report: aad 2008 - wildaviation
TRANSCRIPT
Report: AAD 2008 Written by I.M.G. IPMS SA Media Group
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Africa Aerospace and Defence 2008 (AAD 2008) – The largest exhibition
of Air, Sea and Land equipment on the African Continent.
Background to AAD 2008 By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
AAD 2008 was presented at AFB Ysterplaat, Cape Town, South Africa, over the period 17 to 21
September 2008. This was the second of these huge exhibitions to be held at AFB Ysterplaat,
following on from AAD 2006. The air component of the exhibitions started many years ago as the
Aviation Africa exhibition, which was hosted by the Commercial Aviation Association of South Africa.
This was later renamed Aviation Africa International, due to some international participation. A
second organisation, the South African Aerospace, Maritime and Defence related Industries
Association (AMD) hosted the South African Air Force (SAAF) 75th anniversary exhibitions at AFB
Waterkloof, during 1995, which was a huge success, but also incorporating a large military
exhibition.
With the growing request for
further military trade exhibits
and an airshow, a joint venture
between CAASA and AMD was
therefore the obvious way
forward. The last Aviation
Africa International was held
in 1996. In 1998 CAASA and
AMD joined in organising an
exhibition which was then
named Aerospace Africa. The
venue for this exhibition was
AFB Waterkloof and the
amalgamation with AMD
incorporated a greater military
influence.
Hawk & Gripen at DEXSA 1998
The next step was for the biennial DEXSA (Defence Exhibition of South Africa) and Aerospace Africa
to be combined into Africa Aerospace & Defence, jointly hosted and presented by Armscor, AMD and
CAASA. This soon grew to the biggest civilian and military aerospace and defence-related shows to
be held in Africa. The AAD is jointly hosted by Armscor, AMD, CAASA and the Department of Defence
renders support to the exhibition.
Every two years the chairpersonship rotates amongst the three organisations, and AAD 2008 was
chaired by AMD, with Mr Simphiwe Hamilton serving as the show director. In his introduction
message he mentioned the following: “The combination of the general aviation and defence sectors
broadens the scope of what AAD 2008 will offer. Feedback received from exhibitors, confirms that
this duality will again result in a healthy infusion of leading edge technologies arriving at cost
effective solutions to many security-related and general aviation challenges”.
AAD 2008:
Introduction
The members of the media all met at AFB Ysterplaat on the 16th September 2008, to receive their
accreditation passes and a media briefing. Registration was handled expertly and professionally. The
media briefing was presented by Mr Billy Nell, who thereafter took the members on a guided tour of
the various display halls and facilities. Media facilities were situated conveniently close to the
operational control area and a very high level of service was presented by the Media liaison team.
Sufficient IT equipment and refreshments were available throughout the whole period of the
exhibition and airshow. Some arrangements, on occasions, seemed a bit impractical, but after
discussions with the organisers all media members were well accommodated in their various
requests.
The Opening Ceremony - Wednesday 17
September 2008
By Piet van Schalkwyk -
I.M.G.
AAD 2008 was officially opened by Mr Mosiuoa Lekota, the Minister of Defence. He was
introduced to the assembled guests by Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano, the Chief of the SAAF.
In his introduction Lt Gen
Gagiano mentioned that AAD
2008 was bigger than 2006
and that it was by far the
biggest yet of such a type of
show. AAD 2008 housed thirty
exhibiting countries, with
more than 200 exhibitors.
The organisers were
expecting some 17 000 trade
visitors during the three trade
days, including 11 Ministers of
Defence, 3 Deputy Ministers
of Defence, 9 Secretaries for
Defence, 8 Chiefs of Defence
Forces, 24 Chiefs of Armed
Services, 24 Chiefs of Air
Force and 80 Foreign VIP
Defence Delegations.
Delegations from 20 other
African countries were
expected.
The arrival of the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the South
African Air Force
During his opening remarks, the Minister made it very clear that the government had realised the
importance of technology and industries in the development of South Africa and its neighbouring
countries, as the African continent is hugely reliant on air transport for growth, stability and service
delivery. He mentioned that aerospace was a main component of this. He also mentioned that he
hoped that the future would see more African countries as exhibitors and not just as visitors. The
Minister made it clear that a requirement existed for more international alliances for mutual
programmes, especially seen in the light of Peace Support Operations that had to be carried out using
equipment that have stood the test of time.
The Emblem of AAD 2008, unveiled by the Minister of Defence
In line with these
requirements the South
African Government had
launched three Aerospace
Support Initiatives. The first
of these were various research
programmes, managed by the
Council for Scientific and
Industrial Research (CSIR),
the second the new Centurion
Aerospace Village centred on
design, maintenance and
repair, while the third was the
National Centre of Aerospace
Excellence in Johannesburg.
The aim of these programmes
is to drive scarce skills and
they run beyond the military
into the civilian aerospace
sector.
The Flag Bearers retire from the Parade Area
AIR
The Ceremonial Commissioning of the Gripen
Advanced Light Fighter Fleet: The rise of a “powerful
beast” in the South African skies
By Piet van
Schalkwyk -
I.M.G.
In numerical sequence as part of the ceremonial commissioning of the Gripen
From Greek mythology - the Gryphon
is a powerful beast
One of the most significant items on the programme for
Wednesday, 17th September 2008 was the ceremonial
commissioning of the Gripen and the handover of the aircraft
to the South African Air Force. The Griffin, or Gryphon in
English is a mythological creature – half eagle and half lion.
The Gripen was the last of the major weapons acquirement
programmes, undertaken during the late 1990’s to be
handed over to the various arms of the South African
National Defence Force (SANDF). This followed deliveries of
the Valour Class Frigates and the Type 209 Submarines to
the SA Navy and the Augusta 109 Light Utility Helicopters
and Hawk Mk 120 Lead-In Fighter-Trainer aircraft to the
South African Air Force. The four two-seater Gripens that
had already been delivered in South Africa flew over in
formation, after which the leader, Lt Col Charl Coetzee gave
a solo aerobatic display. All four aircraft then landed, taxied
in to the parade area in numerical sequence and did a
combined shut-down in front of the crowd. After the pilots
had disembarked, Lt Col Glen Gibson, the Officer
Commanding, 2 Squadron and Lt Col Musa Mbhokota
escorted the Minister of Defence, the Chief of the SANDF and
the Chief of the SAAF to meet all the partaking pilots in
person.
The first four SAAF Gripens in diamond formation with the solo display aircraft in the lead
These included South Africans Johannes Joubert (Denel Test Pilot) and Col Mike Edwards (SAAF
Projects Officer). After returning to the dais, the Commemorative certificate was signed by the three
dignitaries.
The Minister of Defence, Lt Col Glen Gibson (Officer Commanding, 2 Sqdn) and Maj Musa Mbhokota.
Followed by Chief of the SANDF, Gen Ngwenya and the Chief of the SAAF, Lt Gen Gagiano.
Commissioning Phase Ceremonial Certificate
The Minister of Defence
thereafter addressed the
guests. In his address he
highlighted the fact that the
Defence Force should be a
modern, technologically
advanced force and that the
Gripen is a potent symbol of
that aspiration. He
mentioned that Air Power is
a key component of modern
defence capability and that
fighter aircraft fulfil a key
role in enabling the use of
the air by friendly forces and
in denying free use to an
enemy. The Gripen will be
the icon of South Africa’s air
capability for several
decades to come. The final
formality was the hand-over
of the Ceremonial Gripen
Model by the Minister of
Defence to the Chief of the
SANDF, who in turn, handed
it over to the Chief of the
SAAF.
Handing over of the Ceremonial Gripen Model to the Chief of the
SANDF, who in turn handed it over the Chief of the SAAF.
The Silver Falcons receives a new
identity
By Ettienne Kotze' -
I.M.G.
The Silver Falcons in their new colours
The name “Silver Falcons” originated from two prominent reasons. “Silver Falcons” in English and
“Silwer Valke” in Afrikaans sounded far better than the name “Bumbling Bees” – which was the name
used previously. The other reason being the team used the Impala jet trainer which was painted in
high speed silver. In 42 years the team used four major colour schemes.
The original standard colour
scheme as used on the SAAF
Impala Mk1s were furnished in
all over high speed silver with
only the tail featuring the
three colour bands of the then
National flag of orange, white
and blue. In addition the
individual position numbers
were also carried on the tail.
In 1984 the first change was
introduced. Up until 1984, the
SAAF had adopted the
viewpoint that it would not
The original Silver Falcons in the Republic colour scheme
follow other international
teams by furnishing the
aircraft of the team with a
unique identifying colour
scheme. WO1 “Kip” le Grange
and Col Holmes (team lead and
OC of Langebaanweg at the
time) played around with the
idea of adding some colour.
WO1 Le Grange came up with a few designs while Col Homes convinced the powers that be, the
repainting of the aircraft would be within a limited budget and could be done by the paint shop at
Langebaanweg. The first design had only the orange, white and blue on the nose section of the
Impala Mk1. It proved inspirational and soon the design was altered to extend from the fuselage of
the aircraft to the tail section (thus replacing the traditional three coloured bands) and applied on the
outer side of wingtip tanks. The lower wing surfaces of the fuselage featured a “sun burst effect” in
three colours on both the wing and the horizontal stabiliser. Position numbers were in a solid black
format which later changes to orange with a black offset. This was known as the Republic colour
scheme. The scheme changed in 1994 where the design stayed the same but the colours changed to
that of the SAAF, being light blue, white and dark blue with the position numbers being black. During
1995 the sun burst was added to the upper wing surfaces as well as a thinner dark blue border next
to the light blue to ease formation flying. A final change to the Impala era was to addition of the
National flag to the tail.
A close-up of the new colour scheme
With the birth of Democracy came dramatic changes. The Impala era drew to a close and an all new
trainer aircraft in the form of the Pilatus PC-7 Mk II Astra replaced the Harvard and took over some of
the Impala Mk1 functions. The SAAF did not replace the Impala with a dedicated jet powered aircraft
at that point in time. Sadly it was also the end of an era of unique colour schemes as the earlier
decision the fly the aircraft in their standard colours was re-introduced. Being a trainer, the aircraft
was painted in the international trainer scheme of Post Office red and white. Through the years the
“Silver Falcons” received an un-official nick name as the “Flying Coke Tins”. Although the standard
high precision formation aerobatics prevailed doing justice to their duty as cockpit ambassadors for
the SAAF.
Silver Falcons made use of the PC-7 MkII Astra in the training colour scheme at AAD 2008
There had been plans to introduce another unique colour scheme and a competition was launched a
few years ago where the public could vote for a new colour scheme. Although a winner was
announced the scheme never saw the light of day as it was not approved by the SAAF.
During 2008, the idea was revisited by the
current team (Team 65 under the leadership of
Maj Scott Ternett). The Chief of the Air Force, Lt
Genl C. Gaggiano was in favour of the proposal
and plans to re-brand the “Silver Falcons” were
set in motion yet again. The team was very
much involved with the design and with the help
of modern day CAD, four possible designs were
chosen. This was introduced to the public for the
first time during an Aviators evening at
Ysterplaat in early 2008. During the function a
sponsor came forward. Kuba Miszewski of First
African Signs generously offered to sponsor the
paint to be used during the re-paint, thus
keeping the cost to a minimum for the tax-payer.
The final design was approved and on the 19th of
May 2008 the first, two PC-7 Mk II aircraft
arrived at AFB Ysterplaat. Here, 2ASU (detached)
with Col Daniël Sutherland as project manager
started work in all earnest. But repainting an
aircraft is not just a matter of spraying a new
coat of paint. The first step was to prepare the
current paint. Called “scuffing”, the paint is
roughened with use of sand paper. At the same
time the aircraft was inspected for corrosion and
the control services was removed.
Once done the primer coat was applied and this was followed by scuffing with a lesser grade
sanding material similar to ordinary Scotchgaurd, before the final paint process could get underway.
The design was laid down using a negative decal template. Many a foul word was used during this
process- especially while the under wing surfaces were done due the awkward and restricted
working areas. The control services were painted separately as it required balancing before being
re-fitted. All the emergency stencilling was applied, before the paint received a final light scuffing
followed by the final clear coat. It took twenty six working hours to complete one aircraft with two
being worked on at the same time.
Six aircraft were re-painted which cannot be used for training purposes anymore due to the new
colour scheme. It was the wish of the Chief of the Air Force for the new colour scheme to be kept a
secret and only to be unveiled at the 2008 Africa Aerospace and Defence show. It was a tall order
and the last aircraft was only completed with less than a week to spare.
Serial Numbers of the new colour scheme:
Positon Number Serial
1 2023
2 2018
3 2024
4 2025
5 2027
6 2020
Unveiled at a special ceremony
On the evening of 16
September 2008 during a
lavish cocktail party (and in
true military style), the new
Silver Falcons were unveiled.
