Indo Defence 2016: BAE Systems hawks OPVs
25th October 2016 - 7:57by in Singapore
BAE Systems hopes to make its mark in the Asia-Pacific region through platforms such as offshore patrol vessels (OPV) and advanced jet trainers, both of which it will be highlighting at Indo Defence 2016.
The builder of Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers is looking to introduce its 80m/90m OPVs to cater to the Indonesian Navy’s need to protect the exclusive economic zone of the world’s largest archipelago.
A Krabi-class OPV is already in operation with the Royal Thai Navy, and BAE Systems signed a
Another key platform BAE Systems is promoting is the Hawk, which features airborne simulation technology.
A number of Asia-Pacific air forces operate the Hawk as either an advanced trainer or light attack aircraft. For example, the Indonesian Air Force has more than 40 Hawks of different variants that were delivered in the 1980s and 1990s.
BAE Systems is optimistic that regional air forces will continue to use Hawks for many years to come.
BAE Systems stressed that it is always ready to work with local firms to provide assistance and to transfer technology and skills. ‘We are talking to PT Pindad to consider ways of utilising the expertise within each company to jointly deliver innovative defence solutions in Indonesia,’ a spokesperson told Shephard.
Both firms are currently working together to provide government and businesses in Indonesia with defences against potential cyber threats too. This is another solution that BAE Systems provides under its Applied Intelligence portfolio.