Lebanese Air Force acquiring Joint Programmable Fuze FMU-152

A US DOD award on November 27, 2017 confirms that the Lebanese Air Force will be receiving an unspecified number of the Joint Programmable Fuze (JPF), FMU-152. The fuze is compatible with the MK-82/83/84 and BLU-109/113 warheads which can be used in conjunction with Paveway and JDAM kits.

This order comes soon after the Lebanese Air Force received its first two A29 Super Tucano, and must be directly related to its armaments.

"Kaman Precision Products, Orlando, Florida; Middletown, Connecticut, has been awarded a $85,169,000 firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed fee contract for delivery of lot 13 of the joint programmable fuze, FMU-52 and corresponding production, test and engineering support.  Work will be performed in Orlando, Florida; and Middletown, Connecticut, with an expected completion date of Feb. 28, 2019.  This contract involves 26 percent foreign military sales to Bahrain, Belgium, Chile, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Lebanon, Morocco, Netherlands, Oman, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.  Fiscal 2017 procurement funds in the amount of $85,169,000 are being obligated at time of award.  This contract was a sole-source acquisition.  Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity (FA868118C0009).
https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract-View/Article/1381242/
 "

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Air Force to receive 6 MD 530G helicopters and 6 ScanEagle UAVs

On December 13, 2017 the US Embassy in Lebanon announced that the US will be funding three programs to support the Lebanese Army capability valued at more than $120 million. The programs will provide:

1. Six MD 530G light attack helicopters
2. Six ScanEagle UAVs
3. Communication, electronic, and night vision equipment

The Lebanese Air Force already operates an unspecified number of ScanEagle UAVs (ref) but the MD 530G is a new platform that would most likely cause the SA 342L Gazelle helicopters to be phased out sooner or later. The LAF has been trying to overhaul and upgrade its inventory of SA 342 Gazelle helicopters for long time, but it never managed due to funding limitations and undelivered French aids.

While only few of the Gazelles currently in service can fire guided missiles, the six MD 530G will be capable of doing so thanks to the modern technologies it is equipped with. The MD 530G uses the Moog Weapons Stores Management giving it flexibly and modularity in types of weapons it can be equipped with which range from guns to TALON and Hellfire missiles.  The weapons, together with the EO/IR sensor and on-screen targeting display, the platform will provide highly accurate hits.

"These programs are being funded through the Department of Defense’s “Building Partner Capacity” program and are together valued at more than $120 million.  The first program will provide the LAF a rotary wing close air support capability through delivery of six new MD 530G light attack helicopters and associated equipment and training, valued at more $94 million.  The second program will provide the LAF additional command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities through the delivery of six new Scan Eagle unmanned aerial vehicles and associated equipment and training, valued at more than $11 million.  The third program will provide the LAF additional capabilities to employ joint fire support and close air support through the delivery of communications equipment, electronics equipment, night vision devices, and training, valued at more than $16 million.

https://lb.usembassy.gov/centcom-commander-general-joseph-votels-visit-lebanon/
"


This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF officially adopts MultiCam camouflage for its standard combat uniforms

The Lebanese Army officially adopted the MultiCam pattern as of today as its standard combat uniform camouflage (Ref). In what seems as a major change, the LAF officers no longer wear golden ranks on their combat uniforms as this has been replaced with a solid dark color equivalent.

The U.S. Woodland has so far been the standard camouflage pattern for LAF standard combat uniforms. Special Operations units have for long time adopted different camouflage patterns including UCP and MARPAT.

Credits: LAF

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

A-29 Super Tucano Expectations VS Reality Illustrations for the Novice

Negative feedback that are not based on any facts & information or any kind of research continue to follow the reception of the first two Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano. Most of these comments stem from the fact that the A-29 is a turbo-propeller aircraft, and that's leading to all sorts of stereotypes, including considering it a WWII aircraft.

LAF Digest previously prepared a detailed article detailing facts & giving answers to common A-29 misconceptions. Today, we are attempting to change the mindset visually using expectations VS reality images. Just like the previous article, the target audience is the general public, not those who are savvy in military topics.

Click to enlarge photos.

The A-29 can deliver guided missiles & bombs without utilizing legacy tactics. The Mirage III photo is used on purpose because it is part of the Lebanese nostalgia. It is time to move on.

The A-29 has modern cockpit & avionics.

The A-29 has a pressurized cabin just like modern jets.

The MX-15 offers advanced surveillance and targeting capabilities.

Disclaimer: none of the photos used in the comparison are property of LAF Digest, all credit goes to original authors. 

