Experts Apprehensive About Prospects of AFP 'Minimum Credible Defense Posture'

27 Juli 2015

Shore-based Missile System (photo : Nafomag)

MANILA - Can the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) attain a "minimum credible external defense posture" as promised by President Aquino before he steps down in 2016?

Aquino is set to give his fifth and last State of the Nation Address (SONA) this coming Monday, and part of his report, as expected, is to update his "Bosses" on the current state of the AFP in the face of China's aggressive reclamation activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In some of his previous SONA, Aquino assured the nation of the highest level of security from the external defense establishment. But, up to now, he has not yet signed the proposed revision of the AFP Modernization for 2013-2017 with a total budget of P60.1 billion, which is also riddled with realignments, most especially the P6.5 billion worth of Shore-based Missile System (SBMS).

"[The] remaining time is too short. Big-ticket items take a long time to implement," former AFP chief of staff Alexander Yano responded when asked of his personal opinion.

Yano was chief of the military during the time of former Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Reached through his mobile phone for reaction, Parañaque City Representative Roilo Golez concurred with Yano, although he said Aquino's concern for the AFP, one of the weakest in the region, is very much appreciated.

"In fairness, he (Aquino) did much better than the other presidents before him," Golez said.

But former AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu said the failure to achieve minimum credible external defense posture can also be blamed on the "weak defense leadership."

"Well, simply because the AFP Modernization got stalled in the first place," he said, adding the observation that the AFP "doesn't even seem to know its priorities" in terms of capabilities needed to attain it.

"Worse, corruption has apparently attended the procurement of major items that the AFP urgently needed. Also, personal interests over organizational needs characterized the defense decision-making process. National security and defense are in the back-burner," Mapagu said.

Golez said he believes a minimum credible defense posture is not realizable under Aquino's term.

"No shore-based missile, no flotilla of missile boats and no missile frigates and no combat-ready fighter jets with well-trained pilots, how can you say you have a minimum credible external defense posture?" Golez asked.

He pointed out that, while there are 12 FA50 fighters worth P19.8 billion on order from the Republic of Korea (ROK), these are not combat-ready.

"There are two frigates to be ordered with funds already but will be ready only after three, maybe 4 years. Then we have the two former US Coast Guard cutters, the BRPs Gregorio del Pilar and Ramon Alcaraz, better than previous Navy ships but not fit even for joint operation with the US Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force," Golez said.

He said the SBMS is big step to jump-start the territorial defense posture, but the project is in peril after then Army chief and now AFP chief Gen. Hernando DCA Iriberri shelved it in favor of infantry helmets and body armors, instead.

"Iriberri is to blame for canceling the shore-based missile system. He obviously does not understand external defense and is unfit to lead the AFP when we are facing a grave external threat. I urge the Commission on Appointment not to confirm him," Golez said.

But Iriberri denied that the missile project has been shelved, because the acquisition is only deferred from the 1st Horizon (2013-2017) to the 2nd Horizon (2018-2023), which is already beyond Aquino's term.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Cesar Garcia Jr. has been repeatedly saying in public that the biggest and categorically clear and present danger to our national security is the aggression of China, which the President and the military leadership do not seem to consider.

In the last five years of the Aquino administration, the government has, so far, not acquired any military asset for addressing external threats.

Golez said the SBMS could be the only credible weapon system to thwart off potential aggression. However, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Iriberri have recommended to Aquino the realignment of the SBMS.

If Aquino approves the realignment of the SBMS and/or deferment of the project implementation beyond his term, defense and security experts said they shudder at the thought of its possible implications for the country's external defense capability.

The government also risks the diplomatic backlash from Israel, which has been a long-standing ally of the Philippines and where 30,000 undocumented Filipinos are currently staying yet enjoying favors from the Israeli government.

A military source disclosed that Israel Military Industries (IMI) is considering the filing of a diplomatic protest on the issue of the supply contract for the SBMS.

(InterAksyon)

Php75-B Budget for AFP Modernization in 2016 to Undergo Strict Scrutiny

22 Juli 2015

Php25 billion of the Php75 billion will be used to acquire two frigates, two twin-engine long range patrol aircraft, three aerial surveillance radars, and pay for the amortization of 12 FA-50 light fighters. (image : Navantia)

MANILA (PNA) -- The proposed Php75-billion military modernization budget for 2016 “sticks out like a sore thumb” and will undoubtedly be subject to greater scrutiny in the House of Representatives, a party-list lawmaker said Wednesday.

“We have yet to see the actual budget proposal, but based on what the Department of National Defense has announced yesterday, the AFP Modernization Program will get a substantial bump in the 2016 budget, from the current P20 billion to P75 billion. That’s a substantial increase, and if DND and the AFP think this proposal can get a free pass from Congress because they’re using the West Philippine Sea issue as justification, then they’re wrong,” Kabataan Party-list Rep Terry Ridon said.

According to DND, Php25 billion of the Php75 billion will be used to acquire two frigates, two twin-engine long range patrol aircraft, three aerial surveillance radars, and pay for the amortization of 12 FA-50 light fighters.

“While the DND is keen on emphasizing the need to strengthen our nation’s maritime defense, we have to put this budget request in context. Since the enactment of the AFP Modernization Act in 1995, Congress has been appropriating billions for military modernization annually. It’s already 2015, and we still have weak maritime defense and creaking World War 2 era ships. So we need to ask the DND and the AFP to report on where the billions sunk into the modernization program went,” Ridon explained.