The paint shop at AFB
Ysterplaat was transformed
from a work area to a function
area. Behind a black curtain
stood a PC-7 MkII in a newly
painted colour scheme in
waiting. Complete with
smoke, laser lights and
dramatic music the curtain
dropped to reveal a dark blue
PC-7 with a white and silver
falcon on the side, the South
Africa flag on the tail, diagonal
lines on the upper wing
surfaces and a feather-like
effect covering almost the
entire underside of the
New no 3 - Maj Alex MacPhail welcoming Lt Buti Tsebe
aircraft. Maj. Scott Ternett
accepted the logbook of the
aircraft before the Chief of the
Air Force, Lt. Gen. C. Gagiano
addressed the guests. He was
also presented with a print of
the new scheme, still
unframed with the paint “still
wet” as it was printed only a
short while before the
ceremony. It was a proud team
and an even prouder Chief of
the Air Force that took delivery
of the newly painted aircraft.
To commemorate the
occasion, a limited number of
booklets were printed,
describing the process and
showcasing the Silver Falcons
in the new colour scheme over
Cape Town. Although the
Falcons flew over Cape Town
the week prior to AAD 2008,
no-one could really make-out
what they looked like and the
public had to wait until the
opening ceremony of AAD
when they flew the 1st official
display in the new colours.
Book on the new colour scheme
During the same function, the team also said farewell to an outgoing member and
welcomed another. During the display on the Sunday morning as part of the airshow of
AAD 2008, Maj. Alex MacPhail performed his last Silver Falcons display. Lt. Buti Tsebe
was welcomed as the new Number 3. The Silver Falcons flew several displays during AAD
2008– each proving to be as popular as the previous display. Lt. Tsebe flew his first
display on the Sunday afternoon which formed part of the closing down ceremony of AAD
2008. The Silver Falcons now have a new colour scheme with a new team.
Team 67 members (l-r): Capt. D Deetliefs (No 4), Capt. G du Sautoy (No 2), Maj. S
Ternent (No 1), Maj. A MacPhail (No 3) and Maj N Frylink (5)
New no 3 - Lt Buti Tsebe
The future of the UAV in SA certainly looks
rosy
By Hein Burger -
I.M.G.
DENEL Seeker 400
In August 2008, the CSIR published RFP number 004/08/22/2008:
"The following main areas of work should be considered and proposals may be submitted
to address any number of them:
Improving the access to airspace for UAVs through initiatives such as legislative
changes, airworthiness certification, etc.
Improvement to the safety and reliability of UAVs
The reduction of the total cost of operating UAVs
Any other specialised research that would enhance the state of the industry."
(RFP number 004/08/22/2008 has been withdrawn, but is due to be replaced with a new
process achieving the project aims in due course.)
This seems to indicate that
the future of the UAV in South
Africa appears to be, high up,
in the skies above us. And so it
should be. South Africa was
one of the pioneers in the
operational use of UAVs, and
although their application so
far has overwhelmingly been
in the military field, there has
long been a call for them to be
used in paramilitary and
civilian roles. Despite the fact
that South Africa was one of
the first countries to allow
UAVs to fly in controlled
airspace, little use has been
made of these useful little
aircraft in the civilian role.
UAV Tracking Overview
Several years ago, a Denel UAV was used to spot and track abalone (perlemoen)
poachers near Gansbaai along the Cape coast. The Police were alerted and were waiting
for the poachers when they landed. Despite this success, and the other obvious
applications such as border patrol, tracking cash in transit vehicles, traffic control, etc.,
there has thus far been no further use of UAVs for law enforcement.
Fortunately, things seem to be about to change.
ZEISS Leo Turret with filters
removed
The SA Police Service is reportedly in talks with several
UAV manufacturers with the intention of deploying UAVs
for crowd control at the 2010 Soccer World Cup. According
to the Sunday Times of 21 September 2008, ATE’s Kiwit,
Lockheed Martin’s Desert Hawk and the Denel Seeker are
all in contention. (This choice seems a bit uneven as the
Desert Hawk and Seeker are both MALE (Medium Altitude
Long Endurance) UAVs, whereas the Kiwit is a Mini-UAV.
The two types of system cannot really be expected to
compete head to head.) If one system per stadium is
purchased, this will provide the SA Police Service with 10
UAVs that can be applied to general law enforcement once
the World Cup is over. Maybe not enough to seriously
make an impact on the crime rate, but at least it will form a
nucleus to prove the concept. Against this background, it is
not surprising so many exhibitors at AAD 2008 had UAVs
on offer. If one not only looked at the models on display at
AAD 2008, but read the available literature as well, it was
obvious that UAVs are big business. The number of models
in production worldwide is quite staggering.
Unfortunately there were few full size examples on display, and none were
demonstrated, perhaps due to the busy flight schedule at AFB Ysterplaat and the
proximity to Cape Town International. At first glance it appears that the twin – boom
pusher prop layout that has been in service for the last few decades is still very much in
vogue.
CPUT Guardian
There were however, some
interesting and radical new
designs on display, including
models from the CPUT and
CSIR. The Cape Peninsula
University of Technology
(CPUT)’s GUARDIAN (not to be
confused with Bombardier
Aircraft’s VTOL UAV of the
same name) was painted in a
rather fanciful camouflage
scheme and, judging by its size
and model aircraft
powerplant, would be of
limited range. No details on
payload were available.
The CSIR had several concept
craft on display – a sleek,
three pod twin engined
”modular UAV” concept, the
fairly conventional "Indiza", as
well as the blended wing-body
“Sekwa” demonstrator. One of
the few full sized models on
display was Denel’ Seeker 400,
CSIR Twin Engined Modular UAV
which took pride of place
outside one of the hangars.
Seeker 400 is about 40%
larger than its predecessor,
and has a 16 hour endurance
with a 100 kg. payload. The
Seeker was displayed with the
Zeiss Leo-III-HD(MW) turret,
which can accommodate up to
4 High Definition TV cameras
covering a zoom range of up to
166X, from the visible to the
near infra-red spectrum, as
well as thermal imaging.
CSIR Indiza Concept
The French firm of Sagem also had a full size UAV on display – the Sperwer. (Pronounce
the name in Afrikaans – it is named after the Dutch word for Sparrowhawk). The Sperwer
has a large, mid - mounted delta wing and pusher propeller, and reportedly has a range
of 150km. and a 5 hour endurance. It is in service in France, the Netherlands, Sweden,
Greece and Canada.
SAGEM Spewer Mk II
The E-Swift Eye “Look over
the Hill” battlefield UAV, could
easily be mistaken for a scale
model as the wingspan is only
1.5m. It is made by the British
firm of Cyberflight and easily
wins the prize for “Cutest on
Show”. This little battery
powered tailless delta has a
range of 9 km and an
endurance of 60 minutes. This
craft is controlled from a
ruggedized PC, and is fully
autonomous. A maximum of
10 E- Swift Eyes can be
controlled from a single PC,
although four is a more
practical number. Multiple
craft can also be configured to
“swarm” in order to cover a
larger area, and they can be
assigned to follow a ground
target. The E-Swift Eye is
transportable in 2 man –
packs. The construction is of
foam and it breaks up into 4
compact pieces for easy
transportation. The battery can
be recharged in 60 minutes.
Cyberflight E-Swift Eye
A 1:12 scale model of the EADS Barracuda fully autonomous UAV/UCAV technology
demonstrator was also on show. This craft has a predatory look that fully justifies its name.
The full – scale model has a wingspan of 7.22 m and a top speed of around mach 0.85.
(Compare this span to that of the Gripen, which has a wingspan of 8.44 m).
It is of a stealth design and
constructed mainly of carbon
EADS Baracuda UAV Demonstrator
fibre. The powerplant is a Pratt
& Whitney JT15D turbofan
engine, similar to that used on
a Cessna Citation. The level of
autonomy is such that
everything from engine start
to landing is controlled
automatically. The first
prototype was destroyed
during a test flight, but there
are reports of additional
prototypes being constructed.
Apart from the surveillance
UAVs, there were also several
unmanned target drones
exhibited, such as the EADS
DO-DT 45. This is a High Speed
Sea Skimming “Direct Kill”
target drone. It is powered by
twin turbojets which ensure a
constant infrared signature,
and can carry a variety of
payloads. Either a “hot nose”
or IR tracking flares can
provide the IR target, and an
optional radar amplifier
provides radar tracking.
EADS DO-DT 45
When fitted with a radar altimeter, it can cruise at altitude as low as 18 ft. The twin
turbojets ensure a constant infrared signature. Recovery after being shot down is by 2-
stage parachute. Electronics Systems Laboratory (ESL) of the University of Stellenbosch
showcased some of the very interesting research that they are doing in the fields of both
autonomous unmanned airship technology and autonomous unmanned underwater
vehicles. They are also looking at a co-axial, counter rotating ducted fan aircraft to be
used as a naval target drone, and in conjunction with Rotorway, busy developing full
scale helicopter automation.
New Pumas for Old? By Hein Burger - I.M.G.
ZU-PUM Technology demonstrator from Thunder City
Thunder City proudly displayed their refurbished Puma, ZU-PUM at AAD 2008. This
aircraft has just received an upgrade to the avionics – an all-glass Chelton suite. At the
official launch of the upgrade at AAD 2008, Thunder City’s CEO Emilio Titus revealed that
Thunder City, in association with Cobham South Africa, are the first company globally to
successfully upgrade the Puma SA330 to a true 21st century avionics level.
Full glass cockpit for the trusty Puma
The Chelton suite consists of:
Primary Flight Displays with advanced HUD symbology
Multifunctional Flight Displays
Attitude and Direction Heading Reference Systems
Air Data Computer
GPS Wide Augmentation System
A Synchro-converter which integrates the Cheltham digital avionics with the
Puma’s analogue autopilot
Thunder City plan to use ZU-
PUM as a demonstrator to sell
the Chelton upgrade to other
operators of the Aerospatiale
Puma. The Puma, as one of
the world’s most iconic and
hard working helicopters, is
granted a new lease of life
thanks to the technical
wizards at Thunder City in
Cape Town. This upgrade is
seen as a cost effective way to
prolong the life of the Puma,
and is a viable alternative to
replacing the aircraft with
newer models. Mr. Titus
revealed that Thunder City
had 3 additional Puma
airframes that would be
upgraded to the same
standard as ZU-PUM.
Although there are no plans for Thunder City to source additional airframes, the
Puma modernization programme aims to attract Puma operators worldwide,
including from Europe and Asia. There has been strong interest from the SAAF to
make use of their services, and Kenya, the UAE and the DRC are other possible
clients. (It is known that there are 15 Pumas in the DRC that have been stored in
the open for 7 years, which would put them in the roughly the same condition as
the airframes sourced from the SAAF.)
The upgrade could readily be
adapted to other aircraft from
the same stable, such as the
Super Puma and Oryx.
Eurocopter were initially
sceptical about Thunder City’s
ability to replace the Puma’s
old gyros with the Cheltham
digital avionics, but have since
given the project their
blessing. Eurocopter have also
been in discussions with TC to
upgrade Pumas. ZU-PUM has
had much more than just an
avionics upgrade. The
comprehensive rebuild
performed by Thunder City
includes the non-destructive
testing of structural
components, corrosion
prevention and the
identification of critical
calendar-based components
for replacement.
According to Chief Engineer, Danie Swart, the wiring looms were removed and
completely remade. The opportunity was also taken to trace and label all the
wiring, and to draw up wiring diagrams for the aircraft. It is proposed that the
modernization programme will eventually be extended to include updated engine
management systems, which may in future be superseded by an engine
replacement scheme.
Civilian Aircraft at AAD 2008 By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
AAD 2008 also had a large number of civilian aircraft on display. The market for
business and corporate travel in South Africa has steadily grown the last few year
and most of the “usual big names” in this sector of the Aerospace Industry had
products on display.
ZS-PVX Boeing 727-200X
The biggest of the aircraft on
display was the Boeing 727-
200X, ZS-PVX, displayed by the
Paramount Logistics Group.
This aircraft surely has all the
fittings that any business
traveller could require and
some of this includes a double
state room with queen size
bed, a two-place divan and
entertainment system. The en-
suite bathroom comprises a
shower, a basin, a toilet and a
bidet.
It is also equipped with a four-place executive lounge/private office with
entertainment system, a fourteen-place executive salon with entertainment
system, an eighteen place aft business class seating area and a crew rest area,
comprising of a three-place divan and four seats, with its own restroom and
galley. The aircraft previously belonged to the Nigerian Government and DENEL
repainted it in the present colour scheme. The French company Dassault Aviation,
well known in South African circles for its family of Mirage fighters that were
operated by the SAAF had the latest in their Falcon series of business jets on
display. The Falcon 7X has a very good performance, ideally suited to the hot and
high conditions so often experienced in South Africa. Dassault claims that the
Falcon 7X will out-perform competitive jets in challenging situations such as
takeoffs from hot, high-altitude airports with impossibly short runways.
Captured in an artistic moment the beatiful Dassault Falcon 7X
Ultra high tech cockpit
The leading jet in the fleet
has already passed the 1000
flying hours mark. The initial
announcement of the concept
of this aircraft was made at
the Paris Air Show in June
2001, where it was labelled
the FNX. The name “Falcon”
maintains continuity with the
two previous generations of
business jets, inaugurated
with the Falcon 20 in 1963.
The “7” in the name was
selected for its magical
qualities and for its ability to
define the Dassault business
jet vision for the future, while
the “X” completes the story by
its progressive and high
technology connotation.