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Facts & answers regarding the Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano for the novice

This article aims to clarify once for all what the Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano are about, and whether you should really care that they are not jets. The target audience is the general public, not those who are savvy in military topics.

The amount of negative feedback & ridicule that came along to the announcement of the six A-29 Super Tucano deal and the delivery of the first two is, the least we can say, not fair. These platforms will transit the Lebanese Air Force capability to a whole new level which was not reachable, and had the LAF had it before, would have changed a lot of things when it comes to the war against terrorism.

Here are some facts, and answers to frequent statements that clarify any doubt.

1. General
1. The Sierra Nevada A-29 Super Tucano is not equal (not the same) to the Embrarer EMB-314 Super Tucano. The A-29 is a further advancement of the original EMB-314 which includes changes in the ISR capability, cockpit, supported arms, engine, and additional armor.
2. The Super Tucano primary goal and role is not to be a trainer. It was made to be light-attack aircraft designed for counter-insurgency, close air support, and aerial reconnaissance. It is not a trainer with arms.
2. Survivability
1. The aircraft has advanced counter-measure systems against surface-to-air-missiles (short range and MANPADs). The MILDS F missile warning system and ALE-47 counter-measure dispenser in fact are used in some of the advanced aircraft and jet fighters, such as F-15, F-16, and F/A-18.
2. The MILDS F detects the incoming missiles, and the ALE-47 automatically releases the flare or chaff counter-measures accordingly.  
3. The A-29 adds up armor plates to those of the original Embrarer EMB-314 Super
   Tucano. Cockpit, fuel system and engine components all have armor plates by TenCate.
4. The A-29 can fly up to 35,000 feet and can engage targets from ~26,000 feet (Using Hellfire), a common 23 mm anti-aircraft (AA) gun max altitude is 6,500 feet, and a 35 mm AA gun is ~13,000 feet.
3. Electronics


1. The MX-15 camera/sensor is used on fixed-wing, rotary-wing, UAV, and aerostat all around the world. It is an advanced ISR and SAR camera with ability to see day/night, in poor weather, and from altitudes of 10,000 to 30,000 feet. Watch it in action.
   
2. The cockpit is equivalent to those on 4th and 5th generation aircraft.
3. Has advanced avionics and communications that are similar to those of 4th and 5th generation aircraft. 
4. Has ballistic computer to perform computations such as impact point which would then be displayed on a head-up display.
   
   
   

   

   SNC A-29 Super Tucano Pilot Cockpit
   Credit: SNC/Embrarer

   
   
4. Armament



Credit: SNC

1. Hellfire missile: no need to explain much about this infamous missile. One of the most advanced, top attack, air-to-surface missiles used on the AH-64 Apache, MQ-1 Predator UAV etc...
2. Hydra with APKWS: 70mm missiles with laser guidance improving accuracy to +93% hit rate.
3. GBU-12 Paveway II: The Paveway II is a laser guidance kit for bombs used by A-10, B-52, F-111, F-117, F-15, F- 16, F/A-18.
4. GBU-58 Paveway II: The Paveway II is a laser guidance kit for bombs used by A-10, B-52, F-111, F-117, F-15, F- 16, F/A-18.
5. The aircraft can also support other types of precision guided bombs, air-to-ground missiles, and air-to-air missiles.
5. Operation Effectiveness
1. To the contrary of a jet fighter, the A-29 can loiter (fly over) the battlefield for up to 8.5 hours (with external fuel tanks); this is compared to 2-3 hours with close-air support jets.
2. The A-29 can take off from virtually any flat surface that is long enough, it doesn't strictly require a true runway. 
6. Operation Cost
1. Thanks to its turbo-propeller engine, the cost-per-flight-hour to fly these compared to a typical jet fighter is fraction of the cost.
2.  Operation cost also involves consumable parts, and air-frame degradation, both of which come at a lower cost than a modern jet.

Frequent Statements and Questions:

1. This is a left over by the US Air Force
   Absolutely no. These are manufactured for the Lebanese Air Force. In fact, the US AF is currently evaluating this aircraft in order to obtain it for its counter insurgency operations. Read more here.
2. This aircraft is very old (or from WWII era) & no longer used because it is turbo-propeller.
   The original EMB 314 was introduce in 2003, so no it is not an "old" aircraft. The aircraft is used by major armies across the world for the specific mission it was made for. Some are probably surprised to see such an advanced cockpit (check up).
3. An AA gun can bring it down
   No, unless it is flying within range of the AA gun. Check the info about altitudes mentioned up. In reality, it is most likely that a non-radar AA gun (commonly operated by insurgents) would be taken out before the operator can even see or hear the aircraft.
4. Instead of advancing we are going back in time. Who uses propeller aircraft anymore?
   Wrong. Air forces with some of the most advanced jets over there are turning to turbo-propeller aircraft for their counter-insurgency and close air support operations. The market is growing with solution such as the Super Tucano, Cessna AC-208B, Air Tractor AT-802, and AT-6 Beechcraft.
5. This is a slow aircraft
   The aircraft is fast and agile. It can reach a maximum speed of 590 km/h. In fact, it has the speed for the mission it is intended for.
6. Only jet fighters like F-16 or F-35 can be effective for the LAF operations
   Sending an aircraft that is expensive to procure and to operate to counter-insurgency proved to be very costly. Consuming the air frame life, expensive spare parts, and expensive jet fuel, have led armies, including the US, to consider aircraft such as the A-29.
7. The A-29 is a toy or joke
   All the details above prove this is not true.
8. This does not stop the Israeli airspace violations
   These aircraft were not procured for this mission. The LAF is battling on different fronts. This aircraft has a specific mission, for which the LAF does not have an option beyond the less heavy Cessna AC-208B. The Israeli airspace violations should have other alternatives.
9. We could have acquired second hand older generation jets
   The technology advancement in the A-29 surpasses any old jet capability.
10. We should have acquired F-16
    If the LAF can afford to procure (buy, train, build facilities, transport etc...) and operate an aircraft such as the F-16, then this point can be discussed. For now, that's a far reach. Beyond, the A-29 would remain the aircraft preferred for the mission it is made for.
11. It took too long to receive them, ISIS is not anymore in Lebanon
    Procuring aircraft is not shopping a car. Moreover, these aircraft are made to order, and those who placed their orders first, have the priority. The real problem is all the causes that lead the LAF to take too long to place an order, on top of which is financing.
12. Propeller aircraft are in general an old technology
    Many modern military (and civil) aircraft still use propellers especially where speed isn't the main concern. Whether a military transport, UAV, or light-attack, turbo/propeller are still providing the power & safety needed for these aircraft to conduct their designed missions. Jet is not equal to modern, like turbo-propeller is not equal to old.

Further reading: Full specs of the Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano variant 

Recommended explanation video to watch:

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army receives first two A-29 Super Tucano at Hamat AFB

The Lebanese Army officially announced the delivery of two A-29B Super Tucano at Hamat Air Foce base (Ref). These two aircraft (15-2021 and 15-2022) were spotted on their way to Lebanon in different locations in Europe, details and photos here.


These two are the first batch of six A-29 Super Tucano with Hellfire capability ordered in 2015. This article details all the specifications & capabilities of the Lebanese variant.

We are expecting the official photos from the LAF and will update this article. An official hand-over ceremony has not been announced either.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

First batch of A-29 Super Tucano on its way to Lebanon

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)
 
Two Lebanese Air Force A-29 Super Tucano were spotted yesterday at Prestwick airport as they were conducting a ferry flight on their way to Lebanon.
Photographer David Townsend took these beautiful photos for the 15-2021 and 15-2022 as they were landing.

 

View full size on airplane-pictures.net.

 

View full size on airplane-pictures.net.

The two aircraft were later spotted on an unplanned stop due to weather conditions (Ref) at Munich Airport by Munich Aviation Spotter while they were on their way to Venice Marco Polo airport; more photos can be found here.

Source: Munich Aircraft Spotter

These two aircraft along to others were spotted in the past few months around Moody AFB; more info here. Lebanon acquired six A-29 Super Tucano with Hellfire capability for $462 millions back in 2015. This article details all the specifications & capabilities of the Lebanese variant.

It is a matter of few days before these aircraft arrive to their final home base, and we are all so excited!

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Jordan to provide Lebanese Army with 20 additional M60 tanks

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)
 
At least two Lebanese media outlets reported today (Ref 1, 2) that Jordan will be supplying Lebanon with additional M60 main battle tanks which would bring the total up to 30 (10 already delivered in 2009). The information comes as the LAF commander is currently on an official visit to Jordan.

No details on the delivery time-frame or variants are confirmed, but the 10 already delivered were A3 IFCS & TTS variants.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army is replenishing its stock of TOW and Hellfire Missiles

Within two weeks, three orders were placed to procure TOW II and Hellfire II missiles as part of larger contracts to supply other countries. The Lebanese army already effectively use these two missiles for some years now, and were used recently in the Fajr al-Jurud operation against ISIS.