As bulk of the budget request of the DND will be for the procurement of new military equipment and facilities, Ridon also said that the budget request is “highly vulnerable to corruption.”

“The AFP is still reeling from the Php1.2 billion defective chopper deal. And when it comes to financial accountability, the military is not exactly a shining example,” the youth lawmaker said. “This is why we cannot just let the military to get its budget approved in toto. Every item will be scrutinized and debated on, and we’ll leave no stone unturned,” he added. 

(PNA)

Defense Budget Reduced by P2b

21 Juli 2015

The First batch of 6 Upgraded APC's delivered to the Philippine Army mechanized infantry division has been already in the country (photo : AFP will rise)

THE government has slashed to P25 billion the 2016 budget of P27,752,655.774.55 being proposed by the Department of National Defense, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad confirmed on Monday.

He said the appropriation would be used to buy modern equipment for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, one of the weakest in Asia.

The P27.7 billion defense budget for 2016 is part of the proposed Revised AFP Modernization Program dated Oct. 29, 2014, with a total amount of P90,858,912,364.56 including P31,106.003,531.90 in 2015 and P18,589,184,038.45 in 2017.

The Defense Department said that of the P90.8 billion budget for 2014-2017, it had P13,410,026,020.06 allocation in 2014 but it has yet to itemize the money.

The Budget Department must be more transparent in releasing figures because Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, in his letter to President Benigno Aquino III dated March 5, 2015, said it appeared that the P90.8 billion defense budget for 2014-2017 for 33 projects had further been slashed to P60,143,404,181.90 with 28 projects.

Gazmin said Aquino “approved in principle” 28 projects under the with a total budget of P60.1 billion during a meeting that the latter presided over on Feb. 17, 2015. Abad and all the AFP Major Service commanders, Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, among others, were also in the meeting.

In his letter, Gazmin said the proposed P60.1 billion budget was for 2015-2017 that he submitted to Abad on Feb. 23, 2015.

Meanwhile, the P25 billion defense budget for 2016 reportedly will be used to buy two frigates, two twin-engine long-range patrol aircraft and three aerial surveillance radars to boost the military’s capability to defend the West Philippine Sea from China’s aggression in the area.

(ManilaStandardToday)

Philippines Proposes Record $552 Million Defence Spending Next Year

20 Juli 2015

Spending needed for AFP modernization (image : Wall Street Journal)

MANILA (Reuters) - The Philippines is proposing to spend a record 25 billion pesos ($552 million) next year to purchase frigates, surveillance planes and radars to improve surveillance and detection in the disputed South China Sea, officials said on Monday.

The funds to modernise the military are part of President Benigno Aquino's 3 trillion pesos ($66.24 billion) budget bill in 2016, his last year in office. Aquino is no longer eligible to run for a second term.

The budget proposal is 15.1 percent more than the current appropriation of 2.606 trillion pesos, according to Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, adding the about 80 percent of the proposed government spending "will be eaten up by the forward estimates or the cost of ongoing programmes and projects".

"In 2016, our proposal to Congress is 25 billion pesos for the modernisation programme," Abad told Reuters saying this would be the highest-ever spending for military modernisation in two decades.
Abad said the government's proposed budget, including the defence spending plan, would be submitted to Congress next week after the president delivers his last State of the Nation Address on July 27.

A senior military general, who declined to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the press, told Reuters the funds would be used to acquire two frigates, two twin-engine long range patrol aircraft and three aerial surveillance radars.

The rest of the money would be for annual amortization of 12 FA50 light fighters ordered from South Korea. Two planes are due for delivery this December. ($1 = 45.2900 Philippine pesos)

(DailyMail)

President Aquino Proposed Php172 billion for DND in 2016

07 Juli 2015

Presiden Aquino proposed Php172 billion for DND in 2016, 19% higher than Php144.5 billion in 2015 (photo : baomoi)

President Aquino okays Php3.002-Trillion proposed '16 budget

MANILA (PNA) -- The Education, Public Works and Highways and the National Defense departments continue to have the biggest allocation in the proposed Php3.002 trillion 2016 national budget, which President Benigno Aquino III approved Monday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., in a statement, said the planned national budget for next year is 15.2 percent higher than this year's Php2.606 trillion and accounts to about 19.5 percent of the country's total output.

But while the Department of Education (DepEd) received the highest allocation, it is the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Health (DOH) that were given big increases.

DepEd's proposed budget for next year amounts to Php436.5 billion, or 18.9 percent higher than its Php367.1 billion budget this year.

Meanwhile, the proposed budget for DPWH and DOH jumped by 32 percent and 25.2 percent, respectively.

DPWH got a proposed budget amounting to Php401.14 billion from this year's Php303.2 billion, while DOH's budget for 2016 amounts to Php128.5 billion from Php103.9 billion this year.

Coloma attributed the hike in these two departments' budget to "efforts to boost public infrastructure development and support economic expansion as well as to improve health care services especially to the poor and most vulnerable sectors of society."

The bid to put in place necessary infrastructure were stressed by the President during the Cabinet meeting, he said after the Chief Executive "directed all Cabinet members to intensify efforts at completing the delivery of programs, especially those on public infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of "Yolanda"-affected and other calamity areas."

