ADF News.......Part Two

[Keith]

From: Dallas
To: AUSSIE DIGGER FORUM
Sent: Thursday, September 09, 2010 8:32 AM
Subject: Re: AUSSIE DIGGER FORUM: Subject


 
And treason for over seeing kickbacks to Saddam Hussein

[Keith]

And while we are on these matters John Howard should be summonsed to the ICT at The Hague and charged with War Crimes. Just ask new Tasmanian Independent Andrew Wilkie how John Howard ignored intelligence before the Iraq invasion which cost Australian lives, disabled young Australians and cost the lives of countless Iraqis.

Keith Tennent.

THE AGE

Soldiers to be charged over raid

Rafael Epstein, Dan Oakes and Sophie McNeill

September 9, 2010

AN OFFICER in line for a medal is among a group of Australian soldiers who will face manslaughter and negligence charges over the deaths of five Afghan children in a bungled raid last year.

The soldiers, mostly from the 1st Commando Regiment, are facing an unprecedented court martial over the raid, codenamed Operation Pakula, near the village of Surkh Morghab in February 2009.

Defence Force officials have sent letters of protest to Brigadier Lyn McDade, the Director of Military Prosecutions, with some officers hoping the charges will be downgraded.

But it is unlikely Brigadier McDade will change her mind, and The Age has been told she is unclear why there has been a continuing delay for the public announcement of the charges.

One source said the charges would be ''dangerous to the whole culture of the military''. Many in Defence believe the courts martial should begin by the end of November, as Brigadier McDade was handed the evidence in November last year.

There is growing anxiety inside Defence about the prolonged legal process, with some lawyers for those involved still in the dark about specific charges faced by their clients.

The Age believes two soldiers, from a group codenamed Force Element Charlie, were directly involved in throwing grenades during the raid and will face manslaughter and other charges.

Their commanding officer on the ground that night, who is believed to be in line to receive a leadership medal, will also face serious charges.

Charges of negligence and failure to get appropriate command approval will be brought against a supervising officer working from Kandahar, and other officers who were involved in the decision to attack a compound not originally targeted.

Officers within Special Operations Command have been frustrated that they have been unable to publicly support the soldiers. The chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, also has privately expressed frustration with the decision to lay such charges, when many believe there is insufficient evidence for any likely convictions.

As reported previously in The Age, it is believed the prosecution will bring evidence that relies in part on other officers within the chain of command, who had reservations about the training and behaviour of the reserve commandos.

A previous army inquiry had raised concerns about the pre-deployment training of the group of reservists, the first such deployment since World War II.

The soldiers were targeting an insurgent leader who was not found at an initial compound. A crucial part of the prosecution argument will rest on the decision to move to a second compound, and whether the intelligence was sufficient for it to be approached with the same level of stealth and tactics.

The soldiers say they exchanged fire for an extended time with an Afghan man, who was killed. Those close to the soldiers are adamant that grenades were necessary because the soldiers were under fire and the shots only ceased after a second grenade was thrown.

Those killed were a teenager, two younger children and two babies. The civilians were in the same room as the Afghan man who fired at the soldiers. Other women and children were also wounded.

The families of the Afghan victims have not been spoken to by Australian investigating officers or military police. Investigators were told it was too difficult and too dangerous to return to the compound.

 

 
 
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All truth passes through three stages.  First, it is ridiculed.  Second, it is violently opposed.  Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

[Keith]

DAILY TELEGRAPH

GOVERNMENT lawyers have been caught trying to gag companies vying for a multi-billion dollar navy helicopter contract.

Defence department legal officers drafted a "deed of undertaking" that was signed by US giant Lockheed Martin, the US Navy and European helicopter builder EADS and its local subsidiary Australian Aerospace, barring them from even discussing their bids to sell 24 helicopters to the navy, for about $3 billion.

"The company must not ... in the absence of prior written approval of the contact officer, make contact with any Commonwealth personnel, minister of state or member of the ADF in relation to any matter relating to or concerned with the solicitation and source evaluation process," the deed says in part.

The defence purchasing agency, the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), said the restrictions were included to prevent expensive negative lobbying campaigns ultimately paid for by taxpayers.

"This is clearly counter to the value for money outcome sought through a competitive tender process," DMO said.

They were also designed to safeguard the probity of the tendering and to avoid extra work.

DMO boss Steve Gumley admitted government lawyers "over-reached" themselves by including a clause banning companies from contacting ministers or officials without permission.

Soon after The Daily Telegraph raised the matter with DMO the companies were released from the draconian clause.

"This was a mistake that crept in with over-enthusiastic legal drafting," DMO said.

The organisation will redraft its guidelines and present the new approach at a meeting of CEOs later this month. Dr Gumley rescinded the wording this week so both companies would be free to discuss their "normal business".

THE AGE

Pledge to probe defence contract

Richard Baker

September 3, 2010

DEFENCE Minister John Faulkner has promised a ''further examination'' of a $30 million contract scandal to fly Australian troops to the Middle East, while his department has suggested other authorities could be asked to investigate.

The Age yesterday revealed how Defence's 2005 Middle East troop flight contract was compromised by Joint Movements Group officers David Charlton and John Davies passing inside information about the tender to winning contractor Strategic Aviation, which later employed them.

Confidential emails written during the 2005 tender showed Strategic Aviation directors referring to being ''fed'' information by Mr Charlton and to Mr Davies being ''very handy to get information to us''. Strategic Aviation has provided the Middle East troops flights since 2005.

The Defence Department, which for a month has declined to answer The Age's questions about the Middle East troop charters, last night said the matters raised regarding Strategic Aviation's 2005 contract would be reviewed and referred to ''the appropriate authorities for action if necessary''.

The most likely authorities to investigate the 2005 tender process would be the Defence Department's Inspector General or the Australian Federal Police.

A spokesman for Senator Faulkner yesterday said that although the minister was constrained by caretaker conventions, he was confident the 2005 Middle East charter tender process would be subject to ''further examination''.

This year's Middle East charter tender process has also been hit with allegations of impropriety, with Mr Charlton again working in the Joint Movements Group while also having a consultancy arrangement with the winning firm, Adagold Aviation.

Senator Faulkner's spokesman said this year's Middle East troop flight contract, which Defence awarded to Adagold Aviation, had yet to be signed off and was being examined.

A Defence internal audit released last week cleared this year's Middle East tender process of any irregularities. The audit cleared Adagold Aviation and Mr Charlton of any wrongdoing.

However, The Age yesterday reported that the audit did not fully address Adagold Aviation's controversial pursuit of South African defence contracts through its South African subsidiary.

Adagold Aviation is also sensitive about its association with Mr Charlton, who in 2008 accompanied company executives in meetings with Danish military officials about a contract to fly the country's troops around Afghanistan.

Emails show Adagold staff have been told to tell any callers asking to speak to Mr Charlton to say that ''no David Charlton works at Adagold - nothing more''.

Coalition defence spokesman David Johnston told The Age that he was concerned by reports on the Middle East aviation contracts. Australian Defence Association executive director Neil James said the controversy over Defence's aviation charters showed there needed to be a two-year ban on Defence personnel, public servants, ministers and their staff involved in awarding tenders from accepting employment with winning firms.

Strategic Aviation has denied any wrongdoing in its dealings with Mr Charlton and Mr Davies, claiming it advised Defence of its intentions to hire both men.

Mr Davies denied being involved with the 2005 tender and Mr Charlton could not be contacted. Adagold Aviation has declined to comment.

 

 
 
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All truth passes through three stages.  First, it is ridiculed.  Second, it is violently opposed.  Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

[Keith]

DAILY TELEGRAPH

GOVERNMENT lawyers have been caught trying to gag companies vying for a multi-billion dollar navy helicopter contract.

Defence department legal officers drafted a "deed of undertaking" that was signed by US giant Lockheed Martin, the US Navy and European helicopter builder EADS and its local subsidiary Australian Aerospace, barring them from even discussing their bids to sell 24 helicopters to the navy, for about $3 billion.

"The company must not ... in the absence of prior written approval of the contact officer, make contact with any Commonwealth personnel, minister of state or member of the ADF in relation to any matter relating to or concerned with the solicitation and source evaluation process," the deed says in part.

The defence purchasing agency, the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), said the restrictions were included to prevent expensive negative lobbying campaigns ultimately paid for by taxpayers.

"This is clearly counter to the value for money outcome sought through a competitive tender process," DMO said.

They were also designed to safeguard the probity of the tendering and to avoid extra work.

DMO boss Steve Gumley admitted government lawyers "over-reached" themselves by including a clause banning companies from contacting ministers or officials without permission.

Soon after The Daily Telegraph raised the matter with DMO the companies were released from the draconian clause.

"This was a mistake that crept in with over-enthusiastic legal drafting," DMO said.

The organisation will redraft its guidelines and present the new approach at a meeting of CEOs later this month. Dr Gumley rescinded the wording this week so both companies would be free to discuss their "normal business".

THE AGE

Pledge to probe defence contract

Richard Baker

September 3, 2010

DEFENCE Minister John Faulkner has promised a ''further examination'' of a $30 million contract scandal to fly Australian troops to the Middle East, while his department has suggested other authorities could be asked to investigate.

The Age yesterday revealed how Defence's 2005 Middle East troop flight contract was compromised by Joint Movements Group officers David Charlton and John Davies passing inside information about the tender to winning contractor Strategic Aviation, which later employed them.

Confidential emails written during the 2005 tender showed Strategic Aviation directors referring to being ''fed'' information by Mr Charlton and to Mr Davies being ''very handy to get information to us''. Strategic Aviation has provided the Middle East troops flights since 2005.

The Defence Department, which for a month has declined to answer The Age's questions about the Middle East troop charters, last night said the matters raised regarding Strategic Aviation's 2005 contract would be reviewed and referred to ''the appropriate authorities for action if necessary''.

The most likely authorities to investigate the 2005 tender process would be the Defence Department's Inspector General or the Australian Federal Police.

A spokesman for Senator Faulkner yesterday said that although the minister was constrained by caretaker conventions, he was confident the 2005 Middle East charter tender process would be subject to ''further examination''.

This year's Middle East charter tender process has also been hit with allegations of impropriety, with Mr Charlton again working in the Joint Movements Group while also having a consultancy arrangement with the winning firm, Adagold Aviation.

Senator Faulkner's spokesman said this year's Middle East troop flight contract, which Defence awarded to Adagold Aviation, had yet to be signed off and was being examined.

A Defence internal audit released last week cleared this year's Middle East tender process of any irregularities. The audit cleared Adagold Aviation and Mr Charlton of any wrongdoing.

However, The Age yesterday reported that the audit did not fully address Adagold Aviation's controversial pursuit of South African defence contracts through its South African subsidiary.

Adagold Aviation is also sensitive about its association with Mr Charlton, who in 2008 accompanied company executives in meetings with Danish military officials about a contract to fly the country's troops around Afghanistan.

Emails show Adagold staff have been told to tell any callers asking to speak to Mr Charlton to say that ''no David Charlton works at Adagold - nothing more''.

Coalition defence spokesman David Johnston told The Age that he was concerned by reports on the Middle East aviation contracts. Australian Defence Association executive director Neil James said the controversy over Defence's aviation charters showed there needed to be a two-year ban on Defence personnel, public servants, ministers and their staff involved in awarding tenders from accepting employment with winning firms.

Strategic Aviation has denied any wrongdoing in its dealings with Mr Charlton and Mr Davies, claiming it advised Defence of its intentions to hire both men.

Mr Davies denied being involved with the 2005 tender and Mr Charlton could not be contacted. Adagold Aviation has declined to comment.

 

 
 
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All truth passes through three stages.  First, it is ridiculed.  Second, it is violently opposed.  Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

[Keith]

 
While our young Troops are dying in Afghanistan these germs are making money from their plight.

Keith Tennent.

Defence bidders had inside help
Richard Baker
September 2, 2010

HERALD SUN

TENS of millions of dollars in Australian government aviation contracts have been awarded to companies that secured their bids with inside information about tenders provided by senior public servants.

Confidential emails obtained by The Age reveal two Defence Department officers working in the unit responsible for a $30-million-a-year contract to fly Australian troops to the Middle East were providing information during the tender process to the company later declared the winner.

The two Defence officials, Army Reserve captain and aviation consultant David Charlton and army warrant officer John Davies, were then given senior management jobs by the 2005 contract winner, Strategic Aviation, which has provided the troop flights to Kuwait since then.

The Age has also received allegations from well-placed sources that public servants in another government department have leaked commercial information to an aviation firm allowing it to undercut rival bids to win lucrative contracts.

In a series of emails written during the 2005 Defence tender process, Strategic Aviation directors refer to being ''fed'' information by Mr Charlton, and to Mr Davies being ''very handy to get information to us''.

At that time, the pair were working in Defence's Joint Movements Group, the unit responsible for troop deployment and overseeing the Middle East flight tender process.

In one case, Mr Davies used his official Defence email to send a document to a Strategic Aviation director in February 2005, well before the tender process had closed.

He also sent an email from his private account to the same director titled ''007'' and addressed to ''Mr Bond''. Other emails show Strategic Aviation directors discussing information provided by Mr Charlton and Mr Davies about key tender dates and Defence's preferred aircraft for the Middle East flights.

''I turned on the phone and Dave Charlton was just itching at the bit to tell me we have seven days to prepare this work. Short timeframe which I really do believe is favourable to our needs,'' wrote director Shaun Aisen in a March 2005 email.

A Strategic Aviation business plan written shortly after the firm was founded in early 2005 lists Mr Davies as its manager. He was he working in Defence's Joint Movements Group at this time.

Mr Charlton joined Strategic Aviation as general manager on a $174,800 job package, according to his December 2005 employment contract. By 2007, he had left to set up his SkyAirWorld airline venture and Mr Davies followed him to take up a senior management role.

Mr Davies yesterday denied any role in the 2005 Middle East tender and said he had informed superiors in Defence that he intended to take a job with Strategic Aviation.

He could not explain why directors had written he would be ''handy'' in getting information for them during the tender period. Mr Charlton could not be contacted.

In a statement, Strategic Aviation said it was in regular dialogue with members of the Defence unit responsible for troop movements in 2005.

''We have no regrets about the interaction with Mr Charlton and Mr Davies. At all times we have acted ethically,'' it said.

''In both cases, we made direct contact with [Defence], advised them of our intentions to recruit these individuals and received no objections.''

The revelation of the confidential emails comes a week after Defence cleared this year's Middle East aviation tender process of any irregularities, following allegations information had been leaked by Mr Charlton - who was back working in the Joint Movements Group after the $93 million collapse of his private airline last year - to winning firm Adagold Aviation.

The complaint was lodged by Strategic Aviation after losing the lucrative contract it held for five years. But Defence's chief audit executive, Geoffrey Brown, found no wrongdoing by the department, Adagold or Mr Charlton, despite his placement in the Joint Movements Group and Adagold consultancy role.

''The probity audit found no evidence that Mr David Charlton had any involvement in, or influence on, the Request for Tender or tender evaluation process ? Mr Charlton immediately and appropriately, declared a potential conflict of interest noting his civilian employment as an airline industry consultant,'' Mr Brown wrote.

However, internal Adagold Aviation emails obtained by The Age reveal concern about its close ties to Mr Charlton - who worked with the company to win a 2008 Danish military contract - being publicly exposed.

In an email, an Adagold director told staff that if journalists called and asked for Mr Charlton, they were to say ''no David Charlton works for Adagold - nothing more''.

The Denmark contract has also been subject to a complaint by a Danish aviation firm that missed out on the contract. A member of the Danish Parliament's defence committee, Jens Lund, recently declared he would like to reopen an investigation into Adagold's contract to explore Mr Charlton's role.

Both the Defence Department and Adagold have declined to comment.

Greens leader Bob Brown said he was concerned by the Defence revelations. ''These are extremely serious allegations which warrant a parliamentary inquiry as soon as the next government is established,'' he said.

''They also indicate new rules to be required of people entering and leaving the public service to ensure there isn't a lucrative revolving door with the private sector that is against the public interest.''

Former Defence secretary Paul Barratt said public service guidelines were meant to ensure officials involved in tender processes did not take jobs with winning firms.

 

 
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All truth passes through three stages.  First, it is ridiculed.  Second, it is violently opposed.  Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

[Keith]

THE AGE

Sniper apologises to chief over camouflage criticism

Dan Oakes

August 30, 2010

AN ARMY sniper has been forced to apologise to the Chief of Army after circulating a letter accusing him of putting troops' lives at risk.

The sniper accused Lieutenant-General Ken Gillespie of endorsing a particular type of camouflage uniform, regardless of the results of trials designed to select a new pattern. The sniper participated in the trials in an expert capacity.

''We were informed early in the trialling process by a civilian representative of the Chief of Army (CA) that it was the CA's intent to adopt Disruptive Pattern Midpoint Uniform (DPMU) pattern regardless of the outcome of the trial,'' he said in the letter, seen by The Age.

''This obviously made the trial somewhat invalid given as how even if other patterns had outperformed DPMU they would never have been considered in the first place.''

The sniper, a lance-corporal The Age has chosen not to name, then goes on to say that the favoured uniform stood out ''like a neon bullseye'' through night-vision equipment.

''In the complex war-fighting environment that many Australian troops find themselves in, it seems irresponsible to have their best asset in night time concealment arbitrarily converted into a critical vulnerability,'' he says.

The army is developing the DPMU to form a mid-point camouflage between the two types now issued, which are designed for desert and for jungle fighting. The army believes neither is appropriate for the mountainous terrain in Afghanistan.

Some of the trial uniforms have already been sent to Afghanistan for evaluation, but the sniper said the experts who took part in the trial agreed that the Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniform jungle camou- flage already being used would be the ''ideal choice'' for Afghanistan.

''DPCU performed better in almost every environment than DPMU save for urban and is obviously an outcome that involves no additional cost for the army,'' he said.

The letter brought a stinging rebuke from Regimental Sergeant Major Stephen Ward, who distributed an email lambasting the sniper for suggesting General Gillespie would put soldiers' lives at risk.

''For any of you to think that the Chief of Army would place soldiers in a situation where your safety was deliberately compromised due to a uniform issue shows that you do not understand the extent of the work and effort that he puts into looking to your well-being and safety,'' Sergeant Major Ward said.

He said the trials were carried out to assess what the best colour combinations were and whether the DPMU would be accepted by Australian troops. He also said value for money was a factor, but not an essential requirement.

But he did not directly dispute the sniper's claim that a civilian representative of the Chief of Army had said General Gillespie would select the mid-point camouflage regardless of trial results.

The Age has also seen a letter of apology from the sniper to General Gillespie, in which he apologises for being ''derogatory'' and says some of his assertions were based on hearsay. But the sniper says he will resubmit a revised letter of complaint.

 

 
 
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All truth passes through three stages.  First, it is ridiculed.  Second, it is violently opposed.  Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

[Keith]

ABC NEWS
Wilkie wants troops out of Afghanistan
By Sarah Collerton
 
Mr Wilkie says politicians need to be honest about the reasons Australia is still in Afghanistan. (ABC News: Simon Frazer)

Incoming independent MP Andrew Wilkie has described the justification for the war in Afghanistan as "one of the great lies of the election campaign".

Mr Wilkie has claimed victory in the Tasmanian seat of Denison, but he will wait a few more days before declaring who he will support in a hung parliament.

He met Prime Minister Julia Gillard in Melbourne yesterday and presented her with a list of 20 issues that are important to him.

While his stance on the Afghanistan war is not part of that list, Mr Wilkie has made it clear he is against troops staying there.

"The war in Afghanistan and what is being said by the Coalition and the Labor Party is one of the great lies of this election campaign," he said.

"Both Labor Party members and Coalition members continue to perpetuate this nonsense, that we're only there to fight terrorists to prevent them coming to Australia, to prevent them committing terrorist attacks here."

He says politicians need to be honest about the reasons Australia is still in Afghanistan.

"They at the moment are trying to implement a policy put in place by, I think, incompetent politicians and this continuing lie about why we are there," he said.

"Let's be honest: let's say we're there to help the people of Afghanistan and to bolster our bilateral relationship with the US."

He says he did originally support the invasion in November 2001 and he still backs Australian soldiers "100 per cent", but there is no need to stay.

"I don't know the solution from here. If we stay people will die, if we go people will die," he said.

"But I do know peace will only come to Afghanistan when foreign troops are out and I think they should get out as soon as possible."

Two more soldiers died last week in Afghanistan, taking the total number of Australian troops killed in Afghanistan since 2001 to 21.


Abbott's apology

Mr Wilkie also says Mr Abbott has apologised on behalf of the Coalition for his treatment when he was a whistleblower over the Iraq war in 2003.

Mr Wilkie, who was working as a government intelligence analyst, said there was no intelligence to suggest Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction and resigned.

"I was heartened by the fact that Tony Abbott, the other day in a telephone conversation... he did apologise on behalf of the Coalition for the way I was treated," Mr Wilkie said.

"I suppose he had to do that but I'll assume it was genuine."

Mr Wilkie is meeting Mr Abbott in Canberra tomorrow.

His list of 20 concerns includes a $20 million assistance package for Tasmanian forest contractors, concerns over the fate of the Royal Hobart Hospital and a betting limit on poker machines.

[Keith]

www.scoop.co.nz/stories/WO1008/S00486/commandos-pay-political-price.htm
 Saturday, 28 August 2010, 6:50 pm


COMMANDOS PAY POLITICAL PRICE?

By Sasha Uzunov

Australian commandos involved in a botched raid which resulted in 5 civilian deaths in Afghanistan could face courts martial because of intense political pressure from the media, as www.scoop.co.nz  warned last year.

The Fairfax press, which together with the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS TV) have been ferociously investigating the incident, reported on 27 August 2010 that:

www.theage.com.au/national/diggers-may-be-charged-over-deaths-20100826-13u5j.html

In an unprecedented move that has angered some senior military officers, Brigadier Lyn McDade has told the army she is preparing to lay charges in connection with a deadly raid involving Australian troops near the village of Surkh Morghab in Oruzgan province.?

But both Fairfax and SBS TV have for reasons unknown not taken the story further. The focus has been on the soldiers, not the politicians or the highly paid defence experts.

A scoop article titled Commando Regiment in Firing Line, on 7 December 2009, revealed:

www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0912/S00060.htm

The Australian Armys elite reservist unit, 1 Commando Regiment, is being made a scapegoat over allegations of misconduct in Afghanistan, a former unit member has told TEAM UZUNOV [blogsite].

The experienced ex-Commando said that he was deeply concerned over claims that poorly trained and led members had breached rules of engagement during a raid on house in Afghanistan which resulted in the deaths of 5 local children after grenades had been thrown last February.

My concern is the unit has been left out to dry by the Defence Department even before judgement has been passed. Let due process of law take place, he said. If people were innocent then that should be shouted from the rooftops but if people were guilty then throw the book at them. 

Whatever the outcome of the investigation, the responsibility is with the government of the day as well Defence Department bureaucrats. It is they who send troops to war.

It boils down to an unfortunate incident which saw Commandos entering a Taliban compound and being fired upon. And in the fog of war a grenade was thrown into the wrong house. Now it has been blown up, pardon the pun, into My Lai Massacre proportions.

The Australian newspapers Rory Callinan and Jeremy Kelly have summed up the dilemma for the soldiers involved:

www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/fateful-oruzgan-grenade-was-part-of-training/story-e6frg6nf-1225911089567

A source said the troops came under fire from a building in the compound and they responded with a grenade. When the firing continued they responded with another one as their training required, the source said. "What were they supposed to do?"

The source said there was anger among the troops about what they would do if prosecution for a possible manslaughter went ahead. "Every time someone goes into a compound and gets shot at they will be thinking will we get charged with manslaughter if we use a grenade." 

The former governor of the province where the incident occurred, Asadullah Hamdam, described the night raid as a mistake but one largely attributable to the behaviour of the raid's alleged target, who was killed while shooting back at the commandos.

SBS TVs Dateline program reporter, the self-styled media tough gal, Sophie McNeill, broke the story, which initially got off to a false start, and Tom Hyland, self-appointed defence expert, has followed it for Fairfax. 

McNeill back in 2008 asked not to be contacted to discuss media issues, including Afghanistan. It would appear taking no for an answer only applies to those who do not scrutinise SBS or Fairfax journalists!

McNeills advice for young journalists ( Walkely Magazine, issue 62, Aug-Sep 2010, page 37):

Dont take no for an answer. And once they actually let you in the building refuse to leave. Just quietly take over a desk and become part of the furniture...

The ABC TVs Media Watch program, hosted by Jonathan Holmes, revealed that SBS Dateline on 8 March 2009 with such haste put together a story by McNeill, which ended up quoting Zahir Khan, a survivor of the commando raid. But it turned out he was an imposter.   

www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s2853029.htm

A year later McNeill went to Afghanistan and finally tracked down the real Zahir Khan. SBS Dateline threw the blame on wily Afghan media fixer Fazel Reshad Arshad Wardak for the mistake in the first story. If all else fails, blame the hired help!

You can see Wardak boasting about his services to SBS in 2008 on this youtube clip. www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-5TaNvLsrk

Jonathan Holmes then smacks naughty Sophie McNeill on the hand with the full force of a feather duster: as if the second story somehow redeems the first big mistake, a sack able offence. Great spin by Holmes. If only all journalists got such second chances.

Holmes: 

?Sophie McNeill's second report is compelling. It includes film of the surviving family, and the graves of the victims, in their village in Oruzgan. And it poses serious questions about the ADF's original account of the incident, and why a year later it has said nothing more, and not even interviewed this family.

Youre now beginning to get the picture: a boutique scandal which has Walkley Award, Australia?s version of the Pulitzer Prize, written all over it. 

While the ABCs Media Watch, quite rightly criticises the Australian Defence Force (ADF) over a lack of information on the commando story, an ever skeptical Australian public is still waiting for any more information about the controversial life and death of ABC cameraman Paul Moran who had alleged links to the CIA and was killed in Iraq in 2003. It seems the ABC is reluctant to open up its own scandals. Link: 

www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0912/S00083.htm

A source, former Australian Special Forces soldier who served in Afghanistan, has revealed that there are far worse incidents involving Australians in Afghanistan and cannot believe they have been buried and ignored. 

I cant understand why theyre picking on the Commandos he said.

There could be three reasons why a court martial could be held. First, there is enough evidence of misconduct. Second, there is not enough evidence but a court martial would appease the media but find the soldiers eventually were not in the wrong. Third, and dare we even mention it, someone within Australias Defence Department, has a grudge against Commando reservists and wants them out of the frontlines.

The Sydney based 1 Commando Regiment is largely a reservist Special Forces unit, and has a high number of New South Wales State police officers who serve within the ranks. 

Hyland, flashing his Fairfax Media Sherriff?s Badge, wrote on 21 March, 2010.

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2010/03/fairfax-crusade-against-1-commando.html

" Along the way, it has exposed a rivalry almost as old as the army itself, between full-time troops and part-time reservists - chocos, some regulars call them, chocolate soldiers who can't take the heat."

"The regiment's experiences have triggered an intense debate within army ranks - about Special Forces tactics, and wider questions about a political and military preference for sending Special Forces, rather than large infantry units, to conflicts like Afghanistan."

Hyland, after picking up the correct scent, pardon the military pun, then pulls back and does not take another step forward, likewise SBS TV?s Dateline. But why?

Here is a key point that has been missed: why is it Australian Defence Policy to use Special Forces in an infantry role in Afghanistan, as well as throwing Army reservists in the deep end? Who caused this dramatic shift in defence thinking?

The change came about in Defence policy when two key experts Professor Paul Dibb and ex-Fairfax journalist turned government advisor Hugh White decided to cut back the number of full time infantry soldiers with the consequences of using reservists in combat roles.