Cessna 400
Cessna had a number of aircraft on display, ranging from the small Cessna 400 to the
Cessna Sovereign business jet. The Cessna 400 is a composite aircraft, similar to the
previous Cirrus aircraft, built by the Columbia Aircraft Company, before its acquisition by
Cessna. The Cessna 400 has a Garmin G1000 glass cockpit with two side mounted
control sticks. The two large displays fill the whole panel, with the standby instruments
placed vertically to the left thereof. The Cessna 400 is fitted with a Garmin GFC 700 fully
integrated flight control system and has a maximum calibrated airspeed of 235 knots
with a service ceiling of 25000 ft.
The Cessna 208B Grand
Caravan, or “Grandvan” as it is
often called, has already
established a reputation as a
very good working aircraft in
the charter market in Southern
Africa. The aircraft is four feet
longer than the standard
Caravan models as used by the
SAAF and is fitted with a more
powerful PT6A-114A engine.
The aircraft on display also had
the below fuselage cargo pod
fitted, which has just about
become a standard fitting on
any Caravan operating in
South Africa. The aircraft can
typically operate with two
crew members and twelve
passengers. The Caravan is
not pressurised, so operates at
a maximum altitude of
12,000ft when carrying
passengers.
N208GH C208B Grand Caravan
The Cessna Citation CJ2+ is a
five feet stretch extension of
the Cessna Citation CJ1 first
delivered in the year 2000. The
newer CJ2+ has updated
avionics, increased
performance, and FADEC
controls. The CJ2+ was first
delivered in April 2006 and has
a crew of two with space for
seven passengers. These jets
are powered by two Williams
International FJ-44-3A
turbofans and are certified to
fly at 45000 feet. The CJ2+
features an external baggage
storage facility and typically
cruises at 418 knots and has a
range of 1,613 nautical miles.
N407CJ Cessna 525A Citation CJ2+
The Cessna Citation Sovereign
is a mid-size business jet
developed by Cessna. It is
currently the second largest
member of the Citation
product line, with only the
Citation X being larger. The
Sovereign is powered by two
Pratt & Whitney Canada
PW306C turbofan engines with
FADEC controls and has the
capacity for between eight and
twelve passengers. The
aircraft has a maximum speed
of 458 knots, with a service
ceiling of 47000 ft and a
typical range of 2800 nm.
During March 2008, the South
African Police Services also
replaced their old VIP Beech
Jet 400 with a Cessna
Sovereign, ZS-SAP.
The Bombardier Global Express is an ultra long range corporate and VIP high speed jet
aircraft produced by Bombardier Aerospace. The Global Express can fly intercontinental
ranges without refuelling. The Global Express XRS is an improved version of the original
aircraft, offering higher cruise speed, increased range, improved cabin layout and
lighting. The range increase is achieved by addition of a 674 kg fuel tank at the wing
root. The Global Express XRS entered service in early 2006, has a typical cruising speed
of 488 knots and a service ceiling of 51000ft. The aircraft has a typical range of 6325
nm. The aircraft also has a 'zero flaps' take-off ability, which allows access to more 'hot
and high' airports. The first flight of the aircraft took place in January 2005 and it entered
service in December 2005. The aircraft can carry twelve passengers.
The Socata TBM 850 is a six
seat turbo-propeller aircraft.
Socata is represented in South
Africa by Naturelink. The
ZS-BCI TBM-850
power plant of the TBM 850 is
a Pratt & Whitney Canada
PT6A-66D. It delivers 1 825
eshp flat-rated to 850 shp for
the TBM 850. Its single crystal
compressor turbine blades
enable higher operating
temperatures and, coupled
with a new first stage
compressor design, gives the
TBM 850 its enhanced high-
altitude performance.
ExecuJet, one of the prime business jet operating companies in South Africa, had ZS-
PTL, a Learjet 45 on display at AAD 2008. The Learjet 45 is equipped with advanced
flight software and architecture, such as an Engine Instrument and Crew Advisory
System (EICAS) and on-board maintenance diagnostics, to minimise pilot and
maintenance workloads. The fuselage is manufactured at the Bombardier Aerospace
facilities in Belfast. De Havilland of Canada is responsible for the manufacture of the
wings. Bombardier Aerospace Learjet in Wichita, Kansas, is responsible for final
assembly, fitting, test and flight certification. The aircraft is equipped with a Honeywell
Primus 1000 electronic flight and information system with a Primus 1000 digital
autopilot and flight director. The passenger cabin seats up to nine passengers in double-
club seating. The aircraft has the ability to climb to the initial cruise altitude in 23
minutes and six seconds. The long-range cruise speed is 778km/h and the maximum
operating altitude is 51,000ft.
ZS-PTL Learjet 45
ZS-DDM Raytheon 390 Premier I
The Beechcraft Premier I is
designed to compete with the
Cessna Citation series of
business jets. The Premier I is
constructed with a high-
strength composite, carbon
fibre/epoxy honeycomb
fuselage. The Premier I can be
certified as light aircraft for
operation by a single pilot. The
aircraft is equipped with two
Williams International FJ44-2A
engines. The maximum
cruising speed is 461kt, while
the maximum certificated
operating altitude is 41,000 ft.
The main cabin seats six
passengers in the standard
configuration, with four seats
in a club arrangement and two
seats behind them, while the
baggage compartments are in
the nose and tail.
ZS-SDU BAe HS-125-700A
South Africa is no newcomer
to Hawker Siddeley products
and any aviation enthusiast
will still well remember the
sad day when three SAAF Hs-
125 Mercurius VIP transport
jets collided into Table
Mountain, while practising for
a fly past. It was therefore
appropriate to see two Hawker
products at Ysterplaat, the
SAAF base nestling at the foot
of Table Mountain. ZS-SDU, a
BAe HS-125-700A and N951XP
a Hawker 900XP, were both
observed at AAD 2008. The
Hawker 700 was a Series 600
version powered by TFE731
turbofan engines introduced
by the mid-1970s. The more
fuel efficient turbofans
doubled the Hawker 700's
range compared to its
predecessor. In 1983, British
Aerospace, which had merged
with Hawker Siddeley
Corporation, introduced the
Hawker Series 800.
In 1993, Raytheon Company purchased British Aerospace Corporate Jets. In 1994,
Raytheon Corporate Jets merged with Beech Aircraft and the resulting company was
named Raytheon Aircraft Company (RAC). In March 2007, Raytheon completed the sale of
RAC to Hawker Beechcraft Inc. In 1995, RAC introduced an enhanced Hawker 800 version
called the Hawker 800XP.
The Hawker 900XP is an
Hawker 900XP N951XP
improved and re-engined
version of the Hawker 800.
Featuring enhanced winglets
and new Honeywell TFE731-50R
engines, the Hawker 900XP
offers increased hot/high-
altitude takeoff, climb and cruise
performance as well as a 6.9
percent range increase over the
Hawker 850XP. The aircraft has
the ability to climb direct to the
maximum cruising altitude of
41,000ft at maximum take-off
weight. Other features include
standard thrust reversers and an
in-flight operable APU.
The GA8 Airvan, ZS-PVM,
was exhibited by Airvan
Africa. This company is the
exclusive supplier of Airvan
in Africa and is situated in
Port Alfred in the Eastern
Cape. The Airvan is an eight
seat aircraft designed for
simple maintenance and
operations from short strips
in unimproved conditions.
The aircraft is fully corrosion
proof for the harsh
environment that it is
designed to operate in. The
Airvan is powered by an IO
540 Lycoming engine and all
controls are mechanical.
The instrument fit includes a
large GPS moving map for
easy navigation.
ZS-PMV GA8 Airvan
Embraer Phenom
300
By Ettienne Kotze' - I.M.G.
Phenom 300 in mock up form
Embraer says it “Full-
fills the promise of
private flight” – that is
the new Phenom 300
Light Jet.
Embraer took a
different approach to
AAD this year. Where,
two years ago they
made quite an impact
with their AEW&C-45,
during 2008 they
showcased the brand
new Phenom 300 to
Africa. Although only
in full size mock-up
form, it achieved the
feeling of real luxury
flying.
First announced to the
world in May 2005, the
Phenom 300 took to
the skies for the 1st
time at 15h03 on the
29th April 2008. Being
the 1st “clean sheet”
light jet design in a
generation the turn
around time achieved
is remarkable. The 300
boasts an interior
designed by BMW
Group, DesignWorks of
the USA. It is set apart
from its rivals by
having the largest
“airstair” door, cabin
and windows in its
class. Comfort levels
are superb and one can
see why this luxury jet
is judged the best in
the light jet category.
Hopefully we’ll see a
real Phenom 300 at
AAD 2010.
EUROCOPTER By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
EC 130
Eurocopter is one of five
divisions of EADS. During
2007 Eurocopter was again
the main helicopter
manufacturer in civil and
parapublic markets. The EC-
135 is the no 1 Emergency
Services helicopter in the
world and 802 new helicopters
were ordered during the year.
The value of sales has more
than doubled since 2003. The
spread between
ZS-RBS, AS350 B3 operated by Silver Cross
civil/parapublic and military
helicopter sales is almost
equal, although the military
side is expected to grow due
to more NH-90 helicopter
deliveries and orders in
future. Eurocopter has 2694
customers, operating more
than 10 161 helicopters in 142
countries, with 80% of the
operators having less than
four helicopters. During 2007
there were around 2200
turbine helicopters in the
African market, with
Eurocopter representing ± 36
% of the total fleet with
around 800 helicopters. Of
these helicopters, 76 % were
based in 8 countries, with the
main operators being in South
Africa, Angola, Nigeria, Egypt
and Maghreb. The company
has maintenance agreements
with South Africa (Denel),
Kenya and Algeria in addition
to Eurocopter SA Ltd (ESAL).
ESAL (formed from Lansav
Helicopters in 1994) is the
Eurocopter distributor for
South Africa, since 1981.
Their 2007 financial figures
also showed a threefold
increase since 2005. The
activities include sales and
marketing of the Eurocopter
range, re-assembly and
ZS-RZA, EC-130 B4 operated by Western Cape Metro Emergency Services
The venerable BK 117
Interior configuration for the Emergency Medical Response role
customization, training, spares
provision and maintenance
support. Recent successes
included further sales to Silver
Cross for two additional AS350
B3 (no’s 5 and 6) and the
delivery of no 4, the signing of
a multi-year contract with the
SAR-EMS operator Red Cross
for three EC130 B4’s and the
first AS350 B to B2 status
conversion done in ESAL, for
Alpine Aviation. Other
successes were the signing of
a maintenance contract with
the SAPS for the AS350 B3, Bo
105 and BK-117 fleets and the
delivery of the first law
enforcement AS350 B3s for
the Botswana and Namibian
Police Forces. Both of these
forces have established air
wings, based on perceived
requirements for the 2010
World Soccer Cup actions.
ESAL is at present re-
furbishing their Cape Town
facilities and have also
detached two full time
AME/Technicians to support
helicopters based at Cape
Town, George and Port
Elizabeth. In Johannesburg
they are building new
premises, which will be
occupied during 2009, to triple
the working surfaces. An
The venerable BK 117
approved Service Centre has
also been established in Kenya
during 2008.
BOEING Integrated Defence Systems
By Piet van Schalkwyk -
I.M.G.
Boeing IDS was formed in 2002, integrating Boeing’s defence, space, intelligence and
communications capabilities. IDS has developed and successfully implemented
Industrial Programmes in over 40 countries. It has identified certain defence needs in
Africa, including dealing with civil wars, counter-insurgency operations, illegal
immigration, refugee protection and monitoring movement missions. To counter some of
these the requirements for airborne lift, border security, information gathering, coastal
defence and data integration is most relevant. Boeing IDS presented the C-17 and
Chinook as a perfect airlift team. At present 177 C-17’s have been delivered as well as a
total of 1179 Chinooks. The ability of the C-17 to carry large payloads over strategic
distances is a big factor in the need for strategic airlift to deliver immense quantities of
supplies quickly and as close as possible to those in need. The supplies then need to be
transported to remote areas with little or no infrastructure and the Chinooks have proven
invaluable because the tandem rotor configuration provides large useful loads of food,
water and medical supplies in hot and high environments. During the 2004 Tsunami
Humanitarian Aid effort, Chinooks delivered more than 24 500 000 pounds of supplies, in
a total of 4876 flying hours. IDS also presented some information on three Boeing 737
derivative programmes, namely the 737 AEW & C Programme, the C-40 Programme and
the P-8 Programme.
The C-40 is a special-mission
aircraft derived from the
Boeing 737 Business Jet. The
aircraft can be configured to
provide VIP transport, intra-
theatre passenger and cargo
capability and economically
airlift capability. In the
various configurations the
aircraft can carry 121
passengers or 8 pallets or a
combination load of 3 pallets
and 70 passengers. The P-8A
Poseidon is viewed as a
replacement for the P-3 Orion
and is the US Navy’s newest
maritime patrol aircraft. It is
based on the Boeing 737-800.
The Boeing P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Agusta-Westland By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
Two Super Lynx Mk 64 helicopters from the SAAF
Agusta-Westland is the supplier of the Super Lynx Mk 64 helicopters to the SAAF. The
four helicopters on order have all been delivered. They were officially handed over to the
SAAF during a ceremony at the Simonstown Naval Base on 15 February 2008, when all
four helicopters were displayed, with three landing on Valour class frigates and the
fourth being displayed on the SAS Drakensberg. See link .
