The RAAF’s 36 Squadron is using the popular DJI Phantom 4 drone to conduct visual inspections of its C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft. Using the consumer-level drone, which retails for around $1,100, means 36SQN maintenance personnel can inspect hard-to-access areas of the aircraft, including its 16.8-metre high vertical stabiliser, for paint…
By Robbin Laird As I have noted earlier, the CH-53K is the next major USMC air platform, which reflects a 21st century development, build and support process. The aircraft is a digital aircraft and has been designed with supportability built into the aircraft. The software upgradeability of the aircraft allows…
By Robbin Laird Because the F-35 has been built from the outset on a digital thread production approach and foundation, the program can incorporate, and contribute to a broader set of industrial transformations, known as Industry 4.0. In other words, the F-35 can produce an innovative combat aircraft but it…
By Kabelo Tsogang A delegation from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Central Military Commission Logistics Support division, steered by its Deputy Chief of Administrative Office, Senior Colonel Huang Dongping, have visited the South African Department of Defence Logistics Division in Pretoria and Cape Town to finalise hosting the first military…
Interestingly, a combination of a Danish transport company, Chinese shipbuilding and Russian clients have put together the next phase of global transit. A Maersk ship has left Asia bound for Russia through the Northern Passage. "A brand new ice-strengthened containership is heading straight into the annals of maritime history. As…
The UK MoD opened up a new military support hub last year to support UK force operations. A recent article on the UK MoD website highlighted the development. Defence Minister Stuart Andrew visited the £83 million Defence Fulfilment Centre (DFC) after touring the armoury and current logistic facilities on-site at…
By Robbin Laird It would be hard to find a key combat asset for the Australian Defence Force, which has received more criticism over the years than the Collins class submarine. Yet while the past is behind us, the narrative has clearly changed. The Royal Australian Navy working with its…
By Robbin Laird The heavy lift transition from CH-53E to CH-53K is one of the last modernization efforts of Marine Corps Aviation set in motion when Lt. General Trautman was Deputy Commandant of Aviation. Although this essential capability is last replacing the readiness challenged 30-year-old CH-53E, it is leveraging lessons…