Mr Bruce Haigh, a former diplomat, in an interview which slipped under the radar, told SBS TVs Dateline program on 27 September 2000 that:

Defence is the department thats divided amongst itself, as far as I can gather, and there are certain people inside Defence whove taken a certain line for a long period of time - the Paul Dibb line, if you like, which is high-tech, US-alliance - and youve got others who are saying, "No. Weve got the situation to the north- we need to have more people in uniform, we need to have them trained, we need to have night-vision equipment provided for them.  the Australian Army can see what needs to be done, but many of the civilian Defence personnel, whove built their careers on playing up to this particular line, are arguing the other case, and feeling increasingly isolated, because they are not facing reality. Thats the problem.

Respected Brigadier Jim Wallace, former Special Forces Commander, wrote in 2003:

Unfortunately, Australian defence policy has been mainly wrong for the whole of this period. Even after we committed troops to East Timor, Professor Paul Dibb, the policy's chief architect, was standing in front of parliamentary committees vowing that Australia would not be conducting what he called "expeditionary" operations out of the region. This was despite a series of major UN deployments over many years to places as far afield as Rwanda and Somalia. Afghanistan and Iraq have hopefully now discredited this logic.

At the same time, Dr Hugh White was arguing in initial drafts for the 2000 white paper to reduce the size of our army to about 19,000, on the basis that, like Professor Dibb, he didn't see the Government needing options for deployment out of the region, particularly for sending the army. The result has been an incredible demand on the dedication and professionalism of our special forces as they have again been thrown into the breach that our supposedly expert defence planners couldn't predict.

McNeill and Hyland now need to take their story all the way and not just take aim at sitting targets?soldiers But we seriously doubt if failed defence theorists and ex-Fairfax journalists will be scrutinised.

(end)

About the author: Sasha Uzunov graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, in 1991. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army as a soldier in 1995 and was allocated to infantry. He served two peacekeeping tours in East Timor (1999 and 2001). In 2002 he returned to civilian life as a photo journalist and film maker and has worked in The Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. His documentary film Timor Tour of Duty made its international debut in New York in October 2009. He blogs at Team Uzunov.  http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com


TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY FILM WEBSITE

http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/

[Keith]

From: Jeff Mills
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Friday, August 27, 2010 11:46 AM
Subject: RE: Commandos to be charged over children's deaths


Keith,
 
The cynic in me sees that these young men, who will no doubt be guilt ridden and highly susceptible to psych conditions due to the trauma will now have their claims thrown out as they will be deemed to be due to a "reasonable administrative process" rather than the actual events.  Or worse. DVA may determine that the events were illegal and therefor non-compensable.
 
To use your words "a spineless" outcome that would be.
 
Lets hope for commonsense in spite of all we know about how the department acts!!

From: Keith Tennent
Sent: Friday, August 27, 2010 11:55 AM

Subject: Re: Commandos to be charged over children's deaths

Jeff I'll tell you which Australians should be prosecuted. John Howard and Kevin Rudd and their underlings. John Howard for sending young Australians to  Wars based on lies, continued on lies and which will finish on lies. Howard, Bush and Blair should be dragged kicking and screaming before the ICC at the Hague and charged with War crimes. And along with them should go Rudd and Cameron and Obama for continuing the lies.
 
This is where the responsibility lays. Not with young Australians sent into harms way for political and economic reasons.
 
Keith Tennent.

[Keith]

The responsibility and indeed blame for all this lays with the Australian Parliament and the last two Governments. If groveling, tricky and irresponsible politicians had not sent young Australians to Afghanistan this matter would never have unfolded. In 10 years time, after our present and recent crop of politicians have sailed off into the sunset with their golden handshakes and secure lives and new jobs you can bet few if any of them will give a tinkers damn about the families and friends of those killed and disabled in this fake War. And the compliant, agenda driven media will be in the same boat.
 
What an unprincipled, spineless lot we have in the national Parliament, driven by pleasing uncle Sam and driven by spin and self interest.
 
Keith Tennent.
 
ABC NEWS
 
Commandos to be charged over children's deaths
By Rachel Carbonell

 

 
The director of military prosecutions has recommended charges against soldiers involved in the raid (Defence Force: Corporal Hamish Paterson )

Charges will be laid against some Australian soldiers involved in a deadly night raid in which five children were killed in Afghanistan last year.

Early last year six Afghans were killed during an Australian Special Operations Task Group raid targeting an insurgent leader in Uruzgan province.

Four of the dead were small children. Two more children and two adults were also wounded.

An operational investigation into the incident was referred to the director of military prosecutions, who has now recommended charges against some of the special forces soldiers involved in the raid.

Australia Defence Association head Neil James says the director of military prosecutions operates outside the Australian Defence Force chain of command.

"We know that the independent director of military prosecutions, which is an independent statutory office, has recommended charges," he said.

"Really we just have to see what the next step is."

Mr James says while some in the Defence Force will inevitably be upset over charges being laid, he believes the process has been necessary.

"This is a very complex war in legal and moral and logistical and operational terms, but that doesn't mean that the Defence Force can have open slather in the way they fight it," he said.

"Australia is a country that abides by international humanitarian law and we require our soldiers to adhere to that law.

"That is what separates us from the barbarism of the Taliban."


Rules of engagement

Mr James says the charges are bound to be controversial.

"It may very well be that the soldiers charged will be found innocent and get off but at least the allegations against them will have been heard in an open court," he said.

The ADF says charges will affect the way soldiers operate in Afghanistan because soldiers will be worried about what the effects of their actions will be in terms of them being disciplined after the event.

Mr James says while that may be true, the charges are necessary.

"Soldiers already have to apply force using orders for opening fire and rules of engagement that can be quite complex in legal and moral terms," he said.

"It will have some effect on the ground, but the alternative would have an even greater effect - that is Australia becomes a country that condones actions outside the rules of engagement either accidentally or deliberately."

 
 
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[Keith]

Diggers may be charged over deaths
Rafael Epstein, Tom Hyland and Dan Oakes
August 27, 2010

THE AGE

Shuri Noor, 5, shows her scars from a raid last year by Australian troops in Afghanistan, in which members of her family died. She was given medical treatment by coalition forces. Picture: SBS - Dateline

AUSTRALIA'S top military prosecutor wants to lay criminal charges against a group of Defence Force commandos over the deaths of five children in Afghanistan last year.

In an unprecedented move that has angered some senior military officers, Brigadier Lyn McDade has told the army she is preparing to lay charges in connection with a deadly raid involving Australian troops near the village of Surkh Morghab in Oruzgan province.

A teenager, two younger children and two babies were killed - and several other children and women were wounded - in the ''capture or kill'' mission targeting a local insurgent in February 2009. An Afghan man who exchanged fire with the troops was also killed.

Of about 30 troops involved in the raid, only a few appear certain to face a court martial, including two soldiers who engaged in the attack, one of whom is alleged to have thrown a grenade. Both are reservists in the 1st Commando Regiment.

The officers in charge on the night, who are full-time Australian Defence Force members, face possible charges over their preparation and supervision, and could also face court martial.

Evidence would be heard by a court martial panel made up of military professionals.

While Brigadier McDade, who is the Director of Military Prosecutions, has not finalised her decision, the prospect of charges has infuriated senior officers, with the Chief of Army, Lieutenant-General Ken Gillespie, and other commanders expressing concern in writing.

Military historians consulted by The Age also said they could not recall Australian soldiers being charged over the deaths of civilians in the heat of battle.

Some in the Defence Forces hierarchy are concerned it will further erode public support for the war and undermine the way soldiers operate in Afghanistan.

Defence sources say the prosecution could undermine the operational effectiveness of the Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan.

''This is not good news for us as a collective,'' said a Defence source. ''It's a hard enough job as it is, fighting with 20 [legal] ropes around your hands.''

Some of those involved in the raid first heard about the prospective charges last month, and many are dismayed that the process has taken so long, with Brigadier McDade assessing evidence since last November.

Brigadier McDade has advised senior commanders of her intentions. Lawyers from Defence and other government departments are assessing the ramifications of the likely courts martial. Brigadier McDade will review their submissions and any likely defence arguments before finalising her decision.

Defence and legal sources believe Brigadier McDade's final decision is highly unlikely to change. Sources say she has maintained her independence through an unprecedented process.

With significant frustration over the delay in announcing the charges, some commandos feel unfairly targeted by an investigation that has exposed long-standing rivalry between full-time and reserve soldiers.

A senior member of the regiment, who served on the rotation, defended those involved. ''If the ADF bothers to describe the events in the compound in detail, it will be clear to any person that the troops, faced with a terrible situation, had no choice,'' the soldier said. ''That they all came out alive is actually an indication of their skill and courage.''

But those close to the investigation say the Australians had overwhelming force and the evidence gathered is sufficient to warrant charges.

Night raids in Afghanistan have been a significant source of friction between coalition commanders and the Afghan government, with Afghan politicians often pushing for more investigation of soldiers involved in civilian deaths.

But some Australian officers are angry, with one Defence source saying: ''Every time a bloke goes into a compound, he'll be thinking, 'F---, am I going to be charged with murder?''' Another source told The Age: ''It will undermine the whole system of war because at the back of every soldier's mind, they'll be thinking, 'If I f--- up, will I get charged?'''

Military sources are adamant the soldiers did nothing wrong, and some familiar with the evidence believe it is not conclusive enough to secure a conviction.

One Defence observer familiar with coalition operations in Afghanistan said: ''If you look at the range of incidents across Iraq and Afghanistan every day, on the magnitude of negligence or tragedy, this is so far down the scale it's not funny.''

 

 
 
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[Keith]

Digger killed in 'intense' Taliban firefight
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/25/2992692.htm

The Australian Defence Force has confirmed an Australian soldier has been killed in action in Afghanistan.

Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, said the Lance Corporal was killed in an intense firefight with the Taliban.

He was 28 years old and married, with a young family.

 
 
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[Keith]

Special deal for our new fighter fleet
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/special-deal-for-our-new-fighter-fleet/story-e6freuzr-1225909624585
 
AUSTRALIA will pay a "fly away" price of less than $60 million each for up to 100 of the world's most advanced fighter jets. Video

 
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[Keith]

 
Two Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/21/2989475.htm

The Defence Force has confirmed two Australian soldiers have been killed and two others wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.

The men, serving with the 1st Mentoring Taskforce, were killed when an improvised explosive device (IED) went off while they were overseeing an Afghan army patrol.

A total of 20 Australian soldiers have now been killed in Afghanistan since 2001.

More

Australian soldier killed in Afghanistan
 
 
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[Keith]

 
From: Barton, Lindsay
To: Keith Tennent
Cc: Mara, Adam
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2010 2:16 PM
Subject: RE:A GENUINE QUESTION PLEASE [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]


 
Keith thank you for your question.

ADF fathers currently receive two weeks of paid parental leave and up to 64 weeks of unpaid parental leave, subject to meeting some basic eligibility criteria.

When Australia's new Paid Parental Leave Scheme (PPL) is introduced on 1 January 2011, eligible ADF members will receive benefits under this scheme in addition to the existing ADF-specific benefits. The new PPL scheme offers payments equal to the minimum wage to the primary carer (usually the mother, but could be the father) for 18 weeks. The Prime Minister has announced policy for additional parental leave for fathers. The intent of the announcement would see this as additional to the above benefits.  

I trust this answers your query.

Regards,
 
Lindsay Barton

M1.17 Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600


From: Keith Tennent

Sent: Thursday, 19 August 2010 2:26 PM
To: Griffin, Alan (MP)
Cc: RSL Nat President; President Capricornia & Rockhampton Region RSL Sub Branch; ESO List; Veterans Email List; Australian Defence Assoc; Defence Force Welfare Assoc
Subject: Spam: A GENUINE QUESTION PLEASE

Dear Minister Griffin,

I refer to the announcement below from the PM  regarding paid parental leave of two weeks for fathers.

Like all former professional Soldiers I understand clearly that the administration of the ADF is quite different to the day to day administration of civilian businesses.

However I wonder if you can obtain and answer to my genuine question which follows. I am asking you not in your capacity as Minister for Veterans Affairs but in your capacity as a member of the Ministry while we await the outcome of the election, considering the new Defence Minister will have to be announced by whoever wins the election.

Minister can you inquire whether the Labor fathers paid parental leave system will apply to ADF fathers?

Thank you.

Keith Tennent.
Rockhampton.

ABC NEWS

Gillard promises paid leave for new fathers


By online political correspondent Emma Rodgers

Julia Gillard urged voters to choose her "positive" plan over Tony Abbott's "negative" vision. (ABC TV)

Fathers will get two weeks of paid parental leave at the minimum wage under a Labor government.

Under Labor's plan, to begin on January 1 next year, mothers will get 18 weeks' paid leave at the minimum wage.

During a speech to the National Press Club, Ms Gillard announced that working fathers and partners would also be given two weeks' leave at the minimum wage - at about $570 a week - to begin on July 1, 2012.

She said about 220,000 fathers and other partners would benefit from the change.

"Most working fathers take some time off work around the birth of a child to be with the new baby but this is usually for a short period and can be at some cost," she said.

"The payment will provide support to fathers and other partners who normally have to take unpaid leave at the time of the child to be at home with the new baby."

To be eligible for the payment, fathers and partners will need to have worked at least one day a week for 10 months in the year prior to the baby's birth.

Those earning over $150,000 a year will not receive the payment.

The measure will cost $146 million over the forward estimates.

In what was her last set-piece speech before the election, Ms Gillard made a final pitch to Australians, urging them to choose her "positive" plan over Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's "negative" vision.

She added that the poll would be a "cliffhanger".

The Opposition is offering mothers 26 weeks' leave at the rate of their salary up to $150,000, but will impose a 1.5 per cent levy on the country's biggest companies to fund the plan.



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[Keith]

 
TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY:
 
East Timor (2001) war doco film....available for purchase as a Father's Day Gift.
 
SASHA UZUNOV
Freelance photo journalist
Independent film maker
Director/Producer: TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
www.sashauzunov.freeservers.com
Melbourne
Mob +61 419 635 808
 
------------------------


LUKE LEON MEDIA (ABN: 91310556447) in association with Sasha Uzunov......proudly present...

 
TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY...now available on DVD....RATED M...
 
Timor Tour Of Duty, which looks at the Indonesian military's secret war against Australian and New Zealand troops and international peacekeepers in East Timor, received a special commendation Platinum Reel Award from the 2009 Nevada Film Festival.

The film made its US and international screen debut at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival in October 2009.
 
THE DVD includes 4 extra minutes of two scenes cut from the original film festival screening....

http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/ 


Official film website:
http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/

news story clipping:

www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/10/29/2727819.htm

 
Price is $25.50 (postage & handling and GST included) within Australia.... Order your copy....(DVD PAL stereo)
 
Payment by Australia Post Money Order
 
Luke Leon Media
PO BOX 172
Preston VIC 3072
Australia
 
Outside Australia
 
By money transfer (contact Luke Leon Media for further details)
 
$35.00 AUD including postage and handling
 
-----------------------------------------
TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
 
One of Australia's most controversial war documentary films made in recent years... the blogo-sphere has been buzzing even before the film had been officially released....Timor Tour of Duty is an Australian made war documentary film giving a raw and first hand account of Australian soldiers under fire in East Timor in 2001 and the trauma they later suffered. But it is a universal story of humans and the side effects of war.

Deliberately shot in hand-held camcorder home video style and seamlessly interwoven with soldiers? actual footage, never before seen photographs and reconstructed scenes. The film was produced on a shoe string budget without any arts/filming funding.

DVD cover for TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY.

Corporal Kevin "Bambi" Campbell in the background and in the foreground, Private Daniel Symons, members of 1-2-A, Alpha Company 4RAR, an Australian Army patrol that was attacked by pro-Indonesian militia believed to be Kopassus, Indonesian Special Forces, operating covertly within East Timor during a United Nations Peacekeeping mission.

At 12.50pm, 14 June 2001 in a place known as AO Sparrow, about 8km south-west of Balibo, One-Two-Alpha (1-2-A) came under gunfire and grenade attack from a militia group consisting of five to eight men, believed to be Kopassus, Indonesian special forces, in disguise.

' Pete', as a scout, was at the front of the patrol when the shooting erupted. Scott Sherwin, as the assault machine gunner, was at the rear and had to run forwards to support his comrades.

Pete initially saw a local man dressed in a white civilian shirt swinging a machete through the thick vegetation called lantana. It looked quite innocent.

Seconds later his patrol was fired upon and everybody hit the ground.......and controversy still rages today over that event...

FILM DETAILS: ?Timor Tour of Duty.? Duration: 53 minutes.
Produced, edited and camera work by Sasha Uzunov.

Narrated by Hugo Kelly. Originally shot in Mini DV 16:9 PAL stereo.

Original soundtrack by Vic Di Iorio & Brainstorm (Australia). copyright soundtrack Brainstorm.

Stills Photos: Sasha Uzunov, Conrad Byrne, John Hunter Farrell (Australian/NZ Defender Magazine)

International Copyright Sasha Uzunov (Luke Leon Media) 2009. Film is RATED M for Mature audiences in Australia.

International debut at the 2009 New York International Independent Film and Video Festival (October).

Winner of a 2009 Platinum Reel Award from the Nevada Film Festival (US).
 

EXPERT HAILS TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
- 'Timor Tour of Duty' is as close to what it was like, without actually being there, for Australian soldiers in the troubled border region of East Timor between 1999 and 2003. - Dr Damien Kingsbury, East Timor Expert
 
Review:

There is a prevailing view that Australia's military intervention in East Timor ten years ago was an untroubled affair - it was a successful operation without casualties. The reality, however, was that while casualties were limited, there were many tense moments, and exchanges of fire with Indonesian Special Forces, along the challenging and at times confronting border areas patrolled by Australian soldiers.

Sasha Uzunov's documentary 'Timor Tour of Duty? graphically captures some of these exchanges and the very real impact that it had on the lives of the soldiers involved.

Uzunov's experience as an Australian soldier in this area in his own two tours and through his wider experience as a war correspondent, makes 'Timor Tour of Duty' as close to what it was like, without actually being there, for Australian soldiers in the troubled border region of East Timor between 1999 and 2003.

Associate Professor Damien Kingsbury
A/Director, Centre for Citizenship, Development and Human Rights
School of International and Political Studies
Deakin University, Australia

Author: 'East Timor: The Price of Liberty', Palgrave, New York, 2009
Co-editor: 'East Timor: Beyond Independence', Centre for Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore, 2007.
Editor: 'Guns and Ballot Boxes: East Timor's Vote for Independence', Monash Asia Institute, Melbourne, 2000.

[Keith]

Dear Minister Griffin,
 
I refer to the announcement below from the PM  regarding paid parental leave of two weeks for fathers.
 
Like all former professional Soldiers I understand clearly that the administration of the ADF is quite different to the day to day administration of civilian businesses.
 
However I wonder if you can obtain and answer to my genuine question which follows. I am asking you not in your capacity as Minister for Veterans Affairs but in your capacity as a member of the Ministry while we await the outcome of the election, considering the new Defence Minister will have to be announced by whoever wins the election.
 
Minister can you inquire whether the Labor fathers paid parental leave system will apply to ADF fathers?
 
Thank you.
 
Keith Tennent.
Rockhampton.
 
ABC NEWS
Gillard promises paid leave for new fathers
By online political correspondent Emma Rodgers

Julia Gillard urged voters to choose her "positive" plan over Tony Abbott's "negative" vision. (ABC TV)

Fathers will get two weeks of paid parental leave at the minimum wage under a Labor government.

Under Labor's plan, to begin on January 1 next year, mothers will get 18 weeks' paid leave at the minimum wage.

During a speech to the National Press Club, Ms Gillard announced that working fathers and partners would also be given two weeks' leave at the minimum wage - at about $570 a week - to begin on July 1, 2012.

She said about 220,000 fathers and other partners would benefit from the change.

"Most working fathers take some time off work around the birth of a child to be with the new baby but this is usually for a short period and can be at some cost," she said.

"The payment will provide support to fathers and other partners who normally have to take unpaid leave at the time of the child to be at home with the new baby."

To be eligible for the payment, fathers and partners will need to have worked at least one day a week for 10 months in the year prior to the baby's birth.

Those earning over $150,000 a year will not receive the payment.

The measure will cost $146 million over the forward estimates.

In what was her last set-piece speech before the election, Ms Gillard made a final pitch to Australians, urging them to choose her "positive" plan over Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's "negative" vision.

She added that the poll would be a "cliffhanger".

The Opposition is offering mothers 26 weeks' leave at the rate of their salary up to $150,000, but will impose a 1.5 per cent levy on the country's biggest companies to fund the plan.

 
 
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[Keith]

From: Keith Tennent
To: Veterans Email List ; RSL Nat President ; President Capricornia & Rockhampton Region RSL Sub Branch ; ESO List ; Defence Force Welfare Assoc ; AWM Gen Gower ; Australian Defence Assoc
Cc: Media List ; Federal Parliamentary List
Sent: Tuesday, August 17, 2010 10:22 AM
Subject: DEFENCE POLICY


Dear readers,

I don't have a comprehensive Coalition Defence policy to send you. Please find attached the Labor Defence policy which is of interest to those of you who are serving and those ESO and family members who have contact with serving members in one way or another.

Keith Tennent.

------------

Dear readers,
 
Please find attached a Coalition Defence policy which has been sent to me by a third party.
 
Keith Tennent.

[Keith]

Labor plan for Veterans and Defence click here http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/index.php?topic=549.new#new

[Keith]

Labor promises $21m for wounded soldiers
ABC NEWS

Labor says it will spend an extra $21 million to support wounded Defence personnel if re-elected.

The money would go towards programs for specialist rehabilitation, housing support, and efforts to minimise the financial disadvantage suffered by wounded personnel.

The measures are part of Labor's Defence policy, which also allocates $10 million to increase the number of reservists who are able to respond to humanitarian disasters like the Victorian bushfires.

 

[Keith]

DAILY TELEGRAPH

THE Australian Army's recruitment levels are skyrocketing, leading to a record surplus of officers as the latest Digger to die in Afghanistan brings the nation's death toll in the conflict to 18.

Record recruiting levels and low departure rates have left the army with 1100 more soldiers than it budgeted for.

The figures were released as Australia suffered another fatality in Afghanistan, with the death of Trooper Jason Thomas Brown, 29, who was killed by Taliban insurgents in Kandahar province on Saturday.

The army attributed its excess troop numbers, known as average funded strength (AFS), to historically low separation rates, higher than predicted enlistment figures and continuous full-time service (CFTS) usage.

"Army forecasts it will exceed its AFS by approximately 1100 personnel if the issue is not managed," Defence told The Daily Telegraph.

There are 67 surplus warrant officers 1st Class (WO1) along with 29 lieutenant-colonels and a staggering 121 too many lieutenants.

The force currently has 728 WO1s, 1964 WO2s, 1098 lieutenants, 1609 majors, 582 lieutenant-colonels and 571 colonels to manage a total permanent force of 22,800 troops. In addition there are a record 25 generals sitting at the top of the rank structure as well as 49 brigadiers - the most bloated general's club in the Western world.

The US Army (including reserves) has a soldier-to-general ratio of 3632 GIs for each brass hat, compared with just 1560 Diggers for each general in the Australiam Army.

Australia is well above Britain and Israel and not far behind "top heavy" forces such as Thailand.

The budgeted AFS for 2010/11 was 28,800 personnel.

Colonel Kath Stewart said the army had a surplus at several ranks including lieutenant-colonel, lieutenant and warrant officer.

"Surpluses at the private and lieutenant ranks are required to continue Army's growth towards its future end state of 30,500 personnel by 2016," Colonel Stewart said.

Army reservists are paying the price, with a dramatic drop in deployment opportunities. Colonel Stewart confirmed that, until the surpluses were reduced, there would be restrictions on regular army promotion rates.

 

 
 
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[Keith]

SAS trooper's family in mourning

By CAROLINE MARCUS
From: The Sunday Telegraph
August 15, 2010



SPECIAL forces soldier Jason Thomas Brown dreamed of becoming an elite soldier as a little boy - yesterday he was killed living that dream.

In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Telegraph, the 29-year-old's father Graham said that the family were in shock after learning their son had been gunned down by insurgents in Afghanistan's Kandahar province in the early hours of yesterday.

Trooper Brown was hit multiple times during a "disruption operation" at 1.30am Sydney time. Despite receiving immediate first aid and being evacuated by helicopter, he later died. There were no other Australian casualties.

Mr Brown said that despite their grief the family was full of pride.

"He died doing what he wanted - we're very proud," said Mr Brown, a Vietnam War veteran, from the family's Westleigh home in northern Sydney.

"He did what he loved. He always wanted to be a soldier from when he was a kid. He was married to the army. That was his family."

His mother Ann and younger sister Stephanie, 25, a police officer at Manly, were mourning their loss yesterday, after army personnel knocked on the family's door at 7am to break the news.

Trooper Brown is the seventh Digger to die in the region in two months, with a total of 18 Australian soldiers killed since the war began.

His death, a week before Australians go to the polls, is set to reignite public debate on the highly sensitive issue of deploying troops overseas.

Both Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Opposition leader Tony Abbott briefly halted their campaigning to express their deepest condolences. "It's always difficult, tragic, to hear this news and the thing that impacts on you most is to reflect on how it must be for the family to get that call in the middle of the night that brings the worst news that can possibly ever come," Ms Gillard said.

A gifted rugby league player, Trooper Brown joined the army 10 years ago straight out of high school, Oakhill College at Castle Hill, aged 19.

In 2007, he had his "proudest moment" - being accepted into the elite Perth-based Special Air Service Regiment.

He was posted to the 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Townsville on June 13, 2000, and four years later became a commando with the 4th Battalion RAR.

He did three tours of East Timor between 2001 and 2006.

 

He was sent on his first tour of Afghanistan in June as part of Operation Slipper.

Acting defence force chief Lieutenant General David Hurley expressed "deep regret" at the latest death.

 

 
 
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[Keith]

MSPA 349/10 Saturday, 14 August 2010

Australian soldier killed in Afghanistan

A Special Forces soldier serving with the Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan was killed in action during an engagement with insurgents early this morning [AEST].

29 year old, Trooper Jason Thomas Brown from the Perth-based Special Air Service Regiment died as a result of gunshot wounds sustained in the engagement. Trooper Brown's family was notified in the early hours of this morning and they have agreed to the release of his name.

Trooper Brown's family have requested that the media respect their privacy at this extremely difficult time.

Trooper Brown was part of a combined Australian and Afghan patrol conducting operations in Northern Kandahar at the time of the incident.

Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General David Hurley, said despite the best efforts of his mates and a rapid aero-medical evacuation, Trooper Brown was pronounced dead on arrival at the International Security Assistance Force Kandahar Medical Facility.

"We are all deeply saddened by the loss of this fine young Australian," Lieutenant General Hurley said.

"I offer my sympathies to Jason's family and the Australian Defence Force remains committed to providing full support during the difficult days and weeks ahead."

"This terrible incident is a sad reminder of the dangers faced by our soldiers in Afghanistan on a daily basis and the risks they take on behalf of this country to make Afghanistan a better place."

Trooper Brown will return to Australia in the coming days. He is the 18th Australian soldier to be killed in Afghanistan.

[Keith]

MSPA 347/10     
Friday, 13 August 2010                                                                       

 
Black Hawk lands safely after declaring ?MAYDAY? in East Timor

An International Stabilisation Force (ISF) S70 Black Hawk helicopter which experienced technical problems during a routine training exercise yesterday landed safely at Liquica in East Timor.

On experiencing a rotor overspeed problem, the flight crew declared a MAYDAY, which they subsequently downgraded to a PAN, for a landing at Comoro airport in East Timor. Declaring a PAN means that the aircrew were concerned with the situation, but were not in immediate danger.

Both the ISF Emergency Response Service (ERS) and Comoro Airport emergency service staff responded to assist the aircraft on its landing.

The crew landed safely at Comoro and cancelled the PAN. 