1. September 18/28 2017: Two orders for an unspecified number of TOW II missiles with completion date in 2018 and 2020 respectively.
   Contract 1
   

   Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Arizona, has been awarded a $292,436,322 modification (PZ0055) to foreign military sales (Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Thailand, Bahrain, and Morocco) contract W31P4Q-12-C-0265 for Tube-launched Optically-tracked Wireless-guided missiles. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona; and Farmington, New Mexico, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2018. Fiscal 2010 foreign military sales funds in the amount of $292,436,322 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity.

   Contract 2
   

   Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Arizona, has been awarded a $300,088,180 fixed-price-incentive domestic and foreign military sales (Lebanon, Jordon and Morocco) contract for Tube-launched Optically-tracked Wireless-guided missiles for the Army, Marine Corps and foreign military sales customers. Bids were solicited via the Internet with one received. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona; and Farmington, New Mexico, with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2020. Fiscal 2010, 2015, 2016 and 2017 other procurement (Army); foreign military sales; and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds in the combined amount of $300,088,180 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-17-C-0194).

    
2. September 28, 2017: Order for an unspecified number of Hellfire II missiles with expected completion in 2020.
   

   Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Orlando, Florida, has been awarded a $103,287,296 modification (P00060) to foreign military sales (Croatia, Lebanon, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates) contract W31P4Q-15-C-0151 for Hellfire II missile production. Work will be performed in Orlando, Florida, with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2020. Fiscal 2015, 2016 and 2017 other procurement (Army) and other funds in the combined amount of $103,287,296 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity.

Contracts information quoted from https://www.defense.gov/

It is worth noting that these, and previously ordered/delivered TOW missiles are wirelessly guided to the contrary of what some military experts still describe the TWO missile as "wire-guided". Besides, while we do not know how many Hellfire missiles the LAF has used so far since the first delivery, but its arsenal of Hellfire missile seems to have been growing over the past few years thanks to multiple deliveries/contracts.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army is procuring $5 million Datron Communication systems

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Datron World Communication Inc. has been awarded a $5.1 million order to supply Lebanon with Datron equipment by January 2018 (Ref). The published award does not detail the equipment involved, but Datron manufactures a range of HF and VHF military voice & data communication systems.

Datron previously supplied the Afghan Army with PRC-1077 man-pack VHF radio, HH7700 VHF handheld radio, RT-7000 long-range HF radio, and PRC-1099 man-portable HF radio. We would expect that the contract of the Lebanese Army involves some of these models.

The Lebanese Army has been bolstering its communication capabilities for years now with several contracts with other suppliers such as Harris Corporation, most notably of which is a recent contract to supply comprehensive in-field tactical networks systems.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF to receive $69K worth of NVG accessories by October 2017

The LAF is set to receive $69.4K worth of night vision devices accessories early October 2017 as part of a larger indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity support contract for the US Department of Defense.

The contract was awarded to Aviation Specialties Unlimited, Inc. in June 2017. The company does not strictly manufacture aviation NVG however, despite what its name implies. It is unclear what accessories have been ordered, but the company offers a full range of accessories.
Source: https://govtribe.com
This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army receives first 8 M2A2 ODS Bradley

The Lebanese Army officially received today the first 8 of 32 planned M2A2 ODS Bradley during a ceremony at Beirut Port (Ref). The vehicles were offered as excess defense articles and were under discussion for a while now (Ref).

Along to the M2 Bradley, 10 M992 Field Artillery Ammunition Support Vehicle were also delivered. These will be complemented later with 28 more M992A2 (Ref) and up to 74 M109A5 Howitzers (Read more).

This is a big milestone for the Lebanese Army which has been attempting to increase its IFV fleet which consists of only 16 AIFV-B-C25 previously acquired from Belgium (Read more). For years the acquiring M2 Bradley seemed out of question.

It is unclear which units will be operating these vehicles at the moment, and it is unlikely to field them shortly in the expected battle against ISIS on the eastern borders.

Photo Credits: Lebanese Armed Forces (Source)

Update:
On the same day, BAE Systems was awarded a $8.9 million technical support and sustainment contract for the Bradley vehicles.

BAE Systems Land and Armaments L.P., San Jose, California, has been awarded an $8,982,981 modification (P00046) to foreign military sales (Lebanon) contract W56HZV-15-C-0099 for system technical support and sustainment system technical support for the Bradley family of vehicles. Work will be performed in San Jose, California, with an estimated completion date of July 8, 2020. Fiscal 2017 foreign military sales funds in the amount of $8,982,981 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Michigan, is the contracting activity.
https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract-View/Article/1279412/
 
This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF scales up its communication with a comprehensive in-field tactical networks systems from Harris Corp

Harris Corporation has been awarded a ~5.2 million USD contract to supply Lebanon with advanced networking/communication systems for both personnel and vehicles (Source). The contract would supply the Lebanese Army with:

• 68 Harris Falcon III RF-7850M-HH Multiband Networking Handheld with installation kits
• 34 Harris RF-7800I Tactical Networking Intercom System with vehicle installation
• 4 Laptops
• 1 Harris RF-7800N-SW1xx hManager Software Suite.
• Spares, training, maintenance test bench 

Description of the Systems
The RF-7800N hManager is a command and control software solution for tactical communications. It is a set of tools for planning, configuring, deploying, and monitoring wideband tactical networks.