Department of National Defense

Relatively, the proposed budget of the Department of National Defense (DND) next year amounts to Php172 billion, higher than this year's Php144.5 billion; and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is Php156 billion from Php141.4 billion this year.

On the other hand, proposed budget of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for next year amounts to Php107.6 billion, slighlty lower than its Php108.2 billion budget this year.

Coloma, in a text message to PNA, said the adjustment in the department's proposed 2016 budget "is not big or significant" since other agencies focused on the delivery of social services such as education, health and housing were proposed to have budget increases.

The planned 2016 national budget is scheduled to be submitted to Congress on July 28, 2015, a day after the President delivers his final State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Earlier, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad said debt service under the proposed budget for next year accounts for 14 percent of the total budget at about Php419 billion.

Also, 85 percent of next year's proposed borrowing program will be sourced on-shore while the balance of 15 percent will come from foreign creditors with the bias still on domestic borrowing to lessen foreign exchange risks.

Relatively, Abad said infrastructure spending for next year was placed at Php768 billion, which already includes those for local government units (LGUs).

The government has been increasing its infrastructure spending and targets this to account to about five percent of GDP by 2016 to ensure that necessary infrastructure would be in place to sustain the strong domestic growth. 

(PNA)

Rencana Perawatan dan Perbaikan Alutsista TNI Capai Rp 120,6 Triliun

06 Juli 2015

Fregat ringan F2000 dan korvet kelas Sigma (photo : pr1vat33r)

Jakarta - Panglima TNI Jenderal Moeldoko menyatakan TNI sedang menyusun rencana strategis (renstra) untuk perawatan dan perbaikan alutsista sebesar Rp 120,6 triliun. Dana renstra tahun 2015-2019 tersebut ingin segera didorong agar mendapat persetujuan presiden.

"Jadi kami sedang menyusun renstra perawatan dan perbaikan alutsista. Untuk AD Rp 9,3 triliun, AL Rp 17,4 triliun dan AU Rp 93,9 triliun," ungkap Moeldoko dalam pemaparan hasil kerjanya di hadapan komisi I DPR di Mabes TNI Cilangkap, Jaktim, Senin (6/7/2015).

Dengan dana perawatan dan perbaikan sebesar itu, diharapkan Moeldoko, renstra dapat terprogram dengan baik. Panglima TNI tidak ingin ada alutsista yang ditambal sulam lagi.

"Jangan sampai ada tambal sulam atau kanibal. Itu tidak boleh lagi. Ini keharusan. Kalau tidak prajurit TNI akan menghadapi situasi sulit nantinya. Renstra ini segera kami dorong ke presiden untuk disahkan melalui perpres," kata Moeldoko.

Mengenai alutsista, Panglima TNI mengakui bahwa betul masih ada 52 persen alutsista yang berusia di atas 30 tahun. Namun dengan adanya "minimum essential force", menurutnya alutsista-alutsista tua akan tergeser dengan sendirinya.

"Saya pikir dengan peremajaan melalui MEF kemarin, langkah kita sekarang 34 persen, pasti secara alamiah alutsista kita yang sudah kuno itu akan minggir pelan-pelan. Contoh, Marinir masih punya BTR buatan tahun 1957, sama seperti saya itu lahirnya, tapi masih terpelihara. Nanti secara alamiah akan tergeser," jelas jenderal bintang 4 itu.

Selain itu, Moeldoko menyebut TNI AD masih memili tank AMX yang baru saja diretrovit. Itu pun lama kelamaan akan dipensiunkan seiring adanya peremajaan alutsista.

"Memang benar kami masih punya alat-alat yang tua tapi secara alamiah melalui MEF akan bergeser," ucapnya.

Selain renstra pemeliharan dan perbaikan alutsista, TNI juga menyusun renstra pengadaan alutsista, dan renstra kesejahteraan prajurit serta PNS di jajaran TNI. Ini diharapkan dapat tercapai pada renstra 2015-2019.

"Itu termasuk juga di antaranya perumahan (untuk prajurit)," pungkas Moeldoko. 

(Detik)

Anggaran TNI 2016 Rp 101 T, Pemeliharaan dan Perbaikan Alutsista Dapat Porsi Besar

03 Juli 2015

Prediksi anggaran tahun 2016 adalah Rp 101 triliun atau naik 4,5% terhadap tahun 2015 (photo : Merdeka)

Anggaran di Atas Rp 100 Triliun, TNI Fokus Rawat Alutsista

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia -- Panglima TNI Jenderal Moeldoko menyatakan, tahun 2016 anggaran TNI sebesar Rp 101 triliun. Jumlah ini meningkat dibandingkan tahun sebelumnya Rp 96,6 triliun.

"Tahun 2016 sudah ter-deploy kurang lebih Rp 101 triliun," ujarnya ketika ditemui di Ruang Tamu Panglima TNI, Jakarta, Kamis (2/7).

Anggaran tersebut, menurut Moeldoko, nantinya akan diarahkan untuk membiayai program-program pada rencana strategis pemeliharaan dan perbaikan seluruh jenis alat utama persenjataan TNI. Pemeliharaan pesawat-pesawat milik TNI Angkatan Udara masuk dalam rencana strategis tersebut.

Anggaran pemeliharaan ini menurut Moeldoko tidak kalah besar dengan anggaran pembelian alutsista baru. 