Agusta-Westland Super Lynx Mk 64, 193, in the company of
Westland Wasp, 93
Although the SAAF will be
accountable for the
helicopters, their operations
will be totally integrated into
that of the ships on which
they will operate. During AAD
2008, two helicopters, namely
191 and 194 gave a very good
formation display, while 192
was available as a reserve
aircraft. Lynx 193 was on
display to the public and in a
very good public relations
effort, it was displayed in
company with the SAAF
Museum’s Westland Wasp, 93,
the helicopter type that
served in the same role that
the Lynx are now being
operated in.
Two A109s from the SAAF
Agusta-Westland also supplied the Agusta 109 LUH helicopters to the SAAF, with 24 of
these helicopters on order to replace the Alouette III fleet. The helicopters are already in
service with all the helicopter squadrons that operate transport helicopters and are
supported by the final few BK-117 helicopters, still being operated by 15 Squadron C-
Flight from Port Elizabeth. The helicopter on display, 4021 carried the markings of 15
Squadron, Durban. It was equipped with floatation gear and a hoist, a clear indication
that the helicopter can also be used for maritime rescue sorties, in addition to the land
rescue and command and control roles that it has mainly been displayed in at the various
airshows around the country.
In addition to the military
helicopters, Agusta –Westland
also had some civilian
helicopters on display. These
were an Agusta Grand, ZS-
HMV, an AW-119 Ke Koala, ZS-
HRV and the AW-139, ZS-EOS
in its eye-catching paint
scheme. ZS-HMV is a brand
new helicopter, only being
completed on 19 March 2008.
The seats in the helicopter are
built up quite close to the
ceiling, thus almost closing the
VIP passenger compartment
off from the flight deck. The
Agusta-Westland AW119 Koala
is an eight-seat utility
helicopter powered by a single
engine and is intended to
appeal to operators for whom
the lower running costs of a
single-engine aircraft
outweigh the redundancy of a
twin.
Agusta Grand, ZS-HMV
The design was derived from the Agusta 109, but with only a single engine and with
fixed skids replacing the retractable wheeled landing gear. A key selling point is its wide-
body fuselage, seating passengers three-abreast in the cabin, or allowing for two litters
and medical attendants to be carried in the medical evacuation role, whereas most
similar-sized helicopters can only carry one. The Koala on display at AAD 2008, had a
Bambi-bucket attached to the lower fuselage lifting point.
Super Hind Mk III By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
Super Hind Mk III
ATE again had their upgraded Super Mi-24 Mk 3 on display. The helicopter was
displayed at AAD 2006, fitted with new composite rotor blades. New at AAD 2008 were
the sand filters fitted to the front of the engines. It has previously been acknowledged
that some of the modifications to this helicopter have been applied to the fleet of a
North-African customer and one wonders whether these filters will also form part of this
upgrade programme sometime in the future.
SEA
HMS Liverpool By Charles Hugo - I.M.G.
HMS Liverpool
One of the advantages of staging AAD in Cape Town is the ability to have a full blown
naval component show cased to the public. The 2008 event saw a Royal Navy type 42
destroyer, HMS Liverpool pay a visit to Cape Town during the show period. This ship as
well as two SA Navy vessels, a frigate and a submarine were on hand for the public to
visit during the AAD public days.
The I.M.G. were fortunate to
be able to have an in-depth
guided tour of the ship and
after a background
presentation by the captain of
HMS Liverpool, Commodore
Craig it was on to a walk
around through the vessel.
HMS Liverpool is a cold war
warrior in such that she was
primarily designed as an anti
aircraft defence system. Two
of her sister ships were sunk
during the Falkland campaign
during the 1980’s defending
the various naval vessels from
air strikes.
Lynx - Note GPMG
HMS Liverpool’s duties
include the traditional
showing the flag where she
was on station off the
Falkland Islands before her
deployment to Cape Town in
support of the UK DTI
exhibition at AAD 2008. Her
normal naval duties would
also include anti aircraft
defence with her twin Sea
Dart missiles and her 4.5” gun
will supply suitable battery
fire in support of ground
forces on land as well as
having the capability to
engage other vessels at sea.
Her Sea Lynx Mk3 is used in
anti submarine and anti-ship
missions as well as
transporting and supporting
Royal Marines as required.
The helicopter also fulfils a
valuable search and rescue
function.
Due to the changing face of
the modern era of conflict the
duties of the vessel have
changed substantially. These
additional duties that the ship
performs in the modern era
are assisting in identifying
drug and other illicit
smugglers routes and passing
the information to the
relevant local authorities to
act upon. This is even
reflected in the fitting of a
pintle mounted GPMG on the
Lynx Mk3 that the ship is
equipped with. There are also
more peaceful tasks that the
vessel can assist with that are
definitely not warlike. HMS
Liverpool has recently
participated in humanitarian
aid relief in Montserrat and
East Timor. Furthermore the
ship can assist in supporting
local authorities with an
effective command and
control post in the event of
natural or other disasters.
South African modellers
should note that the Lynx Mk3
as carried by HMS Liverpool is
an earlier variant to the
SAN/SAAF Super Lynx and
many details vary between
the two versions.
During the walk around where various aspects of life at sea was highlighted by the
various members of the crew who were very proud of their ship and explained the
various workings and maintenance of the vessel. The fire and damage control
department was extremely interesting with various aspects of both fire fighting as well
as damage control being explained as part of the guided tour. It is very interesting that
the same pump system used to pump water for fire fighting purposes is used for the
evacuation of water in the event of the ship suffering a hole.
The type 42 destroyers are due for replacement with the more modern type 45 Air
Defence Destroyers.
New generation maritime
missiles
By Piet van Schalkwyk -
I.M.G.
Umkonto Missile
The Umkhonto (Zulu for
“Spear”), IR missile is a short
range air defence missile,
manufactured by Denel. The
missile is a vertically-
launched, high-velocity,
infrared homing missile
designed for providing all-
round defence against
simultaneous air attacks from
The Umkhonto-IR missile deployed on the SA Navy Valour class
multiple combat aircraft and
missiles. The target is acquired
and tracked by a 3-D target
acquisition radar. The missile
is launched and flies to a lock-
on point, using an on-board
inertial navigation subsystem.
frigates
The IR seeker locks on and the missile then intercepts the target under seeker control.
The surface radar track manoeuvring targets and the target's course is continuously
updated to the missile during missile flight, via a tele-command link. Denel has
announced upgrades studies of the missile, which is in service with the South African and
Finnish Navies and is on order for the Swedish Navy and the SA Army. The company also
plans to fit a radar seeker to Umkhonto to give the system the ability to shoot down
aircraft and missiles in all weather conditions under the name AWSAM or All-Weather
Surface-to-Air Missile. The missile is being marketed to the Swedish Navy and to the SA
Army. The proposal to the Army is based around a system that can be mounted on a
truck. The system will be a container type of system that will act as missile launcher and
as missile container.
IDAS & Exocet
Another interesting weapon
development is the firing of
missiles from submarines
torpedo tubes. Although this
concept in the form of the SM-
39 Exocet missile is already
more than 20 years old, a new
version of this type of weapon
is lately being marketed, with
a significant difference to the
SM-39. Both these types of
weapons were observed at
AAD 2008, namely the Diehl
“Interactive Defence and
Attack system for Submarines”
(IDAS) Submarine launched
IDAS with counter air capability
Guided Missile and the MBDA
Missile Systems Exocet SM-39
Submarine Launched Anti-
shipping Missile. The first
submerged launch of the IDAS
missile was on 29 May 2008.
This is a fibre-optically-guided
missile, with which a
submerged submarine can
successfully engage enemy
antisubmarine warfare
helicopters, small surface
vessels and land targets near
the coast. The IDAS system is
the world's first missile which
gives submarines the
capability to engage air
threats, and the first tube-
launched missile that does not
emerge in a capsule, but is
fired directly from the torpedo
tubes. The IDAS missile is
about the same size as the
Diehl IRIS-T missile.
The latest variant of the Exocet
The MBDA SM-39 is the much older system and has seen operational use already. The
SM-39 Exocet is a short-range, solid propellant, single warhead, submarine-launched
cruise missile developed and manufactured by France. The SM-39 is stored in a launch
container along with propulsion and guidance units. The entire module is fired from
standard torpedo 533 mm launch tubes. After breaking the surface, the SM-39 separates
from the module at a low altitude of about 30 m. The target information is downloaded
to the missile before launching. Midcourse guidance is by an inertial navigation system
and a radio altimeter, while terminal guidance is provided by active radar. The SM-39 is
reported to have a maximum range of 50 km. The missile was operational from 1985
onwards and was upgraded in the early 1990s. The upgraded missile has the ability to fly
at a lower altitude of 2 to 3 m above the surface and is known as the MM40.
LAND:
Latest variants of indigenous
SANDF equipment
By Piet van
Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
Although the SA Army did not
receive any major new
equipment as part of the arms
deals that were placed during
the late 1990’s, the arm of
service have seen some
projects completed and some
equipment upgrades being
undertaken. One of the major
projects is Project Hoefyster,
the replacement for the Ratel
with the Patria. A number of
prototype vehicles were
studied during this project and
some were again displayed at
AAD 2008.
Badger replacement for the Ratel
The highly respected G6
The Artillery Corps had the G5 and G6-52 155 mm artillery equipment on display. These
two platforms are the mainstay of the Corps and the ability of the “Gunners” and the
pride in their equipment, were again publicly demonstrated, during the Artillery Open
Day, held at Potchefstroom in August 2008. See link . The original G6-45 was designed
around the basic gun of the G-5 and the chassis was mine-protected. The G6 has also
been exported to Malaysia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. The G6-52 system has
an increased firing range, an increased rate of fire to 8 rounds per minute with all
compatible charges, superior mobility and a reduced manpower requirement compared to
the previous variant.
Also on display from the
Corps, was the Bateleur 6x6
Multiple Rocket Launcher
System (MRLS). The system is
fitted on a SAMIL 100 vehicle
and fires 40 x 127 mm rocket
rounds, either singularly or in
Bateleur MLRS
ripples of 20 rounds. The
entire set of 40 rockets can be
fired within 46 seconds. The
truck is fitted with an
armoured cabin for the 5
member crew.
BAE Systems Land Systems OMC again displayed their iKlwa, which is the Zulu word for
the short stabbing spear, made so famous by the warriors of the Zulu nation. The vehicle
is basically a Ratel with an upgraded hull and drive train. The engine is moved from the
rear to the front and larger tyres are fitted. The rear of the hull has been cut down at an
angle and a drop down ramp has been installed.
The iKlwa can carry 15 fully
equipped troops. Troops enter
and leave the vehicle via the
rear ramp, the roof hatches or
the door in the side of the hull.
The vehicle can alternatively
carry supplies in place of the
troops and can be changed
from one configuration to
another in less than an hour
using an overhead crane and a
few simple tools. The MK 2
was on display at AAD 2008,
with the latest proposed
variant, the iKlwa Mk 3, which
features the driver’s
compartment sunk into the
hull. The rear of the hull is also
trimmed back.
iKlwa Mk 2, showing the close resemblance to the Ratel
The CVED, as a variant of the Rooikat was first displayed at AAD 2006 and featured again
at AAD 2008. This vehicle is a Conventional Vehicle Electric Drive technology
demonstrator. Although the Rooikat is a very good armoured car, it is understood that the
SA Army has highlighted a need for a smaller and lighter vehicle that could be easily
airlifted into areas where peace-support operations are being undertaken.
CVED variant of the Rooikat Armoured Car
The role of such a vehicle
would be to engage the
“technicals” (commercial pick-
ups armed with large calibre
machine guns) operated by the
multitude of warring factions
in Africa. The standard
Rooikat armoured car can be
equipped with either the
76mm or 105mm gun. The 76
mm gun variant was displayed
at AAD 2008. The Rooikat was
designed as a mobile
reconnaissance platform, with
a good hitting capability for
raiding operations.
The Olifant Mk 2 Main Battle Tank (MBT)
In addition to the Rooikat, the
Armoured Corps also had the
Olifant Mk 2 on display at AAD
2008. The Olifant Mk 2 is
basically the same chassis as
the Mk 1B, but with a
completely new designed
turret. This turret can be
armed with the 105 mm rifled
gun or a 120 mm smoothbore
gun. It also features stabilized
sights for day and night
operation with integral laser
range finder. The tank has
composite armour installed in
the turret and glacis. Ready
rounds are located in the
turret basket, allowing a rate
of fire of 10 rounds per minute.
The SA Army also publicly displayed a radar system,
which is very seldom seen outside of the close ranks
of the unit that operates it. This is the locally
designed and manufactured ESR 220 Kameelperd
System. The Kameelperd mobile 2-D radar system
has been developed to meet a South African Army
requirement for a mobile, air defence, battery fire-
control post. The system is designed to provide early
warning to mechanized troops in the battlefield. The
radar is a highly mobile, rapidly deployable system
that is capable of detecting low-level air threats from
fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters so that fire
control and other measures can be activated in the
shortest possible time. The system is operated by a
crew of 5, has a deployment time of less than 2
minutes and a detection range of 65 km.