The Harris RF-7800I is a vehicle intercom system,  it "delivers clear voice and data between crew members within the limited confines of military vehicles traveling in harsh conditions". The below illustrates on a typical installation:

Photo Credits: Harris Corporation (Source)

The Falcon III RF-7850M-HH "connects forces in an ad-hoc, self-forming, self-healing network, allowing users on a net to simultaneously communicate voice and time-critical Situational Awareness (SA)."

That's a solid upgrade & new capability for the Lebanese Army communication capabilities. The small number of items would limit fielding these systems to specific units, most likely SOF.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army to receive additional M121 120mm mortars starting 2018

Watervliet Arsenal has received a contract to supply the Lebanese Army with an unspecified number of M121 120mm mortars barrels and assemblies worth $615,000 (Reference). On average that amount would supply 30 mortar units, but that's a rough estimation.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF expects 200 MK19 Automatic Grenade Launchers & 5,212 M16A2 rifles

According to US Congressional notifications from DSCA on March 21, and 22, 2017, Lebanese Army is expected to receive a grant of 200 MK19 40mm Automatic Grenade Launchers & 5,212 M16A2 rifles under the EDA program. The M16A2 grant is valued at $390,379, while that of the MK19 is valued at $3,064,000.

MK19 Grenade Launcher (Source: http://www.peosoldier.army.mil/)

The LAF already operates both weapons for some years now. The M16 and M4 are the standard rifles among the absolute majority of the LAF units. As part of the latest M16 deliveries, the US delivered 1500 M16A4 back in 2014.

Source of Info: https://cha.house.gov/

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF expected to receive even more M109A5 & M992A2

According to US Congressional notifications from DSCA on May 16, 2017, Lebanese Army is expected to receive a grant of "up to" 50 M109A5 Howitzers along to 28 M992A2 Field Ammunition Support Vehicles under the EDA program. The grant is valued at $5,502,083.

Lebanon is already expecting 24 M109A5 and 10 M992 as EDA; it is not clear whether this new grant is completely separate from the previous authorization or an extension of it. Besides the LAF already operates 12x M109A2 received back in 2015 through transfer from Jordan.


Source of Info: https://cha.house.gov/

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF expects 1,800 M240B machine guns under EDA program

According to US Congressional notifications from DSCA on May 03, 2017, Lebanese Army is expected to receive a grant of 1,800 M240B machine guns under the EDA program. The grant is valued $1,426,860.

On May 05, 2017, the Lebanese Army took a delivery of 171x M240 machine guns along to other machines guns. The two grants appear to be separate given the time-frame of execution.

Source of Info: https://cha.house.gov/

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanon's expected 32 M2 Bradley IFVs will be A2 ODS

As previously reported, the Lebanese Army is expecting 32 M2 Bradley IFVs. As an update, based on information during US House hearing session held in February 2016, it is confirmed that the variant will be the M2A2 ODS.

Finally, Army is analyzing proposals to transfer 32 M2A2 ODS 
Bradley Fighting Vehicles (BFV) and 12 OH-58D Kiowa Helicopters to 
Lebanon via the Counter-terrorism Partnership Fund (CTPF) by Fiscal 
Year 2017. 
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CHRG-114hhrg22432/html/CHRG-114hhrg22432.htm

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Embrarer is finishing the last of Lebanon's 6 A-29 Super Tucano

According to a report from Janes, Embrarer/SNC is completing the last aircraft from Lebanon's order of 6 A-29 Super Tucano. The reports confirms what we expected before regarding the 4 aircraft currently at Moody AFB for training.

The first batch of aircraft are expected to start arriving in Lebanon by fall 2017. Earlier this year, photos & videos of the Lebanese A-29 during training surfaced online showing 3 different aircraft.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF receives first of 15 VAB HOT and a batch of HOT missiles

The Lebanese Army received today the first batch of a total of 15 VAB HOT (VCAC Mephisto), a variant of the VAB APC with HOT missiles launcher turret featuring 4 launcher tubes. In addition, the first batch of, possibly, hundreds of HOT missiles along to other ammunition, spare parts and 10 K9 dogs.