Khusus untuk pesawat seperti Hercules yang tergolong tua, ia berharap ke depan TNI dapat mengawasi dan mengukur secara rinci jam terbang pesawat-pesawat tersebut. 

"Per item, per menit, per jam, per hari pakainya semua harus tercatat dengan baik. Ini memang perlu anggaran yang tidak sedikit, tapi harus seperti itu," ujarnya. 

Tak hanya renstra pemeliharaan dan perbaikan alutsista, TNI juga telah menyusun dua renstra lain yang harus sudah tercapai pada tahun 2019, yaitu renstra pengembangan dan pembangunan kemampuan TNI serta renstra pembangunan kesejahteraan prajurit.

Sebelumnya Presiden Joko Widodo menyatakan, anggaran TNI bahkan bisa di atas Rp 200 triliun. Namun syaratnya pertumbuhan ekonomi harus menyentuh level 7 persen. 


Untuk mencapai target pertumbuhan tersebut, Indonesia menurutnya harus tetap mempertahankan stabilitas keamanan dan politik.(CNN Indonesia)

Anggaran Alutsista Indonesia Rp12 Triliun

Metrotvnews.com, Jakarta: Alat utama sistem persenjataan (alutsista) TNI kembali disorot setelah pesawat Hercules C130 jatuh di Medan, Sumatera Utara. Publik mengkritik pemerintah yang memilih hibah alusista dari negara lain ketimbang membeli baru.

TNI memang terus berusaha melakukan pemeliharaan dan memodernisasi alutsistanya. Tapi anggaran yang disediakan hanya sekitar Rp12 triliun.

"Dari Rp102 triliun anggaran TNI, yang nyata dipakai untuk alutsista cuma Rp12 triliun," kata anggota Komisi I DPR TB Hasanudin di Kompleks Parlemen Senayan, Rabu (2/7/2015).

Jika dilihat secara keseluruhan, anggaran pertahanan tampak besar. Namun dari Rp102 triliun anggaran yang ada, hanya 77 persen untuk anggaran TNI. Itu pun dibagi untuk Mabes TNI dan tiga matra yang ada.

"Nah, Angkatan Udara contohnya. Anggarannya Rp13 triliun, Rp3,5 triliun untuk gaji, Rp6 triliun belanja barang seperti latihan, beli suku cadang, perawatan. Cuma Rp3,7 triliun belanja modal. Itu yang untuk beli alutsista," jelas purnawirawan Jenderal TNI ini.

Angka ini sangat menyedihkan jika dibandingkan dengan kebutuhan modernisasi alutsista TNI. Untuk AU, anggaran tersebut hanya mampu untuk membeli dua unit F-16 baru yang harga satuannya Rp1,5 triliun.

"Sedangkan anggaran untuk Angkatan Laut Rp4,02 triliun, dan untuk Angkatan Darat Rp4,9 triliun," kata dia.

Karena itu, Hasanudin berharap, Presiden Joko Widodo segera merealisasikan rencana menaikkan anggaran untuk TNI hingga 1,5 persen dari pendapatan domestik bruto Indonesia. Jika begitu, anggaran TNI akan mencapai Rp150 triliun per tahun.

"Nah itu jangan dipakai untuk macam-macam. Anggaran Rp50 triliun itu dilarikan ke alutsista. Kan lumayan, naik jadi Rp62 triliun untuk alutsista," kata dia.


Anggaran pertahanan TNI memang sangat kecil. Bahkan jika dana aspirasi untuk dewan diloloskan dengan pagu Rp20 miliar per dewan di APBN, anggaran pembelian senjata TNI sama dengan total pagu dana Usulan Program Pembangunan Daerah Pemilihan: sekitar Rp12 triliun. (MetroTVNews)

Fregat Van Speijk class (photo : US 7th Fleet)

Kasal: Alutsista TNL AL 50 persen butuh peremajaan

Merdeka.com - Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (Kasal) Laksamana TNI Ade Supandi mengatakan bahwa kapal perang jenis fregate milik TNI AL sudah terlalu tua. Namun kapal fregate sudah melakukan peremajaan mesin.

"Untuk alutsista TNI AL kita anggap 50 persen membutuhkan peremajaan, tetapi sebelum peremajaan juga melaksanakan pemeliharaan. Untuk yang paling tua adalah kapal fregate yang dulu bekas dari Belanda," kata Ade Supandi di Kantor Panglima TNI, Jakarta, Kamis (2/7).

Menurut Ade, kapal fregate masih bisa digunakan untuk berpatroli sampai pada tahun 2020 mendatang. Sehingga kemampuan kapal fregate dalam operasi laut terus berkurang. 

"Bukan karena momentum ini tapi memang sudah masuk MEF (minimum esential force) untuk peremajaan kapal-kapal angkatan laut," ujar dia.

Sebelumnya, anggota komisi I DPR Tb Hasanuddin menyatakan seluruh alutsista yang dimiliki TNI sudah uzur, maka perlu dilakukan pembelian yang baru. Hal itu karena pesawat Hercules C-130 nomor seri A-1310 jatuh di Medan buatan tahun 1964. (Merdeka)

Funds for AFP Modernization Assured

27 Juni 2015

Defence spending in the region (all images : PAF)

THE modernization of the Armed Forces will continue as the government will continue acquiring equipment to provide the needs of its soldiers, Malacañang said Tuesday.

