annrep 1011 1 to 148.qxp - Department of Defence

D E P A R T M E N T O F D E F E N C ECup. The technology development support to ChemicalDefence ensured that adequate decontamination supportmeasures were in place during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.Similarly, some of the acquired or upgraded systems willplay an integral role in the SANDF border safeguardingactivities (Op CORONA).Specific technology programmes were pursued to ensure theretention of the required technology base for effective localindustry participation in scheduled acquisition programmes.These technologies were also used to optimise or extend theremaining life of existing equipment. The defence science,engineering and technical expertise is focussed on the strategicallyessential requirements of the SANDF.During the period under review, Chief of Defence Matériel(C Def Mat) accepted responsibility for the provision of anodal point for reporting to the Auditor General on matterspertaining to the management of defence Intangible CapitalAssets (ICA). A distinct component of this portfolio consistsof interventions to manage the defence materiel and relatedIntellectual Property (IP). This is done in collaboration withARMSCOR as mandated through the ARMSCOR Act asbeing the custodian of the DOD IP. Defence IP will be managedby the DOD as crucial to the enhancement of the DODtechnology knowledge base and possible economy of scalebenefits. Of critical importance is the development of futureorientated definitions of military strategic IP with requisiteprotocol regimes for protection from infringement.In the period under review the following capabilities werecompleted:Landward Defence Acquisition.Strategic Defence Packages. No packages allocated.Other. The acquisition of the 60 mm long-rangemortar for the SA Army has been completed andthis weapon system will be commissioned in theFY2011/12. The training module of the UnmannedAerial Observation System was also deliveredto the SA Army. Night vision and navigationequipment for dismounted soldiers was deliveredto the SA Army as well. Two Thuthla radars withtheir support vehicles were deployed during the2010 Soccer World Cup event. The Thuthla radarsas well as the Tactical Battlefield SurveillanceSystem and the Mamba armoured personnel carrierswere handed over to the SA Army.Air Defence Acquisition.Strategic Defence Packages. With all 30 AgustaA109 Light Utility Helicopters delivered, theprocess of correcting deficiencies identified duringOperational Testing and Evaluation continued, asdid the delivery of contracted spares, training andground support and test equipment. A further foursingle-seater Saab Gripen advanced light fighterswere delivered. Delivery of contracted spares,training and ground support and test equipmentcontinued. The operational capability wasenhanced by the clearance of the IRIS-T interiminfra-red air-to-air missile. Operational Capability 4expansion of the BAE Systems Hawk Lead-inFighter Trainer to the SA Air Force was tested andqualified. Imple-mentation will take place in thenext financial year.Other. The Westland Super Lynx Maritime Helicopterhas been handed over to the SA Air Forcewith the exception of some training and delivery oftest equipment. The development of the A-Darterinfra-red air-to-air missile was continued as a successfuljoint venture with the Brazilian Air Force,with a number of successful test firings and clearanceon the Gripen fighter. The Minister of Defenceapproved an interim continuation of the RooivalkCombat Support Helicopter in May 2010. In termsof the programme, the first five aircraft were handedover with full Type Certification to the SA AirForce on 01 April 2011. The avionics upgrade ofthe Oryx Medium Transport Helicopter suffered asignificant setback when DENELAviation declareda 14 month delay in schedule. High-level managementintervention and oversight was instituted tocorrect the deficiencies and to ensure that there wasno further delay in the schedule. The local implementationprogramme for the avionics upgrade ofthe Astra PC7 Mk II aircraft has been initiated andgood progress has been made with 11 out of 35 aircraft,as well as one of two aircraft simulators delivered.The upgrade of the Cessna 208 Caravan withan observation ball (10 aircraft fitted for and threeobservation balls provided) has been completed.Naval Acquisition.Strategic Defence Packages. Both the SA NavyStrategic Defence Package programmes (fourMeko 200 Frigates and three Class 209 Type 1400Submarines) have entered the closing phase.Other. The focus of Naval Acquisition was aimedat the SA Navy patrol vessel requirement, as well asthe core mine warfare and hydrographical capabilities.The magnetic treatment range for the depermingof ships and submarines is in the processof being handed over from the project to the SANavy, and the logistic support requirements for thissystem are being addressed.Common Weapon Acquisition. The DepartmentalInformation and Communications Infrastructure projectsdevelopment are progressing according to plan with thefirst Ultra High Frequency and Very High Frequency40ANNUAL REPORT FY 2010/2011