This first delivery included five VAB vehicles, three of which are meant to be for spare parts (ref). It is not clear how many HOT missiles were delivered exactly in this first batch, but there were at least 64 missiles on display based on the released photos.

This represents another donation by the French government, valued at nearly 15 million EURs. A previous donation in 2016 provided Milan AGTM missiles and other equipment also valued at 15 million EURs.

This is the first time the LAF operates the VAB HOT variant, these platforms were specifically selected to fit the needs & challenges faced on the borders with Syria.

 

Photo Credit: French Embassy

 

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

ScanEagle UAV Hardware & Support Solicitation for the Lebanese Air Force

The [US] Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is soliciting sole source agreement of $11.3M to "procure ScanEagle Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV's), spares, support equipment, tools, training, and support services in support of the Government of Lebanon previously procured ScanEagle Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS's)" (Ref).

The synopsis does not clarify the quantities, but continues by mentioning a very important point, this is a follow-up for previous FMS cases for "continued production and sustainment of previously procured ScanEagle systems by the Government of Lebanon" (Ref). The Lebanese Air Force already operates at least 4x ScanEagle UAVs (Some could be out-of-service due to crashes), but as we can understand from this new information, the FMS could have options to be exercised at any time to acquire additional systems.

It is also understood that the Rayak AFB would be the place of delivery. Rayak AFB has been receiving multiple US Air Force transport aircraft in the recent months which are expected to be delivering munition and equipment.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army expects 32 M2 Bradley IFV

According to Al-Hayat newspaper quoting Aram Nerguizian, a senior analyst at CSIS, the Lebanese Army is expecting 32 M2 Bradley IFV. No more details are provided on the variant and expected delivery time.

Aram Nerguizian is known to be very reliable regarding topics of Lebanese Army. On the other hand, in a previous article we covered the possibility of M2 Bradley deliveries given a statement regarding "new APCs" by the LAF commander.

It's great to see this possibility getting more of a reality. The M2 Bradley will have great role fighting on the Syrian borders.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Photos & Videos of Lebanese AF A-29 Super Tucano on Training Flights at Moody AFB

A YouTube channel has been releasing videos from all around Moody AFB. Along side, the channel seems affiliated with a Flicker account that is also showing photos from there. On their latest are some photos & videos showing Lebanese Air Force A-29 Super Tucano on training sorties.

The Lebanese Air Force pilots commenced their training at Moody AFB earlier this year. Photos from US AF showed a Lebanese pilot on an A-29 identified by Construction Number 15-2022. Moreover, Embraer confirmed delivering 2 Lebanese A-29 to USAF in their Q1 2017 results; but seems the number might be 4 by now. 

There are much more photos on the Flicker account, also the YouTube channel has multiple videos, but here are few photos & videos showing Lebanese A-29 identified by Construction Numbers 15-2021, 15-2022, and 15-2024. Check the links below to access the remaining media.

Looking forward to seeing these aircraft flying in Lebanon's sky.

Photos (Click to Enlarge):

 Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/131038794@N06/33710786125/in/album-72157678732008566/

 Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/131038794@N06/33028268010/in/album-72157678732008566/

 Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/131038794@N06/34280239022/in/album-72157678732008566/

Videos:
Quality is not the best you would expect

Another video here for some Lebanese and Afghan A-29

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MoodyWatchers
Flicker Account: https://www.flickr.com/photos/131038794@N06/
This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF takes delivery of hundreds of M2, M240, and M249 machine guns

The Lebanese Army took a delivery of 800x M2 .50 cal machine guns, 171x M240 machine guns, and 148x M249 light machine guns earlier today May 05, 2017 (Ref).

We had previously reported that the LAF expects 800 M2 machine guns worth $1,014,800.00 as excess defense articles.

 

Credits: LAF

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Air Force acquired Garmin G1000 desktop training devices

Garmin International received a contract back in 2016 valued $94,342 to provide the Lebanese Air Force with Garmin desktop training devices & Garmin maintenance mock-up training devices for the G1000 system.

Garmin G1000 - Source: garmin.com

 The Garmin G1000 is an avionics suite made for all-glass cockpits, including the Cessna Caravan; this system is also installed on the LAF AC-208B Cessna Caravan. These training devices, or simulators, would enable training on "the concepts and theories behind WAAS GPS; comprehend various different user interface tasks; understand G1000 LRU interfaces and architecture; competent with system software loading and configuration of the G1000; familiar with the databases associated with the G1000, their use, and updating procedures; and understand how to access different maintenance modes and procedures for the G1000" (Ref).