“The AFP has a modernization plan and the Aquino administration has consistently made sure that it is funded,” deputy presidential spokeswoman said in a text message to reporters.

“We continue to acquire equipment that will serve the needs of our soldiers as well as engage with other countries to continue training and learning best practices.”

Valte made her comments after she was asked about the AFP’s capability to defend the South China Sea, where China has been building islands.

The AFP recently said one of its problems was  its “limited equipment and facilities” to defend Philippine territory against China’s creeping expansion in the South China Sea.

A report says the Philippine Air Force has also acknowledged its weaknesses in territorial defense in its strategic plan called Flight Plan 2028.

The Air Force cited limited equipment, bases and facilities for territorial defense as well as inadequate training and the absence of established doctrines for territorial defense.

It also admitted in a report in April that it is not configured for territorial defense.

The Philippine military has been trying to build a minimum credible defense amid China’s expansion in the South China Sea.

The report says the Air Force’s breakthrough goal is to “build capability to detect, identify, intercept and neutralize intrusions in the Philippine Air Defense Identification Zone and West Philippine Sea by 2022 and the entire Philippines by 2028.”

The Air Force aims to have Area Readiness 3 to Area Readiness 1.

The report says the ability to neutralize incursions refers to 51 to 74 percent of Philippine territory while Area Readiness 1 means 100 percent of the country’s territory, which is estimated to be 40,000 square nautical miles.

On the other hand, Jane’s Defense Magazine in 2012 said the Philippines has no fighter aircraft compared to China’s 1,082 with radars, missile defense, ballistic missile and nuclear arms.

Vietnam, one of the claimants in the South China Sea, has 208 fighter aircraft, Thailand has 55, Indonesia 48 and Malaysia 42.

(Malaysia Standard Today)

Government Approves Budget Allocation on Boats for ESSCOM

09 Juni 2015

More than 200 boats needed by Esscom (photo : Azrizainul)

KOTA KINABALU: The Federal Government has approved a special allocation of RM23 million for the purchase of various assets including more than 200 boats urgently needed by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).

Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Dr.Ali Hamsa said there is a pressing need for the assets to face the threat of cross-border crime, particularly kidnapping in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE).

He said the allocation is in addition to the RM660 million given to ESSCOM as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak when tabling the 2015 Budget last year

“The government has approved an additional RM23 million to the existing allocation for the purchase of small assets that are needed immediately which include the purchase of more than 200 boats, to strengthen security in the waters of ESSZONE,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after a meeting with the officials of ESSCOM and representatives of the top management of federal agencies, at the office of the Sabah Federal Secretary in the Federal Administrative Complex here yesterday.

Also present were the Director-General of Public Service Tan Sri Mohamad Zabidi Zainal, Commander of ESSCOM, DCP Dato Abd Rashid Harun and ESSCOM CEO, Ruji Ubi.

Ali Hamsa said the meeting, among others, discussed and carefully studied the mechanism to expedite the procurement of equipment and assets needed by ESSCOM.

“Our discussions were mostly on the process for expediting the procurement of equipment and assets for ESSCOM and if there were anything that delayed the process, it was discussed and addressed.

“From now on all will be expedited for ESSCOM … so there is no problem. What is important is that the main objective of this meeting is to ensure security in ESSZONE is guaranteed,” he said.

He added that the agencies concerned should also take action to ensure adequate assets and personnel to ensure security in the area.

“The purchase of the boat is immediate and if there are local suppliers who are ready, we will buy immediately. If not, we will make bookings,” he said.

Previously, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim was quoted as saying that out of the total allocation of RM660 million, ESSCOM was allotted RM65.9 million of which RM17 million was for operations and RM48.9 million for development.

The remainder was allotted to other security agencies such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).

ATM was granted RM83.5 million, APMM a sum of RM433.2 million and the police was allotted RM78 million to implement various development projects, including the purchase of assets.

(New Sabah Times)

28 AFP Modernization Projects Face Delay

01 Juni 2015

PF-16 BRP Ramon Alcaraz (photo : RAN)

MANILA, Philippines - Twenty-eight military projects, including base upgrades, various air assets, and ships might be delayed, as Malacañang has still to approve the Armed Forces Modernization Program.

Sources said the modernization program was submitted to Malacañang in February 2013, two months after President Aquino signed the bill into law.

However, the program has yet to be approved, The STAR learned yesterday.

A security official said the funds for the projects would not be released until the modernization program gets Aquino’s approval.

“Without the approval of Malacañang, these projects cannot proceed,” the official who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

“It will definitely put a dent on our capabilities and will affect our goal to achieve a credible defense posture.”

Under the revised Armed Forces Modernization Law, the President, upon the recommendation of the secretary of budget and secretary of defense shall submit the upgrade program to Congress within 60 days since the law took effect.

The program will enumerate the military projects to be funded, priorities, schedules and the average cost of each project.

The 28 military projects have a total cost P60.14-billion.

Among the projects facing possible delays are those intended to boost the country’s territorial defense capability, a list obtained by The STAR showed.

The big-ticket items include two Navy frigates worth P18 billion; 
-three air surveillance radars worth P2.68 billion; 
-six close air support aircraft worth P4.97 billion; 
-two units of long range patrol aircraft worth P5.98 billion; 
-multi-purpose attack craft project worth P864.32 million; 
-night fighting system worth P1.116 billion; 
-two C-130 aircraft worth P1.6 billion; 
-two naval helicopters worth P5.4 billion; 
-and lead-in fighter trainer jets ammunition worth P4.47 billion.