As a result of the incident, the engine of the S70 Black Hawk is currently undergoing full inspection. 

No members of the ISF or members of the East Timor community were injured during this incident. 

The ISF continues to provide an aircraft response capability for the United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste. 


MSPA 346/10 Friday, 13 August 2010


Exercise KAKADU 2010 begins off Darwin

What:      More than 3,000 officers, sailors, airmen and women from four different countries are set to take to the waters north of Darwin to practice their maritime skills in Exercise Kakadu, an important international exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Navy.

When:      16 August to 3 September 2010.

Where:    Northern Australian Exercise Area off Darwin

Background Information:

The Royal Australian Navy will host the largest international maritime exercise in Australia for 2010 off the coast of Darwin. Ships and aircraft from Thailand, Singapore, New Zealand and Japan will join eight Australian Navy vessels in Exercise Kakadu which aims to promote operations between Navies.

Exercise Kakadu, now in its 20th year, is a maritime exercise aimed at developing interoperability in multilateral operations. The exercise aims to improve the Australian Defence Force's ability to work with international naval forces in maritime security exercises and activities and will test the effectiveness of participating assets during operations at sea.

During Exercise Kakadu the Australian Navy will be represented by the Replenishment vessels HMA Ships Sirius and Success; three ANZAC Class Frigates HMA Ships, Arunta, Warramunga and Toowoomba; two submarines, Dechaineaux and Collins; and an Armidale Class Patrol Boat HMAS Albany. Australia is also represented by Royal Australian Air Force assets.


 

[Keith]

 
ABC NEWS
Navy sailor accused of stabbing colleague
By Alex Johnson


An Australian Navy sailor accused of punching his ex-wife and stabbing another woman has appeared in the Darwin Magistrates Court.

Robert Ward, 29, faced court this morning, charged with intending and causing serious harm.

He is also facing three counts of aggravated assault over an incident early on Sunday morning.

Police were called to a Woods Street unit about 2:30am.

They allege Ward punched his 31-year-old ex-wife in the face several times.

Police also say he stabbed a 34-year-old female sailor in the chest.

The women were taken to hospital.

Police say Ward had punched his ex-wife at a city nightclub hours earlier.

The matter was adjourned and Ward was granted bail to reappear on September 8.

 
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[Keith]

 
Not only has there been no mention of Defence there has been no serious mention of Veterans Affairs.
 
Keith Tennent
 
From: Terry DAVIES

Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 8:35 AM
Subject: Great leap in defence ties with China
 
SOURCE: SMHhttp://www.smh.com.au/world/great-leap-in-defence-ties-with-china-20100810-11y4e.html

Great leap in defence ties with China

JOHN GARNAUT

August 11, 2010

A LEADING Chinese military strategist says that ''political obstacles'' to joint military exercises between the Australian Defence Force and the People's Liberation Army have been removed, despite intensifying military and diplomatic rivalry between China and the United States.

Rear-Admiral Yang Yi, from the National Defence University, told the Herald that after meetings with Australian military leaders in Beijing this week there was scope for a high-level bilateral forum on military capabilities, modernisation and intentions - subjects that Australia and the US have been pressing to discuss with China.

''Australia is special because it is a very important player in the region and because it has close relations with the US and also other powers, including India and Japan,'' said Admiral Yang, who has co-written Chinese defence white papers. ''We do not have any intention to divide the allies.''

Yesterday a Chinese general threatened to marshal the country's financial power to punish the US over plans to send an aircraft to Chinese coastal waters in the Yellow Sea.

''Imagine what the consequence will be if China's biggest debtor nation challenges its creditor nation,'' Major General Luo Yuan wrote in Global Times, referring to China's holding of roughly $1.5 trillion of US debt.

The comments follow loud verbal stoushes over sovereignty and military access to the oil-rich South China Sea and US arms sales to Taiwan.

Political analysts are split over whether a series of hostile outbursts this year by Chinese generals towards the US reflected the consensus view of a more confident and aggressive rising power or internal divisions within the upper echelons of the People's Liberation Army and the Politburo, before leadership changes at both institutions.

But China's invitation to Australia appears to be the considered and strategic extension of recent high-level talks between the two countries.

General Liao Xilong, one of 10 generals on the Central Military Commission under President Hu Jintao, told Australian Air Vice-Marshal Margaret Staib on Monday that it was time for the two countries to build on their ''pragmatic communication and co-operation'' in politics, economics and culture.

''Under the new situation, the People's Liberation Army is willing to develop comprehensive friendly communication and co-operation with the Australian Defence Force, broaden the field of communication, enrich the content of co-operation and push forward the relationship of the two armed forces to a new level,'' he said, according to the official Xinhua news agency, which did not make clear whether the words were direct quotes.

Admiral Yang said General Liao was ''one of the top leaders of the People's Liberation Army'' and his views ''represent Chinese military policy and strategy''.

Admiral Yang, who earlier this year led demands that the US cancel a $US6.4 billion ($6.9 billion) arms sale to Taiwan, dismissed the view that recent aggressive Chinese statements reflected internal divisions.

''Foreign policy is the most sensitive policy of the country.''

He said China's military leaders ''do not care too much'' about which party wins the Australian election and were willing to deal with any country ''who respects us and treats us as equals''.

''But if one day Australia does some stupid things like the US, there's no doubt [military relations] will cut off.''

China's moves to bolster military ties with Australia come during a federal election campaign where neither political party in Australia has squarely addressed foreign policy questions relating to the rising global power.

A spokesman for the Defence Minister, John Faulkner, said last night that military-to-military dialogue with China was not new. The two countries had developed a positive and growing military relationship over the past few years.

Strong and positive defence relations were in Australia's interest, and helped contribute to regional security and stability.

with Dan Oakes

[Keith]

VETERAN HOUSING

ABC NEWS
Gillard pledges affordable houses for Darwin
 
Julia Gillard tours Darwin's Rapid Creek markets with local Labor member Damian Hale. (ABC News: Nick Harmsen)


Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced a re-elected Federal Labor Government would help to build 1,200 new affordable rental houses in the Northern Territory.

This morning, Ms Gillard pressed the flesh in Darwin in a bid to hold onto the Northern Territory's most marginal seat, Solomon.

She has announced plans to help build new houses for Darwin and Palmerston, priced at least 20 per cent below market rates.

Ms Gillard says the new houses would be built by Ethan Affordable Housing, a not-for-profit organisation.

"I announce that a re-elected Gillard government will deliver through our national rental affordability scheme 1,200 new residences in Darwin," she said.

"These new homes will be built here in Darwin and made available to Australians of low and middle income Australians."

This morning, Ms Gillard toured Darwin's Rapid Creek markets accompanied by the local Labor member Damian Hale.

Mr Hale won Solomon by less than 200 votes in 2007 and pundits say the Country Liberals candidate Natasha Griggs has a good chance of taking the seat.

Ms Griggs has been campaigning heavily on housing affordability.

 
 
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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
Sailor charged over assault on ex-wife, crewmate
 
A sailor has been charged over an attack on two women in Darwin early yesterday morning.

The 29-year-old man is facing charges of attempted murder, recklessly endangering life, causing serious harm and three counts of assault.

It is alleged he punched his 31-year-old ex-wife in the face and stabbed a 34-year-old woman - also a sailor - in the chest at an inner city unit.

Both women were taken to hospital but were later released.

The man is in custody.

 
 
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[Keith]

 

Defence investigates discovery of inert rocket launcher

Defence is investigating the origin of a used handheld M72 rocket launcher recovered from a South Australian residence yesterday.

Local police found the single use rocket launcher empty and inert.  In this state, the item does not contain the rocket and does not pose any danger to the public.

The find is not believed to be related to launchers reported stolen in Sydney in 2007.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664


Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999, Fax: 02 6265 1545

[Keith]

Our Diggers scarred by war

Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
August 05, 2010

MORE than 140 troops suffering mental breakdowns were discharged from the Australian Defence Force after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Figures obtained by The Daily Telegraph show that 506 soldiers, sailors and air force personnel were medically discharged since 2003. More than 42 per cent, or 214 cases, were due to mental health such as post-traumatic stress disorder and extreme anxiety.

Latest Defence statistics showed 142 of those suffered from mental trauma directly associated with their service in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO).

In the first six months of this year, 24 Afghanistan veterans were discharged for mental health reasons - seven fewer than the previous six months.

Many damaged veterans self-medicate with alcohol and drugs when they return to civilian life.

Defence is so concerned it will implement an extensive program in order to address the problem and adopt all 52 recommendations of the Dunt Review into mental health

 

 
 
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[Keith]

 
Fleet of Shadow 200 unmanned spy planes to Australian protect troops in Afghanistan

Ian Mcphedran
From: The Courier-Mail
August 02, 2010


RQ-7B Shadow 200 ... an unmanned aerial vehicle. Source: Supplied

AUSTRALIAN troops in Afghanistan will be better protected by a fleet of spy planes under a new $175 million deal.

Defence Minister John Faulkner will today announce that the Government has approved the purchase of 18 RQ-7B Shadow 200 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and support systems.

It is part of a $1.1 billion plan announced in the May budget to boost force protection for diggers serving in Afghanistan.

It comes on top of a $32 million lease deal for a C-RAM warning radar to counter rocket and mortar attacks.

The unarmed Shadow UAVs will carry a suite of sensors including high resolution video and still cameras, ultra violet sensors and laser direction finders high above patrolling troops to provide detailed intelligence about
enemy activity.

Ground troops will be able to view footage and data from the aircraft ``live'' in real time on ground terminals.

The information will almost certainly save lives as it will help to detect insurgents planting the roadside bombs that have claimed most of the 17 Australians killed in Afghanistan.

Troops have been using smaller Scan Eagle UAVs under a lease deal with US firm Boeing, but the Shadows will allow the troops to be completely autonomous.

In addition to the 18 ``birds'' two support systems will be purchased under the deal along with ground vehicles, training packages and through-life support.

The US-built Shadows are being sourced from the US military and will be used for battlefield surveillance, reconnaissance and target acquisition.

The high-tech sensor suite is built in Israel, but the aircraft will not be fitted with any weapons.

``The selection of the Shadow 200 system will provide the Australian Army with the most capable and operationally proven tactically mobile TUAV system that exists in any defence force,'' Senator Faulkner said.

``The Scan Eagle UAV will remain in service in the Middle East until the Shadow 200 is delivered.''

The Shadow is launched from a trailer-mounted pneumatic launcher and is retrieved using an arrester wire similar to an aircraft carrier.

It is powered by a 38hp engine, has a range in excess of 100km and eight-hour endurance.

The US army and marines have been using the system for years in Iraq and Afghanistan

 

 
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[Charlie]

Don't know if this is the right place to put this.


War hero's name dragged into boat people row
Padraic Murphy From: Herald Sun July 29, 2010 7:24AM

A SECRET Federal Government plan to transform a barracks and an army club named after a Victoria Cross winner into a processing centre for boat people has been slammed by relatives and Diggers.
The Government is believed to have been working for months on a plan to transfer several large buildings at the Broadmeadows Defence Barracks to the Department of Immigration so they can house asylum seekers.

The Government says the plan has been scrapped. But on Tuesday about 100 regular soldiers and army reservists at Broadmeadows were briefed by Lt-Col Laureen Grimes.

"We were told to prepare for the worst by our commanding officer," a reserve soldier said.

"We were told the plan had been put on hold because of the election but, if Gillard gets in, when it does happen, it will happen very quickly."

He said many soldiers at the meeting were outraged a clubhouse named after VC winner William Ruthven would be handed over to boat people.


Full article here

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/war-heros-name-dragged-into-boat-people-row/story-e6frf7kx-1225898253647

[Keith]

THE AGE

Slash cash for arms, says ex-Army chief

DAN OAKES

July 29, 2010

A FORMER Australian Army chief has cast doubt on tens of billions of dollars of spending on defence hardware and advocated slashing in half the nation's commitment to buy next generation fighter planes.

Peter Leahy, who retired in 2008, called for a radical rethink of spending priorities, saying more emphasis should be placed on non-military security and aid programs.

He said Australia should buy 50 Joint Strike Fighters from the US, rather than the 100 it has committed to at a potential cost of $20 billion.

He also questioned the wisdom of Australia's commitment to spending an estimated $36 billion on 12 new submarines, saying the purchase had never been adequately explained.

Professor Leahy, who now heads the University of Canberra's National Security Institute, said there was sympathy for his views within the Australian Defence Force.

In a paper published by the Kokoda Institute this week, Professor Leahy says the changing security environment means Australia needed to shift its defence spending from high-end acquisitions. Instead, he suggested ''bolstering the country's broader civilian, domestic and international diplomatic aid and security efforts''.

Australia announced in 2002 that it would buy Joint Strike Fighters from the US to replace its ageing F-111 fighter-bombers and FA-18 Hornet fighters. It confirmed last year that it intended to buy 100.

But Professor Leahy said 50 would be more than enough for the task of supporting an Australian land or sea deployment as part of a coalition - the most likely scenario.

The decision to buy 12 submarines to replace the six infamous Collins Class submarines was made in the Rudd government's defence white paper last year.

But Professor Leahy told The Age last night: ''The justification, particularly for the submarines, was never really made, and it's a debate yet to be had. We came out with a headline in the white paper, but it really wasn't covered in any detail.''

In his paper Professor Leahy says the white paper correctly predicted that Australia would not be threatened territorially in the near or medium future because it is far from any theatres of conflict and has good relations with its neighbours.

However, he says, the white paper then wrongly concluded Australia needs to invest in equipment that can keep our air and sea approaches secure.

''This approach neglects the nature of current ADF activities and the most likely future threats the country will face. There is little evidence that the agility demanded by [former] prime minister Rudd is being achieved,'' Professor Leahy writes.

''To pursue and protect the country's interests requires a balanced whole-of-government, diplomatic aid and security effort, as well as a balanced defence force. In this way security is achieved in a proactive and co-operative manner. It is increasingly obvious that the new security environment is not a place for soldiers alone.''

Professor Leahy has been vocal in recent months about the way Australia goes to war. He argued last month that Parliament should have to vote on the deployment of Australian troops to conflict zones.

He told The Age that former colleagues within the Defence Force share his views on defence procurement and the nature of the wars we can expect to fight.

''In discussions with colleagues in the Defence Force, they've shown interest in my point of view, and some sympathy towards it,'' he said.

Professor Leahy also hinted that he had argued against the decision to buy the 100 JSFs when he was still a member of the Defence Force, saying: ''There were a range of debates on the JSF and I expressed my point of view. I made solid contributions to the debate.''

 

 
 
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[Keith]

Diggers at risk in faulty vehicles

DAN OAKES

July 28, 2010

THE AGE

THE electrical systems in armoured vehicles used by Australian troops in Afghanistan can be knocked out by shock waves from roadside bombs, potentially leaving troops stranded in a hostile environment.

Documents obtained by The Age show Defence became aware of the problem in 2008 after two soldiers, one badly injured, were trapped in their vehicle after an explosion tripped the circuit breaker in their Australian light armoured vehicle (ASLAV). Defence would not say if this was in Iraq or Afghanistan.

''I interviewed two drivers who were driving on operations when an IED [improvised explosive device] exploded next to their vehicle and the circuit breaker 'tripped','' the soldier reporting the problem wrote.

''Both drivers retained enough awareness to reset the breaker, despite one of them being badly injured. From their description, it appears that the breaker trips from the shock wave associated with the IED event.''

The investigating officer then emailed the ASLAV training team to ask whether crew were trained to check and reset the circuit breakers after an explosion nearby.

''This would alleviate a configuration change on the vehicle build standard,'' the investigator concluded. It is not known what the response was.

Defence conceded this week that IED explosions incapacitate the electrical system, which also powers the gun turret. But a spokesman said the circuit breaker reset switch was within reach of the driver.

An Australian government tender document from late last year shows the Defence Materiel Organisation paid General Dynamics Land Systems, the company that assembled the ASLAV, $16,624 for a report on the problem.

Although Defence would not comment on how many ASLAVs are in Afghanistan, the number is believed to be small.

Australian troops predominantly use Bushmasters because they have a V-shaped hull capable of deflecting low roadside blasts. Defence Minister John Faulkner announced last month that the armour on ASLAVs would be upgraded.

As the war in Afghanistan has progressed, insurgents have moved away from attacking coalition troops with small arms and begun using more roadside bombs, with horrendous consequences for the international forces.

Figures from the highly regarded iCasualties website show there have been 206 coalition troops killed by IED strikes this year, compared with 275 for all of last year.

Australian private Nathan Bewes was killed by a roadside bomb in Oruzgan province this month. Sappers Darren Smith and Jacob Moerland were killed by a roadside bomb last month.

Thirty-eight Australians have been wounded in Afghanistan this year, many by IEDs. Two Diggers sustained minor wounds this month when several bombs were set off as a mixed Australian-Afghan National Army patrol moved through Oruzgan's Mirabad Valley.

 

 
 
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[Keith]

Depleted Uranium. A VERY POWERFUL VIDEO.
 
The media won't talk about it. Politicians won't talk about it. The medical fraternity won't talk about it. But we will.
 
 
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8199922330478323814#
 
 
Latest documents advocating the ban of depleted uranium
http://onlinejournal.com/artman/publish/article_6144.shtml

According to the UK Uranium Weapons Network, now submitting its evidence to the Iraq War Inquiry, ?The UK Uranium Weapons Network (UWN) announced today that it has submitted its report on British military use of depleted uranium (DU) ammunition in the 2003 Iraq War to the Chilcot Inquiry.

At least two Iraqi cities are known to be suffering from public health crises. Fallujah has seen a 15 fold increase in serious birth defects, whilst Basra has experienced a rise in cancers since DU was used in urban combat. The World Health Organisation is currently investigating the causes of the Fallujah birth defects and ICBUW is still waiting for confirmation from the US that depleted uranium was used there.

Iraqi city has higher cancer rates than Hiroshima
http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1307887/Iraqi-city-has-higher-cancer-rates-than-Hiroshima-

A report has been published indicating cancers and other diseases in the Iraqi city of Fallujah are significantly higher than those of the survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombs of 1945.

Webmaster's Commentary: http://whatreallyhappened.com/
The radioactive isotopes from a nuclear weapon have fairly short half lives, measured on scales of thousands of days for the longest-lived isotopes. In contrast, depleted uranium has a half life of four and a half billion years. Iraq will never be rid of this poison.

UK admits using DU ammunition in Iraq
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=135896&sectionid=351020201

UK defense secretary says American and British forces used depleted uranium (DU) ammunitions during the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Webmaster's Commentary: http://whatreallyhappened.com/
And this http://www.thewe.cc/weplanet/news/depleted_uranium_iraq_afghanistan_balkans.html is the result!

But remember, they only hate us for our freedoms!!!

[Keith]

From: Terry DAVIES
 
Sent: Friday, July 23, 2010 8:29 AM
Subject: Australian Commandos to face criminal charges
 
SOURCE: THE AUSTRALIAN

Diggers involved in pre-dawn raid to face criminal charges

Mark Dodd

July 23, 2010 12:00AM

AUSTRALIAN commandos involved in a raid in southern Oruzgan last year are expected to face criminal charges. Six people, including five Afghan children, were killed in the deadly pre-dawn raid.

The long-running investigation into the tragedy moved into its final stages yesterday with the newly appointed Director of Military Prosecutions, Lyn McDade, calling for final submissions from defence chiefs -- a precursor to the formal laying of charges.

During the February 12 raid, the soldiers, army reservists from Sydney-based 1st Commando Regiment, were supposed to attack a compound in which a senior Taliban commander was the target. Instead, five children and one adult were killed and four other Afghans injured.

The day after the raid, Defence issued a statement saying Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) soldiers believed the compound they had attacked housed Taliban insurgents.

"During the conduct of this operation the soldiers were fired upon by Taliban insurgents," the statement said. "The SOTG engaged the insurgents, returning fire in accordance with their rules of engagement."

After that Defence said nothing publicly about the incident while an internal inquiry was launched.

But in November the case was referred to the director for possible disciplinary action.

"On Monday 19 July, the Director of Military Prosecutions invited the chain of command to make representations regarding the interests of the Australian Defence Force in accordance with section 5A of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982," yesterday's statement said.

"This process allows the chain of command to represent matters to be considered by the director of military prosecutions that relate to the maintenance and enforcement of service discipline.

"It must be stressed that the director of military prosecutions is continuing her consideration of this matter and has not yet made a final decision regarding potential disciplinary action."

Australian National University's professor of international law Don Rothwell said that given the seriousness of the case, Ms McDade was more likely to recommend a criminal trial rather than a court martial.

In 2002, the Howard government enacted extensive changes to the Criminal Code in relation to war crimes.

That meant Australia -- as a party to the Rome Statute on war crimes -- had an obligation to prosecute its nationals in Australia or risk having suspects prosecuted separately by the International Criminal Court in the Hague, Professor Rothwell said.

Last December, in an inquiry report into another night-time raid in which three civilians were killed, Defence said Taliban propaganda frequently described insurgents killed as a result of firefights with coalition forces as civilians. But it stressed the need for accurate intelligence to distinguish enemy combatants from unarmed civilians.

[Keith]

Military base housing solution for asylum-seekers scrapped
Mark Dodd

From: The Australian
July 23, 2010

A PLAN to house asylum-seekers alongside defence force families in a Top End military base has been scrapped by the federal government.

The change came amid angry charges that refugees would be getting preferential treatment at the expense of defence families already living in sub-standard base housing.

As revealed in The Australian, overcrowding at Darwin's Northern Immigration Detention Centre in Berrimah had forced the federal government to consider spilling refugees into defence accommodation close to houses occupied by defence families.

But the Minister for Defence Personnel, Alan Griffin, said yesterday there had never been a plan to evict defence families to make way for refugees.

Only when all defence families living on the HMAS Coonawarra base had been relocated into new homes would action be taken to relocate asylum-seekers, Mr Griffin said.

"It is Defence and the government's view that no action will be taken until ADF families and all other personnel are accommodated in new housing and purpose-built accommodation that better meets their needs," the minister told The Australian.

Stopping asylum-seekers has emerged as a major election issue, with Opposition Leader Tony Abbott promising voters he will "turn back the boats" by reopening detention centres in Manus Island and Nauru.

Earlier, the Defence Force Welfare Association said it was seeking clarification about the government's plans for Berrimah.

Describing the asylum-seeker accommodation woes as "quite a problem for the government", association executive director Les Bienkiewicz said his organisation would take a dim view of any moves that led to hardship for defence families.

The federal opposition's defence personnel spokesman, Bob Baldwin, described as outrageous any plans that would result in asylum-seekers living alongside defence families.

"I don't like the idea of defence families having to live under a cloud of where they're going to be living and who they'll be living with, and in particular if their partner is deployed to Afghanistan, East Timor or any other theatre of operation," he said

 

MSPA 310/10 Thursday, 22 July 2010

MRH90 recommencement of flying operations

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) today announced that Multi Role Helicopters (MRH90s) will recommence flying operations later this week.

This follows an incident north of Adelaide in April this year where an MRH90 suffered an engine failure in one of its two main engines.

The Defence Materiel Organisation's (DMO) Head Helicopter Systems Division, Rear Admiral Mark Campbell, stated that media reports alleging pilot error being a factor in the engine failure were incorrect.

"There is no suggestion of pilot error as alleged in one UK report," Rear Admiral Campbell said.
Eurocopter CEO, Dr Lutz Bertling, has also written to the Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, Greg Combet to directly refute any suggestion that engine damage was caused by improper handling of the aircraft by ADF pilots.

Rear Admiral Campbell also said an inspection regime and preventative measures have been developed to lift the current flying suspension.

"I can confirm flying operations will commence shortly following approval by Defence's Operational Airworthiness Authority.

"Extensive work has been conducted by Rolls Royce Turbomeca and our Industry partners with support from the Defence Science and Technology Organisation to identify the cause of the engine failure. 

"We are advised the failure resulted from compressor blade fracture due to contact with the engine casing."

The impact of the engine failure combined with the workload to address some technical issues with this very capable but highly complex digital aircraft will delay the first flight at sea for Navy, which is now expected to occur in mid 2011.

The first Army capability objective of one deployable MRH90 troop will also be delayed.

Of the 46 MRH90 helicopters ordered for the Australian Navy and Army, 11 have been accepted and are being used for training and testing which contributes to the development of operational capability over the next few years.

[Keith]

 
From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Sent: Saturday, July 17, 2010 4:54 PM
Subject: JMR - Defence houses saved at Larrakeyah Barracks, RAAF Darwin housing negotiations underway


THE HON. ALAN GRIFFIN MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs

Minister for Defence Personnel

MR DAMIAN HALE MP

Member for Solomon

Friday, 16 July 2010    40/2010


Defence houses saved at Larrakeyah Barracks,

RAAF Darwin housing negotiations underway

The Minister for Veterans Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, Alan Griffin, and Member for Solomon, Damian Hale, today announced that 57 of the 61 Defence houses scheduled for demolition at Larrakeyah Barracks in Darwin will be saved.

Mr Hale said, Darwin is experiencing a housing shortage and the community would rather see these houses reused than demolished.

Mr Griffin said, The construction industry has made great advances in recent times, including the development of new and innovative technology which will allow the homes to be removed without compromising the safety and security of the base and the families that live there.

After a competitive tender process, a contractor has been located with specialist trailers equipped with a hydraulic lifting mechanism to raise and lower the houses in about 60 seconds.

?This means that all 57 houses are scheduled to be removed from Larrakeyah Barracks before the start of the wet season.

Local residents will see some changes to gates, fences and landscaping in the vicinity of the exit gate during the removal process.

Once removed, the houses will be on-sold by the contractor, while the remaining four homes which are not suitable for relocation will be demolished, Mr Griffin said.

Regarding Defence housing at RAAF Darwin, the Government has arranged a meeting with the Northern Territory Government and has commenced negotiations with other interested parties to ensure the maximum number of homes can be moved and refurbished for use by the local Darwin community.


Mr Griffin said, ?Indications from Defence are that a large majority of the 395 houses at RAAF Darwin will be suitable for relocation, and Darwin residents can be assured that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring they are available to be used in the Territory.

Current Defence planning indicates that the land to be vacated at RAAF Darwin is required for contingency purposes for Defence into the future.


Damian Hale has made strong representations to me on both of these issues over a number of months, I am impressed with him as a strong local member who delivers for his constituents including and most importantly Defence personnel, Mr Griffin said.

Mr Hale said, ?This is a good result for the Territory.  These houses are needed within our local community and I?m glad to see the Government understands that.

From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Sent: Saturday, July 17, 2010 4:57 PM
Subject: Damian Hale Media Release - Defence Families Stay - 17.07.10


DAMIAN HALE

Member for Solomon

MEDIA RELEASE

DEFENCE FAMILIES WILL NOT BE MOVED

Member for Solomon Damian Hale has dismissed claims defence families will be moved out of houses to accommodate asylum seekers as completely false.

Responding to an article in the Australian newspaper, Mr Hale said there are no plans by Government to use defence houses for asylum seekers.

Defence families absolutely and categorically will not be moved off base at Berrimah, talk that they would is unfounded and completely false.Mr Hale said.

The site is not being considered. This is another example of mistruths and incorrect information being thrown around about asylum seekers.

Mr Hale said the Government will continue to work towards an effective, sustainable, long term regional solution to deal with the challenge of irregular arrivals.

Under the Prime Minister?s plan we will work to stop the boats not at our shoreline but before they even leave those far away ports.

We are committed to securing our borders and to a fair, orderly migration system.

Let me be very clear - Defence housing is not an option to use for asylum seekers.?Mr Hale said.

Media Contact: Amy Davis 8981 3434


Amy Davis

Media Adviser

Office of Damian Hale

Member for Solomon

(08) 8981 3434 tel

[Keith]

 
Dutch hand over security of Chora Valley

Having worked closely with Australian forces during the past four years, the Netherlands officially passed command of a patrol base in the Chora Valley, Uruzgan Province, to the Afghan National Army (ANA) and Combined Team-Uruzgan (CT-U) last week.
 