This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Embraer already delivered two Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano to USAF

Embraer released its Q1 2017 results, and the report confirms that two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft from the Lebanese Air Force order have been delivered to the US Air Force. These will eventually be commissioned to Lebanon.

We are already in Q2 and possibly more aircraft were delivered since end of Q1.

DEFENSE & SECURITY

In 1Q17, Embraer delivered two Super Tucano aircraft to the United States Air Force (USAF) that will be commissioned to Lebanon.
http://www.embraer.com/Documents/noticias/Release%20US%201Q17_FINAAL.pdf

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Full specs of the Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano variant

Lebanon sealed a deal for 6 A-29 Super Tucano close air support aircraft at $462 millions back in 2015. The announcement of the deal confirmed some parts of the expected specifications & armaments, but also raised questions about other much required capabilities (i.e. will it support Hellfire?) and about the higher cost compared to other A-29 deals (Ex. Nigeria and Afghanistan). As per the announcement, the aircraft will be equipped with ALE-47 Countermeasure Dispensing Systems, AN/AAR-60(V)2 Missile Launch Detection Systems, and non-SAASM Embedded Global Positioning System/Initial Navigation System (EGIs). Besides they will support the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS).

A record in the [US] Federal Register however gives clear details on the complete specifications. The Lebanese variant will be equipped with MX–15 Electro-Optical Infrared (EO/IR) Laser sensor suite (same as those on the AC-208B Combat Caravan) and will be capable of employing the following systems mounted on its six external hard points:

• AGM–114M3, N3, & R5 Hellfire missiles

1. M3 is blast fragmentation variant
2. N3 is thermometric variant
3. R5 is a variant of Hellfire Romeo - multi-function warhead

• 2.75′′ rockets (MK4, MK40, MK 66, Hydra 70)
• GBU-12 Paveway II - Mk 82 500 lb (227 kg) bomb
• GBU-58 Paveway II - Mk 81 250 lb (113.4 kg) bomb
• APKWS II
• FN HMP-400 .50 caliber gun pods

In addition "critical cockpit, fuel system and engine components" will have aircraft armor (probably from TenCate) able to withstand small arms fire.

With the AGM-114 Hellfire support, the Lebanese variant could be considered the most advanced variant of the A-29 Super Tucano as this capability was not previously supported. Providing this capability is most likely part of the higher cost reported.

The training of Lebanese pilots already started earlier in 2017. We hope to see the Lebanese Air Force flying Super Tucanos in action very soon!

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Has the time for LAF M2 Bradley arrived?

The Al-Akhbar Lebanese newspaper quoted the new LAF commander Gen. Joseph Aoun referring to upcoming US arms deliveries: "US assistance consisting of shells, missiles, new APCs, and artillery will arrive soon". (Ref)

The most common APC operated by the Lebanese Army is the M113 with more than 1,300 vehicles of different variants & derivatives acquired from difference sources. Lebanon has been receiving this APC for years with 200 more delivered in 2013 and 30 in 2015.

Lebanon does not however operate the M113A3 Gavin, which could be considered "new" APC by the LAF standard, yet, does Lebanon need more basic APCs? Isn't Lebanon looking for better armored and more lethal vehicles? Isn't Lebanon looking for IFV not APC?

The, derived, answer is yes, Lebanon needs and is looking for IFVs, we can conclude this from two main events.

The Belgian Deal 2009
Lebanon had a one of a kind opportunity to procure ex-Belgium AIFV-B-C25 from Belgium at ~56,000 EUR per vehicle including spare parts and ammunition (Ref).  Lebanon took this opportunity and acquired 16 vehicles which were later combat proven during battles with ISIS and JAN.

DONAS
The DONAS agreement (status unknown, but most likely cancelled) is another opportunity where Lebanon tried to acquire IFVs. The deal included VAB infantry combat vehicle (ICV) variant (ref). 

Besides these two, the LAF has been attempting to upgrade the armor & protection of its M113. We have seen variants being exhibited or in operations with cage & locally made cupola shields that is completed closed.

Back to what the commander mentioned; should we conclude that he actually meant IFVs, not, yet, just another number of M113 APCs? If so, is it the M2 Bradley given than IAV Stryker is not a vehicle being phased out?  Until further information, let's keep our hopes for the M2 Bradley.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army receives 20 surplus Royal Dutch Army MercedesBenz Wolf G-Class ambulances

Twenty Royal Dutch Army MercedesBenz Wolf G-Class ambulances were delivered to Beirut Port and will be officially handed over to the Lebanese Army on Thursday March 20, 2017.