Also in the list are four basing support system and logistics projects with a total budget of P2.15 billion.

The projects seek to improve existing military facilities in strategic areas.

Other items facing possible delays include Army radios, thermal imaging device, field ambulance units, armored personnel carriers, flight simulators, amphibious assault vehicles, combat systems, light utility vehicles and engineering equipment.

(PhilStar)

NZ Budget Down $10M; Appropriations Cut

25 Mei 2015

RNZAF C130H Hercules (photo : hottail)

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — New Zealand's budget for 2015/16 will include NZ $3.07 billion (US $2.24 billion) for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), down $10 million from last year.

Almost $1.99 billion is going to the three armed services: The Army's budget rises 2.3 percent to $742 million, the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) receives 2 percent more with $759 million, and the Royal New Zealand Navy's budget increases 3.8 percent to $492 million.

Budget estimates reveal that all three services underspent last year; the Army by $11 million, the Air Force by $10 million and the Navy by $7 million.

The Ministry of Defence's budget for appropriations, however, has been substantially cut, from $414 million to $239 million. However, Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee says the ministry will receive new operating funding of $27 million over the next four years.

Programs include $105 million to upgrade the Navy's two frigates, $40 million for Kaman SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, $7.4 million for new digital radios for the NZDF and $7 million on pilot training.

There is also $25.4 million budgeted for the two-year "Building Partner Capacity" mission to help train the Iraqi Defence Force.

Over the next four years, the Security Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Security Bureau will each gain $20 million, although for the coming year the intelligence service receives $5 million more and the security bureau $5 million less than last year.

"The extra funding will ensure New Zealand buys equipment that is fit for its needs, and acquires it on time, to budget, and to the specifications the government has agreed," Brownlee said.

However, Brownlee acknowledges that the government has to replace "billions of dollars" worth of equipment over the next 15 years.

Independent defense analyst Gordon Crane told Defense News that later this year, the next five-year defense white paper is due to be published and will likely provide details of intentions to replace major platforms, including the Navy's 27-year-old tanker and two Anzac-class frigates, commissioned in 1997 and 1999.

Also due to be replaced are the Air Force's fleet of five C-130H Hercules — one of which recently celebrated 50 years of operations — together with the six P-3K2 Orions, in service since 1966.

"They all are significantly expensive platforms to replace individually, only they are all coming to the end of their operational lives within a few years of one another," Crane said. "There was noticeable opposition to buying the Anzac frigates originally and the government of the day may face similar protests should it propose replacing the two frigates with three combat ships."

(DefenseNews)

Indonesia Will Have Fastest Growing Defence Budget in Asia Pacific Over Next Five Years

24 Mei 2015

Indonesian defence spending 2010-2019 (image : Jane's)

LONDON, UK – Indonesia will have the fastest growing defence budget in Asia Pacific over the next five years, according to new analysis released today by IHS Inc. (NYSE: IHS), the leading global source of critical information and insight.

Indonesia’s defence budget will increase by 17 percent in 2015, from IDR83.3 trillion ($6.3 billion) to IDR97.4 trillion ($7.4 billion) and is expected to grow 14 percent a year until the end of the decade (average annual growth). IHS Aerospace, Defence & Security forecasts that the Indonesian Defence expenditure will pass IDR180 trillion ($14.3 billion) annually by 2020.

“Growth of this scale is certainly exceptional and the Indonesian government appears committed to raising defence spending significantly” said Craig Caffrey, principal budget analyst for IHS Aerospace, Defence & Security. “The economic outlook for Indonesia remains strong and President Widodo’s removal of the fuel subsidy will free up additional money for defence.”

For the next five years, Indonesia is likely to see a consistent level of growth. “Achieving sustainable high growth rates seems entirely possible given the strong political backing defence appears to have,” Caffrey said.

Indonesia was the world’s 15th largest importer of equipment in 2014, according to IHS data, importing $1.8 billion worth of equipment. The single largest supplier of equipment to Indonesia last year was South Korea ($450 million).

Asia Pacific Driving Global Growth in Defence Spending

Growth elsewhere in Asia Pacific is also expected to be robust over the remainder of the decade averaging 4.7 percent in real terms. “Asia Pacific is really expected to be the driver behind global defence spending increases over the next five years,” Caffrey said “By the end of the decade, regional spending is expected to reach around $550 billion, or around a third of all global expenditure.”

(Jane's)

Australia Boost Defense Spending in 2015 Budget

13 Mei 2015

Fleet Base West (photo : RAN)

Budget 2015: Defence Budget Overview

The 2015 Budget is part of the Commonwealth Government’s plan to build a strong, safe and prosperous future for all Australians. The first responsibility of Government is to keep our people safe in an uncertain world.

In the 2015 Budget, the Government will continue to make a significant investment in the safety and security of all Australians.

This Budget continues to deliver on the Government’s commitment to increase Defence spending to two per cent of GDP within a decade and builds on the Government’s promise to provide Defence with a stable and sustainable funding growth path.

This path for growth reverses the damage done by Labor, which ripped $16 billion from Defence, reducing Defence spending as a percentage of GDP to the lowest level since 1938.