The Dutch Government decided in December 2007 that its forces would be drawn down progressively from Uruzgan in 2010, and this handover of command in Chora signals the beginning of transition to a new phase of coalition operations in the region.

Under the new multinational construct 'Combined Team-Uruzgan' Australia will work closely with our US ally, Afghan forces and other International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) partners, including Singapore and Slovakia, to continue to build security and development in Uruzgan Province.

Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans, says the Australian soldiers will proudly build on the achievements of the Dutch in the district.

"The people of Chora have seen considerable progress in the past four years," Lieutenant General Evans said.

"The Dutch soldiers should rightfully take pride in their achievements.

"Their approach has complemented our own which has delivered very positive outcomes for the local Afghans."

"Australia has been their partner from the beginning and we will now, along with the Afghan Army and our new US partners, continue this vital mission in Chora."

Dutch Commander Brigadier Kees van den Heuvel spoke of the significance of Chora Valley.

"Three years ago this company was here and because of the strategic importance of Chora, the Netherlands decided to stay and military history was written," Brigadier van den Heuvel said.

Captain Peter Allan of the 1st Mentoring Task Force paid tribute to the Dutch soldiers who had fallen in the Chora Valley.

"Chora is a place where the Dutch have suffered casualties but their sacrifice was not in vain - their battlefield is now our battlefield and be assured their memory will be honoured."

Continuing Australian and Afghan security force operations are focused on improving the lives of the local people by setting the security conditions for enhanced development in the areas of health, education, and public works.

ADF mentoring of the ANA, particularly the focus on tactical battlefield skills, leadership and effective command and control, reinforces ISAF's commitment to assisting the ANSF to take responsibility for the security of Afghanistan.

For more information on the ADF's operation in Afghanistan go to http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/index.htm

Media note:
Imagery of the hand over can be accessed at the following link: http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100716/index.htm

Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal report ? inquiry into recognition for members of the Australian Defence Force for service in Papua New Guinea after 1975

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, today announced the recommendation of the independent Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal inquiry into recognition for members of the Australian Defence Force for service in Papua New Guinea after 1975.

The Report recommended that no general medallic recognition should be given to Australian Defence Force members who have served in Papua New Guinea after 16 September 1975.

?The release of this report fulfils an Australian Government election commitment to review this service,? said Dr Kelly.

 ?I acknowledge that former and current Australian Defence Force members who served in Papua New Guinea after Independence may be disappointed by this recommendation,? Dr Kelly said

?The inquiry into this matter and the Tribunal?s report demonstrates the Government?s commitment to the independent review of long-standing Defence honours and awards issues.?

The Tribunal?s full report is available at www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au.  Further information on Defence honours and awards is available at: www.defence.gov.au/medals/

[Keith]

 
 
THE HON. ALAN GRIFFIN MP
Minister for Veterans' Affairs
Minister for Defence Personnel

MR DAMIAN HALE MP
Member for Solomon

Defence houses saved at Larrakeyah Barracks,RAAF Darwin housing negotiations underway

The Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, Alan Griffin, and Member for Solomon, Damian Hale, today announced that 57 of the 61 Defence houses scheduled for demolition at Larrakeyah Barracks in Darwin will be saved.

Mr Hale said, "Darwin is experiencing a housing shortage and the community would rather see these houses reused than demolished".

Mr Griffin said, "The construction industry has made great advances in recent times, including the development of new and innovative technology which will allow the homes to be removed without compromising the safety and security of the base and the families that live there".

"After a competitive tender process, a contractor has been located with specialist trailers equipped with a hydraulic lifting mechanism to raise and lower the houses in about 60 seconds.

"This means that all 57 houses are scheduled to be removed from Larrakeyah Barracks before the start of the wet season.

"Local residents will see some changes to gates, fences and landscaping in the vicinity of the exit gate during the removal process.

"Once removed, the houses will be on-sold by the contractor, while the remaining four homes which are not suitable for relocation will be demolished," Mr Griffin said.
   
Regarding Defence housing at RAAF Darwin, the Government has arranged a meeting with the Northern Territory Government and has commenced negotiations with other interested parties to ensure the maximum number of homes can be moved and refurbished for use by the local Darwin community.

Mr Griffin said, "Indications from Defence are that a large majority of the 395 houses at RAAF Darwin will be suitable for relocation, and Darwin residents can be assured that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring they are available to be used in the Territory".
 
"Current Defence planning indicates that the land to be vacated at RAAF Darwin is required for contingency purposes for Defence into the future.

"Damian Hale has made strong representations to me on both of these issues over a number of months, I am impressed with him as a strong local member who delivers for his constituents including and most importantly Defence personnel," Mr Griffin said.

Mr Hale said, "This is a good result for the Territory.  These houses are needed within our local community and I'm glad to see the Government understands that".

[Keith]

 
 
THE HON. DR MIKE KELLY AM MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support

Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal Report into Recognition of SAS Counter Terrorist and Special Recovery Duties

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, Dr Mike Kelly, today announced that the Government had accepted the recommendations of the independent Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal Inquiry into Recognition of Australian Defence Force Service for Special Air Service Counter Terrorist and Special Recovery Duties.

The Inquiry recommended that:1. Service in an online Tactical Assault Group (TAG) since its inception in 1980 (as well as service in the Interim TAG in 1979) should be recognised by the award of the Australian Service Medal with a new clasp, to be entitled Clasp 'CT/SR'.

2. To be eligible for a medal, recipients should:

Have served in the online TAG for a minimum of 60 days continuously.

Have been a member of the TAG, which comprises a Regimental Special Operations Command and Control Element, signalers, intelligence staff and other specialists, a squadron or company headquarters as applicable, and land, water, sniper, and signals troops.

Have been a specialist member of the Australian Defence Force (eg Special Operations aviation personnel in support of the TAG), but only so long as they meet the requirement to serve continuously online for 60 days.

"The release of the findings fulfils a key election commitment," said Dr Kelly.

"From the raising of this unique TAG capability to the present, those involved have maintained a world-class capability ready for all situations in support of Australia's interests."  

Defence is currently working through the implementation aspects and further information will be released concerning specific eligibility once deliberations have been finalised.  

"I would like to thank the Tribunal for its work on this and the other matters it continues to deal with.  I believe members of the Tribunal have undertaken their work diligently, fairly and with an open mind.  I continue to have complete confidence in the Tribunal," Dr Kelly said.

Media Note:
The full Report is available online at www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au


THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Defence in $180m IT deals
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/defence-in-180m-it-deals/story-e6frgakx-1225892314242
 
UPDATED: Fran Foo THE Department of Defence has inked agreements worth a combined $180.3 million for two major IT reform programs.

 
Diggers reveal their fears: Afghan allies are dodgy

Rory Callinan and Sean Parnell
From: The Australian
July 16, 2010


AN Afghan soldier working with Australian troops was suspected of spying after making a mobile phone call before they were attacked.

Australian soldiers also feared their Afghan counterparts were "dodgy", according to statements collected from frontline troops as part of a government-funded study of deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq.

The revelations come after an Afghan soldier this week attacked his British trainers in Helmand province in the country's south, killing two officers and a soldier before fleeing to join the Taliban.

The Australian Defence Force has declined to provide further details about the mobile phone incident and other scenarios relating to Afghan National Army troops, but said such allegations were a "serious issue of concern".

The incident was documented in an extraordinary selection of transcripts from 120 serving and former troops from the two Iraq offensives, dating back to the early 1990s, and the ongoing Afghanistan war.

A combat veteran - identified only as "3 BGD Combat" - told a health researcher how the patrol came under attack.

"We had an incident when one of them was on a mobile phone and about 20 minutes later we got contacted (attacked) and the contact went for like five hours," the soldier said in a focus group last year. "We had to strip all the gear off them (the soldiers) and take their weapons away and like, they got some interrogators in to see what was going on."

Another Australian soldier in the focus group described working with the ANA as "dodgy, dodgy as hell, no trust".

One even detailed an incident where Australian troops watched Afghan police fight over "chi boys".

"The ANP, the Afghani police, had a massive shootout one night and we just sat on the roof and sort of watched it, when we figured out they weren't actually shooting at us, they were shooting over us," said the soldier also just referred to as "3 BGD Combat".

"And a couple of them come up with holes in them from getting shot, but that's what it was about, someone having fun with their little mate that night."

An ADF spokesman said Defence would investigate the incident relating to the "chi boys" if more information was provided.

He said the allegations about the mobile phone incident raised "a serious issue of concern" but, again, there was insufficient information to investigate.

Australians have been mentoring the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Kandaks or battalions and the brigade headquarters and are expected to take over training for the entire 4th Brigade of the ANA.

Last month, Defence Minister John Faulkner said there was growing evidence that the ANA's 4th Brigade was "maturing towards its goal of independent operations".

The researchers who extracted the statements were preparing for a $12 million health study of Middle East deployments. They noted how Australian troops expressed "a sense of distrust" about working with the local forces. They felt they did not know who, or where, their enemies were.

 

 
 
www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website
 
http://www.anzmi.net/  Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

ADF promises family support
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/adf-promises-family-support/story-e6frg8yo-1225890478427
 
Sean Parnell AUSTRALIAN troops serving in the Middle East have forced Defence to offer more support to their families at home.

Robot shortage 'puts soldiers at risk'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/robot-shortage-puts-soldiers-at-bomb-risk/story-e6frg8yo-1225890478296
 
Rory Callinan and Sean Parnell AUSTRALIAN soldiers have complained about troops being under-equipped to deal with deadly explosives.

The best way to support our Troops is to bring them home. Let those who promote this War send their young off to volunteer first. They will ignore this challenge and get on with life as usual, letting young Australians die and become disabled while they go to the movies and footy matches as if nothing is happening in Afghanistan. Reliable reports already indicate that some disabled Afghan Troops are being made to jump through hoops to gain their just entitlements. And this is while the War is raging. After the Troops are brought home politicians and DVA will cast them off further and want less to do with them. Once these young Soldiers are dead, they are dead forever. You cannot come back from death. And once they are permanently disabled, they are permanently disabled, end of story.
 
The PM is lying when she says Australian security depends on our Troops being in Afghanistan. And most Australians know this.
 
ABC NEWS
 
'Stressed troops' burning out in Afghanistan

 
The ADA says stress levels are high because most of the fighting is being done by a small number of troops (Four Corners)

The Australia Defence Association says the Federal Government may have to consider sending more soldiers to Afghanistan to relieve the stress on those serving there now.

The Association says some helicopter crews and special forces are becoming stressed and over-worked because they are having to rotate through too many tours of duty too quickly.

The Association's Neil James says stress levels are high because much of the fighting by Australians in Afghanistan over the last few years has been done by a small part of the Defence Force.

"Small specialised elements such as helicopter crews and special forces have been very, very highly stressed because they have had a high operational tempo," he said.

"It may be that the load will have to be spread more evenly across the whole Defence Force to lower the operational tempo for those parts of the Defence Force that, quite frankly, are getting close to being over-used."

The Defence Association says it believes the increase in the number of deaths of Australian troops in Afghanistan could be due to the increase in Coalition activity because of the United States troop surge.

At the weekend the 17th Australian soldier, Private Nathan Bewes from Kogarah in New South Wales, was killed in Afghanistan in a bomb attack.

Mr James says an increase in US troop numbers means Australians accompanying them are involved in more operations in areas they have not been before.

"It may very well be that the casualties aren't related to any upsurge in the fighting, although in this case they probably are," he said.

"The thing about casualty rates is that you have to look at them in the long term and not take a snapshot at any one time, because you can get quite an artificial picture."

 

[Keith]

Soldiers' despair confronts Defence

EXCLUSIVE: Sean Parnell and Rory Callinan
From: The Australian
July 10, 2010


AUSTRALIAN troops have revealed the intense pressure of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The troops have criticised the Defence organisation and their allied counterparts as they detail the hidden trauma of life on the front line.

In descriptions of overworked pilots addicted to Stilnox and other prescription drugs, an underground trade in illicit substances and sex, complaints about a lack of support, poor leadership and the constant fear of death, troops have provided a raw and disturbing account of Australia's involvement in the Middle East.

The Weekend Australian has obtained an extraordinary selection of transcripts from 120 serving and former troops from the two Iraq offensives, dating back to the early 1990s, and the ongoing Afghanistan war in which they reveal the threats faced on deployment - not only from the enemy, but also from within.

Their frank and often disheartening comments - made in a supposedly confidential environment for researchers preparing Australia's largest-ever Defence health study - are so controversial Defence has removed the transcripts from a research website and threatened reprisals over the apparent breach of information security.

Defence last night vowed to investigate many of the allegations raised by the focus groups, but insisted some of the members' concerns were dated and had already been addressed. The study itself was being conducted with a view to improving overall support and healthcare.

"Some of the comments raised serious issues of concern, and Defence will look into those and take appropriate action," the department said in a statement.

This comes after the recent deaths of three more Australian soldiers in Afghanistan, taking the total since the war began to 16, amid increasing community concern about the nation's involvement in the war.

Defence Minister John Faulkner this week announced he was leaving the portfolio - then had to repeatedly deny claims it was because of his own reservations about Afghanistan.

The researchers ran focus groups to ascertain whether they would be asking the most appropriate questions in their eventual surveys. While they obtained only a snapshot of the views of those serving in the Middle East - normally hidden by Defence's marketing and PR machine - they realised they had underestimated the anger troops felt about Defence itself and have since changed their surveys.

The focus groups confirmed revelations in The Weekend Australian that specialist members of the defence force, such as pilots, are struggling to maintain the operational tempo. Several members of the focus groups, mainly medics and air force personnel, highlighted the challenge of repeat deployments and, for some, working constant night cycles.

Aircrew expressed concerns about their use of prescription drugs and one RAAF medic said crewmen had become dependent or even addicted.

"We are still seeing the issues with the sleep-inducing agents, and a huge battle between the aircrew world and the health because of the long-term effects with Stilnox and problems with that," one RAAF medic says.

"We say you cannot have it and the entire squadron is up in arms about that . . . and we are still plugging the issue about what is an appropriate sleep-inducing agent . . . it doesn't work in military operations because they are using continuously for four months . . . it's against all pharmacy principles."

After the death from a suspected illegal drug overdose of a young Australian army commando in Afghanistan last month, Defence chief Angus Houston said there was "zero tolerance" of illegal drug use in the military.

Defence confirmed last night that aircrew were prescribed sleeping tablets as part of fatigue counter-measures, but revealed health directives had been updated last November to relegate Stilnox to "second-line agent for use during operational flying and only when other fatigue counter-measures are deemed inappropriate by the prescribing doctor".

While the guidelines were consistent with those of other Coalition forces, "Defence will investigate this issue to ascertain whether further action needs to be taken". The RAAF has also directed aircrew rotations be limited to four months.

The focus groups reported many personnel taking up smoking on deployment, some in Iraq pursuing illicit substances and even forms of Viagra, and a widely held belief that many would have alcohol problems upon their return to Australia. There were also complaints that Dutch soldiers would not help collect dead Australian soldiers.

Defence last night said Australia's coalition partners continued to provide emergency evacuations, although its response referred only to assistance provided to injured soldiers.

The focus groups also revealed their belief that gun-toting Americans made Australians more of a target. "The Yanks are a hazard themselves . . . especially with their weapon safety and things like that," says one ex-serving member from Adelaide.

Senator Faulkner has been praised for upgrading military armour and equipment during his tenure - Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet spoke this week to returned troops in Townsville about the issue - and the transcripts show how much the concerns contributed to soldiers' fear of death.

The focus groups expressed a high level of concern about the divorce and separation rate, which one air-crew member described as "absolutely phenomenal".

Defence has moved to upgrade the support provided to families.

Some troops have had problems readjusting to life in Australia, complained of substandard food and dirty water in Afghanistan, poor hygiene in living quarters, and the fear that smoking cigarettes and cigars, and constantly inhaling dust, would have long-term health ramifications.

While the government has undertaken a major review of mental health in Defence, and vowed to upgrade services, the focus groups expressed concern that post-deployment screening might not pick up their problems. One soldier said there had been 22 mental health discharges from his troop and six suicides.

Separation from families has increased stress and anxiety, with focus groups criticising the lack of support for family members at home. One soldier noted how five of his 26-member unit had divorced within several months of their return from the Middle East.

The transcripts give insight into the frontline perceptions of Australia's efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan and the final, $12 million study will involve thousands of current and former ADF members. The focus groups may have aired some concerns about the first Gulf War which have since been addressed, but they also revealed serious, ongoing issues that Defence has sought to address in private.

parnells@theaustralian.com.au

Defence responds to The Australian's questions

From: The Australian
July 10, 2010
THE responses from the Department of Defence to The Australian's questions.

Background

 Some of the comments raised serious issues of concern, and Defence will look into those and take appropriate action.

 The Annexes form part of the Preliminary Study for the Military Health Outcomes Program (MilHOP) survey. These annexes were inadvertently posted to the Centre for Military and Veterans Health (CMVH) web site.

 The responses are the participants personal perceptions. In some instances these perceptions do not necessarily reflect the full context of the issues raised.

 Participants who were interviewed as part of the Preliminary Study have been deployed in the Middle East Area of Operations at some time during the period 1991 - present.

 The questions in the Preliminary Study were deliberately designed to ellicit responses that described veterans? most difficult or challenging deployment experiences.

 These Preliminary Study responses were used to shape the MilHOP survey.

 The Preliminary Study and MilHOP survey form part of a broader Defence commitment to improve health care, particularly mental health care, for ADF members and remove the stigma associated with mental health issues.

 Understanding the stressors that affect deployed ADF personnel is critical to enabling the development of strategies to care for our people.

 A significant factor in achieving this important objective is to gain the confidence and trust of our members to speak openly about issues affecting them.

 Defence has already investigated and/or resolved many of the issues raised by the respondents over the 19 year period considered by the Preliminary Study.

 Sensationalising these issues in the media has the potential to undermine our attempts to care for our veterans, both serving and non-serving, some of whom may be dealing with mental health issues. Eroding this confidence and trust may prevent individuals from coming forward in the future.

 Our primary concern is for the health and wellbeing of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen.

Q 1.  Why did Australian troops stand by and watch Afghan Soldiers and Afghan police fight a pitched battle over a dispute over who would have sex with the local chi boys last year?

Q2.  Why were ANA soldiers allowed to continue such an incident when Australian Soldiers are supposed to be mentoring them?

Q2a Did any Australian commanders express concern about the situation to Afghan soldiers and or police or take any other action and if so what was it?

Response to Q1, 2, 2a:

 Given the lack of details provided on this incident, it is not possible to make further comment in the absence of more specific information.

 Should an ADF member witness serious criminal activity, including incidents of child sexual abuse, current procedures allow ADF members to intervene and detain those committing the crime.

 The ADF condemns the abuse and exploitation of children in the strongest terms, noting that child sexual abuse is illegal under Afghan law and that Afghanistan is a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

 The Australian Government has consistently made clear the importance it attaches to the protection of human rights in Afghanistan, particularly in relation to children and women. The Australian Government, and the Department of Defence, are deeply concerned by reports of the abuse of children in Afghanistan. The Australian Government will continue to assist efforts to improve human rights in Afghanistan.

 Given the seriousness of the issues raised if the details of the incident are provided, Defence will look into this issue and take appropriate action.

Q3.  Was any action ever taken about the policy of Dutch and or ISAF not assisting by flying in or driving in to recover dead Australian soldiers given it was putting Australian lives at risk including on one occasion where Aussie soldiers had to carry a dead Australian for 2.5km on foot in an enemy area?

Response

 There is no such policy which prevents coalition forces assisting Australians in conducting emergency medical evacuations. In fact the support Australia has received, and continues to receive, from our coalition partners in this regard has been outstanding. Our coalition partners often place themselves at extreme risk to effect an evacuation. This support has saved Australian lives on numerous occasions.

Q4. One applicant has described the Australian helmets as worth jack after one of the soldiers was shot in them and died. Are there any moves to upgrade Australian helmets and if so what are they and if not why not?

Response

 The helmet issued to ADF personnel is world class, however, no helmet exists that will protect against all ammunition natures. The ADF continues to monitor the threat and the appropriateness of all protective equipment.

 Defence continues to upgrade its equipment as technology evolves. New helmets have been acquired as part of the Force Protection Review. These helmets are modular, light weight and enable additional night fighting equipment to be attached.

Q5. Airforce medics have expressed grave concerns about the prescription of sleeping tablets like Stilnox and Temazepam and made the statement that they are being over prescribed by military pharmacy officials at levels in breach of Australian pharmacy guidelines for periods of months at a time. What is being done about this situation?

Response

 Australian Defence Force aircrew may be prescribed sleep-inducing agents as part of fatigue counter-measures in operational settings. The only two medications approved for this purpose are Temazepam and Stilnox (Zolpidem).

 Non aircrew personnel are only provided sleeping agents on a case by case basis based on clinical need.

 In 2008, the RAAF Institute of Aviation Medicine undertook a study reviewing the literature about the use of sleep-inducing agents.

 As a consequence of this study, the existing Health Directive 311 'Use of medication by Aircrew and Aircraft Controllers? was updated in November 2009. As a result Stilnox (Zolpidem) is now available only as a second-line agent for use during operational flying and only when other fatigue counter measures are deemed inadequate by the prescribing doctor.

 In addition there is an aircrew information sheet which must be signed by the individual prior to these medications being issued and detailed records must be kept regarding the dispensing and return of unused sleep inducing medication.

 The Guidelines for the use of sleep inducing agents used by the ADF are in line with the guidelines used by other world militaries including Canada, UK, and the US.

 Defence will investigate this issue to ascertain whether further action needs to be taken.

Q6. The Airforce individuals have blamed the high level of operations putting great stress on aircrews and other airforce personnel. What is the ADF doing about this situation to reduce the load on these airforce personnel?

Response

 Management of all Air Force operational activity is strictly undertaken in accordance with extant airworthiness and safety publications and instructions.

 The Air Force acknowledges members may experience high levels of stress on operations. It is acknowledged that there are risks associated with fatigue and exposure to excessive operational stress to all members, especially aircrew.

 Air Force has directed the rotation of Air Force air crew personnel to the MEAO be limited to 4 months to minimise fatigue and operational stress.

 Defence airworthiness and safety policies comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 and Australian Standards (AS) for OHS and Risk Management.

 Robust medical support and mental health support is available for all ADF members on operational deployments. The Mental Health Program within Joint Health Command has programs such as Return to Australia Psychological Screening (RTAPS) and Post Operational Psychological Screen (POPS) which are mandated for all ADF members returning from any ADF operations to identify stressed individuals and ensure adequate treatment is provided as required.

Q7. One soldier has revealed they were able to buy and use illegal Viagra-style drugs while serving in Baghdad. Has or is any investigation being mounted into this situation and if not why not given the issue of drug abuse in the services?

Response

 Some medications which are only available in Australia with a prescription can be purchased over the counter in other countries, for example, Viagra style drugs.

 Defence Health Practitioners seek to educate ADF members by providing advice and guidance about the use of non-prescribed medication and its potential effects on their health.

Q8. Is it true that Australian military personnel were denied a combat badge even though they suffered rocket attacks at the airbase in Baghdad?

Response

 Defence will investigate any claim of combat experience in accordance with the criteria set out below.

 The purpose of the Army Combat Badge (ACB) is not to recognise combat duties, but to recognise service with a combat element through formal force assignment. The recognition for service in a war-like operation is acknowledged with the awarding of an Australian Active Service Medal (AASM).

 To be eligible for an Army Combat Badge (ACB) a member must have either:

(1) Been force assigned to a combat team for a period of either a continuous or an aggregate of 90 days satisfactory service;

(2) Been physically deployed in the same geographical location as a Combat Team and have a primary role to directly support that Combat Team for a period of either a continuous or an aggregate of 90 days satisfactory service;

 And,

(1) Been serving on a war-like operations; and

(2) Not have been previously issued the Infantry Combat Badge (ICB) or ACB.

 Any personnel who did not meet the criteria above would not have received an ACB regardless of being subjected to a rocket attack.

Q9. Some soldiers were scathing of the HQ in Baghdad in one incident describing it as a self licking icecream and that they failed to ensure appropriate supplies to troops in the field. What has been done about this allegation?

Response

 Our deployed Australian Headquarters are highly trained professionals that work tirelessly to ensure that ADF personnel serving in the Middle East receive the necessary support and all essential supplies to complete their assigned missions. As a result, Australian soldiers are well supplied and resourced. However, the Middle East is a dangerous and complex operating environment which brings with it certain difficulties. Consequently, in some instances supplies have been delayed, however, at no time has this exposed ADF personnel to greater risk.

Do you know more contact The Australian callinanr@theaustralian.com.au or parnells@theaustralian.com.au

[Keith]

This is closer to the truth. In the short time the PM Ms Gillard has been Prime Minister she has affirmed the Afghanistan commitment, affirmed support for Israel instead of supporting an even handed, non partisan Peace Process and in doing so she is obviously supported by Mr Abbott and the Federal Opposition who have not disagreed.
 
There is no doubt Sen Faulkner is a moral, deep thinking and intelligent man who is serving the Military with deep commitment and compassion. It is very likely that one of his motivations for saying he will step down as Defence Minister after the next election, presuming Labor wins, is that his conscience and political nouse tell him clearly that our Troops should be brought home. Don't forget he has access to information ordinary Australians do not have.
 
On another note Australian voters are once again faced with an upcoming election choice between tweedle dee and tweedle dum. On all the essential domestic and international matters which count there is no difference in policy between the major parties.
 
The myth of the right left divide is just that on all the matters of policy which count. A political game has been played out in Canberra for years which tells you you have a choice when in fact it matters not who you vote for you get the same.
 
And for the politicians in Canberra who support the Afghanistan commitment we suggest you round up all your rellies and get them to enlist now.
 
Of course the band wagon will roll on, arrogantly dismissing what the people want. Politicians will do what they want and, despite the charade of popular debate and consultation, they have no intention of taking notice of anything we the people say or think.
 
Insider suspects war doubts behind Faulkner move
ABC NEWS

 
Moral dimension: Julia Gillard and John Faulkner at the funeral for Afghan war casualty Private Timothy Aplin (Defence Department)

A Canberra Defence insider says John Faulkner's decision to step down as Defence Minister could have been influenced by moral doubts about the Afghanistan war.

Senator Faulkner cited "generational change" yesterday when he announced he was stepping down from the Labor ministry after the upcoming election.

But Professor Hugh White, who worked for Senator Faulkner when he was a defence minister in the early 1990s, says "it's also quite possible that there's a deeper factor involved."

"John's always been a rather reluctant minister ... and I think we should take him at his word for what he said yesterday," he told ABC2's News Breakfast.

"[But] John Faulkner is a remarkably conscientious, even fastidious, man.

"I think he is the kind of politician who would take very seriously the responsibility he as Defence Minister takes for the fact that there are Australian troops getting killed in Afghanistan."

Professor White, who works for the Lowy Institute thinktank, says he does not know Senator Faulkner's exact thoughts on the war.

"But a lot of people are starting to question pretty deeply whether we can achieve what we've set out to achieve there, whether it makes sense to continue," he said.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Faulkner was one of those who was asking himself those questions.

"If he was, he's the sort of guy who I think would take very seriously whether or not he still felt comfortable about committing Australian forces [and] seeing Australian soldiers being killed in a war in which he may well be losing faith."

Professor White says the senator has spoken to the families of five slain soldiers since becoming minister.

"It's been the most intense period of casualties we've seen in Australia for a very long time," he said.

"We'd have to go right back to Vietnam to see a comparable period."

"He wouldn't be the deeply moral person he is if he wasn't reflecting deeply on how justified the operations we're involved in are - whether they really warrant the cost that they're imposing on these young men."

However Professor White says the Government itself appears to be committed to the war, and it would look bad to step down the effort now.

