016 – Cubic Global Defense (CGD), a business unit of Cubic Corporation , announced the award of a five-year, $33.7 million contract to support the U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR) Joint Multinational Simulation Center (JMSC), headquartered in Grafenwoehr, Germany; and the USAREUR Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) headquartered in Hohenfels, Germany. </div>
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Continuing the current five-year contract, Cubic will maintain its role in assisting the JMSC with the execution of Mission Rehearsal Exercises (MRE) and training events; constructive simulation training for joint, combined, NATO and partner-nation units and leaders; and combatant Commanders’ engagement strategies.</div>
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The JMSC, U.S. Army’s largest overseas training command, provides and facilitates mission command training through the integration of Live, Virtual, Constructive and Gaming (LVC-G) environments. Cubic will continue to integrate the mission command systems and LVC-G simulations in addition to providing stable simulation network backbones, exercise infrastructure and configuration management in support of JMSC missions.</div>
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“Cubic is a key player in the LVC-G training space and has successfully partnered with the JMSC to provide realistic and customizable mission support services to not only the U.S., but also to partner nations,” said Bill Toti, president of Cubic Global Defense. “Cubic looks forward to maintaining the important role of delivering comprehensive training to better prepare Soldiers for the next mission.”</div>
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The contract of this award was offered through the Regional Contracting Office Bavaria of the USAREUR. In addition to supporting the JMRC headquarters and the JMSC headquarters, Cubic will also support sites in Kaiserslautern and Baumholder, Germany; and Vicenza, Italy.</div>
DSGC Editorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11277786900000898772noreply@blogger.com0