The SA Army has taken the decision to phase out the
81 mm mortar system. This will be replaced by a 60
mm mortar lengthened tube, giving the same type of
range as previously obtained by the 81 mm mortar
tube but with a better hitting capability due to the
improved round.
The ESR 220 Kameelperd Radar System
The main advantage of this system is the fact that the logistic load is reduced, as only
one type of ammunition now needs to be carried, for the long and short barrel 60 mm
mortars and the infantry patrol 60 mm mortar. The system should be in commission
during 2009 under Project Acrobat with around 102 systems on order. Also displayed at
AAD 2008 was the M10 60mm breech loading long-range mortar (BLLRM) that will be
carried by mortar-variant Badgers. The new M10 BLLRM utilises the ballistic system of
the proven DLS M6 long-range mortar. The 120 mm mortar will remain in use as before
as a part of the Artillery.
New Equipment Requirements By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
When observing the news from around the world, and looking at the role of defence and
other security forces in Peace Support and Peace Enforcement Operations, it has become
clear that the application in the old traditional primary role of defence forces, namely
that of safe-guarding countries’ borders and territorial integrity has changed quite a bit
in the last few years. This is also enhanced by such secondary operations as rendering
assistance during natural disasters, the so-called asymmetric warfare against terrorists,
etc. Looking at the percentage use of defence forces in these various secondary roles,
the use and need for different equipment, compared to the previous more conventional
equipment has become apparent.
Some of the modern threats currently posed against defence force and police/security
force personnel, travelling in various operational areas, are that of improvised explosive
devices and various other forms of homemade bombs, aimed at the vehicles they travel
in. These are especially found in places like Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan and India, but
have also been observed in other areas. This has lead to a requirement for these forces
to travel in armoured and sometimes even mine protected vehicles, in place of the
traditional soft skin vehicles that were often employed, especially by the police type of
forces. Countries are currently investing in these types of vehicles and some of these
sales and new vehicles were made public at AAD 2008.
The RG12 Mk4 Armoured Personnel Carrier
An example of such a sale was
the announcement by BAE
Systems that they had secured
a contract for an additional ten
RG12 Mk4 Armoured Personnel
Carriers from the Dubai Police,
which already has six RG12
vehicles in service. The
General Manager, Land
Systems OMC, announced that
there are currently more than
830 vehicles in service with
various customers around the
world, including the South
African Police Service. The Mk4
vehicle is the latest version of
the RG12 and features a new
engine with more horsepower
and torque, and revised axles
with disc brakes on all wheels
for improved braking
performance.
A digital electrical system is designed to improve the maintainability of the RG12
through the use of a plug-in diagnostic computer. The 4x4 RG12 was originally
developed as an internal security and public order vehicle, and has proven to be highly
effective in a number of other applications such as command vehicle and as an armoured
personnel carrier.
The RG31 Mk 6E Vehicle
It carries a driver, commander and
between eight and ten personnel. The
welded all-steel armoured hull gives
improved protection against small arms
fire, firebombs and hand grenades.
Other Land Systems OMC products
include main battle tanks, heavy wheeled
armoured vehicles, police and security
vehicles, as well as mine protected
vehicles such as the RG31, which is part
of the US Marine Corps Mine Resistant
Ambush Protected (MRAP) programme.
BAE Systems also had a model of the South African
RG-32M vehicle on display. This vehicle was
selected during 2008 as part of the MOKYS
command and communication complex for Land
Forces for the Slovak Army. The country has already
ordered seven vehicles, named MKVRS, as part of
the tactical communication node of the MOKYS
System. A total of 442 vehicles are already in
service with 10 different countries. BAE Systems
also displayed the RG31 Mk 6E vehicle of which
1388 are already in service with 12 different
countries and another 984 vehicles are on order.
The RG-32 Vehicle of which seven has been sold
to Slovakia
These numbers clearly indicate the huge worldwide requirement for this type of vehicle
in the modern operational areas.
Mr Ivor Ichikowitz
Another of these types of
armoured vehicles designed
for Police Forces was unveiled
by Mr Ivor Ichikowitz the
Group Executive Chairman for
the Paramount Group at AAD
2008. The vehicle is named
the Maverick, adding to their
current range of Marauder and
Matador vehicles. Together
the range is known as the
NEMO Land Forces System.
The initial two vehicles were
launched as a concept in
February 2007, at the IDEX in
Abu Dhabi. He mentioned that
for many years South Africa
has been acknowledged as
being at the forefront of global
Armoured and Mine Protected
Vehicle technology. The Group
already have orders from
several customers and already
have two production facilities
under construction and
industrialisation is well
underway. Maverick is aimed
at the policing, internal
security, border patrol and
urban peacekeeping market.
The Maverick Armoured Personnel Carrier
All is however, not doom and gloom for soft skinned vehicles and they still do have a
place in the modern era. The SA Army’s project, Project Vistula, was launched for new
trucks to replace the SAMIL range and to serve as an operational supply support system,
aimed mainly at cargo and fuel handling. However, the project was halted in October
2007, when Armscor declined to select a preferred bidder after a protracted tender and
review process. At the time Armscor wrote to the bidders, MAN and Daimler, saying that
it intended to "initiate a new Request for Offers, which has yet to materialise. As
reported during AAD 2006, MAN Trucks was on the shortlist of companies to replace the
old SAMIL series of vehicles and the company’s products were again on display at AAD
2008.
The HX 32.440 8x8 (HX77)MAN truck, with the Modular Armoured Cab
What has become clear, however, is that even though these types of vehicles are still
required, they are not exempted from the threat of ballistic fragmentation and mine
attacks, and most of the vehicles on display have armoured cabs and or other armoured
chassis to protect the crew operating in these vehicles. In order to protect crews of MAN
vehicles deployed on military operations, MAN and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann developed a
modular-armour crew-protection kit. The shape of the MAN cab with its even surfaces
makes an external armour kit comparatively easy to install. It also leaves the internal cab
space and operational interface untouched.
It is important to recognise that if logistic vehicles are operating in an environment
hostile enough to warrant such protection, the fewest and shortest journeys possible
should be made, therefore the requirement should be for a high payload and high
mobility vehicle. Such a vehicle should also give crews the ability to respond effectively
to ambushes or hostile and armed crowds while transporting heavy payloads.
The Hornet (BAE Systems Wasp RDRV), fitted with the rear module to carry personnel
BAE Systems and the SANDF,
also had a soft skin vehicle on
display, namely the BAE Wasp
Rapid Deployment
Reconnaissance Vehicle
(RDRV). This is a joint
product of Armscor, South
Africa and Vickers of the UK
and is in service with the
SANDF, where it is named
“Hornet”. This is a modular
vehicle with a standard front
section carrying the driver,
gunner and vehicle
commander. The rear module
can either carry personnel, a
60 mm mortar,
communication equipment, or
various weapons systems.
In the airborne mode, four Hornets can be carried in a C-130 transport aircraft. The
personnel in the vehicle are armour protected from the front to the height of the firewall,
while the complete under portion of the vehicle is protected against shrapnel grenade and
anti-personnel mines. The engine, transmission and fuel tank are also protected.
Land Guided Weapons By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
A South African company
which had an anti-tank missile
carrying, mine protected
vehicle on display was IVEMA.
The company displayed the
Gila, a 4x4, mine protected
vehicle, anti tank missile
platform. The basic Gila
launched two years ago and is
already operational with two
African countries. The Gila on
display was fitted with a
special Denel Armed Long-
Range Reconnaissance Turret
(ALRRT), named the Ingwe
turret. The turret provides for
laser beam riding missiles,
stabilized fire on the move and
stabilized reconnaissance in
day and night while on the
move. The company also
displayed an ambulance
version of the Gila at AAD
2008. IVEMA has now also
The IVEMA Gila, fitted with the Denel Ingwe ALRRT
started a section that carry out
a re-manufacturing
programme on existing
military vehicles.
Ratel, equipped with the Ingwe anti-tank missile system
A second South African vehicle on display, equipped with anti-tank missiles, was the
South African Army’s Ratel, equipped with the Ingwe missile. The Ingwe missile is an
anti-armour missile, featuring laser beam-riding guidance and a tandem, hollow charge
warhead with a stand-off fuse. The missile has a maximum range of 5 km. The missile
can also be operated by infantry units from a tripod launcher, or from helicopter
platforms. During 2005 the missile's on board software was upgraded to be able to
detect the launch platform and download the latest software, all at launch time. This
enables the use of a single missile across all the types of launch platforms, as mentioned
above.
While the South African Army
was previously equipped with
Milan 3-ADT anti-tank missile system
the Milan-2 anti-tank missile,
it was revealed at AAD 2008
that the service now also has
some units of the Milan-3ADT
missile system in service.
Project Kingfisher provided for
the remanufacture of the
Milan-2 launchers placed in
storage in 1996 to an
ADvanced digital Technology
(ADT) standard. The Milan 3-
ADT system has a fully digital
firing post with an integrated
thermal sight, allowing
engagement of hot and cold
targets, over a range of 2 km.
Kornet-E anti-tank missile launcher on a high tripod mounting
The missile also has a tandem
shaped charge warhead,
compared to the single shaped
charge warhead of the Milan-
2. South Africa acquired the
second-generation semi-
automatic command line-of
sight (SACLOS) missiles in
1974. South Africa is also the
launch customer for the digital
firing post of the Milan ADT
system. Firing trials were
carried out at the SA Army’s
Infantry School at Oudtshoorn
and all ten of the live rounds
that were fired as part of the
trials, recorded hits.
The Russian company
Rosoboronexport also had a
large range of weapons,
including its mobile/portable
Metis-M1 SACLOS anti-tank missile launcher
semi automatic laser guided
Kornet-E anti-tank missile on
display. The Kornet-E has a
range of up to 5,5 km, and can
be used against tanks fitted
with explosive reactive
armour, lightly armoured
vehicles, fortifications and
low-speed low level aircraft,
such as helicopters at low
altitude in the low speed
arena. Another missile on
display by the company was
the wire-guided, Semi
Automatic Command Line Of
Sight (SACLOS), Metis-M1, also
a man-portable anti-tank
missile with a range of 2 km.
The Kitolov-2M (122 mm) laser guided
artillery shells
Another Russian company, Izhmash Concern, displayed
some laser guided artillery shells of 122 mm and
152/155 mm calibre, used as anti-rank weapons. The
122 mm shells have a maximum range of 12 km while
the 155 mm shells have a range of 20 to 25 km. In both
cases the infantry borne laser designators have a range
of between 5 and 7 km.
China North Industries
Corporation (NORINCO), one
of the well-known Chinese
arms manufacturers had their
Red Arrow 8L anti-tank
launcher system on display.
The launcher has an infra-red
tracker for flares in the missile
tail. The Red Arrow 8L is a
second-generation guided
missile system intended for
use by infantry against tanks
and other armoured targets
with a range of 100 to 3,000
m.
NORINCO Red Arrow 8L ant-tank missile launcher system
Denel Mokopa Anti-Armour missile system developed for the
Rooivalk helicopter
The use of anti-tank missiles
is of course not only restricted
to the infantry and vehicle
mounted soldiers. These
missiles are also carried by
modern attack helicopters and
the South African Mokopa
system, developed for the
Rooivalk combat helicopter
was also on display at AAD
2008. Mokopa uses a semi-
active laser guidance concept
and has the capability to fit
different warheads, such as
fragmentation, penetration or
ant-armour warheads. The
missile has a range of up to 10
km.
In any armed conflict or internal unrest situation, peace can usually only be restored by
the presence of personnel on the ground, be it defence forces or police forces. When
viewing the amount of small arms and various kinds of ammunition on display at AAD
2008, the role of the man on the scene of the action is still very clear. It is also clear,
that even police forces in the modern era, face far more dangerous armed opponents and
those police forces now often need to be armed with automatic weapons or weapons of
heavier calibre than the traditional service pistol or revolver.
Small calibre weapons By Piet van Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
The SS 77 Compact GPMG, with a standard SS77 General Purpose Machine Gun in the background
Denel Land System launched their new SS77 Compact general-purpose machinegun at
AAD 2008. The original SS77 was manufactured during 1977 and has been exported in
fairly large numbers to date. Due to a request from an existing customer, a compact
version of the weapon has now been produced. The weapon has a shorter barrel and a
telescopic stock. The compact version of the weapon is 150mm shorter and about 2 kg
lighter than before. A number of rails around the barrel allow the fitting of night sights,
laser rangefinders, flashlights or under barrel grenade launchers.
A high number of exhibiters were displaying small arms and ammunition of various
calibres, up to and including mortar and artillery rounds. Almost every small arms
exhibiter had some or other sniper rifle on display, and it was interesting to note how big
the calibres of some of these weapons are today, compared to the earlier generation of
rifles, equipped with telescopic sights. The modern weapons range in calibre up to 20
mm and these weapons are obviously designed to be used over much longer ranges than
the earlier generation of weapons.
One such weapon was the South African Truvelo 20 sniper rifle. The weapon was
unveiled during June 2008. It was the result of a two-year development programme.
The massive, bolt-action rifle can fire a 20mm x 110mm explosive round out to 2,000
meters. The development came about as a result of the use of .50-caliber sniper rifles by
US Forces, to destroy anti-material targets such as light-skinned vehicles since Operation
Desert Storm in 1991.