Senator Faulkner follows Finance Minister Lindsay Tanner as the second key Labor frontbencher to step down since Julia Gillard replaced Kevin Rudd as Prime Minister.

While Mr Tanner will leave parliament altogether, Senator Faulkner says he will seek re-election in the Upper House.

Meanwhile, Professor White says Greg Combet is the obvious choice to take up the role of defence minister after proving himself as a star performer for Labor.

"Defence is the graveyard of ministerial careers," he warned, citing Kim Beazley as one of the few ministers who have taken on the portfolio and gone on to other roles.

 
 
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[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Materiel and Science

Combet hears from troops at Lavarack Barracks

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, today heard first-hand from troops their views about issued equipment, and also received an update on the $682 million upgrade and expansion of Lavarack Barracks.   

"The Government is very keen to make sure that Australian troops based here in Townsville and around the country have the best equipment and resources they need to do the job," Mr Combet said.

"The Federal Government has invested millions of dollars in new training, accommodation and lifestyle facilities at the Townsville Army barracks, making way for an additional 730 troops that will relocate from Holsworthy Army base by the end of next year."

Mr Combet, who toured Lavarack Barracks with the Labor candidate for Herbert, Tony Mooney and the Labor candidate for Dawson, Mike Brunker today said that the troops were looking forward to the new facilities.

"The troops were keen to report that these new training, accommodation and lifestyle facilities will be among the best in Australia," Mr Combet said.

"They're keen to make use of them and keen to be joined by the growing family of Australian troops from Holsworthy in Sydney who will soon call Lavarack Barracks and Townsville home."

"I hope that the new facilities will help provide troops with the resources they needed as well as reinforce the critical role that Townsville plays for the Australian Defence Force." 

"The Government recognises the important role Townsville plays in Australia's defence and these news facilities will go towards cementing that role."

Mr Combet also recognised the fine contribution that Australian troops based in Townsville made to Australia's operations both in Australia and overseas.

"I think we can all be proud of the outstanding contribution troops in Townsville have made to Australia's operations at home and in Afghanistan and Timor. They are an outstanding force," Mr Combet said.

Troops ended the Minister's tour of the base by giving Mr Combet a firsthand look at a Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle operated by B Squadron, 3rd and 4th Cavalry Regiment and a tour of the Lavarack Barrack's Weapons Training Simulation Site.

[Keith]

 
THE AGE

 

Fire-prone tanks were known risk

DAN OAKES

July 6, 2010

THE Department of Defence knew before it bought the army's $550 million battle tank fleet that the tanks are prone to engine fires, internal documents show.

The documents, obtained by The Age, show that there had been numerous fires in the engine compartment of the Abrams M1A1 tanks in the United States, and that the problem was well known before Defence bought 59 second-hand tanks from the US government in 2004.

''Defence Materiel Organisation has long been aware of the tendency of engine bay fires in armoured vehicles. Incidents of fires in Abrams tanks, in particular, are well documented and in the public domain,'' a Defence spokesman said.

But Defence provided only two US government documents, from 2003 and 2001, to back this up.

It also said the US government was trying to fix the problem, suggesting that it affects the tanks' effectiveness or the safety of their crew.

So far in Australia there had been four complaints of fires in the engine bay, and four fires in the engine exhaust duct, Defence said. None of the Abrams tanks have been deployed overseas.

One complaint lodged in 2007 says: ''Vehicle caught fire while at firing point. Upon investigation it was found that a loose fuel union was at fault. Although this is an isolated incident within Australia, there have been numerous engine compartment fires reported in the US and overseas.''

More recent complaints blame the tanks' starter motor and another piece of equipment called the PTS actuator for the fires.

The US government has begun to replace the PTS actuator in its Abrams tanks, and Australian tanks are also being refitted.

The main cause of engine bay fires in armoured vehicles is leaking fuel or oil. Unlike normal vehicles, in which leaking fuel or oil can generally escape to the ground and pose minimal fire hazard to the vehicle, leaking oil from an armoured vehicle engine is contained within the enclosed engine bay.

Defence told The Age that there are a range of ''automatic fire suppression measures'' fitted in the engine and crew compartments, and a ''a remote manual fire system that can be engaged to extinguish engine fires''. But the crew then has to leave the tank as a precautionary measure, which would leave them exposed in a battlefield scenario.

Crews are also obliged to periodically check the fuel and oil lines and couplings for leaks or damage.

''Given the series of measures outlined above, Defence does not consider engine bay fires pose an unacceptable risk to crew,'' a Defence spokesman said.

Australia bought the Abrams to replace its fleet of lightly armoured, ageing Leopard tanks, which had never seen battle. The more heavy duty Abrams had acquitted itself well in the 2003 US invasion of Iraq.

 

 
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[Keith]

Pacific Rim nations prepare for ultimate test off Hawaii

The Australian Defence Forces largest international maritime exercise, comprised of three ships, two AP-3C Orion aircraft and approximately 1200 personnel commences in Hawaii this week.

Exercise Rim-of-the-Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010 is designed to test their interoperability with 14 Pacific Rim nations, including the United States, South Korea, Indonesia and Canada. This year will mark the 22nd RIMPAC.

Australian Navy ships HMAS Kanimbla, Newcastle and Warramunga; Navy Clearance Divers; soldiers from the Townsville-based 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment; and members of 11 Squadron and 92Wing from Royal Australian Air Force Base Edinburgh in South Australia will the largest and most important exercise Australia has participated in for many years.

The Commander of Australias contingent to RIMPAC 10, Commodore Stuart Mayer, says the biannual exercise will be the ultimate test of how we operate with our Pacific partners.

This RIMPAC will also give both Navy and Army the chance to exercise in an amphibious space, Commodore Mayer said.

The first of two new Australian amphibious Landing Helicopter Dock ships (LHDs) is due to be completed in 2014 so we continue to exercise our developing amphibious capability in this environment. The information sharing opportunities presented by RIMPAC directly contribute to our preparations for the LHD.

This is an exciting new capability the ADF is taking on and the Navy, Army and Air Force will have a role to play,? Commodore Mayer said.

This RIMPAC will be the last for the Navy?s 817 Sea King Squadron which is due to be de-commissioned in 2011.

RIMPAC 2010 will be conducted until the 1st of August 2010.

For interviews with CDRE Mayer, please contact Defence Media liaison.

Media note: For more information please visit http://www.defence.gov.au/opex/exercises/rimpac10/


Middle East Commander visits wounded soldiers in Germany


The Commander and Regimental Sergeant Major of Australia?s Joint Task Force 633 have visited seven Australian commandos who continue to receive treatment for wounds they sustained in a helicopter crash on June 21.

Major General John Cantwell and Warrant Officer Class One Don Spinks made the flight into Germany over the weekend to see the soldiers in the US Armys Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and pass on their best wishes.

Major General Cantwell said the soldiers were receiving first-class care from a team of very experienced and well-resourced medical staff at the facility.

?The latest medical assessment confirms two soldiers remain in a critical condition with very serious injuries, with the other five in a satisfactory condition, Major General Cantwell said.

The wounded soldiers still have a long way to go given they were involved in a very serious helicopter crash but they have received excellent care in Afghanistan and here in Germany.

Major General Cantwell and Warrant Officer Class One Spinks also took the opportunity to speak with families of the wounded soldiers who had been moved to Germany to be with their loved ones.

It has been a really tough week for the families and I assured them that the thoughts of the entire ADF family are with them. I know they are confident we are doing everything we can to assist the soldiers,? Major General Cantwell said.

As the Commander I consider the care and welfare of these families part of my responsibility and I?m doing everything I can to ensure that they are being looked after as well.

Defence to slash data costs
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/defence-to-slash-data-centre-costs/story-e6frgakx-1225885396202
 
Fran Foo DEFENCE has selected a new supplier, kicking off plans to save more than $400 million over a decade in data centre costs.

 
 
Diggers cleared over death of Afghan cop
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/diggers-cleared-over-afghan-cops-death-but-shooting-could-have-been-avoided/story-e6frg6so-1225885319144
 
 AUSTRALIAN soldiers might have avoided fatally shooting an Afghan policeman had they first fired a warning flare, a Defence inquiry has found.

Artillery drills spark asbestos fears
By Josh Bavas

ABC NEWS

 
An internal investigation was been launched after one of the charges broke at the Puckapunyal training base. (Department of Defence)

There are fears that Australian soldiers could have been exposed to deadly particles by firing dummy charges which contained asbestos during artillery training drills.

An internal investigation has been launched after one of the charges broke and spread asbestos dust in a small room of people at the Puckapunyal training base last October.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been importing dummy charge bags containing white chrysotile asbestos from the United States for the last 46 years.

It was thought the material was safe for soldiers to use, but that view has now changed.

Lindsay Cranz, the director of Occupational Health and Safety for the ADF, says the dummy charges come as part of a training kit for the Army's 105mm howitzer.

He says the charge bags were recently removed from use after the Puckapunyal incident.

"In October last year one broke and a couple of people in close proximity were exposed and that's when there was an internal investigation of that scenario," he said.

"Then that went further into the whole use of those dummy bags and at that point they were all withdrawn from service."

Mr Cranz says the chances of artillerymen being exposed to deadly fibres are slim.

But he is asking for personnel to come forward if they are experiencing breathing difficulties.

"It appears that in the main they were used outside," he said.

"If they had broken and asbestos had been released ... it was in the open air and therefore not in concentration ... we think that the risk even to the people dealing with the bags all the time is probably very low."

Kevin Reed, who trained with the howitzers for nearly 12 years, says soldiers were asked to destroy the bags after use.

"Any charge bags that were left over at the end of the live firing period, we burnt off," he said.


Dangerous substance

Kevin Reed knows the dangers of asbestos exposure but he says he is not concerned about the threat of contracting mesothelioma.

"We're talking about people who grew up post-war," he said.

"We lived in fibro houses, asbestos was everywhere, and some small amount in a charge bag probably didn't worry the great majority of us."

But Barry Robson, from the Asbestos Disease Foundation, says it could take up to 30 years before an exposed soldier starts showing symptoms.

"The whole gun crew would have been affected and anybody else standing around near them when the charges were let off," he said.

Mr Robson says the Defence Force is responsible for whatever ill effects the soldiers may face in the future.

"They should be held very accountable, especially if they knew that these charge bags contain asbestos fibres and then they still used them up until just recently," he said.

"I find it borders on criminal."

 
 

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[Keith]

 
Service honours bomb detection dog
ABC NEWS

 
Sapper Darren Smith Herbie at the Multinational Base at Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan. (Department of Defence)


The explosives detection dog killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan this month, has been honoured at a memorial service in South Australia.

Herbie and Sappers Darren Smith and Jacob Moerland were killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan last Monday.

Hundreds of dogs and their owners gathered at the war dog shrine on the banks of the River Murray in Goolwa to remember Herbie, who died along with his handler and Sapper Jacob Moerland.

Barry Willoughby from the Army Museum says the bond between handler and a dog in war is quiet unique.

"They live together day and night, they work together very hard, long hours, they feed together, eat together, and so it's really your best friend," he said.

"The shrine was built a few years ago to pay tribute to all service dogs."

Herbie is the fifth dog to die in Afghanistan since the war began.

 

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[Keith]

 
 
SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

More Super Hornets to arrive in July

The next stage in Air Forces air combat capability is about to occur.  RAAF is planning to transit six more F/A-18F Super Hornets from the United States to RAAF Amberley in early July.

Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, said a detachment of RAAF aircrew and maintenance personnel from No 1 Squadron is currently conducting work-ups with the brand new aircraft at Naval Air Station Lemoore in California.

?The detachment is completing comprehensive flight testing which includes up to 96 hours of test and evaluation flying and two weeks of Electronic Warfare flight trials from Lemoore,? Senator Faulkner said.

Another key task involves working with an air-to-air tanker conducting day and night refuelling flights to ensure we are ready for the flight to Australia.?

When these jets arrive shortly, close to half of Australia?s twenty four Super Hornets will be based at Amberley, and Defence will be working toward the next milestone of achieving Initial Operating Capability by the end of 2010, Senator Faulkner said.    

The first five Super Hornets were welcomed at RAAF Amberley on 26 March this year. Since then, they have been conducting familiarisation training in Queensland.

The Super Hornet is a highly capable, battle proven, multi-role aircraft that has already proved its effectiveness in service with the US Navy. Its flexibility will enhance Australias air combat capability, through maritime and land strike, suppression of enemy air defence, reconnaissance, air-to-air combat and close air support. The F/A-18Fs are a bridging capability through Air Forces transition to the Joint Strike Fighter.

The Super Hornet project has been a fine example of team work. Reaching this stage of the project on time and on budget has been due to the great partnership between the Royal Australian Air Force, Defence Materiel Organisation, United States Navy, The Boeing Company and their industry partners, General Electric, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon, Senator Faulkner said.

Details of the second tranche?s arrival at Amberley will be released closer to the date.

By the end of 2011, all twenty four of Australias Super Hornets are scheduled to be in Amberley.

 
 
New national delegates for Defence Families of Australia

The Minister for Veterans Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, Alan Griffin, last night congratulated the new national delegates of Defence Families of Australia.

The six new national delegates are:

Annaliese McCammon National Policy Officer;

Amita Tandukar  National Communications Officer;

Keron Wise  National Delegate for the Australian Capital Territory and SouthernNew South Wales;

Dannii Khan  National Delegate for North Queensland

Jillian Macey  National Delegate for South Queensland; and

Marion Donohue  National Delegate for the Northern Territory and Kimberley.



Mr Griffin presented the certificates of appointment at the Defence Families of Australia National Conference dinner at the Royal Military College, Duntroon.

Mr Griffin congratulated the delegates on their appointment and acknowledged the important role the volunteers of Defence Families of Australia play in representing the views of Defence families.


?The Government greatly values the views and contributions of Defence Families of Australia members. Their input is heard and their opinions are valued, Mr Griffin said.

Through Defence Families of Australia, Defence gets a clear picture of the issues affecting the families of our serving personnel and possible options for resolving these issues.

Consultative groups such as Defence Families of Australia are essential in ensuring Defence has a broad range of information available when making policy decisions.


The nature of work undertaken by Australian Defence Force personnel can present challenges to both the serving member and their family and it is important that Defence works to provide the necessary support and assistance to members and their families, Mr Griffin said.

The dinner marked the end of a week-long national conference, during which Defence Families of Australia delegates met with Defence representatives to share information about matters affecting families.

In August, Defence Families of Australia will release a comprehensive policy paper outlining the key issues discussed and recommendations for new initiatives to be implemented in the coming year. The paper will be released on the Defence Families of Australia website.

Defence Families of Australia is an independent, volunteer-based organisation formed in 1986 to officially represent the views of Australian Defence Force families to the Government and Defence?s senior leadership group.

For more information about Defence Families of Australia, visit: www.dfa.org.au
 


New command for the First Mentoring Task Force
 

The Commanding Officer (CO) of the First Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1) Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain has handed over command to Lieutenant Colonel Mark Jennings during a ceremony at the Multi National Base in Tarin Kowt.

MTF-1 is comprised of elements of the Australian Armys Brisbane-based 7th Brigade, with support elements drawn from the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force.  

The outgoing CO thanked his troops and said he was extremely proud of their accomplishments under his command.

It was a great privilege to be able to lead so many fine Australians, Lieutenant Colonel Blain said.  

To watch what the men and women of the unit did everyday, putting themselves in harms way and working side-by-side with their Afghan National Army (ANA) counterparts, never ceased to impress me.
 

The major achievement was the expansion of our mentoring and partnering effects, especially taking over the Operational Mentor and Liaison Team of the 4th ANA Brigade Headquarters and the 5th Combat Support Service ANA Kandak.

More recently, MTF-1 expanded its responsibilities by taking over the mentoring of the 1st Kandak at Deh Rawood.
 

Lieutenant Colonel Jennings said he was privileged to be taking over command of the hard working and successful Task Force.

I have two main goals for MTF1; transitioning to the Combined Team Uruzgan (CT-U) from Task Force Uruzgan (TF-U); and maintaining the focus on the mentoring and partnering aspects with the ANA and civilians, Lieutenant Colonel Jennings said.

We also need to prepare for our future transition and relief-in-place with the Second Mentoring Task Force (MTF2).

Commander Joint Task Force 633 Major General John Cantwell acknowledged the untiring work of Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain and his Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), Warrant Officer Class 1 Stephan Colman, as the MTF-1 command team handed over.

Command of combat operations imposes relentless demands on the leader, particularly in an environment as complex and dangerous as Afghanistan,

Major General Cantwell said.

Lieutenant Colonel Blain's period as Commanding Officer has exemplified the best characteristics of combat command?an unrelenting mission focus, a broad and nuanced understanding of the battlespace, a marked tactical flair and above all, the pursuit of every possible means to keep his soldiers safe while they carry out their dangerous tasks.

He and RSM Colman have lived the motto of the Royal Australian Regiment?Duty First?demanding of themselves the highest standards, accepting without question total responsibility for the safety and welfare of their soldiers, sharing the dangers with them and carrying the particular grief of the commander over losses and wounds.

I remain deeply grateful for their contribution to our mission in Afghanistan.

Major General Cantwell also welcomed the new command team of Lieutenant Colonel Mark Jennings and Warrant Officer Class 1 Brett Brown.

The coming months will present a multitude of challenges and you will be tested time and again.

I am confident you will succeed.

[Keith]

Employers of Reservists officially recognised by Defence
 

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, Dr Mike Kelly, will be guest of honour at the annual Defence Reserves Support Council ACT Committee Employer Support Awards to be held at the Australian War Memorial on 24 June 2010.

?While we have long recognised that Reservists make an invaluable contribution to Australia?s Defence capability, tonight we recognise the essential support given by the employers of those Reservists,? said Dr Kelly.

?For every Reservist who renders Reserve service there is usually an employer (or an educational institution) who supports that Reservist by willingly releasing them to don their uniform.

?While Defence has gone a long way in providing support and advice to employers and educational institutions in recent times, the releasing of Reservists is sometimes the cause of inconvenience to the employer.

?However, the astute employer also recognises the great value that a Reservist can bring to a business or organisation.

?No organisation teaches leadership, acceptance of responsibility, reliability and work ethic better than the Australian Defence Force and all these skills are directly transferable to the civilian work environment.?

Dr Kelly said the Employer Support Awards would formally recognise a number of employers who have been nominated as supportive by Reservists on their staff.

As part of the Employer Support Awards, the Defence Reserves Support Council ACT Committee will also be farewelling one of its own. Mr Bill Thompson, the outgoing Chair of the ACT Committee, is retiring after many years of support to the Reserve in a number of capacities.

?Bill Thompson has done an incredible amount of work in supporting the Reserves, 

?As a former Regular and Reserve soldier, Bill has fought for their rights and for improvements in their conditions of service. Bill was, for many years, the ACTU representative on the Defence Reserves Support Council and, in later times, the chair of the ACT Committee. During this time Bill demonstrated his commitment and ability to contribute in an ongoing and positive manner. He will be greatly missed.? said Dr Kelly. 


Brisbane soldiers join major military exercise in East Timor  

Multi-national forces including the East Timorese Defence Force (F-FDTL) and the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) are participating in a multi-lateral Marine Exercise (MAREX) in East Timor.

The ISF includes soldiers from the Brisbane-based 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment.

The United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy (USN) have joined the F-FDTL and ISF participants in Exercise Crocodile 10, from 19 to 26 June 2010, to provide an opportunity for multi-national forces to work together in the planning and conduct of a complex military exercise.

Exercise Crocodile 10 will include weapons firing skills, amphibious assault serials, jungle training, flying operations, and a helicopter raid on an abandoned prison.

The exercise also includes community support activities such as reconstruction and medical programs.

Two USN ships USS Peleliu and USS Pearl Harbor will support the exercise.

Commander of the ISF, Colonel Simon Stuart, said Exercise Crocodile aims to foster regional security, and increase readiness and cooperation amongst partner nations.

?The Exercise will focus on professional development and arms corps advice to the F-FDTL.  It includes community support activities such as engineering supported by the ISF and medical and community relations programs supported by the F-FDTL and US military.?

The partner nation military forces will ensure there is minimal interruption or disturbance to the local community by the flying operations and troop movements during the exercise.

The ISF currently comprises around 550 personnel, 400 of which are from the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The Australian commitment includes elements of the 8th/9th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment and support elements such as engineers, logistics and supply personnel from the wider ADF. The ISF also includes the Timor Leste Aviation Group (TLAG) drawn primarily from the Australian 5th Aviation Regiment with Australian Black Hawk S70A-9 helicopters. The New Zealand commitment is from the 16th Field Regiment and 2nd/1st Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.

Media note: Imagery will be available on the Defence website post-exercise. 

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Materiel and Science

Defence + Industry = Integrating Australian Businesses into the Global Supply Chain

Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, has congratulated the Raytheon Industry Development Unit (IDU) on its achievements as a signatory to an Australian Global Supply Chain Deed with the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO).

The Raytheon IDU is a DMO funded initiative to secure access for Australian industry in global defence supply chains.

Since its inception in July 2009, the Raytheon IDU has ensured 12 contracts for Australian companies with Raytheon?s US based businesses worth over $50 million.

?This achievement means that Australian companies are now well integrated into Raytheon's global supply chain,? said Mr Combet.

?Brisbane based company Micreo Ltd has achieved an important milestone in the production of radio frequency modules used in the production of the Raytheon ALR-67(V)3 radar warning receiver, an innovative capability implemented in Australia?s F/A-18 Hornets and the new Super Hornets.

?I congratulate Micreo on the completion of more than 500 units for the Australian and international defence markets.

?The Government recognises the important role that defence industry plays in support of ADF capability, from the provision and maintenance of military equipment to the delivery of a wide range of support services.

?Growing the capacity and competitiveness of local defence industry will require ongoing investment in skills development, workforce growth and improved productivity,? said Mr Combet.

Mr Combet will launch the Australian Defence Industry Policy Statement on Friday, 25 June 2010.

 
SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence
Defence Minister launches ASPI DCP Information Report

Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today released the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) Report on the Disclosure of Defence Capability Planning (DCP) Information, the Government?s response, and its proposals for enhancing the DCP.

?Making sure the ADF has the capabilities it needs to do its job is one of the highest priorities and greatest responsibilities for me as Minister for Defence,? Senator Faulkner said.

Among the improvements announced, the new DCP will provide additional information on project schedules, including new information for industry in the form of forecasting a timeframe for Initial Materiel Release. The Government also announced proposals to provide greater transparency in Defence planning.

A one-stop shop website will provide links to Defence capability and acquisition programs with regular on-line updates as an enhanced resource for industry.

?Defence Capability Planning is a fundamental part of Australia?s ability to defend our nation, our community and our interests.

?Flexibility, transparency and accountability are necessary to meet the needs of the ADF and the expectations of the Australian community,? Senator Faulkner said.

Media note: Transcript of Senator Faulkner?s speech is available at

http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/FaulknerTranscripttpl.cfm?CurrentId=10499

 
 
Soldiers won't be beret happy
http://www.theage.com.au/national/slouch-over-beret-by-a-head-20100624-z3io.html

Berets worn by some elite units could be abolished after headgear review.

 

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[Keith]

These Sailors are an absolute disgrace to the fine traditions and many fine men and women in the ADF.

 
Sailors recall sex row and bets
MALCOLM BROWN
June 24, 2010

THE AGE

A FEMALE sailor from the warship HMAS Success said yesterday that she was threatened with violence by male sailors after she swung a punch at one of them for not leaving her alone.

Able Seaman Kristal Moona told the inquiry into events on HMAS Success that on shore leave in Hong Kong she had been approached by AB Daniel Gordon who had leaned on her physically. She had told him to ''piss off'' and he had said: ''You are a dirty skank and you are nothing to me.''

She told him to ''get out of my face'', then swung a right hook into his jaw. But then she was confronted by Petty Officer (PO) Jake Thompson who had ''looked at me in disgust'' and had said: ''You don't want to be doing this.''

The argument had continued and she alleged PO Thompson had picked up two glasses. He had given her the impression he was going to ''glass'' her. He had kept looking at her with ''a filthy look'' and she had told him she had not come to fight.

The incident was one of several that prompted the captain, Commander Simon Brown, to remove several sailors from the ship and order an immediate internal inquiry.

Captain Peter Bowers, at the time the Fleet Legal Officer, said Commander Brown had asked him for advice in removing the sailors immediately, though they were not given notice of the action.

''He made it abundantly clear to me that the matter needed to be dealt with urgently,'' he said.

The present inquiry, before Roger Gyles QC, heard yesterday that Seaman Shauna Utber, 19 at the time, was warned by female colleagues that there was a ''price on your head'' as a sexual target for male sailors.

On April 21 last year, while on shore leave in Chin-Dao, China, she got drunk, ended up losing her wallet and identity card, and was taken by taxi back to the ship by male sailors, who took her for a time into their mess.

Petty Officer Richard Goode had wanted to talk, and then they had started kissing and had consensual sexual intercourse in a bunk room. This was known and Seaman Utber had been charged with having engaged in ''proscribed fraternisation'' and fined $1032.90.

Petty Officer Goode was sent back to Australia.

The hearing resumes today.

 

 

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[Keith]

 
We all know how very difficult it is for politicians to survive on their salaries and allowances. But for Tony Abbott it seems life is harder for him than the average bear. The obscene thing is that this is the man who says the kids wounded in Afghanistan should be treated just like injured firies and SES workers. And of course while his kids are busily going about their higher private school education your kids are being sent to Afghanistan to be killed and wounded.

$710,000 in loans not declared by Tony Abbott

By Simon Benson
From: The Daily Telegraph
June 23, 2010


Mortgage ... Tony Abbott, at home in Forestville with wife Margie and daughters, L to R, Frances 18, Bridget 16 and Louise 20 / Pic: James Elsby Source: The Daily Telegraph

OPPOSITION Leader Tony Abbott took out a new $710,000 mortgage on his family home shortly after going into Opposition, partly to help fund his family expenses after losing his ministerial salary.

But in what appears to be a breach of the parliamentary rules covering MPs' pecuniary interests, he failed to declare the loans to Parliament for almost two years.

The man who claimed in January 2008 that politicians don't get paid enough took out a new loan on his family home in April 2008, four months after losing the election and halving his salary.

It is believed he used it to help his family cover living costs, including private schools for two of his three daughters.

Mr Abbott has made no secret in the past that he had often found it challenging to make ends meet.

But Mr Abbott's office was forced to admit the Coalition leader had failed to declare the loan with the parliamentary register until two weeks ago, when inquiries were first made into the loans.

Parliament requires all MPs to register any changes to interests, benefits or liabilities within 28 days.

His office accused desperate Labor operatives of trawling through his financial records in an attempt to dig up dirt on the Liberal leader.

Mr Abbott would not discuss his personal financial circumstances yesterday, and said it was a private matter.

A spokeswoman claimed the failure to declare the loan was an oversight.

"As previously declared in 1994, Mr and Mrs Abbott have a mortgage over their family home in Forestville, NSW," the spokeswoman said.

"The mortgage was renegotiated in 2008 and the provider changed from Commonwealth Bank to Adelaide Bank and Rismark [through Permanent Custodians].

"The change of mortgage provider does not alter the fact that it is a residential home loan secured over the Forestville property. Mr Abbott has written to the Registrar of Members' Interests to update the Register."

Those changes included two new loans on April 7 and April 8, 2008.

The loans, which totalled $710,000, were taken out the day after he discharged his original $285,000 loan, which was taken out in 1994.

When first asked about the loans, Mr Abbott's office said no property was purchased with the new loan and not updating the parliamentary records had been an oversight.

Labor MP David Bradbury, whose electorate of Lindsay is known as the mortgage belt of Sydney, said it was inconceivable any MP could have forgotten a $710,000 loan

 

 

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[Keith]

Aussie jobs shored up under Nulka contract

About 130 Australian Defence industry jobs will be shored up under a new ship decoy contract awarded to BAE Systems, the Minister for Defence Materiel and Science Greg Combet said today.