These vehicles are the ambulance variant of the MercedesBenz Wolf G-Class and each has two stretchers.

Photo Credits: martijnvdkooij

Update 2017-03-31

The Lebanese Army officially announced the reception. You can see more photos and a video in the original article. The variant received has four stretchers, not only two, whereby the additional two are foldable and placed on top of the others.

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

First training sortie for Lebanese pilot onboard of A-29 Super Tucano at Moody AFB

The first Lebanese Air Force pilot conducted the first flight on-board of an A-29 Super Tucano at Moody AFB on March 22, 2017. This is considered a milestone toward acquiring the A-29s.
Moody AFB was chosen (ref) to host the training of the 12 Lebanese pilots and 22 maintenance staff which started earlier in February 2017 and is expected to end in 2018.

The photos by the US Air Force show an A-29 Super Tucano identified with Construction Number 15-2022 and does not feature a FLIR. It is not clear whether the FLIR will be installed at a later stage given that all Lebanese A-29 is are expected to feature this.

Lebanese student conducts first ‘in seat’ A-29 flight

By Senior Airman Ceaira Young, 23d Wing Public Affairs / Published March 23, 2017

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ceaira Young)

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --
A Lebanese A-29 Super Tucano pilot trainee, from the 81st Fighter Squadron, conducted the first ‘in seat’ training sortie March 22, 2017, here.

The program, which began earlier this month, is designed to ensure the Lebanon air force receives the support and training needed to safely and effectively employ the A-29 aircraft.

“It was his first flight in the aircraft so it was a great (opportunity) for him to get oriented in the A-29 and how it flies,” said the 81st Fighter Squadron instructor pilot, who conducted the first flight. “[Since training began] this was the first opportunity that we’ve had to get the first Lebanese airborne. They’ve been doing ground training, learning the procedures, patterns, simulator and emergency procedures.”
[...]
Read Full Article: http://www.moody.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/5991/Article/1128002/lebanese-student-conducts-first-in-seat-a-29-flight.aspx

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanon is seeking high-sensitivity GPS devices through US Air Force

A recent solicitation published on FBO.GOV indicates that Lebanon (most likely Lebanese Air Force) is seeking FMS of 23x High-Sensitivity GPS devices. No exact models are defined as sources are being sought for the following specifications:

The Physical dimensions of the High-Sensitivity Receiver GPS unit shall be 2.1" x 4.0" x 1.3" (5.4 x 10.3 x 3.3 cm), and weigh 5 ounces (141.7 g) with the two (2) AA batteries; NiMH or Lithium (preferred) installed. The display resolution shall be 240x320 pixels on a display type 2.2" transflective, 65K color TFT, the display size shall be 1.4" x 1.7" (3.5 x 4.4 cm); 2.2" diagonally (5.6 cm). The GPS unit must have the ability to store 3.7GB of memory/history and interface via a USB. This useful battery life must be 25 hours. 

The GPS is required to have an updateable base map and must have the ability to add maps with an external microSD™ card. Must be able to add additional Points of Interest (POIs) and store 2,000 waypoints/favorites/locations; 200 routes and track log 10,000 points, 200 saved tracks.

The GPS must have a barometric altimeter and a compass capable of area calculation and automatic routing (turn by turn routing on roads) with additional mapping options for detailed roads (the additional option is not required but the unit must have the ability to accommodate this feature. The unit must be Geocaching friendly and must be able to accommodate custom maps as well as provide sun and moon information and the ability to view pictures.
https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=737b54ac2aa8f0be1e8e02cdefdf32ba&tab=core&_cview=0

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

LAF to receive 800 M2 Browning .50 Cal machines guns

The Lebanese Army is expected to receive 800x M2 Browning machine guns as part of DSCA Excess Defense Articles (EDA).

DSCA was granted authority in January 2017 for these machines guns whose current value is $1,014,800.00.

The LAF already operates an unspecified, but large, number of M2 machines guns.

Source of Info: DSCA website

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)

Lebanese Army set to receive 24 M109A5 & 10 M992

The Lebanese Army is expected to receive 24x M109A5 self-propelled Howitzers along to 10x M992 Field Artillery Ammunition Support Vehicle as part of DSCA Excess Defense Articles (EDA).

DSCA was granted authority in April 2016 for these equipment whose current value is around USD2.2 million.

It is the first time Lebanon operates both vehicles/variants and this comes as Lebanon's fire power capability continues to grow amid growing threats on the borders with Syria.

The LAF received 12x M109A2 back in 2015 through transfer from Jordan.

Source of Info: DSCA website

This article first appeared on LAF Digest (Unofficial)