The Truvelo 20 Sniper Rifle
The Truvelo Company claims
that their weapon is three
times more accurate than the
U.S. military's .50-caliber rifles
currently in use in Iraq and
Afghanistan, and they believe
that the market for these
ultra-long-range rifles is only
going to grow since both the
Marine Corps and the Army
announced in May 2008, that
both services want a new
sniper rifle, capable of killing
man-sized targets between
1,500 and 1,800 meters.
The Russian company
Rosoboronexport, had their
OSV-96 large calibre Sniper
Rifle on display. The sniper
rifle began its life during the
early 1990s as the V-94 and
uses a 12,7 mm calibre
projectile. The accuracy of the
weapon is apparently good
enough for its intended work
as an anti-materiel rifle or
mid-range counter-sniper
rifle. The weapon was
apparently used in small
numbers by MVD troops in
Chechnya.
The OSV-96 Sniper Rifle
The company also had their
VSK 9 mm sniper rifle on
display. This rifle has a
sighting range of up to 400
metres and can carry up to 20
rounds in the magazine. The
rifle use 9 x 39 mm SP-5 or SP-
6 ammunition. The weapon
was developed by the KBP
Bureau which also designed
the high-performance GSh-
series aircraft cannons in use
on the Russian MiG fighter
aircraft.
Two other Russian sniper
rifles on exhibition were the
SVD 7,62 mm Draganov sniper
Rifle and the SVDS 7,62
Draganov Sniper Rifle with a
folding stock. The SVD self-
loading Draganov sniper rifle is
the main weapon of snipers in
the Russian Armed Forces.
The VSK 9mm Sniper Rifle
Special sniper rounds were developed for this rifle, but it can fire any type of 7.62 x
54mm rounds, if necessary. The SVD sniper rifle is usually equipped with the 4 x PSO-
1M2 optical sight, with an illuminated sighting mark and a screen for detecting IR
sources. The sight is provided with a target range scale, as well as a range and lateral
adjustment input device. For night shooting, the optical sight can be replaced with a
night sight. The SVDS variant is especially designed to be used by paratroopers and also
feature a shorter barrel and a new flash suppressor. When transported the total length
of the SVDS rifle is reduced from 1,2 m for the SVD, to 875 mm, while its ballistic
characteristics are practically the same as that of the SVD.
OTHER:
The revival of the South African
Defence Industry and Denel
By Piet van Schalkwyk
- I.M.G.
Although the financial reports for Denel that were released earlier in 2008, still indicated
an overall loss for the organization, it is clear that some of the efforts that have been put
in place since 2005, is now paying off and that the fortunes of Denel are slowly turning
around. During 2005 a turnaround strategy was launched, aimed at making Denel
financially self-sustainable. The strategy had five main areas of focus, namely that Denel
would have privileged access to state institutions such as the treasury, it would be
looking at the securing of state agency support, it would be assessing the commercial
viability of each business and developing a turnaround strategy or exiting the business,
Denel would actively be securing equity and strategic alliances and that Denel's
capability and productivity would be raised to world-class standards.
In order to achieve the above, Denel has slashed costs and restructured its operations
over the last few years, selling off some units and entering into joint ventures to try and
cut its losses. It has received billions of rand in state assistance as it tries to return to
profitability. The acting Group CEO said that three of Denel's eight business units were
now profitable and that he expected the rest to become profitable and have a positive
effect on Denel's financial results within the next two to three years. There were some
Denel businesses that the company believed could be "tied up" with other local players to
build them into viable sustainable businesses.
When looking at the areas of interest and the products that Denel had on exhibition
during AAD 2008, it became clear that Denel has made the decision not to compete with
major system manufacturers, but that the companies in the group need to look at
supporting equipment such as helmets, missiles, vehicles, etc.
With the handover of the Gripen to the SAAF at AAD 2008, new interest was placed on
the weapons that would be used on the Gripens and Hawks, as it had been stated before
that these aircraft would be armed with locally produced weapons. The aircraft on
display at AAD 2008, gave some insight into which weapons could be expected to be
fielded by these types in future. The Hawk Mk 120 was displayed, armed with various Mk
81 and Mk 82 bombs. The bombs had a variety of fuses, which are locally manufactured
by Reutech Precision Products, previously known as Fuchs Electronics.
SAAF Hawk Mk 120 with Mk 81 bombs on display. Note the various
fuses.
The four defence companies
in the Reunert group have
unified their electronics
activities under the Reutech
brand. Fuchs Electronics will
now be known as Reutech
Presicion Products and
manufactures a world-
renowned range of electronic
fuses for artillery, mortar,
naval and air weapons
applications, as well as a full
range of air weapon systems.
The fuses on display, included
delay and proximity fuses, and
most can be used on Pre-
fragmented and/or Steel
Bombs.
The Hawk has also already been seen at the yearly SAAF Fire Power Displays at the
Roodewal Bombing range, firing the centreline mounted Aden 30 mm cannon. The
Secapem Taxan target system has also been qualified on the South African Hawk Mk
120. The Taxan target drogue is towed behind the aircraft and used for gunnery
practice.
The two Gripens on display, numbers 01 and 03 were armed with different air-to-air
missiles and this gave a good indication of the current status of the missile programme
for the aircraft. The Gripen in SAAF service is intended to be armed with the Denel A-
Darter fifth-generation short range air-to-air missile (SRAAM). The development of the
A-Darter missile is not complete, but is currently the subject of a joint programme
between South Africa and Brazil. As an interim step, the SAAF has acquired a number of
Diehl Iris-T missiles to use on the Gripen. This acquisition of the missiles will have
defence industrial participation obligations attached to it. The name of the missile is an
acronym for InfraRed Imaging System – Tail/thrust vector controlled. The Gripen can be
armed with up to six short range air-to-air missiles.
Gripen with various ordnance on display. Note IRIS-T
The Iris-T missile is already in use by seven other countries and over 4000 missiles have
already been ordered. The missile was developed by six countries, namely Germany,
Greece, Italy, Norway, Spain and Sweden. South Africa and Austria were the first two
countries outside of this group to order the missile. The infrared seeker, which is
developed by Diehl, has improved resistance to countermeasures and provides extremely
high resolution and target discrimination.
The A-Darter will be a highly agile missile and will be able to manoeuvre at high angles
of incidence, with the aid of thrust vector control. The missile will also have a very good
resistance to countermeasures, with a two-colour thermal imaging seeker. The A-Darter
will have different launch modes, namely “Lock on after launch” and “Lock on before
launch”. This could be done by different means such as the aircraft radar, the helmet
mounted sighting system, or the missile seeker head itself. This missile is also intended
to equip the Hawk Mk 120, once development has been completed.
Denel has also previously announced the concept of a new high-performance radar-
guided missile, known as the T Darter. This beyond visual range missile will serve as the
main long-range weapon for the Gripen and is designed to replace the V-4 missile that
was in use on the Cheetah C. Denel are proposing to use some of their existing
technologies in the missile and are looking at international partners for some parts of the
proposed missile. The Gripen can be armed with up to four long range air-to-air
missiles.
Gripen 03 was displayed
with a number of iron bombs
and the Mauser BK27 27mm
cannon that will equip the
Gripen C aircraft only. The
cannon are designed for
subsonic and supersonic
flight and are installed in the
left hand side of the Gripen
fuselage. The cannon
attachments are built into the
airframe and the cannon can
therefore be removed and
reinstalled without extra
mechanical adjustments. The
weapon has a rate of fire of
1700 rounds per minute,
without any start delay, as it
is a revolver type of cannon.
Gripen 03 on display with Mk 82, 250kg Pre-fragmented low drag
bombs, fitted with various fuses
As with the Hawk, the iron bombs on display, were equipped with various Reutech
fuses. Although the Gripen has already been cleared to fire air-to-surface missiles, it is
not foreseen at present that the SAAF will fit the aircraft with such weapons.
Denel SAAB Aerostructures (DSA) announced the extent of their Gripen contracts with
SAAB at AAD 2008, which already amounted to some R500 million to date. The first
contract was awarded in 2000 for the design, industrialisation and certification of NATO
standard pylons for the Gripen. This contract was followed by a contract for manufacture
of these pylons. Of the 300 pylons on order, 220 have already been delivered, with a new
order for an additional order of 80 pylons, bringing the total orders to 380 pylons. DSA
also has long-standing contracts to manufacture Main Landing Gear Units, essentially the
centre fuselage airframe section, as well as rear fuselage sections for Gripens destined
for the Swedish Air Force and all export versions. These contracts form part of the SAAB
defence industrialisation participation programme connected to South Africa’s acquisition
of the new defence equipment.
The Gripen is equipped with
two pylons under each wing, a
centre line pylon and one
under the right hand forward
fuselage. As the primary
aerostructures facility
operating at this level in
Africa, Denel Saab
Aerostructures (Pty) Ltd (DSA)
designs, manufactures and
assembles composite and
metallic aircraft subsystem
structures in cooperation with
suppliers of aircraft such as
Airbus, Boeing, Saab and
Agusta Westland. The
company was incorporated on
1 February 2007 and Saab
became a minority (20.0%)
equity partner in August 2007.
Gripen 04 on display, showing the six pylons fitted to the aircraft
The need for International Partners by
the Local Defence Industry
By Piet van
Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
The previous CEO of Denel, commented in his last report that Denel's business units
need international shareholder partners. He mentioned that units in the competing
aerospace and defence environment could only survive and flourish if they have access to
large funding for research and development, as well as technical and managerial
expertise and access to international markets. In line with the above, two such mergers
were announced during 2008, namely that the German munitions’ company Rheinmetall
Group has bought a 51% stake in Denel Munitions and that Denel had sold 70% of its
Optronics business to Carl Zeiss Optronics. Rheinmetall is a supplier of ammunition for
fighting vehicles and infantry weapons as well as propellant systems for large-calibre
ammunition while Denel Munitions possesses special expertise in artillery and mortar
systems. Carl Zeiss Optronics designed, developed and now produce and integrate the
Gripen helmet tracking system.
A-Darter
As mentioned previously both
the Iris-T and A-Darter
programmes will also involve
industrial participation. The A-
Darter is being developed in a
joint programme with Brazil.
The Brazilians expect the A-
Darter to enter service in
2015, which would be four
years after the last of 26
Gripens has been delivered to
the SAAF – hence South
Africa’s need for an interim
missile. Brazil views the
programme as a launch pad for
a lasting relationship with
South Africa. It is also
important as a chance to
regain expertise that Brazil
once possessed, but has since
lost.
The Brazilian Air Force A-Darter programme project officer, Colonel Nelson Silveira
previously made the following statement in this regard: “I see this as a landmark in the
relationship between the two countries. We had a very strong defence industry prior to
the first Gulf War (1991). We had very strong companies, developing a wide range of
products. However, the sector was very heavily dependent on international markets,
which, as far as Brazilian companies were concerned, collapsed following 1991. With few
significant domestic orders, the sector contracted sharply, with some companies
disappearing and others barely managing to survive. Expertise was lost. Development
programmes were halted, or proceeded at a very slow pace. We experienced some years
without most of the industry making any significant progress and this in a sector in which
progress is mandatory to remain competitive. Brazil did, however, focus on the
development of civilian space rockets to support its space programme. So this
programme is, for us, a matter of recovering the technology that we had all but lost.
Thus, although the Brazilians are actively participating in the development of the missile,
for us it is more of a technology transfer programme”.
The A-Darter project is also significant for Brazil in that it is the first defence technology
development programme to receive funding from outside the country’s Ministry of
Defence – it is also being funded by the Brazilian Ministry of Science and Technology.
Development of the A-Darter will allow the Brazilian Air Force to leapfrog an entire AAM
generation, going straight from the third generation to the fifth generation.
The SAAF A-Darter project director, Colonel Ian van Vuuren said that the Denel
Dynamics A-Darter air-to-air missile, would give South Africa and Brazil independence in
a key area of defence technology. “We find ourselves increasingly being isolated from the
capabilities which lie in the North. The significance of this programme is that, in the
southern hemisphere, we can cooperate in an area which is leading-edge technology, and
that ultimately we can supply our air forces with an AAM capability, independent of
restrictions from the leading countries in the world”.
So successful has the joint programme been so far that Brazil is now negotiating with
South Africa to also jointly develop the Denel Dynamics Bateleur unmanned air vehicle
project. It is not yet clear which arm or arms of the South African National Defence Force
(SANDF) would buy the Bateleur. The South African Air Force has a plan to acquire
medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAVs, perhaps starting in 2010. Furthermore,
the South African Navy is known to be interested in the Bateleur.
During 2007, Finland was
selected as the partner for
Project Hoefyster, the South
African Army’s competition for
an infantry fighting vehicle.
The South African Army has
placed an order for 264
BADGER 8x8 Armoured
Fighting Vehicles based on the
Patria Armoured Modular
Vehicle design. The vehicles
will serve in five different
versions, namely Command,
Mortar, Missile, Infantry
Section and Fire Support.
The BADGER 8x8 Armoured Fighting Vehicle
These vehicles will
progressively replace the Ratel
ICV’s operated by the SANDF.
The first batch of around 40 chassis will come from the Finnish production line, while the
following ones will be produced under licence by BAE Sytems Land Systems OMC, with
the prime contractor, Denel Land Systems responsible for the final integration and pre-
delivery testing.