The company has been awarded its 12th consecutive contract for the Nulka decoy, guaranteeing production and Defence industry jobs around the country until at least 2013.

BAE-Systems made Nulka decoys have been fitted to 12 ships across the Royal Australia Navy, protecting ships such as the Adelaide Class guided missile frigates and the Anzac-class frigates.

Australias Air Warfare Destroyer will also be protected by the Nulka Active Missile Decoy System.

Mr Combet said that the new contract was good news for local Defence industry, for local jobs and for Australias servicemen and women serving in the Royal Australian Navy.

The Nulka decoy project is Australias largest regular Defence export and one of our most successful electronic warfare projects, Mr Combet said.

The project has generated export earnings of more than $500 million and employs approximately 130 Australians across a number of states, including Victoria, NSW and South Australia.

It has helped keep thousands of our servicemen and women safe both here and abroad and supported local Defence industry and jobs in Australia.

It is also a clear demonstration that our local Defence industry can compete against the best in the world and win.

Nulka has now been in continuous production for 12 years. It is currently in operational use in 135 ships, and is planned to be fitted to more than 160 ships across the Royal Australian Navy, United States Navy and the Canadian Navy.

BAE Systems supports Nulka from facilities in Richmond, Victoria, Mulwala, NSW and Edinburgh Parks, South Australia.

 
Diggers killed

Leave a tribute

British and Australian soldiers in Afghanistan observe a minute's silence for the three Australian commandos killed when their helicopter crashed. Leave your tribute to our fallen heroes now. Picture: Gary Ramage

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/diggers-suffer-multiple-casualties-in-afghanistan/story-e6frf7jo-1225882384634

DAILY TELEGRAPH

 

Two Australian soldiers in very serious condition after deadly helicopter crash
From: AAP
June 22, 2010 8:22AM

TWO Australian soldiers remain in a very serious condition following a helicopter crash in Afghanistan yesterday in which three of their mates died.

A third wounded soldier was in a serious condition while another four are regarded as satisfactory.

No decision has been made yet to transfer any of the soldiers to Germany for further medical treatment, Defence Minister John Faulkner said.

"Six of the soldiers have undergone surgery," he told ABC Radio today.

"The two soldiers who are in a very serious condition are in intensive care."

All seven soldiers were being treated in Afghanistan.

"No decision has yet been made when any or all of those soldiers will be moved to the Landstuhl regional medical centre which is in Germany," Senator Faulkner said.

"This will depend on their conditions and a range of other professional assessments that will be made

  
Update to soldiers wounded in helicopter incident

The medical condition of the seven Commando soldiers wounded in a helicopter incident in southern Afghanistan yesterday morning (21 June) continues to be monitored and assessed, with four now assessed to be in a satisfactory condition, one listed as in a serious condition and two in a very serious condition.

Six of the seven soldiers underwent surgery yesterday.

Two of the Australian soldiers remain in intensive care.

The soldiers suffered fractures, lacerations, crush injuries and a head injury.

A decision has not yet been made when any or all of the injured soldiers will be moved to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre in Germany. No move will occur before their condition and available flights allow.

Three Australian soldiers and an aircrew of the ISAF helicopter were killed when their helicopter crashed early yesterday morning.

Seven Commandos, three aircrew and a civilian interpreter were wounded.

The cause of the helicopter crash is not known but is not believed to be the result of insurgent action.

Planning for the repatriation of the three fallen Australian soldiers has begun however the date for the return to Australia has not been confirmed.

 
Female sailors hit by 'sexual slurs'
MALCOLM BROWN
June 22, 2010


FEMALE sailors aboard the warship HMAS Success on deployment to South-East Asia and China last year had experienced repeated sexist slurs and insults that at one point had reduced a female to tears, the inquiry into behaviour on the ship heard yesterday.

The Sydney inquiry, headed by Roger Gyles, QC, heard that one sailor had approached a female colleague during a stopover at Manila and had said: ''I have just been with a prostitute. Maybe I should f--- another prostitute, which is you!''

The inquiry also heard that the ship's company was so prone to drinking on shore leave that when it left Darwin in March last year on the first leg of its journey, 30 per cent of the crew had failed a random breath test.

It also heard that at a bar in Hong Kong, the ship's commanding officer, Lieutenant-Commander Simon Brown, had been so intoxicated that he had difficulty speaking and when he did speak he spoke badly.

The inquiry - into allegations of inappropriate behaviour on the ship - heard that female sailors were told not to be lured into drinking excessively with their male shipmates on shore leave because they would leave themselves open to sexual advances.

Female sailors had worn shirts with the words ''WRAN CLAN'' to protest at the way they thought they were being treated. The words WRAN could have meant ''Women's Royal Australian Navy'', but Seaman Carli Pawsey said the first letter could also have been taken, for the purpose of the protest, to stand for ''whore''.

Seaman Pawsey said in answer to Douglas Campbell, SC, that she had been in the bar in Hong Kong when she had seen the commanding officer drunk. There were mainly other officers around him but there were also a couple of sailors.

In answer to Lieutenant-Commander Caroline Needham, for Chief Petty Officer Leeanne Nightingale, Seaman Pawsey said that on another occasion, Seaman Lisa Brookman had been crying because of a name she had been called.

She said CPO Nightingale had told the female sailors at a meeting that she had been disappointed about their own behaviour. She had spoken about the importance of self-respect and respect of other sailors, and upholding the reputation of female sailors.

Leading Seaman Sarah Jane Akil said she had drunk excessively and had become involved in a verbal slanging match with a chief petty officer in Manila. She said she had been provoked by attitudes.

At the LA Cafe in Manila, a male leading seaman had said: ''You are a f---ing shit communicator. You are a damned bitch, I don't know how you got into the navy.''

He had called her a ''f---ing dickhead'', and later a ''f---ing Lebanese dickhead''. She had screamed at him that he was ''a loser, a f---ing insecure dickhead''.

A petty officer named Thompson had told her she should leave the bar. She had called Petty Officer Thompson ''a f---ing shit regulator''.

The hearing resumes today.

 
 
Tribunal clears soldier in 'moonshine' case
SELMA MILOVANOVIC
June 22, 2010

THE AGE

AFTER Australian rifleman Michael Paul Flynn took a few swigs from a US soldier's Gatorade bottle in Baghdad on Christmas Eve 2008 he was told it contained ''Christmas cheer''.

Shortly afterwards, as he stood on the roof of the Baath Party Headquarters - given the task of guarding the building against a car-bomb threat - he began dancing and attacked another Digger before throwing up and ultimately becoming semi-conscious.

His antics earned him a charge carrying a maximum five-year jail term but the soldier has now cleared his name after an appeals tribunal found the army could not prove Private Flynn knew that if he took a sip from the Gatorade bottle, the contents would make him drunk.

On Christmas Day, as he awoke in hospital, the soldier was told he had suffered ethanol, or pure alcohol, poisoning. Private Flynn, whose blood alcohol level was .2 - four times the legal limit for drivers in Victoria - would later tell military investigators he did not know what ethanol was. He said he had not heard of US soldiers being involved in ''moonshine'', or making their own spirits.

Darwin-based Private Flynn told investigators he ''took a couple of mouthfuls'' of the liquid inside the Gatorade bottle which ''tasted pretty, pretty wrong'' as a group of US soldiers stood by, laughing and joking.

''I handed it back to him [American soldier] and I asked what it was ? I think he said Christmas cheer,'' he said.

Private Flynn said that at that stage he thought the bottle probably contained alcohol.

''After I took that sip, I realised that it was something like that, but before I took the sip, I didn't ask him what it was ? I really aren't [sic] sure what I assumed it to be.''

When he awoke 20 hours later, he had no memory of having attacked his fellow soldier.

The Defence Force Discipline Appeal Tribunal quashed Private Flynn's conviction for being intoxicated while on watch and engaged in operations against the enemy, citing Commonwealth law that commonly caters for drink-spiking cases.

The tribunal said getting drunk because of ''reasonable mistake'' was not self-induced.

''In our opinion, the appellant has made out the principal argument that the conviction was unsafe and unsatisfactory,'' said tribunal president Justice Richard Tracey and justices Margaret White and Dean Mildren .

Private Flynn's lawyers had successfully argued that prosecution evidence did not exclude, as a reasonable possibility consistent with innocence, that he had a mistaken belief about the bottle's contents.

A court martial heard Private Flynn's original case.

 

 

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[Keith]

 
For those who have never experienced the great heritage and atmosphere of Duntroon I can thoroughly recommend either a visit or attendance at this Parade.
Keith.
 

 
The Royal Military College Graduation Parade

EVENT: Full Time General Service Officer Graduation Parade and Commissioning Ceremony.

WHEN:  Tuesday, 22 June 2010.

WHERE:  Royal Military College Parade Ground, Duntroon.

TIME:  0930 am for the graduation parade; 1120 am for the commissioning ceremony.

Media with photo ID are advised to arrive no later than 0910 am at Patterson Hall at the top of Staff Cadet Avenue.  The Point of Contact is Lieutenant Mandy Crawford who can be contacted on 0419 631 779. Appropriate Dress is appreciated.

Background
77 Staff Cadets will graduate. 72 of these, from all states of Australia, will graduate as Lieutenants in the Australian Army, and one will graduate as a Pilot Officer in the Royal Australian Air Force Airfield Defence Guard. There are four overseas graduates. Three from Papua New Guinea, and one from Malaysia.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, is the reviewing officer for the graduation parade.  He will also present graduation certificates and commissions at the commissioning ceremony.

The Graduation Parade and Commissioning Ceremony is an important occasion for the Australian Defence Force.  It is the culmination of training that has prepared the Senior Class of the Corps of Staff Cadets for careers as officers in the Australian and two overseas Armies.

The Sword of Honour recipient and the Queen's Medal recipient will be presented during the Graduation Parade.

[Keith]

Ron King OAM served as a professional Soldier for over 30 years.

 
From: Ron King
Sent: Sunday, June 20, 2010 6:08 AM
Subject: War in support of thugs/corrupt Governments.


To all concerned citizens/veterans.
 
The Australian Government continues to support the American policy and of course the corrupt governments of Iraq and Afghani countries.
 
This does not mean I and others do not support our Troops and their work but the simple facts are we are supporting a drug factory and this is a very corrupt government the same as the Iraq government. The facts are quite simple in my opinion and that is they got rid of SADDAM from Iraq. Has that made any difference? No it did not there is still the war lords the various faiths calling the shots.Car bombings and murder every day on the streets. Now this is in a country that has now got peace. Think again. The Islamic faith is like all religions it has various chapters of their rules and Koran, and if one does not agree with the other its another car bomb. Why are we still there. ?? The end of the SADDAM reign and the death of his sons and billions of American dollars where found in the vaults of banks and their houses. How did this money (American dollars ) get there.  CORRUPTION that's how. That supports the American policy just print some more when needed.
 
The Somalia incident was the same. The Americans along with the Australian government support went into Somalia and took on the war lords well they got what they did not expect and that was a very anti American welcome and of course corruption was rampant the government of Somalia which was in the hands of the war lords and drug lords (same people ). It did not take long to see this and we pulled out of the country.
 
The Americans cannot keep their beaks out of other people business and this is of course shows very much to the AFGHANI problem along with Australia and the selected governments around the world. Some of these countries are now seeing the light and are withdrawing support to AMERICA and its policies and are pulling their troops out.
 
The drug trafficking out of Afghanistan is now the biggest supplier in the world with 83% of the worlds drugs come from here. They are finding their way to all countries of the world including Australia and America  and killing our kids. Are we going to allow this support to this Afghani corrupt government.It's time to let the government know we don't want our young men there. These drugs are making a lot of people rich and that includes Australians who deal in death.
 
It has now come to light that the Americans have had people in there looking for the minerals and oils etc and they are now saying there is over a trillions of dollars worth. If the Afghani people think America is going to let them have it think again they will have their grubby hands out for the royalties some where. Our troops are there to support the American policies. These people have not changed  in hundreds of years and are happy being left alone if not they would be bearing arms to change these things. They are used to tribal rule and laws, and simple lives. If they don't like it hop on a boat and head to Australia, and leave the Australian and American and the coalition troops there to bear the brunt. The simple solution turn the boats around and send them back to fight their own wars.
 
It was only a few years ago we supported the TALIBAN and sent people there to teach and supported them in their opposition of the RUSSIANS being there and if the truth be known the Russian soldiers returned home with drug problems and of course we will never know the extent of that problem, and effect the war had on their soldiers. And of course we are heading down that very same path. As veterans we fought in other countries and have seen war and the damage it does not only to the enemy and the people but the effect on our soldiers and the death they have seen.
 
We will never see a politician leading the charge or going to war NO they are to busy shoring up education, getting in to the parliament  and of course looking after their super. The only war they get into is the fight over what red wine to have with their Sunday roast. AND the biggest falsity of all attending a soldiers funerals. WHAT  a hide. They are the reason he or she has died, and is mentally buggered for the rest of his  or her life. Our troops are fighting and dying  in this hole and their people  are hopping to boats and heading to Australian shores and costing the tax payers of this country millions of dollars. Send them back to fight for their own freedom.
 
The only way to support our troops is to withdraw them from this situation and stuff American policy.
 
RW    KING    OAM.

[Keith]

Building Australian submarine maintenance industry capability
 

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, today congratulated ASC on their continued commitment to building the local submarine industry in Western Australia.  

With the recent successful docking of the first submarine at Australian Marine Complex (AMC) in Henderson, Western Australia, ASC have marked a key milestone for the $35 million purpose-built submarine support facility, said Mr Combet.  

The establishment and growth of industry bases in key Defence areas continues to improve the capacity for industry partners to respond efficiently and effectively to Defence requirements.  

 

In addition, this approach supports the growth of associated, small to medium enterprises. These companies will form an integral part of the nation-wide team that will maintain our submarines.

 With this increase in capability ASC is now able to carry out maintenance on as many as three submarines at any one time.

 

The resulting responsiveness of the entire system demonstrates the benefits of Governments commitment to building local industry capability, for the defence of Australia, the protection of our sovereign interests and the security and stability of our region, Mr Combet said.

 

ASC West currently employs around 185 people.

 


Missing Navy sailor's name released


The Royal Australian Navy can confirm the missing sailor presumed drowned, as 28 year old Leading Seaman (LS) Combat Systems Operator Andrew Wakely.

The Royal Australian Navy can confirm the missing sailor presumed drowned, as 28 year old Leading Seaman (LS) Combat Systems Operator Andrew Wakely.

LS Wakely, from Bentley, Western Australia, was swimming at a beach on the western side of Tonga yesterday morning when fellow crew members notified senior authorities that he had possibly drowned.

At first light this morning, an air and sea search recommenced with HMAS Warramunga's Seahawk helicopter and a Tongan patrol boat, manned by Tonga Defence Services.

The Seahawk continued searching the area until last light, while Tongan police conducted a search of local beaches. The body of LS Wakely has not been recovered at this time. The search will resume tomorrow.

Navy will conduct an investigation into the incident and will cooperate fully with parallel investigations conducted by local authorities.
 
The sailor's family is continuing to be provided with support by Navy and the Defence Community Organisation.
 
At this time, the family has requested the media respect their privacy.

HMAS Warramunga was conducting a scheduled Port Visit to Nuku'Alofa, Tonga at the time of the incident and remains alongside supporting the search effort.

 
 

More than a third of Australian troops not fit for war

By Ben Packham
From: Herald Sun
June 18, 2010
COURIER MAIL


These soldiers were cleared for combat in Afghanistan but hundreds of their comrades were not / Australian Defence Force Source: AdelaideNow

13,000 soldiers not battle ready
About 7300 failed basic fitness
More than 2000 had poor teeth

MORE than a third of Australian army troops could not be sent to war because of poor or uncertain fitness, bad teeth or a lack of recent weapons training.

A new Auditor-General's report reveals more than 13,000 soldiers are not considered battle ready.

About 7300 had either failed the basic fitness test - the most arduous element of which is a 2.4km run - or hadn't done the test in the last six months.

More than 1500 soldiers were classed as medically unfit and about 2140 had such poor dental health they could not be deployed.

Thousands more were overdue for medical and dental checks, while Army dentists reported soldiers often missed scheduled appointments.

About 5800 Diggers failed weapons proficiency tests or were overdue for refreshers.

The Auditor-General found only 18,900 soldiers, about 53 per cent of troops, were ready to go at short notice.

Defence Minister John Faulkner said the level of readiness was appropriate.

"Army, at all times, maintains a level of organisational readiness that reflects the degree of urgency of any potential response," he said.

The Auditor-General recommended a review of readiness requirements, including the frequency of physical and weapons checks, which Senator Faulkner said was under way.

More than 3240 soldiers were exempt from readiness requirements, including 2373 on operations.

Exemptions are also available for pregnant women and soldiers unable to meet requirements "but whose continued services" was in the Army's best interests.

Failure to comply with one or more requirements means a soldier cannot be deployed.

Soldiers must be physically fit and pass regular medical and dental examinations.

Soldiers can face disciplinary action if they fail to maintain readiness

 

 
 

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[Keith]

 
 
 
MSPA 225/10                                                                            Wednesday, 16 June 2010

 

Combined Afghan and Australian force targets major insurgent cell

Afghan security troops and Australian Special Forces have conducted disruption operations in southern Afghanistan that successfully targeted Taliban networks in an insurgent stronghold in northern Kandahar province.

The large scale offensive against Taliban insurgents in the district of Shah Wali Kot, was part of ISAFs HAMKARI initiative, an ongoing civil-military activity aimed at bringing security, governance and economic opportunity to the people of Kandahar.

The five-day Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) and Special Operations Task Group operation involved heavy fighting against insurgents resulting in the deaths of a significant number of insurgents. 

On day two, the large-scale contact lasted over thirteen hours. On arrival by helicopter, the combined force was immediately engaged by insurgents using small arms and machine gun fire.

Over a four and a half hour period, the Taliban used concealed fighting positions and access to aqueducts and creek lines to bring sustained fire against the coalition force. 

The combined force suffered two casualties from gunshot wounds; one Australian soldier was wounded in the arm while a partnered Afghan ANSF officer was struck in the side.  While under fire from insurgents, both were rapidly aero medically evacuated to Tarin Kowt where they are recovering. 

The Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East, Major General John Cantwell, said the combined force had dealt a major blow to the insurgent forces and their commanders and made a major and direct contribution to ISAF security operations focused on Kandahar province and its nearby districts.

Through the Shah Wali Kot offensive, the combined coalition force has severely disrupted an important insurgent stronghold. They inflicted substantial losses on a determined and heavily armed enemy force, Major General Cantwell said.

The operation has also denied the insurgents a staging area from which to transit into Oruzgan province, which is expected to have a positive effect on security.

Commander of the Special Operations Task Group, Lieutenant Colonel P, said that it was the combined and synchronised effort between the ANSF, Australian Special Forces, and the U.S. Task Force helicopter detachment that led to the success of the Shah Wali Kot offensive.

After five days of operations, Australian Special Forces, in cooperation with their Afghan partner forces, succeeded in achieving all operational tasks that resulted in surviving insurgents departing the area. 

The disruption of Taliban operations has now enabled the ANSF and Australian troops to meet with members of the local community to plan ways for the Government of Afghanistan to assist in preventing Taliban insurgents from returning.

The Commander of ISAF Regional Command South, Major General Nick Carter, spoke to the troops during a visit to the Special Operations Task Group in Tarin Kowt.

?The actions in Shah Wali Kot have made a significant contribution to ongoing operational activity in Kandahar by disrupting a key insurgent safe haven, Major General Carter said.

?Australian Commandos and Special Air Service troops of the SOTG are a great asset to Regional Command South and the ISAF Coalition the skill and courage they demonstrated in this action is most impressive and they are making an invaluable contribution to the campaign.

Lieutenant Colonel P said the local population of Shah Wali Kot was grateful to the Afghan and Australian forces for pushing out the insurgents who had occupied their villages and forced them to provide food and shelter. 

By removing the insurgents from where they were not welcome, we have strengthened the communitys resolve to keep out the Taliban, Lieutenant Colonel P said.

A large number of weapons were recovered after the contact including assault rifles, heavy machine guns, rocket propelled grenade launchers and several radio handsets. 

One civilian Afghan man approached coalition forces after the contact and requested medical treatment for a wound to his hand. It is not clear how he was wounded. It is not a life-threatening wound. He is receiving treatment from the military hospital at Tarin Kowt.


Media Note: 

Still imagery is available at

http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100616/index.htm

Vision will be sent to all networks at Parliament House later this afternoon. 


Media Note:

Major General John Cantwell, Commander Joint Task Force 633 is available for interviews this afternoon, please contact Defence Media Liaison.

[Keith]

Um does the media think these training methods are new? They are practical, they are what is needed and they are not new.
 
ABC NEWS
 
Fake blood prepares troops for real war
By Hayden Cooper at the Bandiana Army Base

 Australian army medics being trained ahead of deployment to Afghanistan go through their paces at the Bandiana Army Base, near Albury on the NSW/Vic border, June 10, 2010. (ABC News: Tim Stevens)


Under a heavy night sky, 40 soldiers creep through the wet knee-high grass.

Guided by night vision equipment and the clear, sharp signals of their superiors, the troops are edging towards a meeting point.

It is a rendezvous with Afghan community leaders.

But trouble awaits.

The Australians arrive ... and suddenly out of the darkness rushes a man strapped tight with explosives.

The suicide bomber detonates his weapon and unleashes chaos.

Bodies, debris, and the wounded are strewn across the ground.

The soldiers must respond; neutralise the enemy, and provide triage to the injured.

It is, of course, a drill.

This is not southern Afghanistan, but southern New South Wales, where a platoon of soldiers is in training.

By year's end they will be in Afghanistan.

But first they must prove they can perform in lethal scenarios like this.

It is how the Defence Force prepares its men and women for the worst.

Fake explosives, fake blood, and fake body parts are used to create a realistic training ground.

Soldiers are deployed as actors. Some play Taliban insurgents, others Afghan troops.

"It's confronting," Major Greg Brown, the clinical director of the training regime, said.

"In a way it's clinical inoculation.

"The injuries and the mechanisms are all taken from real life casualty statistics. We try and keep it as real as we can to prepare the soldiers when they get there for what's going to confront them."

In the two days the ABC was allowed in to witness the training, the troops were put to the test in a range of different scenarios.

Most drills involve attacks from improvised explosive devices.

The priority in each case is treating the wounded, and evacuating them to base, where a replica of the Tarin Kowt resuscitation bay has been set up.

Corporal Marc Danieletto, 26, says it is tough work.

"Well, we've come out of Darwin from about 32 degrees average temperature and here it feels like minus 32, so the boys are feeling it," he said.

"But hands down it's probably some of the best training I've done in my career so far."

Private Matt Syron, 28, from the NSW central coast says he is ready to fight in Afghanistan.

"I feel I'm pretty prepared for what we're about to go through," Private Syron said.

But the dangers are never far from mind.

These soldiers are preparing for precisely the kind of attack that claimed two Australian lives last week.

The deaths of Sappers Jacob Moerland and Darren Smith were a blow to morale, according to Lance Corporal Shaun Kober.

"Things like that affect everyone, and I guess it hits home and it makes the sort of training we're doing important," he said.

Major Greg Brown agrees.

"Obviously there's not that many people in the Australian army and everyone takes it personally when one of our dear friends is injured," Major Brown said.

"That said, it does provide a real sense of reality to what these guys are doing."

 
 

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[Keith]

The Queen's Birthday 2010 Honours List

The Queen?s Birthday 2010 Honours List http://www.itsanhonour.gov.au/honours/honour_roll/index.cfm was announced today by the Governor-General. The list provides national and formal recognition for many Australians across the nation who have made a significant difference to their communities. To check for recipients, select any one of the following options:



View The Queen's Birthday Day 2010 Honours List. Award details for recipients are listed alphabetically and you can search the list of recipients by name, postcode, town or city through the Search Australian Honours section of this site.


The official gazetted version of The Queen's Birthday Day 2010 Honours List is available on the Attorney-General?s website http://www.ag.gov.au/portal/govgazonline.nsf/(custom-spcnot-pub-view)?OpenView . Please Note: This version provides the full address details of recipients where their address details have been released for publication.


A list of The Queen's Birthday Day 2010 Honours recipients, searching by award type, is available at the Governor General's website http://www.gg.gov.au/

14 June 2010

Ashmore Reef blast medic gets honours award
ABC NEWS

Flight Lieutenant Jo Darby (right) treated 44 people after a fatal boat explosion. (Department of Defence)

An RAAF medical officer who treated 44 people after a fatal boat explosion is among the Northern Territorians honoured today as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Flight Lieutenant Jo Darby says she accepts the Conspicuous Service Cross on behalf of all the crew that assisted during the boat explosion off Ashmore Reef last year.

Five Afghan asylum seekers died and 40 were injured in the explosion.

Flight Lieutenant Darby has received the award for treating 44 injured people and saving the lives of 27 crew.

"We were treating really severely burnt casualties on the back of a Navy patrol boat, which is really small. It was pretty ghastly sort of stuff," she said.

"I guess that was what made it such a challenging thing - doing your duty as a doctor but in such terrible conditions, especially after witnessing such a horrific event."

Meanwhile, NT Police Senior Sergeant Vince Kelly has been awarded the Australian Police Medal.

He was honoured for 23 years of service, including working as an officer in Alice Springs, Ali Curung and Katherine before working in the Major Crime Unit in Darwin.

He says his most rewarding role has been in recent years serving as the Police Federation of Australia national president.

"I always enjoyed my time as a detective working on major things that have had a real life impact on people," he said.

"I've made some life-long friends out of some police operations I've been involved in, especially victims of serious crime.

"These things have been rewarding, but equally rewarding are the little things that you do for people in the community and the small thanks that you get that is often not noticed by other people."

Another birthday honours recipient, Reverend Canon Michael Wurramara in Ngukurr, has received the Member of the Order of Australia for improving Indigenous lives through pastoral care.

Tevita Hala Tupou has also received the Member of the Order of Australia for his work in the Yirrkala Dhanbul community.

Trevor Smith has been recognised for his service to youth through the Australian Army Cadets.

And artist John Marwurndjul has also been honoured for his art works.

Townsville soldier honoured for battlefield courage
ABC NEWS

A Townsville-based soldier has received the Distinguished Service Medal for helping save the lives of two British soldiers who were seriously injured by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan.

The medal recognises the exceptional leadership Sergeant Major Paul Boswell showed during the incident.

He took command when an IED blew up during a patrol in Helmand province, seriously injuring three British soldiers.

The medal recognises Sergeant Major Boswell's significant contribution to saving the lives of the troops.

The soldier says he is extremely proud to receive the accolade but his colleagues also deserve recognition.

"A lot of good people ensured that these two guys were kept alive," he said.

"The medical team was in one of the quickest medical responses in Helmand history.

"It was just luck at the time it was about a 30 minute [evacuation] and we had some really good Gurkha support as well to make sure the battlefield clearance went really well."

More than 400 Australians have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List this year.

 
 

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[Keith]

If ever Australian Veterans are sick to the stomach of anything it is the usurious, self promoting Media reporting on the actions of our Troops in Afghanistan, and before that in Iraq. It is always inevitable that after ADF members are killed in action in particular there is a macabre interest in these tragedies by the media and indeed some politicians. The Media will offer the excuse that it is their job to report Military news and that they are doing the ADF and the Veteran community a favour by highlighting these killings and the wounding.
 
Not true. In most cases the media reports these matters for self interest, to sell papers and get TV audiences and to make a name for the reporters involved.
 
The bastard contradiction is that the media and some politicians love being in front of cameras wringing their hands and playing at being supporters of our young ADF members YET when it comes to protecting the entitlements, health care, compensation and resettlement of ADF members into society these lechers are nowhere to be found.
 