The Government will provide Defence with $31.9 billion in financial year 2015-16 and $132.6 billion between 2015-16 and 2018-19. This is an increase of $9.9 billion compared with the four-year estimates announced in the 2014-15 Budget (2014-15 to 2017-18).

The Abbott Government is committed to strengthening the Australian Defence Force through the development of a credible and fully costed 2015 Defence White Paper, ongoing support to Defence operations and an increased investment in Defence capability.

The delivery of the Defence White Paper, along with the Defence Investment Plan (incorporating a Defence Capability Plan) and Defence Industry Policy Statement later this year, will provide the Australian community and defence industry with the clarity and certainty that Labor failed to deliver. We will lay out a clear, fully-funded plan for a strong and secure Australia.

The Government is committed to implementing its First Principles Review of Defence to ensure the department is properly structured and has the right business practices in place to support the Australian Defence Force in the 21st Century. With ongoing reforms, Defence will be able to make better investments and provide better value to taxpayers. Where we can find cost savings, these will be re-invested in the ADF.

Defence Capability Investments

The Government is committed to bolstering our defence capabilities and supporting Australian defence industry.

Labor’s mismanagement led to 119 defence projects being delayed, 43 projects being reduced and eight projects cancelled, risking critical capability gaps. The Australian defence industry shed more than 10 per cent of its workforce because of budget cuts and deferrals, procrastination and lack of opportunity for Australian suppliers.

Fleet Base East (photo : RAN)

In the past 12 months, the Government has committed over $5 billion to new Defence capabilities. These projects have included:

• two additional Boeing C-17A Globemaster III aircraft to bolster the Royal Australian Air Force’s existing fleet of six strategic lift aircraft;
• new and improved personal protective equipment for soldiers, including new-generation body armour; and
• state-of-the-art Special Forces vehicles being assembled in Australia.

This is on top of the Government’s decisions to acquire P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft, F-35A Joint Strike Fighter and new replenishment vessels for the Royal Australian Navy.

The Government has also announced an investment in the order of $50 billion for Australia’s Future Submarine Programme. This is the largest Defence procurement investment in Australia’s history and we must get it right.

The Government is prepared to invest in the skills and knowledge base of the Australian naval ship building industry, and is prepared to commit to a long-term investment to make sure this important industry enjoys a future in Australia and these critical skills are maintained. Further capability announcements will be made in the Defence White Paper.

Defence Operations Funding

Recent events in Australia, Canada, France and around the world demonstrate the global nature of terrorism. The threat posed by ISIL or Daesh, is reaching out to Australians, as the terrorist incidents here late last year demonstrated.

We cannot allow violent extremism to spread to our shores. Nor can we afford to let it spread further within our region. The deployment of the ADF to Iraq reflects one part of the Government’s steadfast commitment to keeping Australians safe from terrorism and preventing the spread of violent extremism.

The Budget provides additional funding of $752.7 million in 2015 16 and $802.4 million between 2015-16 and 2017-18 to support defence operations. Including previously approved funding, this takes the total operations funding to $910.7 million in 2015-16 and $1,071.8 million between 2015-16 and 2017-18.

A significant portion of this funding will support ADF operations in Iraq. The Government has agreed Operation Okra will be supported by additional funding of $359.8 million in 2015 16 and $381.6 million between 2015-16 and 2017-18. Including previously approved funding, this takes the total funding to $390.8 million in 2015-16 and $418.3 million between 2015-16 and 2017-18.

Defence Force Pay

Recognising the unique nature of military service and the support offered by Defence families, the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin AC and the Government applied to the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal, seeking to improve the Defence Force pay offer. Subject to approval by the Tribunal, the decision to increase Defence Force pay to two per cent per annum will be effective from 12 March 2015.

This demonstrates the Abbott Government’s ongoing commitment to our men and women in uniform and their families.

For more information and access to the Portfolio Budget Statement, please visit www.defence.gov.au/budget/15-16

(Aus DoD)

Senate Approves Bill Amending AFP Modernization Act

12 Mei 2015

PAF 2028 Breakthrough Goal (image : pdff)

THE Senate passed on third and final reading Monday a bill seeking to a relax a provision of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act on the purchase of major equipment or weapon system.

"The highly, tedious, circuitous and complicated procurement process of the AFP thwarts the full implementation of the law," Trillanes, author and sponsor of Senate Bill 2269, said.

The bill provides that the acquisition of air force, navy and army equipment and material of such types and quantities shall be made in accordance with the need to develop AFP capabilities, pursuant to its modernization objectives.

He said Section 4(B) requires that no major equipment or weapon system shall be purchased if the same is not being used by the armed forces in the country of origin or if the same is not used by the armed forces of at least two countries.

Trillanes said the SB 2269 would amend the provision by allowing the purchase of major equipment or weapons system provided that the same is being used by the armed forces in the country of origin or used by the armed forces of at least one country.

"It is hoped that by relaxing the requirement, the acquisition process of the AFP can be unclogged, if not expedited, thereby hastening the implementation of the law," Trillanes said.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said the bill was part of the Senate's efforts "to improve the capabilities of the nation's armed forces by ensuring the speedy and efficient provision of military equipment and supplies so urgently needed by our fighting men and women."

Signed in 2012, Republic Act 10349 extends the comprehensive efforts to modernize the armed forces for another 15 years and to introduce needed reforms.

Since then, Trillanes said a total of 36 modernization projects worth P41.2 billion have been completed. 