The non-military gains from some of the
main weapon system acquisition contracts
By Piet van
Schalkwyk - I.M.G.
Both the Hawk and Gripen projects had counter trade proposals as inherent parts of the
contracts. In the most recent Industrial Participation reports to Parliament, the
Department of Trade and Industry confirmed that BAE Systems and Saab had achieved
more than 100 percent of their joint investment target.
BAE Systems, which is the prime contractor for the Hawk and Saab have already
launched over 150 new investment, manufacturing, skills development and technology
transfer projects across the South African aerospace, defence and civil industries. To
date more than 75 South African companies are partners in BAE Systems-Saab's projects.
These projects are categorised as Defence Industrial Participation (DIP), which involves
the delivery of US$1.5 billion of new economic activity in the aerospace and defence
sectors; and National Industrial Participation (NIP) which comprises US$1.2 billion of
new economic benefits derived primarily from manufacturing-for-export ventures in
various civil sectors. In total Saab have contracted US$8,7 billion of offsets due to the
programme, of which they have already delivered US$5.3 billion to the 75 business
partners. Saab is also actively looking at participation in the civil security market in
South Africa. Other projects that Saab are participating in, or were discussing are a new
Command and Control System for the SA Army and self protection systems for land based
vehicles.
As far as the Hawk Mk 120
is concerned, the ATE
software that was
developed for the Hawk
navigation and weapons
system was viewed as the
most complex and
sophisticated that have
been developed in South
Africa to date. Several
other South African
companies, such as
Reutech, Denel Aviation,
Tellumat, SAAB Avitronics,
OTB and the Test Flight and
Development Centre at
Bredasdorp, worked
together with ATE on the
project. As a result of this,
around 200 jobs were
retained in the local
industry and 70 % of the
programme funding was
used locally in the country.
Cockpit for SAAF Hawk by ATE
The Young Generation, Our
Aerospace Personnel for
Tomorrow
By Fiona Hugo - I.M.G.
The Youth Programme has
grown tremendously since
AAD 2004, back in the days
when it was held at AFB
Waterkloof in Pretoria. Under
the guidance of the South
Africa Department of Defence
and with the passion, not to
mention the commitment, of
Colonel Bobby Keller it has
come a long way.
As noted by the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Show Director and Executive
Director of the South African Aerospace Maritime and Defence Industries Association
(AMD), Simphiwe Hamilton says that the shortage of skills in the Aerospace and Defence
industries has reached crisis proportions. “The depth of the crisis is illustrated by the
experience of one of our AMD members, namely BAE SYSTEMS Land systems OMC. BAE
SYSTEMS has for months been searching locally for engineering and technical personnel
and then in desperation hired staff from outside of South Africa to meet contractual
obligations”, explains Hamilton. Globally, there is a massive shortage of qualified
personnel in the Aerospace and Defence sector. This has translated into a depletion of
our local skills base as pilots, engineers and technicians leave South Africa for better
remuneration elsewhere.
Part of the Special Forces recruitment display
Furthermore, South African
Universities and Universities
of Technologies are struggling
to produce enough graduates
in these fields to satisfy
current demand, let alone
supply increased numbers of
graduates to industry. For
example, Michael Boer,
Associate Lecturer in Aircraft
Design and Performance at
the University of the
Witwatersrand says that on
average about 100 first year
students enrol for
aeronautical engineering
studies at Wits. However, by
the end of the four year
course only around 14
students graduate in this
specialisation.
As the Organisers of AAD are close to their respective industries, there is a clear
understanding and appreciation of this problem. “We saw the need for AAD to tangibly
show its commitment to the aerospace and defence sector as well as the lesser privileged
communities” says Hamilton. “We are therefore launching a new look AAD Youth
Development Programme (YDP) that is focused on encouraging our learners from
disadvantaged communities to excel in Science and Maths as well as promote the career
options available in the Aerospace and Defence related industries”, he explains.
The main sponsor, from the USA, International Aero Engines (IAE)
has been involved in the Youth Programme since 2004. They have
certainly pulled out all the stops this time round. 2008 being their
third AAD where they have sponsored the Youth Programme, they
are very passionate about the youth in South Africa. IAE have made
a large contribution to the AAD 2008 Youth Development
Programme and to the Alta du Toit School in Kuilsriver, near Cape
Town. The school caters for more than 350 children who are
physically and mentally disabled.
IAE is a multinational aero engine consortium whose shareholders comprise Pratt &
Whitney (NYSE: UTX), Rolls-Royce (RR.L.), the Japanese Aero Engines Corporation and
MTU Aero Engines. More than 1,300 V2500-powered aircraft have been delivered, not to
mention the accumulated 40 million flying hours of the worldwide fleet. IAE Senior Vive
President, Customers, Ian Aitken said: ‘The entire IAE team is proud and privileged to be
able to provide assistance to the AAD 2008 Youth Program Team without whose support
these educational and community projects would not be possible.”
IAE has for the past 25 years played an important roll in the making of “more than 5,500
engines in service or on firm order”. The V2500 powered Airbus A319s entered service
with South African Airways back in 2004 and today the airline operates eleven IAE V2500
powered A319s and also has fifteen V2500 powered A320s on order.
David Lee, IAE Director Company Events and Community Relation was asked how the
involvement began? “Well it came about at the 2004 AAD in Waterkloof. That was the
first time we, IAE exhibited at the airshow, the engine that we produced for the A319s of
SAA. It was a good opportunity to come to South Africa and that was the real reason to
come to South Africa.” David Lee mentioned that it was also part of his job in respect of
worldwide events to take care of Human relations, so they thought how IAE could get
involved in the local schools and youth groups.
Col Bobby keller (SANDF) & David Lee (IAE)
IAE investigated our market in
the airshows circles and that is
how they met up with Colonel
Bobby Keller. Having discussed
their plans for the youth IAE
made their very first donation.
IAE wanted their donation to
be utilised in the children of
today and make a lasting
impact on the future of our
youth. Apart from AAD, they
are also involved in some of
the local schools. David Lee
also mentioned that South
Africa was the only country in
the world that they are
involved in a program for the
youth.
He mentioned that it is so much easier in South Africa to get involved in the local
community, purely because it is so much more visible. It is the 25th Anniversary year for
IAE and they will be publishing a book for their 25th year and copies will go out to all
their employees and the relevant Airlines. The book will cover aspects of the Youth
Programme. As David Lee says, “I am very proud of the Youth Programme, as kids are
our future.”
In his busy schedule I was
privileged to be granted an
interview with Colonel Bobby
Keller and I learnt that, this is
not Colonel Bobby Keller’s
fulltime job, it is his passion!
Over the years, being involved
in the programme, Colonel
Bobby Keller confirmed that
+- 8000 children have been
invited into the programme of
events. “There is nothing
more satisfying than at AAD,
to see children come in for the
first time of their lives, to go
to the show, build a model, go
out of here and their faces are
lighted up.” During the
morning 200 pupils enter the
hanger and in the afternoon
another 200. Over the three
trade days that totals to one
thousand two hundred pupils,
not to mention the street
children and public that pass
through the hanger on the
Saturday and Sunday. Our
Youth Programme takes place
every two years. For AAD
certain children are selected
from various schools, from
Grade 8 to 11, to visit on the
Trade days. Subjects that are
a must are: Maths, Science,
and Technology. Should the
youth enter into the
Department of Defence,
Matric and the mentioned
subjects are a prerequisite.
One of the focal points of the YDP has been a Science Essay Competition for Mathematics
and Science learners in Grade 9, 10 and 11, sponsored by the Air Traffic and Navigation
Services (ATNS). Captain Mpho Mamashela, Chairperson of the ATNS Board, and a SAA
rated senior Captain on the Airbus 340 applauded the aim behind the science competition
and ATNS’s sponsorship thereof. “With the critical skills shortage facing the Aerospace
and Defence Sector in South Africa the aim of this competition was to encourage young
people to pursue an interest in science and mathematics and embark on scientific related
careers. It highlighted the many opportunities that the world of science can offer to
young people”, he says. The competition required entrants to produce an essay chosen
from a selection of fifteen high technology subjects, like aerospace design, rocketry,
ergonomics and robotics. Entries, many of a high standard, were received from a variety
of learners most from previously disadvantaged secondary schools throughout South
Africa. The finalists were selected on 1 September 2008 and a team of twenty finalists
travelled to Cape Town to attend and further participate in the YDP.
A special programme of
activities has been developed
that will challenge, educate
and entertain the young
finalists during their time at
the YDP. In order to
encourage secondary schools
to motivate their learners to
participate in science based
competitions, ATNS has
donated three high spec. desk
top computers which will be
awarded to those schools
attended by the first, second
and third prize winners in the
competition. The official prize
giving for the ATNS Science
Competition took place on
Friday 19 September 2008.
The Department of Defense Youth Programme provides MSD ( Military Skills
Development ) for all four services:
The Airforce “Siyendiza (We are flying)
The Army “Young Lions”
The Navy “Isidogodongo” (We are sailing)
The Medical Services “Medi Teddy”
Their whole drive is to have pupils join the Defence Force straight after school. Ten thousand children a
year are chosen. For the first two years these children under the programme are trained with portable
skills to become e.g. Operations Medics, Pilots, Navigators or Engineers etc. After two years they can
either leave or they can stay. They also have the choice of moving into the private sector.
Simulator time
At the AAD 2008, Trade days,
four hundred children per day
from various schools entered
the Youth Programme hanger
and were introduced to an
amazing layout. Over the
Saturday and Sunday the
hanger was open to the public,
but it was on a first come first
served basis.
The YDP featured the following exciting activities:
The ATNS Theatre offering documentary material, lectures and interactive
workshops
Model-building, including scale aircraft and shop models to build and take home
Simulators on which youngsters can try their hand at “flying”
Virtual aviation monitors with which learners can interact
Daily career guidance information and exhibitions provided by experts in the
Aerospace and Defence sector
The Medics put on a display
of note. Not only were the
dummies laid out but the
youth could also perform
mouth-to-mouth
resuscitation. An Oryx fitted
in the CASEVAC configuration
was on display with two very
friendly Medic ladies. To get
their blood circulating on a
cold raining day, the pupils
were introduced to the
exercise mat and push-ups
were at the order of the day.
The girls cheered the guys on
and of course they had to
make an impression.
Oryx in CASEVAC config with members of the Medical & Health
Services of the SANDF
Moving to the other side of the hanger, the Artillery had a simulator on display complete
with targets which could be engaged. Above the shooting range all the different
uniforms, worn by manikins were on display, right down to every bit of gear and defence
utilities. The Navy was also in full force and had a vast amount of information available to
all who expressed an interest. The virtual aviation stimulator was an Impala Mark 1 and
to watch those little faces light up, I would have to say it was one of my highlights of the
day.
The major event was to build
a model kit by Revell. The
younger pupils were given a
paper model made by Revell
and the older pupils were
given a 1/144 plastic model
with no glue requirements, no
sanding down as the pre-
painted model just had to be
put together. Around thirty
youths built models at a time.
After the model building had
finished some put their
craftsmanship to the test (the
paper kind of course). The
pupils were then able to take
the built model home with
them. As mentioned by
Colonel Bobby Keller, “Model
building is used as a vehicle to
get the interest of the children
into the Defence Force”.
Children and parents alike
have asked on many occasions
where they can purchase the
models. An interest in model
clubs and model building is
born.
The Africa Aerospace and
Defence (AAD) Show Director
and Executive Director of the
South African Aerospace
Maritime and Defence
Industries Association (AMD)
Simphiwe Hamilton says that it
is hoped that this relatively
small initiative will plant
enough seeds of inspiration and
encouragement in the minds of
our youth that over time will
yield an increase in the number
of pilots, engineers and
technicians in the critical
Aerospace and Defence sector
of our economy. The Aerospace
and Defence sector will also
progressively grow in
importance in Africa and if
South Africa’s capacity in this
regard is not allowed to erode,
South Africa will be well placed
to play a developmental role on
the African Continent.
AIRSHOW:
Airshow AAD 2008 By Charles Hugo - I.M.G.
To the average man in the street AAD is all about the airshow. In this regard AAD2008
did not disappoint them at all. The fact that the weather, although very bad during the
trade week played along helped. The poor weather did help the trade show though as
visitors stayed in-doors visiting the exhibits.
Displays on the Trade Days
Embraer EMB-120 with the CAMPS-100 system
In a major change from previous AAD’s AAD2008 had a number of displays that were
specific for trade visitors. First and foremost were the mobility displays of the various
military vehicles. For the limited number of visitors that would be able to view the track
this was perfect and especially with the very poor weather on the Thursday (rain) the
capabilities of these vehicles was amply demonstrated. Seeing the awesome power and
capabilities of the SANDF’s armour in the mud was impressive.
The aviation displays were from Naturelink with displays of various aircraft from their
stable. In a first at a public air show the SAAB/Avitronics developed CAMPS-100 system
as fitted to an Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia was shown to the public on the trade days.
Seeing flares deployed from a civilian aircraft is impressive. This aircraft will be delivered
to the launch customer by the end of the year.
Of course all the various aircraft that would display during the airshow days performed
their validations during this period as well.