It was vomitous for example to see Tony Abbott shedding crocodile tears over the recent tragic waste of young Australian life in Afghanistan yet the truth is Tony Abbott is on the record as saying young Australians killed and wounded and disabled at War should be treated the same as firefighters and SES workers.
 
So, where are the media and the caring politicians when the chips are down? Why nowhere of course.
 
This will be the scenario after Afghanistan. Many young Australians will be killed, wounded and disabled. They will then return to Australia forgotten by the media and the hypocritical politicians and they will have to fight tooth and nail in many cases to receive just compensation and health care.
 
Don't tell us we don't know what we are talking about. We have walked the walk, and we can talk the talk. YOU have not.
 
Oh and for the Afghanistan War apologists like Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott, who take their orders from Washington, we say. Get your kids and grandkids to volunteer NOW, FIRST, or get out of the way and stop moralising and judging. You know not what you talk about.
 
Another example of this lecherous reporting follows.
 
 
 
We heard blast that killed our boys
about:/news/indepth/we-heard-the-blast-that-killed-our-boys-in-afghanistan/story-e6frewp9-1225877648658

EXCLUSIVE: JOURNALIST Chris Masters is on assignment with our brave troops in Afghanistan.

 
 

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[Keith]

Leave Afghanistan before more die --General Alan Stretton
http://www.theage.com.au/national/letters/voting-for-change-will-mean-going-for-a-different-hue-20100608-xtk2.html

HOW many lives of fine young Australians need to be sacrificed in Afghanistan before the government realises that this is an unwinnable war? Australian forces have been in Afghanistan since 2001. The aim was to capture Osama bin Laden, destroy al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban. Not one of these objectives has been achieved.

In fact, the situation is deteriorating, with allied casualties accelerating, civilian support for the Taliban increasing because of mounting civilian deaths from ''friendly fire'', and other allies withdrawing their forces.

When it came to office, the present government had the opportunity to remove our forces from Afghanistan. It lacked the fortitude to do this and should be held accountable for the lives of 14 young soldiers.

As the former Australian Army chief of staff in Vietnam, I have witnessed the debacle in Iraq and now nine years of another impending disaster under the leadership of the Americans. It is time that our politicians stopped being US lackeys, looked beyond the next election and concentrated on building a future Australia of which we can all be proud.

The first step would be to ignore American advice that we are winning in Afghanistan and bring our forces home before more Australians are sacrificed.

Major-General Alan Stretton, Batemans Bay, NSW

 
 

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[Keith]

TWO AUSTRALIAN SOLDIERS KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

Two Australian soldiers serving with the 1st Mentoring Task Force in Afghanistan have been killed in action.

The two soldiers from the Brisbane-based 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment died as a result of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated yesterday morning, Afghanistan time.

They were part of an Australian dismounted patrol conducting operations in the Mirabad Valley region of Oruzgan province.

One of the soldiers was killed at the time of the explosion.  The other soldier received emergency first aid from his patrol mates and was subsequently aero-medically evacuated to a nearby ISAF hospital.  Sadly, the soldier died from his wounds.

There were no other Australian or Afghan casualties, however, an explosive detection dog also died in the incident. 

The Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General David Hurley, said he was deeply saddened by the loss of the two brave soldiers.

Their role is a dangerous one seeking out explosive devices and other threats to keep their colleagues safe. They are fighting a determined enemy in the Taliban, whose aim is to kill and maim coalition soldiers and Afghan security personnel, Lieutenant General Hurley said.

To the families and friends of these two soldiers, I also offer my heartfelt sympathies and the full support of the Australian Defence Force, particularly, in the coming days as we prepare to bring these soldiers home.

The soldiers families have asked that their names not be released at this time and I would ask you to respect this request while they grieve.

The Australian patrol had earlier in the day uncovered three substantial caches of weapons and ammunition including 1,600 rounds of ammunition, 23 rocket propelled grenades, five mortar rounds and fuses.

An investigation will be initiated in order to determine the exact details of the incident.

Thirteen Australian soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan since operations commenced.

Media Note: Statements of Condolence from the Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, and the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, will be available from the Defence website.

[Keith]

The Australian Parliament is determined to suck more and more young Australians into a conflict area which is the home of corruption, drugs, nepotism, electoral fraud and dirty tricks. The Australian Parliament is party, wittingly or unwittingly, to US determination to eventually expand it's operational area to include American front line US Troops on the ground in Pakistan. And at the end of the day those young Australians who find themselves wounded and disabled as a result of this impoverished Australian policy, will end up on the receiving end of a more and more hostile Department of Veterans Affairs claims system. DVA policy in some areas is now clearly driven by the philosophy in the recent book which was published by a former DVA assessor and advocate who was renowned in Queensland for his deep antipathy towards the RSL and the claims process and genuine claimants. This former DVA employee clearly has a very large axe to grind in some areas and is clearly the front man for sections of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
 
The Aussie Digger will not be naming his book and will not provide him any publicity.
 
And, before you start calling for Tony Abbott to save the day, you can forget about it. Tony Abbott has form regarding Veterans entitlements and the deployment of somebody else's kids to War and this information will become evident as the year progresses towards our date with the ballot box.
 


SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Meeting with Pakistan?s President and Defence Minister

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, yesterday met with Pakistan?s President, Asif Ali Zardari, and the Minister of Defence, Chaudry Ahmad Mukhtar, in Islamabad.

Senator Faulkner also held meetings with senior Pakistan Armed Forces leaders including the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Tariq Majid.

This was the first visit to Islamabad by an Australian Defence Minister for more than a decade and highlights the growing defence cooperation between the two countries.

Senator Faulkner discussed Pakistan?s efforts to counter terrorism in the country and the successes of recent military campaigns against violent extremism.

Senator Faulkner expressed his condolences to President Zardari on behalf of the Australian Government for the losses that the Pakistan Armed Forces have suffered in its current operations. 

?Australia stands by Pakistan in this fight.  We will continue to work with Pakistan to tailor our cooperation to best achieve positive results and to strengthen our long-term partnership,? Senator Faulkner said.

Senator Faulkner thanked Minister Mukhtar for his support for the increased defence cooperation between Australia and Pakistan.

Senator Faulkner also welcomed the opportunity to sign the Australia-Pakistan Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding.

?The Memorandum of Understanding is a useful framework to continue enhanced defence cooperation between our two nations,? Senator Faulkner said.

Future defence cooperation will include visits by Australian military officials, aircraft and ships, further counter-insurgency training initiatives for both Australian and Pakstani forces and increased participation in military training and education courses.

Six student instructors from the Australian Command and Staff College recently attended the counter insurgency module at Pakistan Army?s Command and Staff College in Quetta.

?Australian based training positions for Pakistani officers will be increased to over 140 next year, in addition to the doubling of postgraduate scholarships to 12. The quality of the Pakistani officers training in Australia has been consistently high,? Senator Faulkner said.

Senator Faulkner also welcomed the increase in the number of ADF officers attending training courses in Pakistan, including on courses such as desert and mountain warfare.

?Australia wishes to build an enduring relationship with Pakistan that is sustainable in the long term and mutually beneficial for both countries,? Senator Faulkner said.

 
 

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[Keith]

The attacker may have been fired up on drugs from Afghanistan. If so how ironical that would be.

 

Australian war hero Scott May survives Iraq, nearly dies in Melbourne attack

Antonia Magee
From: Herald Sun
June 08, 2010


War hero Scott May recalls his moment of terror in Melbourne



 

Scott May was attacked with a knife while walking in the city with his wife. Picture: Jon Hargest Source: Herald Sun

AN Australian war hero who survived Iraq and Afghanistan unhurt almost lost his life to a crazed street thug during a night out in Melbourne.

Scott May, 27, drove armoured personnel carriers in the war on terrorism in the Middle East.

He won a Silver Commendation medal for trying to save a US army nurse during a mortar attack in Baghdad.

But that didn't prepare him for Saturday night when he was walking back to a city motel with his new wife, Larna, 22, and friends.

A street thug slashed open his face with a box cutter in a totally unprovoked attack.

"The guy just walked up between us, reached around and, from just under the eye, dragged a knife across my face," Mr May told the Herald Sun. He said the injury was worse than anything he suffered while at war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Bottom of Form

"I saw lots of rocket attacks in both countries, and a car bomb in Afghanistan," he said.

"(Saturday night) was a really high-stress situation. It probably hit home more than my war experiences because my family were involved."

Mr May said the attack triggered flashbacks of trying to save the army nurse in Baghdad: "The blood on my hands reminded me of that lady dying."

Mr May, who grew up in Melbourne, moved back here from Queensland six months ago.

He and Larna wed just five weeks ago, and live in Pakenham.

"I kept saying to Larna, 'I really miss Melbourne'," he said.

"It's where I grew up, and it's an awesome city to go out in. (This) made me realise this is not the Melbourne I grew up in."

Mr May's mother, Silvi, said she had thought her son would be safe now he was back home. "We lived in dread during the time he was overseas, for that middle-of-the-night phone call to tell us he had been injured, or worse.

But instead we got that phone call on Saturday night, when he is on home soil and just out for a good night," she said.

Larna said they were thinking of returning to Queensland.

"I was on edge for six months while he was away," she said.

"He comes back, we're working hard, we get married, move into the house, and decide to have a night in the city - time to relax.

"We're walking down the street, and that's what happened."

Mr May said the attack had been swift and brutal. They had just stepped off a tram on the corner of Elizabeth and Lonsdale streets, about 1am.

The plastic surgeon who treated Mr May told him the blade stopped just shy of a nerve, which, if severed, could have paralysed his face.

Mr May left the army in November last year after four years of active service.

He had been considering joining Victoria Police, but said the attack had "thrown a spanner in the works".

Two men were arrested over the attack but were released pending further inquiries, a police spokesman.

Mr May was sceptical that justice would be served because judges were too lenient.

"He'll probably just get a six-month good behaviour bond, a slap on the wrist - naughty, naughty," Mr May said.

"When I was in Iraq, I spoke to an Iraqi and I said: 'How do you find it now that Saddam (Hussein) is gone?'

"And he actually said a lot of people want him back because, although Saddam was bad, he ruled with an iron fist, and you knew he was bad so you didn't step out of line

 

 
 

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[Keith]

And my bet is most of these positive test results came from Afghanistan or from Troops who have been deployed to Afghanistan. The Parliament of Australia has a duty of care to our Defence Force members and sending them to the heroin capital of the world to gain approval from Washington fails that duty of care.
 
Diggers caught out in drug tests
By BRENDEN HILLS
From: The Sunday Telegraph
June 06, 2010


ALMOST 600 Diggers have been caught taking illegal drugs in the past five years despite top-brass attempts to dismiss reports of drug problems in the Australian Defence Force.

ADF figures provided to The Sunday Telegraph revealed 589 serving soldiers, sailors and airmen tested positive to taking illicit drugs since 2005.

The results were released after news an Australian soldier was found unconscious from a suspected drug overdose in his barracks at Tarin Kowt in Afghanistan.

Private Daniel Landt-Isley remains in a serious condition in a US military hospital in Germany. Investigators found a bottle of pills and white powder - thought to be an opiate - in the soldier's room.

In November, The Sunday Telegraph revealed Diggers were using marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other hard drugs on tours of duty and were returning to Australia as addicts.

The scandal is a major embarrassment for ADF chief Angus Houston, who said drugs the story was "completely baseless".

Last week, Air Chief Marshal Houston was forced to order all 300 members of Australia's Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan to be drug tested.

 

Afghanistan produces 93 per cent of the world's heroin, which experts claim can be accessed easily and cheaply. Regular drug tests were conducted between June, 2005 and April, 2010 on 44,000 ADF personnel, a spokesman said.

The ADF refuses to detail the types of drugs involved in the positive tests or to give any breakdown of how many involved soldiers serving overseas.

Military culture expert Dr Ben Wadham said drug use was a traditional issue for defence force personnel and put the use down to stress and military culture.

"Soldiers traditionally work hard, but they also play hard and that has been characterised by copious amounts of drugs and alcohol," Dr Wadham said.

"But it's also the stresses they have to endure in highly risky work situations, which can drive them to take drugs."

He said drug habits had also changed over time.

"In the 1990s cannabis was the drug of choice but in the second half of the decade, pills, amphetamines and steroids became more prevalent. In the 2000s it is still largely pills, cocaine and steroids while there has traditionally been problems with opiates in Afghanistan."

He said heroin came very cheap in Afghanistan.

"They traditionally get it through contact with US soldiers, wandering through opiate regions or through a connection with local sellers who often sell drugs to soldiers to undermine their ability on the battlefield."

 

Soldiers told The Sunday Telegraph, on the condition of anonymity, that drug use by serving soldiers was still prevalent.

One soldier, who served in Iraq two years ago, reported that "a big selection" of steroids was available when he spent time on an American base.

 

"Most guys were on it because there's so much pressure on you to be at peak physical performance that people turn to steroids just to keep up," he said.

 

An ADF spokesman said the drug test result figures compared favourably with that recorded for the civilian community.

 

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 205/10 Friday, 4 June 2010

DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

Update on condition of Private D

The Australian soldier who may be suffering an adverse reaction to opiates remains in a serious but stable condition and is being closely monitored in the US Medical Centre in Landstuhl, Germany. The soldier is being supported by his family.

Defence is currently making arrangements to move the soldier back to Australia however a date has not been confirmed. The return to Australia is subject to the soldier's medical condition and his fitness to take the extended journey home.

Private D was found unconscious and unresponsive by his colleagues on Friday, 28 May in Afghanistan.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, announced on Thursday, 3 May, he was appointing a Chief of the Defence Force Commission of Inquiry to determine the facts and circumstances that resulted in the soldier being found unconscious.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: (02) 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999, Fax: 02 6265 1545

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
We must have a home-grown naval industry
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/opinion/we-must-have-a-home-grown-naval-industry/story-e6frg6zo-1225875696804
 
Paul Dibb and Geoffrey Barker THERE are strategic reasons for building our ships rather than buying them abroad.

Digger drug tests after overdose
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/digger-drug-tests-after-overdose/story-e6frg6nf-1225875241537
 
Brendan Nicholson ALL of Australia's 300 special forces soldiers in Afghanistan are being drug tested after a commando was found unconscious from a suspected

Something just does not add up here. One of the largely unknown realities of Military life is that all Australian Military members are subject to three Laws.
 
Australian civilian Law, International Law and Military Law.
 
However this Afghanistan situation is a messy situation and I am loathe to make detailed comment and certainly no judgement. The solution is to get our Troops the hell out of that rotten, drug infested and corrupt country.
 
Commandos may face civil court


DAN OAKES
June 5, 2010

THE chief military prosecutor will open the way for Australian soldiers accused of killing six Afghan civilians to be charged and tried in a civilian court.

The Age has been told that the Director of Military Prosecutions will present Defence Force Chief Angus Houston with several options, one of which is the prosecution of five commandos involved in a raid in which the civilians were killed.

Of numerous Defence sources and historians consulted by The Age, not one could recall an instance in which an Australian soldier was charged over the death of civilians in a theatre of conflict.

The family of the six people killed in the attack - four children, an adolescent and an adult - have claimed that the Australian troops burst into their compound in the small hours of the morning in February last year and attacked using machineguns and grenades.

They accused the Australians - from 1 Commando Regiment, which includes many reservists - of shooting without identifying targets and then admitting they were in the wrong compound.

The military prosecutor, Brigadier Lyn McDade, has been investigating what, if any, charges the five commandos should face in relation to the killings. The atmosphere around the case has been extremely emotive and divisive, and the investigation has taken longer than many thought likely.

The prosecutor has the power to lay charges herself if the alleged offences are suitable to be tried in the military justice system. However, if they are considered sufficiently serious in a civilian context - and murder, manslaughter or negligence would fall into this category - they are heard in the civilian system, in this case under the Australian Capital Territory criminal code.

In this scenario, the military prosecutor would present her advice to the Chief of the Defence Force, who would then consult the Defence Minister and Attorney-General before referring the case to the civilian Director of Public Prosecutions.

Defence sources have told The Age that among the five commandos are some who were in the compound on the night, and others who were involved in the planning of the assault.

A key element of the investigation has been the lead-up to the incident. It was revealed earlier this year that the troops were at a different compound on the morning of the attack, before being ordered by their commanding officer to move to the compound at which the killings took place.

Defence sources told The Age it would have been highly unusual for the troops to have moved to the second compound without planning, and that if there was no planning, the questions of who gave a command to move on the second compound, and how such a decision was made, become of central importance.

The Age has previously revealed that the commandos from the unit involved in the incident were charged earlier in their tour over the theft of alcohol, and that doubts were expressed about their level of training before they left for Afghanistan.

In response to a request for comment, a Defence spokeswoman said this week that the military prosecutor was still deliberating.

''The Chief of the Defence Force cannot direct or interfere in any way with the deliberations currently in progress by the Director of Military Prosecutions, nor would he want to,'' she said.

 

 
 

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[Keith]

 
If Australian Governments insist on deploying young Australians to Afghanistan, the heroin capital of the world, then our Troops will continue to be faced with the great temptation to use illicit drugs to combat the stresses and dangers of a Theatre of War. The responsibility for placing our Troops in temptations way rests squarely on the heads of our politicians and they alone have the solution. Bring the Troops home. We all know it is illegal to use these drugs and it is true to say all Australians must accept responsibility for our personal choices. But to pretend drugs are not used is stupid. It is a crying shame that young Australians have to face the wide temptation of illicit drug use at War, when the temptation at home is bad enough.
 
There is no comparison with Vietnam.The commentators in glass offices have already started this one. Many myths exist about drug use in Vietnam and the truth is the substance of choice of the great majority of Australians in Vietnam was legal alcohol, and then only when one was not on combat Operations, and then legally only two cans per man per day. There was no widespread illicit drug use among Australians during the Vietnam War.
 
COURIER MAIL.
 
Military chiefs order drugs probe after Australian soldier collapses in Afghanistan

Brendan Nicholson
From: NewsCore
June 03, 2010 2:00PM

ALL of Australia's several hundred special forces soldiers in Afghanistan are being drug tested after a young commando was found unconscious from a suspected overdose.

The soldier was discovered last Friday after a function for troops who had returned to their base at Tarin Kowt from an extended operation against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan.

Defence force chief Angus Houston revealed to media Thursday that ?while no findings are yet available a bottle of pills and, separately, white powder thought to be an opiate? were found in the quarters of the unnamed private.

"However, I stress to you that analysis and medical testing to confirm the exact nature of the substance and whether it may have caused or contributed to his condition is ongoing," he said.

The seriously ill soldier was evacuated to Germany and his prognosis ?remains uncertain.? He is still unconscious and officials flew his parents and girlfriend to Germany on Monday.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said among the Australian military in Afghanistan there had "never had any concerns up to now about narcotics," adding: "We haven't had a single incident over the whole time we have been in Afghanistan."

The young soldier is a member of the Special Operations Task Group, which includes the Special Air Service (SAS) and commandos

Soldiers at risk of getting hooked on heroin
By Michael Edwards

ABC NEWS

 
There will be drug testing of the entire Special Operations Task Force in Afghanistan (Australian Defence Force)

Video: Army orders drugs tests (7pm TV News NSW)
http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/201006/r578136_3616430.asx

Audio: Drug use a problem among soldiers (PM)
http://mpegmedia.abc.net.au/news/audio/pm/201006/20100603-PM2-afghan-drugs.mp3

Audio: Drug tests for Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan (PM)
http://mpegmedia.abc.net.au/news/audio/pm/201006/20100603-PM1-soldier-OD.mp3
 
Related Story: Drugs probe launched after soldier falls ill
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/06/03/2917320.htm
 
Related Story: Leaders' lack of combat experience 'hurting troops'
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/06/02/2916566.htm
 
The revelation that an Australian soldier serving in Afghanistan may have overdosed on drugs comes as no surprise to addiction experts.

One even says a risk of sending soldiers to Afghanistan is that some of them are going to become heroin dependent.

A senior lawyer is set to conduct an official inquiry into how the experienced Australian commando suffered a suspected overdose nearly a week ago.


A bottle of pills and white powder were found in the soldier's room.

He was found unconscious and unresponsive in his room in Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan province last Friday and remains in a serious condition in a military hospital in Germany.

Australian soldiers already face random drug testing, but now there will be testing of the entire Special Operations Task Force in Afghanistan.

Dr Alex Wodak, director of the Alcohol and Drug Service at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, says drug use was a major problem for Soviet troops in Afghanistan and the US military is also now facing an increase in addiction.

He says many soldiers turn to drugs simply to cope with life in a war zone.

"Life is unbearable," he said. "You don't know whether you're going to be alive in 10 minutes' time or not.

"Life has very few pleasures; you're very uncomfortable, it's either very hot or very cold, the food's pretty awful, the ever-present smell of death and you see some of your closest buddies die before your eyes.

"So life is really unbearable and heroin's cheap."

Afghanistan produces 93 per cent of the world's opium, the key ingredient of heroin.

"Afghanistan is a place where there's a lot of narcotics," said Defence Force Chief Angus Houston.

"They're grown there and they're manufactured there and this is a place where narcotics are more freely available probably than anywhere else in the world."

Men and women in Australia's Defence Force already face random and targeted drug tests.

They generally have fewer positive results than people in other professions who face drug testing, such as miners and police officers.

But Defence Minister John Faulkner still wants to know if the Defence testing program is adequate.

The history of opiate use by soldiers dates back to the American Civil War.

Heroin abuse was a big problem for the US military during the Vietnam War, exacerbated by the fact its military contained large numbers of conscripted soldiers.

In Afghanistan, however, all US troops are volunteers.

Dr Ben Wadham, an expert on army culture from Flinders University in South Australia, says drug use is also a problem in the Australian military.

"The Defence Force has had an ongoing issue with drug use amongst its ranks," he said.

"They've put together a number of inquiries and different strategies to address drug use but it remains a persistent issue.

"Drinking has always been an issue in the military and remains so, but even more so drugs become a way of young men dealing with the stressors of the military but also bonding together."


Work hard, play hard

Dr Wadham says armed forces culture begins by constructing a strong difference between a soldier and a civilian.

"Soldiers bond together in particular ways and they also engage in quite risky operations, risky work, quite hard work," he said.

"The way that particularly men in those armed corps bond together is by engaging in the work hard, play hard mentality."

John Jarrett, president of the Young Diggers, a group that helps Australian servicemen and women cope with health issues, says self-medication through alcohol or drugs is a problem.

"We've noticed that most of the self-medication is from alcohol abuse, but mainly after they get back," he said.

"But yes, there are occasions where some of the troops will self-medicate over there I presume, but most of what we're hearing is the alcohol abuse back in country."

Drug testing is conducted among members of the Australian armed forces and there have been claims the military lacks the necessary strategies to deal with the problem.

But Mr Jarrett says he has seen some promising signs in recent months.

"We've noticed in the past few months that the Defence Force are getting a lot better at that," he said.

"I know it's probably not our place to comment on it, but we're very pleased with what we are seeing from the military, that they've actually stood up and we're seeing them do things and doing it well."

Mr Jarrett has urged the military to maintain strong support for those soldiers affected by substance abuse.

 
 


$12.6 million funding boost secures future for Tasmanian science and research



Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Science and Materiel today announced a $12.6 million funding boost for the redevelopment of Defence Science facilities in Scottsdale, helping to secure the long-term future of critical scientific research in Tasmania.

 

?The Scottsdale Defence Nutrition and Food Science facilities are an important part of the Australian Defence Force?s research arm,? Mr Combet said.  

 

?The redevelopment will include important upgrades to pilot food production facilities, and chemistry and nutrition laboratories.  

 

?These facilities will contribute to providing our frontline troops with the quality nutrition they need to perform at their best.?

 

Mr Combet said the new facility upgrades cemented the critical role Scottsdale plays in meeting the nutritional needs of the Australian Defence Force.  

 

?The Rudd Government?s $12.6 million funding boost for Scottsdale?s Defence Nutrition and Food Science facilities will arm local food scientists with the resources they need to keep Aussie troops fighting fit long into the future,? Mr Combet said.

 

?This funding commitment also reaffirms the Rudd Government?s commitment to Scottsdale?s Defence Nutrition and Food Science facilities, local food scientists and the broader community of Scottsdale.?    

 

Mr Combet said the facility upgrades would also have a direct benefit for the broader Scottsdale community, creating jobs and putting money into the local economy.

 

?The Rudd Government?s $12.6 million upgrade of the Defence Nutrition and Food Science facilities will also have a direct knock-on benefit for the community, creating about 50 construction jobs during construction phase while putting money into the local economy,? Mr Combet said.

 

The Member for Bass and passionate advocate for North East Tasmania, Jodie Campbell welcomed the announcement, saying the investment would help deliver real economic benefits for the local community.

 

?This investment in Scottsdale is good news local science and research, good news for jobs and good news for North East Tasmania,? Ms Campbell said.  

[Keith]

Commission of Inquiry to be established
 

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, today announced that he would be appointing a Chief of the Defence Force Commission of Inquiry to determine the facts and circumstances that resulted in an Australian soldier being found unconscious in his room in Tarin Kowt on Friday, 28 May 2010.

An Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS) investigation is also underway into the possible involvement of illicit drugs in this incident.

The ADFIS is currently collecting evidence and conducting interviews in Afghanistan,
Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

As the investigation is ongoing, no findings are yet available, however, a bottle of pills and, separately, white powder - thought to be an opiate - were found in the soldier?s room. Analysis and medical testing to confirm the nature of the substance that may have caused or contributed to his condition is ongoing.

The soldier involved, Private D, is an experienced commando currently deployed with the Special Operations Task Group. Defence will not disclose his name.

In response to the incident, the Special Operations Task Group Commanding Officer ordered prohibited substance testing of all members of the soldiers sub-unit. The results of these tests will not be available until full analysis is completed. Testing of the remaining elements of the SOTG is currently underway. 

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the Commission of Inquiry will also identify any deficiencies in the current Prohibited Substance Testing regime.

The Australian Defence Force has a zero tolerance policy regarding the use of illicit drugs and takes these matters very seriously,? Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

The Acting Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East, Commodore Roger Boyce, has initiated an administrative inquiry to determine immediate actions in response to the conduct of a function involving Private Ds sub-unit that occurred the evening before the incident.  

Private D was found unconscious and unresponsive by his colleagues on Friday, 28 May.  Emergency first aid and medical treatment were administered. He was evacuated from Tarin Kowt later that day to a United States military hospital in Kandahar, and then Bagram where his condition remained serious. 

Following a medical procedure to stabilise his condition at Bagram, the soldier arrived at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany on Tuesday evening. He remains in a serious condition and is being closely monitored by medical staff.

Private Ds parents and girlfriend have flown to Germany. The Defence Community Organisation and an escort officer from the soldiers unit are supporting the family in Germany.

Private D joined the Australian Army in 2004 and following service in an infantry battalion and a tour in East Timor, he successfully completed commando training and selection. He has extensive operational service and is now on his third deployment with the Special Operations Task Group to Afghanistan.

Media Note: Statement from Senator Faulkner to Air Chief Marshal Houston regarding the current Prohibited Substabce Testing Program can be found at http://www.defence.gov.au/media/docs/100603NBCAS.pdf

 


The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced the graduation of the Royal Australian Air Force?s first locally trained pilots for the C-17A Globemaster.

Flight Lieutenant David Whyte and Pilot Officer Stephen Maunder are the first two Air Force pilots to undertake their conversion course at RAAF Base Amberley. Until now, all Australian C-17A pilots have been initially trained on the aircraft in the United States.

This is another major step forward as Air Forces C-17 capability matures, Senator Faulkner said.

Its anticipated the use of the newly constructed training facilities at RAAF Base Amberley will produce significant financial and workforce savings compared to sending personnel overseas.