(SunStar)

Thailand Increases Defence Budget by 7%

30 April 2015

Thailand's military has proposed a 2016 defence budget of THB207 billion (USD6.3 billion) (photo : DTI)

Thailand's military-run government has proposed a 2016 defence budget of THB207 billion (USD6.3 billion), a nominal increase of 7% over military spending in 2015.

According to budgetary figures announced by the government on 29 April, the 2016 defence budget will represent nearly 8% of the total state expenditure in the year. It also amounts to approximately 1.5% of GDP.

The budget will be submitted to the National Legislative Assembly for approval in mid-year before the beginning of Thailand's new fiscal year at the end of October.

Government records have not yet detailed a breakdown of the defence budget, although, according to IHS Jane's Defence Budgets, the Royal Thai Army traditionally receives around half the expenditure with the air force and navy each receiving about 22%.

(Jane's)

DPR Janji Naikkan Anggaran Alutsista TNI Hingga Rp 200 T

28 April 2015

Dengan anggaran pertahanan Rp 200 T artinya naik dua kali lipat dari anggaran yang ada sekarang (photo : fallenpx)

Merdeka.com - Komisi I Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat ( DPR) telah mencanangkan target untuk meningkatkan anggaran pengadaan Alat Utama Sistem Pertahanan (Alutsista) TNI sebesar Rp 200 triliun. Janji tersebut disampaikan langsung oleh Wakil Ketua Komisi I DPR Ahmad Hanafi Rais.

"Ini komitmen kami dan sudah direncanakan dalam rapat dengan anggota DPR-RI, maksudnya tidak lain untuk mendukung TNI menjadi lebih baik, profesional dan kuat, terutama dari segi kelengkapan peralatan alutsistanya," kata Ahmad Hanafi Rais di Mataram, Senin (28/4), seperti dilansir Antara.

Hal tersebut diungkapkan langsung oleh Hanafi dalam pertemuan yang digelar di Markas Komando Resor Militer (Makorem) 162/Wira Bhakti, turut hadir Pangdam IX Udayana, Mayor Jenderal TNI Torri Djohar Banguntoro.

Menurut putra Amien Rais ini, dukungan pengadaan alutsista di tubuh TNI sangat dibutuhkan dan penting bagi menjaga pertahanan dan keamanan teritorial Negara Indonesia. Dana ini akan dimasukkan dalam APBN dan diberikan secara bertahap selama lima tahun mendatang.

Saat ini, pemerintah telah menyiapkan anggaran untuk pengadaan alutsista senilai Rp 102 Triliun, angka ini meningkat dibanding tahun sebelumnya yang mencapai Rp 83 Triliun.

Mendengar janji itu, Pangdam IX Udayana, Mayor Jenderal TNI Torry Djohar Banguntoro terkait hal tersebut menyampaikan bentuk apresiasinya kepada pemerintah. Namun, hal tersebut tidak terlepas untuk menjaga kewibawaan Bangsa dan Negara Indonesia di tingkat nasional maupun di dunia internasional.

"Sebenarnya ini tidak lain untuk menjaga keutuhan wilayah NKRI maupun upaya dalam mempertahankan kedaulatan negara," ucapnya.

(Merdeka)

AFP Chief: Defense Spending Should be 1% of Philippines Budget

01 April 2015

The 2015 national budget stands at P2.6 trillion. In 2012, President Aquino signed a law that allotted P75 billion for the military’s modernization program from 2013 to 2017.(photo : Mack Milai)

MANILA, Philippines - Armed Forces chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang Jr. is pushing for greater military spending, saying this would enable the country to defend its territory.

Catapang said military expenditures should be increased to 1 percent of the national budget to enable the government to buy more equipment for territorial defense.

“What is important now is for our country to become prosperous because our argument is maybe at least we increase our expenditure for our defense and military,” Catapang said in a press briefing on Monday.

“What I’m proposing is that at least 1 percent of the approved national budget will go to the improvement of the capabilities of our defense and military units, to include the Office of Civil Defense,” he added.  

Catapang made the statement when asked what Filipinos can do to counter China’s aggressive expansion in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

The Asian superpower has been occupying disputed areas to assert its expansive territorial claim, including some areas that are well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

The 2015 national budget stands at P2.6 trillion. In 2012, President Aquino signed a law that allotted P75 billion for the military’s modernization program from 2013 to 2017.

The modernization program will be given P15-billion each year from the national budget. The annual outlay of P15 billion is equivalent only to about 0.57 percent of the 2015 budget.

Because of its poorly equipped military, the Philippines cannot stop China’s construction activities in its West Philippine Sea territories namely Mabini (Johnson South) Reef, Calderon (Cuarteron) Reef, Burgos (Gaven) Reef, Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reef, Kennan (Hughes) Reef, Zamora (Subi) Reef and Panganiban (Mischief) Reef.

When reminded that China would have been finished with its construction projects by the time the Philippines becomes a prosperous country, Catapang merely stressed the need to boost territorial defense capabilities.

“Reclaiming the areas is one side of the story but putting up a strong credible deterrence for our country, ensuring that our territory will be defended from any foreign country that intends to harm us, will be a very big boost to our territorial defense,” the military chief said. 

 “I don’t know the intention of China for doing this, but what is important is we are prepared to defend the country,” he added.

(PhilStar)