Static Displays
AFB Ysterplaat had taken a lot of effort and planning in ensuring that various aspects of
the static displays would be improved for the public. A new concrete hardstand had been
built nearer the public areas and this section was used to great effect for the static
display of the larger SAAF Museum aircraft located at AFB Ysterplaat. Aircraft on display
were the newly completed Westland Whirlwind resplendent in full original Royal Navy
colours.
The magnificent Shackleton from the SAAF Museum
There were two Dakotas on
display, one being the VIP C-
47TP Dak and the second being
a standard C-47 Dakota with an
interesting history. This is the
aircraft is known as the
“Coelacanth” Dakota which is
being restored to her 1950’s era
colours. Cape Town has a long
association with coastal patrol
and two of the SAAF’s long time
coastal patrol aircraft in the
form of the magnificent
Shackleton and a Piaggio P166
Albatross were on this display
stand.
The friends of the SAAF Museum
staff manned this area
throughout the show period to
assist visitors with more
information. It is unfortunate
that the main museum building
is located a distance away from
this area complicating the
Westland Whirlwind in full original Royal Navy colours
display. Possibly in future all the
museum aircraft will be in a
single location to enable the
visitors to comfortably view this
rich collection of post WWII
SAAF aircraft.
Portable hangars
Working on aircraft in the open in Africa has always been a hardship. At AAD2008 16
Squadron had a new portable hangar system on display.
This self contained tent hangar
has space to allow the servicing
of any SAAF helicopter with
three containerised office units
complete with spares store and
diesel generator setup to power
the overhead lights. The floor is
a modern version of that old
standby, PSP and consists of
interlocking plastic panels in
two strengths, the thickest
capable of supporting up to 30
tonnes of weight. All of this
packs inside a number of
standard containers for ease of
transportation and shipping.
Portable hangar
SAPS Fast boat
Another gem that seemed to
be overlooked was a rigid
hulled inflatable used by the
SAPS anti-poaching unit.
Capable of carrying up to 8
officers on high speed seats
(well you could call those
Fast boat from the anti-poaching unit
benches seats I suppose) at
speeds of up to 60 knots, this
large(ish) boat just looked
ready to pounce on the
criminals raping our sea life
around the coast.
Public days
Following a week of generally poor weather, the weather forecasters had once again
shown their prowess and the Saturday dawned with bright blue skies and clear although
the spring temperatures were decidedly still rather chilly.
Rosenbauer fire fighting vehicle from ACSA
All the effort that the
organisers had put in on the
Friday in laying down straw
and other measures to dry up
the public area had worked
reasonably well and all was set
for what was one of the most
memorable AAD airshows for
some years. The airshow
followed the tried and tested
opening formula of a parade of
the emergency personnel led
by an impressive Rosenbauer
fire truck from ACSA. This was
followed by a parachute jump
by a team from the North West
Province and the SAAF’s
Golden Eagles.
SAAF participation
As in previous years the SAAF
had a large contingent on
display. As part of the SANDF
revamp programme announced
in September 1999 it was only
fitting that AAD 2008
showcased all these new
aircraft to the public. Thus we
had the Gripen, Hawk and
Super Lynx all being flown for
the public by SAAF personnel.
The Hawk LIFT in national
colours flown by Ivan Pentz
was at hand and the first
public display at an airshow of
the SAAF Super Lynx
helicopter was a treat.
Hawk Mk 120 LIFT in SA National Flag colours
Helicopter displays
A109 duo display
In keeping with what has now
almost become the accepted
norm during 2008 many of the
helicopter displays were flown
using a two ship formation.
The twin-ship Super Lynx can
be impressive when viewed
from certain angles. The only
helicopter type not flying in
multiples was the Rooivalk
although there was a duo
display of Rooivalk and the Mil
SuperHind helicopter. On the
Sunday another pyrotechnic
display was performed by an
A109 chaff & flares
Augusta A109LUH from TFDC.
At various airshows
throughout 2008, when
possible the SAAF helicopter
squadrons performed mass
flypasts as part of the displays.
At AAD 2008 all the helicopters
that partook in the mini-war
formed up into two formations
which saw a total of 10 in one
formation and 5 in the second
fly past before landing back at
what had been dubbed "SAAF
City."
Silver Falcons
Silver Falcons in formation with the National carrier
Debuting their brand new dedicated colours the expanded 5-ship team the Silver Falcons
demonstrated fully why they are so revered by all. The extremely smart dark blue scheme
with a stylised Falcon on the wing and feathers under the wings is very distinctive. The
Falcons have not had a dedicated colour scheme for their display aircraft ever since the
retirement of the Impala Mk1s they flew for many years.
AAD 2008 was both a sad and joyous occasion for the Silver Falcon team led by Major Scott
Ternett. SF number 3, Alex MacPhail flew his last sortie with the SF’s on the Sunday morning.
He was replaced by Lt. Buti Tsebe, who has been with the Silver Falcons for some time as
their Ground Liaison Officer (SF number 5 in the 4-ship days) in the number 3 position.
Following on from the 2007 Mafikeng airshow the Silver Falcons and SAA once again
performed a formation display of their aircraft, except this time round a rather larger Airbus in
the form of an A340-600 was used. The formation flypast of a SAA Airbus 340-600 (there
were two different aircraft used on the two days due to operational use) with four of the
Silver Falcons in formation, especially with the backdrop of Table Mountain on their approach
run was impressive. This was then highlighted by a formation break from the Silver Falcons
before the Airbus performed a solo display.
Large formation display by the SAAF Caravans, KingAirs and lone PC12
Caravan, KingAir & PC12 formation
AAD 2008 saw a number of large SAAF formations. The first was flown by 41 Squadron in
their Cessna Caravans. The Squadron is under the leadership of the acting OC, Major
Ignette Bedford who has the honour of being the first SAAF female OC of an operational
squadron. Huge efforts on the part of the ground crew saw a total of 8 Caravan, 2
KingAirs as well as the PC12 perform a flypast and formation break.
MiniWar
Mini War
The crowds were treated to a mini-war demonstration when a reconnaissance helicopter
was “shot down” by irregular forces which saw a re-action team respond to the scenario.
This force was led by
members from 44 Parachute
Brigade with their T10 type
square parachutes to form a
path finding free fall team
from altitude to provide
advance reconnaissance for
the main force. An Oryx
helicopter arrived with
members from 500 Sqdn SAAF
who abseiled from the Oryx to
secure the downed pilots. The
rapid deployment force
comprised of members from 1
Parachute Battalion and 44
Parachute Regiment and
deployed by a SAAF Hercules
and then re-supplied by a
SAAF Casa 212 from the DOD
Air Supply Unit.
And then all hell broke loose
with the airborne cavalry
arriving, helicopters buzzing
around, troops being
offloaded, Rooivalk providing
support cover fire and mortar
teams lending long range
support fire and finally heavy
armour providing smoke cover
during the withdrawal of all
troops. It is a pity that all the
rain during the week caused a
mud bath in the infield
probably preventing the
action being closer to the
public.
Casa 212 re-supply
International Military participation
In keeping with previous year’s there were a number of international aircraft and pilots
attending AAD2008. The USAF had deployed a pair of C-130 Hercules transport aircraft
that had been engaged on exercises with various Southern African Air Forces during their
deployment to South Africa. They performed a demonstration of a supply drop mission.
There was also a solo LC130
from the National Science
Foundation (ok not military) on
LC130 from the National Science Foundation
static display. I, for one, would
never of expected to see this
aircraft in South Africa as she is
more well known for operating
in colder climates, although
when arriving in Cape Town the
weather was so poor that
possibly those huge skids fitted
to this aircraft were more suited
to the muddy terrain at the
airfield.
Zimbabwe once again attended
this event with two K-8 trainers
which were used to perform a
solo aerobatic display routine.
Hidden away from the public view was a CASA 212 which supported the K-8s.
Aerobatic displays
In addition to the SAAF displays there were a number of civilian aerobatic displays.
NorthWest Province
The Northwest Province have for some years been responsible for an excellent airshow
hosted at Mafikeng. They have adopted and sponsor a number of aviation display teams and
as part of the promotion of the 2008 Mafikeng airshow a number of teams from the
NorthWest Province were present at AAD2008. First up were the NorthWest Parachute team
who partook in all the mass parachute display jumps alongside the SAAF’s Golden Eagles.
NorthWest Eagles
Displaying a new high energy
and dynamic routine was the
duo of Nigel Hopkins and Larry
Beamish in their Extra 300’s.
Whilst not flying much
formation display during the
routine the crowd was kept
busy as first one and then the
other aircraft would be in the
display area. The finale of the
team consisted of the two
aircraft performing a dissimilar
speed flypast which has both
aircraft flying past the crowd
at two different speeds in such
a manner that both arrive
simultaneously in front of the
crowd. This requires a large
amount of skill and
coordination from the two
pilots to carry out the required
synchronisation of the flypast.
Extra 300 from the NorthWest Eagles
Oxygen required?
Zoltan Verez
Most air show aficionados’
know Zolten Verez as a low level
display specialist. His thrilling
sideslip display performed at
Mafeking air show 2007 was a
talking point for some time. At
AAD2008 in the interests of
displaying to crowd and safety
his display was at a higher
altitude prompting a tongue in
cheek request for oxygen.
Nevertheless his display of his
aircraft handling skills was very
impressive and due to the
slightly higher altitude all the
airshow attendees could see his
display.
Harvards
What would a South African airshow be like without the sound of that old schoolmaster
of the sky? Glenn Warden with the SAAF Museum’s as well as Arnie Meneghelli and Scully
Levin with the Academy Brushware Castrol Flying Lions team ensured that memories
were rekindled to all old SAAF pilots. Scully also had his new Slick 360 which has
replaced the Zlin he used to fly in the Control Intsruments colours. He performed a duo
display with a VANS RV-8.
Fast Jets
Hawker Hunter from ThunderCity
Thundercity had a three ship formation display of a Hawker Hunter, EE Lightning and
Blackburn Buccaneer. After arriving in formation they split to perform solo displays. Many an
international visitor had attended the event purely to see these aircraft, especially the EE
Lightning in action and they were not to be disappointed as a finale to the Saturday two-ship
Lightning display, the team executed a supersonic run over the base to the absolute thrill and
enjoyment of the crowd. The shock wave was heard and felt for miles around the base.
The inimitable Pierre Gouws,
along with ZU-TEE, an L-39
performed his immaculate
display in this pretty jet. His
departure on Sunday consisted
of a formation take-off and
flypast in conjunction with the
North West Province Extra 300
duo. Unfortunately due to a bird
strike which caused serious
damage to the wing upon
landing at Cape Town
International following her
validation flight for the airshow
the SAAF Museum’s Mirage
IIICZ number 800 could not
display.
ZU-TEE with the NorthWest Eagles
SAPS AirWing
High drama
Showcasing preparations for
Sniper high ground
the Soccer World Cup in 2010
was a little story of a bus full of
soccer supporters (why they
were Manchester City
supporters is a bit weird) being
ambushed and hi-jacked. Once
the bus was stopped by normal
police force members who came
under fire the SAPS Airwing with
SAPS Special Task Force
members were called in to
support.
The AS350 was fitted with a
new external TILO bench for the
Special Task Force to sit on
facing outwards. This makes
their job far easier in
comparison to the previous
system of standing on the skids
with belts securing them to the
airframe. Upon deploying the
Special Task Force the helicopter
hovers in close proximity to the
event with a specialist sniper
covering the ground forces from
the air.
The hi-jacked bus
Best display of the show?
This is arguably a toss up between the smooth polished displays by the various heavy
jets airliners.
These consisted of the Saudi
Kingdom Boeing 747 by Duncan
Gillespie. His smooth and
graceful handling of this large
aircraft was impressive and set a
Perhaps the world's largest biz-jet?
standard for the show. This must
be largest biz jet in the world
and her immaculate cream and
green colours stood out against
the blue skies. But the one that
wowed most visitors, and
flabbergasted many an
experienced aviation reporter
was the duo display of two SAA
Boeing 737 freighters.
Boeing 737 freighters from SAA
One of these, a 737-300 had been on static display throughout the event and when it
took off from AFB Ysterplaat, piloted by Pierre Gouws to join up with the 737-200 flown
by Scully Levin with his daughter Sally Bates in the co-pilot seat little did we know that
we would be treated to a formation display that will be a long time in beating. It was
incredible to view these two large transport aircraft being flown so close to each other
and then the fighter style break followed by the streaming touch and go and spiral climb
to altitude.
AAD 2008 was a huge success, the organisers of AAD 2008 had obviously taken lessons
from AAD2006 and addressed many (if not all) the issues that had arisen then. Food
stalls and amenities were a plenty and with a park and ride system implemented from
Ratanga Junction along with ticket pre-sales saw a far more efficient event for the
visitors on the Saturday alone. A show of this size requires much organisation and
logistical support and the members of AFB Ysterplaat, the show and event organisers as
well as all the parties who are seldom, if ever seen must be congratulated on the superb
and safely run event.
All photos: C. Hugo, F. Hugo, P. van Schalkwyk, E. Kotze’, J. van Zyl & H. Burger.
Additional photos: MDBA, Diehl, Boeing, BAe Systems, ATE & KPB. Photo manipulation: A.
Dyason.
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