?The introduction of C-17 training in Australia has been delivered through a strong Defence and Industry partnership. I congratulate Air Force, Defence Materiel Organisation and Boeing for their continued support in delivering a capability which is both highly effective and within budget.

The Aircrew Training System for the C-17A at RAAF Base Amberley includes Boeing instructors, a full-motion cockpit and separate loadmaster station simulator.

Pilots converting to the C-17A require 350 hours of training provided by Boeing instructors, which includes 120 simulated flight hours. The trainee pilots then complete the operational conversion by conducting a series of five flights in a real C-17A under the supervision of Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors. 

Australia is the only country outside of the United States with its own local-based C-17A pilot training facilities. All other Globemaster-operating air forces conduct their C-17A pilot training through the United States Air Force.

Air Force?s four Globemasters were delivered to No. 36 Squadron between 2006 and 2008, and have greatly increased the air mobility available to the Australian Defence Force, in particular support to deployed forces. 

Each aircraft can carry more than 70 tonnes of cargo, which can include a Chinook helicopter, or up to three Black Hawk helicopters, or up to five Australian Light Armoured Vehicles.

[Keith]

Minor War Vessels concentrate off Darwin


 

The Minor War Vessel Concentration Period (MWVCP) sea phase has commenced in waters off Darwin, with five Royal Australian Navy ship?s practising general mariner, surface and amphibious warfare skills.

 

During the week-long activity, HMA Ships Glenelg, Pirie, Bundaberg, Balikpapan and Betano will work focus on collective competencies including boarding operations, tactical manoeuvring, and seamanship.

 

?Darwin based 2nd Cavalry Regiment., with an Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV), General Motor Vehicle and three Unimogs, will join Navy in an amphibious landing, simulating a non-combative evacuation operation.  The activity will practise relocating to a place of safety non-combatants threatened in a foreign country,? said Commander Mine Warfare, Hydrography and Patrol Boat Force, CAPT Vaughan Rixon.

 

?Maritime interception skills will also be honed with boarding operations practiced on the merchant ship MV Sapphire Bay with aerial support provided by a Navy Augusta A109E helicopter from 723 Squadron.

 

?Gunnery shoots will also be conducted against towed air targets.

 

?This exercise is an important part of Navy?s ongoing training program, aimed at enhancing its capability to protect Australia and its interests,? CAPT Rixon said.

 

MWVCP is part of ongoing efforts to improve ADF capability to protect Australia and its interests, and enhance interoperability within the ADF and with the many agencies involved in the border protection task.  It is a carefully planned activity and will be conducted within strict environmental, safety and risk management constraints.

[Keith]

SMH

Soldiers' complaints to be investigated
DAN OAKES AND LINTON BESSER
June 2, 2010

ALLEGATIONS that the Australian Defence Force systematically covers up and discourages soldiers' complaints about equipment will be investigated independently, the Defence Minister, John Faulkner, said.

The decision to hold an inquiry comes after a Herald investigation revealed the system was regarded as a ''black hole'' by many soldiers, whose complaints were often bundled together with numerous others about the same item of equipment - reducing the number of reports and obscuring the scale of some problems.

Restricted documents revealed that hundreds of complaints about everything from boots to weapons could fail to register in senior levels of the organisation. Sometimes superiors pressed soldiers not to file complaints.

Senator Faulkner told a Senate committee hearing yesterday that the former Centrelink chief executive Jeff Whalan would examine the ''ease of use and responsiveness'' of the reporting system and recommend an alternative system if he found ''systemic weaknesses''. Senator Faulkner's announcement came after a senior Defence Materiel Organisation official, Brigadier Bill Horrocks, was forced to disclose that Defence had received hundreds more complaints about body armour than it had reported.

Brigadier Horrocks first told the hearing that between February last year and March this year, there had been 28 ''reports on defective or unsatisfactory materiel'', or RODUMs, about a controversial type of body armour used by troops in Afghanistan.

It was only when Liberal senator David Johnston directly asked him if one RODUM could represent complaints about several pieces of equipment that the brigadier disclosed the 28 RODUMS accounted for 716 pieces of armour. Of those, 460 were contained in one RODUM that claimed troops had trouble fitting the butt of their rifle to their shoulder when wearing the armour and lying down.

The Chief of Army, Ken Gillespie, and the Defence Materiel Organisation chief executive, Stephen Gumley, rejected the Herald's revelations as ''unfounded''.

 

 Tender blunder has soldiers waiting for backpacks
ABC NEWS

The Federal Opposition says it is concerned Australian soldiers have missed out on receiving new backpacks after a tender to supply them was abandoned because of perceived bias.

A Senate committee hearing has been told the $23 million tender was compromised because an officer running the process had attempted to help one of the companies involved.

Opposition defence spokesman David Johnston says the Government should release details of the three investigations into the matter.

"The Parliament needs to get to the bottom of what has happened here - two inspector-general inquiries and one probity auditor," he said.

"The end result being that a $23 million tender has been abandoned after 12 months and the soldiers to receive the equipment are still waiting for the gear."

 
 

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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Defence receives apology after scathing report
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/05/31/2914420.htm?section=justin

Management company McKinsey International has apologised for a report it wrote that put Australia near the bottom of an international league table on defence performance.

 
Sick Aussie soldier still waiting for treatment 
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/05/31/2914479.htm?section=justin

The Defence Force chief, Angus Houston says it is unclear when a sick Australian soldier will be transferred to Germany for treatment.

 

Chief vindicates Lucas Heights whistleblower 
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/06/01/2914548.htm?section=justin

Vindication does not happen often, but yesterday the head of Australia's Lucas Heights nuclear facility said a whistleblower was "absolutely correct" to raise serious safety concerns at the site.

[Keith]

 
From: Terry DAVIES
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Sent: Sunday, May 30, 2010 1:02 PM
Subject: An Australian soldier in Afghanistan found unconscious




ARTICLE: THE AUSTRALIAN
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/aussie-digger-found-unconscious-in-army-barracks/story-fn3dxity-1225873079465


Aussie digger found unconscious in army barracks
From:AAP  May 30, 2010 11:37AM


AN Australian soldier in Afghanistan found unconscious in his barracks has been taken to a German hospital.

A Defence spokesman on Sunday said the soldier, serving in Oruzgan province, was found unconscious in his accommodation on Friday.

He was taken to local medical facilities in Afghanistan before being flown to Germany for further treatment, he said.

 

Commander Joint Task Force 633 Major General John Cantwell said the soldier had been assessed as having a serious illness.

 

"At this stage, everybody is doing everything they can to help him," he said.

 

"The medical care has been absolutely first rate."

 

Major General Cantwell said it was still too early to tell the cause of the soldier's illness.

 

"We have begun to look at the circumstances leading to his discovery and a full investigation into the incident will be conducted," he said.

"My focus however is ensuring that he and his family receive the best care available."
 


The soldier's family have been told of his illness and are being offered support.

[Keith]

Draft 'bias' under fire

Laurie Nowell
From: Sunday Herald Sun
May 30, 2010


 

Historian Geoffrey Blainey said the draft curriculum appears to present a "left-wing view of Australian history".  Picture: Ray Strange Source: Herald Sun

THE new draft national history curriculum has been attacked by leading historians and educators as "politicised", "dumbed down" and pushing an agenda.

The Opposition said it was a Labor-designed manifesto in the latest salvo in what has become a fresh break-out of "history wars". Its creators said the curriculum reflected changing values in society.

Prof Geoffrey Blainey said the draft curriculum appeared to represent a "left-wing view of Australian history".

Prof Blainey said he was uneasy about the curriculum's treatment of Aboriginal Australians. He said it did not address the failures of pre-settlement Aboriginal society.

Education consultant and former history teacher Dr Kevin Donnelly said the new curriculum had put indigenous and Asian content and perspectives ahead of Australia's Anglo-Celtic tradition, the debt we owe to Western civilisation and the importance of our Judeo-Christian heritage. Dr Donnelly said the curriculum contained 118 references to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culture and history - with grade 5s studying White Australia and grade 9s Aboriginal massacres and displacement. There is just one reference to Parliament and none to Westminster or the Magna Carta.

Curriculum chief Prof Stuart Macintyre said the new course was not politically motivated.

Last week, this newspaper quoted a historian by the name of Andrew Garvie about the history curriculum. Andrew Garvie is a pen name used by senior Australian academic Dr Ian Pringle, who now works in sensitive parts of Asia as a teacher and consultant and is an economic history expert.

 

This is what happens when trendy lefties, with hidden agendas and no concept or experience of what Australia is really about, try to capture the public mind. These people believe in a perfect world, controlled by them, which denies the truth, deflowers the accuracy of history, teaches there is no personal responsibility and that it is all the fault of somebody else. They in a bubble divorced from reality and honesty. Put to the test of actually doing something physical and mental to protect this country they wither on the vine and quote their little red books of silliness and stupidity. Most know only what they read in books and have no practical experience of life. True wisdom comes from experience. It cannot be learned from a book.
 
 

From: Terry DAVIES
Sent: Sunday, May 23, 2010 8:20 AM
Subject: New History: Fails to teach about Gallipoli
 

SOURCE: SUNDAY HERALD SUN

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/historians-slam-course/story-e6frf7jo-1225870027072

 

Historians slam new history curriculum

 

Laurie Nowell From:
Sunday Herald Sun May 23, 2010

 

New history course slammed by historians

Fails to teach about Gallipoli, Aussie settlement

 

HISTORIANS say the new national modern history curriculum for schools reads like a Marxist manifesto that ignores popular aspects of our past and neglects Australia's role in world politics and war.

 

The course, designed for years 11 and 12, is heavily focused on revolutionary struggles, colonial oppression and women's struggle for equality.

 

It neglects Australia's British roots and institutions and its military history, with no mention of Gallipoli, Tobruk or Kokoda, the experts say.

 

The draft lists World War I as a potential case study in "investigating modern history". 

It lists "controversies surrounding ... memorial sites and commemorative events" as an area of study but does not mention Gallipoli or the battle of Fromelle.

 

In a topic headed "Australia 1880-1945", the draft lists "the formation of organised labour", "White Australia" and "wartime government controls, including conscription, control of the labour force, rationing, censorship and propaganda".

 

But it does not mention the settlement of Australia or the deeds of the first AIF in World War I.

 

The draft history course was released this week for public discussion, divided into five units: The nation state and national identity; Recognition and equality; International tensions and conflicts; Revolutions; and, Australia and Asia.

Historian Andrew Garvie said the course agenda should be altered to give a more balanced view of history.

 

"This appears to be a very trendy, right-on curriculum. It looks heavily influenced by a Marxist view of history - there's lots about about revolution and struggles against oppression," Mr Garvie said.

"But it lacks an appreciation of Australia's place in the world.

 

"There seems to be very little about our military history or our links with Britain. Gallipoli and Kokoda appear to be just footnotes to the whole thing."

He said the course also seemed to be organised as a "slice of life" approach to history.

"It seems to me students will be given bits of history to study. They may not gain an appreciation of the whole of an era or century," Mr Garvie said.

 

Education consultant Russell Boyle said the history curriculum was too selective.

 

"The ancient history curriculum spans the period from pre-history to 500BC, while the period of investigation in the draft modern history curriculum is from the late 18th century through to the end of the 20th century," Mr Boyle said.

 

"There is much in the period in between that would deepen students' understanding of the events and issues that have shaped humanity and our contemporary world."


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[Keith]

RAAF to stop bombing surf mecca
http://www.couriermail.com.au/travel/raaf-suspends-f-111-bombing-practice-at-surf-hot-spot-evans-head/story-e6freqwf-1225872491546
 
THE air force is considering the future use of its F-111 bombing range at Evans Head, on the NSW north coast, but closing it down is not an option

[Keith]

SMH

 

Military figures fiddled to hide defence reform inertia, think tank says

DAN OAKES DEFENCE CORRESPONDENT

May 28, 2010

REFORM of the defence force is stalling, and the federal government and the Defence Department are fudging figures to hide the extent of the problem, a think tank says.

In its analysis of the federal budget, the Defence-funded Australian Strategic Policy Institute says the $20 billion in savings promised by the government over the next 10 years reveals a ''worrying picture''.

The report, prepared by Mark Thomson, is widely considered by both parties to be the authoritative post-budget analysis. Indeed, some joke that officials themselves read it to decipher the workings of the budget.

Despite the controversy over Defence's budget and structure, Dr Thomson also said after the report's launch that the Australian Defence Force was generally in its best shape since the Vietnam War.

He says information about the Strategic Reform Program, of which the savings are a key part, has been ''both fragmentary and continues to change as plans evolve'', and that much of the $20.6 billion in savings is the result of conjuring with figures.

''If the [program] really is 'a major public sector reform initiative', as the [Defence] Minister [John Faulkner] has said, why not open it up to public scrutiny?'' Dr Thomson says.

''Two things should happen: first, the savings should be rebaselined to remove the fanciful accounting tricks. It discredits both Defence and the government to exaggerate the amount of savings to be delivered. Second, regular and detailed public reporting of the program should begin immediately.''

Dr Thomson also drew attention to the unusual absence in the budget of a list of big projects to be approved in the next year, which he said generated concern in the defence industry.

He said the lack of a 12-month plan for such projects also raised doubts about the government's commitment to transparency.

''Given that in previous years there has been a plan, Occam's razor tells me the chances are there is a plan this year and what we're looking at here is not a mystery, but a secret, and therefore an obfuscation,'' Dr Thomson said, referring to the theory the simplest solution is usually correct.

''It's an easier day in the office if the list of things you're held to account for is shorter rather than longer.''

Dr Thomson refused to be drawn on which projects under way represented poor value.

 

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Aussie troops build presence in Kandahar
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/full-recovery-for-injured-aussie-troops/story-e6frg8yo-1225867853449
 
5:25PM UPDATED: Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN special forces have begun ramping up their presence in Kandahar ahead of a major NATO-led offensive into the southern province.

 

In spy games, fury has no coin
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/in-spy-games-fury-has-no-coin/story-e6frg6z6-1225871292356
 
Mark Dodd THE expulsion of an Israeli diplomat won't affect information sharing.

Bishop attacked on spy claims
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/bishop-attacked-over-spy-claims/story-e6frg6nf-1225871304066

Mark Dodd DEPUTY Opposition Leader Julie Bishop is under fire for suggesting Australia's intelligence agencies routinely use forged passports.

 
 

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[Keith]

 
From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Sent: Monday, May 24, 2010 5:02 PM
Subject: FW: JOINT McCLELLAND & FAULKNER - MEDIA RELEASE - ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MILITARY COURT OF AUSTRALIA - 24 MAY 2010 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
 

This email is confidential and may be privileged. If you have received this email by mistake: (1) please notify me immediately and delete the email; (2) you must not use this email or its contents; (3) client legal privilege is not waived.

From: Siddique, Adam  
Sent: Monday, 24 May 2010 3:28 PM
To: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Subject: JOINT McCLELLAND & FAULKNER - MEDIA RELEASE - ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MILITARY COURT OF AUSTRALIA - 24 MAY 2010 [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]

UNCLASSIFIED

ATTORNEY-GENERAL

ROBERT McCLELLAND MP

AND

MINISTER FOR DEFENCE

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER

   24 May 2010

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MILITARY COURT OF AUSTRALIA

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced the Governments decision to establish a new federal court, the Military Court of Australia, under Chapter III of the Australian Constitution.

The new court will replace the interim measures put in place following the High Courts decision in Lane v Morrison, which last year invalidated the Australian Military Court established by the previous Government.  

Judicial officers appointed to the new Military Court of Australia will have the same independence and constitutional protections that apply in other federal courts, Mr McClelland said.

To ensure that the new court has the necessary understanding of the requirements and critical nature of military discipline, all judicial officers appointed to the court must have either past military experience or a familiarity with the services.  They may not, however, be serving ADF members, nor members of the Reserves.  

This new specialist court will deliver a system of military justice for ADF members that combines the necessary independence and constitutional protections for the judiciary, with an understanding of the vital importance of military discipline in the operation of our armed forces, Senator Faulkner said.

Timely and fair trials in the new court will enhance military justice and promote discipline in the ADF, which in turn will contribute to improved morale and operational effectiveness, Senator Faulkner said.

After last years High Court ruling that the Australian Military Court (AMC) established by the former government was unconstitutional, I announced that the Government would move quickly to put interim arrangements in place to ensure continuation of the military justice system, and that we would move to a Chapter III resolution for the military justice system, Senator Faulkner said. 

The new Military Court of Australia will form part of a restructured federal court system in which the Federal Magistrates Court will continue to hear general federal law matters, Mr McClelland said.

Existing Judges of the Federal Court and Federal Magistrates Courts with the requisite background may be offered dual commissions to the new military court. 

Under the new arrangements, a lower tier of the Family Court will be established and commissions offered to Federal Magistrates who undertake mainly family law work, Mr McClelland said.

This new structure will achieve a more integrated and efficient system in order to effectively deliver legal and justice services to both the civilian and defence community.

The Government will continue its consultations with the courts and the Law Council of Australia in finalising the restructure process.

It is anticipated that legislation to establish the new Military Court will be introduced this year, with a view to the new court commencing operation in late 2011. 

Further information on the future shape of the federal courts is attached.
 

Media Contact:                       Adam Siddique            (McClelland)               0407 473 630

                                                Michael Nguyen          (Faulkner)                   0411 114 307

[perthpaul]

Pregnant Aussie troops sent home

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/1055544/pregnant-aussie-troops-sent-home

Defence bungles $400m torpedo project

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/national/defence-bungles-400m-torpedo-project/comments-e6frea8c-1225869356701

Thank Howard & Liberals for this one.

[Keith]

THE AGE
 
More troops in Timor
May 22, 2010

THE number of Australian Defence Force reservists serving in East Timor will increase dramatically before the end of the year.

After hinting at the move in the federal budget, the government yesterday confirmed reserve soldiers would make up 40 per cent of the peacekeeping force in East Timor during the next troop rotation, a huge increase on the current level of 8 per cent.

The parliamentary secretary for reserve support, Mike Kelly, said the increased involvement of part-time soldiers in Operation Astute would raise their number from about 30 to 160 by August. If the deployment was successful, the government would consider giving reservists the lead role in the mission, he said.

 
 

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[Keith]

 
Aussie troops build presence in Kandahar
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/full-recovery-for-injured-aussie-troops/story-e6frg8yo-1225867853449
 
5:25PM UPDATED: Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN special forces have begun ramping up their presence in Kandahar ahead of a major NATO-led offensive into the southern province.

Taliban's Heroin Inc
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/talibans-heroin-inc/story-e6frg6z6-1225869366995

Sally Neighbour IN one decade, Afghanistan has become the foremost opium supplier.

Aussie troops uncover Afghan weapon caches
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/australian-troops-uncover-16-weapon-caches-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225868765783
 
3:41PM AUSTRALIAN troops have uncovered 16 caches of insurgents weapons and bomb making components, taking their haul to 55 caches so far this month.

No answers on grounded chopper fleet
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defence-does-not-know-cause-of-engine-failure-in-grounded-australian-mrh-90-helicopter/story-e6frg8yo-1225868685289
 
1:33PM Mark Dodd A MONTH after engine failure on a new MRH-90 helicopter grounded the $4 billion chopper fleet, Defence still has no idea what caused the problem.

Houston denies failure to protect troops
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defence-chief-angus-houston-denies-failure-to-protect-troops/story-e6frg8yo-1225868576817

11:05AM Mark Dodd DEFENCE chief Angus Houston has denied he has been derelict in providing protective equipment for operational troops

 

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[Keith]

 
Defence remote allowances under threat
ABC NEWS


The Federal Opposition says the Government should come clean about plans to cut remote allowances for Defence personnel in Darwin and Townsville.

The Defence Department has confirmed it is reviewing remote location leave travel for personnel in Darwin and Townsville under the Strategic Reform Program.

Opposition defence spokesman David Johnston says it is clear a range of remote locality allowances are under threat.

"People who are off base in places like Darwin and Townsville who are currently getting allowances of almost $6,000 in some cases... are going to lose those allowances," he said.

"When the Government says they are under review and simply pulls the shutters closed, you can bet your bottom dollar that after the election there's going to be some pain.

"The Government's cost-cutting in the Strategic Reform Program is hitting servicemen and women who are on the frontline, whilst [in] Canberra the bureaucracy continues to grow.

"There have been no sacrifices - this is the outrage of the way this Government does its business."

 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Aussie troops build presence in Kandahar
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/full-recovery-for-injured-aussie-troops/story-e6frg8yo-1225867853449
 
5:25PM UPDATED: Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN special forces have begun ramping up their presence in Kandahar ahead of a major NATO-led offensive into the southern province.

Wounded soldiers on NATO mission
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/wounded-soldiers-on-nato-mission/story-e6frg8yo-1225867933571

Mark Dodd THREE Australian special forces soldiers who were wounded in Afghanistan at the weekend were part of a NATO-led operation in Kandahar.

Three diggers hurt by roadside bomb
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/three-diggers-hurt-by-roadside-bomb-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225867793162
 
2:25PM THREE Australian special forces soldiers have been wounded in a roadside bomb blast in southern Afghanistan.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Navy rescues 92 on sinking vessel
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/navy-rescues-92-on-sinking-vessel-off-western-australia/story-e6frg6nf-1225867479088

David King THE Australian navy has rescued a sinking vessel off Australia's west coast carrying 92 asylum-seekers. 
 

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Troops to get better protection
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/budget/troops-to-get-better-protection/story-e6frgd66-1225865269293

Mark Dodd DEFENCE is to spend $1.1 billion on technology and equipment to provide increased protection for troops in Afghanistan.

Case study: Front line
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/budget/case-study-front-line/story-e6frgd66-1225865272546
 
Mark Dodd SERVING as part of the Australian Defence Force deployment to the Middle East, Warrant Officer Dallas Coleman, 32, from Adelaide works as an air warfare analyst flying secretive surveillance missions over Afghanistan.

Africa, Indonesia major beneficiaries
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/budget/africa-indonesia-major-beneficiaries/story-e6frgd66-1225865272505

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN assistance to sub-Saharan Africa will get a big boost as part of the Rudd government's growing engagement with the continent.

Big Brother just got a whole lot bigger
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/budget/big-brother-just-got-a-whole-lot-bigger/story-e6frgd66-1225865269441

Brendan Nicholson THE Rudd government is funding a major increase in surveillance across the region, including phone taps directed against people-smugglers and other criminal gangs threatening border security.

$6.3bn to help lure new personnel
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/budget/bn-to-help-lure-new-personnel/story-e6frgd66-1225865269381

Mark Dodd MILITARY recruitment figures are the best in a decade, with the Australian Defence Force reporting its lowest rates of separation in more than 20 years

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Navy fears being left high and dry
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/navy-fears-being-left-high-and-dry-by-resources-boom/story-e6frg6nf-1225864746895

Brendan Nicholson THE Royal Australian Navy is keeping a wary eye on the mining sector as competition increases for scarce skilled workers.

Abbott to aim spy planes at boatpeople
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/abbott-to-buy-unmanned-global-hawk-planes-to-detect-boat-arrivals-protect-north-west-shelf/story-e6frgczf-1225857408558
 
2:32PM Joe Kelly TONY Abbott has said a Coalition government would acquire three unmanned Global Hawk surveillance planes to allow earlier detection of illegal boats.

23 comments on this story

China navy ties 'important'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/china-navy-ties-important/story-e6frg6nf-1225864255099

Brendan Nicholson AUSTRALIAN warships should carry out more joint exercises with the rapidly expanding Chinese navy

 
 

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THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Diggers to get rocket warning
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/diggers-to-get-rocket-warning/story-e6frg6nf-1225863819978

Cameron Stewart and Paul Maley The early warning systems will be deployed by the end of the year   

Taliban fires rockets on Australian base
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/taliban-fires-rockets-on-australian-base/story-e6frg8yo-1225863733244
 
Mark Dodd SUSPECTED Taliban insurgents have fired several rockets into the main joint Australian base at Tarin Kowt in southern Oruzgan, Afghanistan

 
 

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[Keith]

 
SMH
 
Front-line fears lost in Defence black hole
http://www.smh.com.au/national/frontline-fears-about-equipment-failures-lost-in-defence-black-hole-20100506-uh2c.html
 
LINTON BESSER AND DAN OAKES The Defence Department's complaints system is dysfunctional and regarded as a ''black hole'' by many troops.

What complaints? http://www.smh.com.au/national/what-complaints-top-brass-plays-dumb-20100506-uh2l.html

Opiates mean heroin, cocaine. Australian Soldiers are confronted with the same pressures and the same temptations.
 
Number of Soldiers Seeking Opiate Abuse Treatment Skyrockets
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/05/06/number-troops-seeking-opiate-addiction-treatment-skyrockets/

The number of American soldiers seeking treatment for opiate abuse has skyrocketed over the past five years, at a time when the U.S. military has been surging forces into the heart of the world's leading opium producer.

 
 

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[Keith]

Please note the blisters pic is a genuine pic of an ADF member which was taken some years ago in fairness to current matters.

MSPA 147/10 Thursday, 6 May 2010

Defence rejects media reports on clothing and equipment

The Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie and Chief Executive Officer of Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), Dr Stephen Gumley strongly reject claims in today's press alleging wide spread issues with soldiers' combat clothing and equipment. 

The allegations concern the acquisition process within Defence for the procurement of clothing and equipment, also claiming that Army has not dealt with issues of concern, placing soldiers at risk.

"I want to reassure our soldiers, their families and the Australian public, that the inferences in this article are not accurate.  Indeed in nearly a decade of warfighting our training and our equipment have protected our people and saved many lives," said General Gillespie. 

Both General Gillespie and Dr Gumley openly reject the claim that 'hundreds of complaints by soldiers about their gear have not been acted on by the Defence bureaucracy' as simply unfounded.

"Since the 2006 Clothing Review, Defence has supplied approximately five million items of clothing and personal equipment each year ranging from buttons and bootlaces to body armour. All soldiers have the ability to report on their equipment and from January 2007 there have been 59 Reports on Defective or Unsatisfactory Materiel (RODUMs) on personal combat equipment including load carriage equipment, body armour and boots from the Middle East Area of Operations. Contrary to today's, article all of these have been acted upon," Dr Gumley said. 

General Gillespie said to maintain the ongoing safety and quality of our combat equipment and clothing, Army works closely with the DMO to respond to complaints and to continuously review the clothing and equipment needs of our personnel.

"An inquiry held into the death of Corporal Mathew Hopkins, found that the gunshot wound Corporal Hopkins sustained was fatal and that the body armour worn by Corporal Hopkins was not a contributing factor in his death.

"Contrary to media reports, Army has responded to feedback from soldiers deployed on operations, and I can advise that a decision was made at a specifically convened Army battle worthiness board to increase the modularity of the currently used Body Armour System by providing the option for a lighter ballistic plate. 

"Trials of this new equipment are currently underway and shows that Defence is both responsive to and treats seriously issues raised by our deployed soldiers." said General Gillespie.   

"There is no more important task for DMO than to ensure the provision of safe, fit for purpose, high quality clothing and personal equipment to the men and women of the ADF. Soldiers are able to raise equipment concerns through a well-established reporting process. Where issues are identified, these are acted upon swiftly," said Dr Gumley.

Soldiers across Army are strongly encouraged to raise any concerns through their chain of command, the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army or defective or unsatisfactory materiel reports. This feedback is used to identify defective items as well as to provide suggestions for capability enhancements. Furthermore, operational commanders are routinely posted from the field back into the Army and Defence Headquarters in order to ensure that their expertise is captured and for them to shape Army's current and future equipment and training requirements.

The procurement of clothing and equipment underwent significant reform as a result of the 2006 ADF Clothing Review. The review made 29 recommendations along five themes of organisational reform, governance and probity, business process, industry and commerce and involvement of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). These recommendations have all been implemented over the last couple of years.

Clothing procurement reforms have included greater procurement planning, inventory management and staff training to broaden and deepen staff technical and core skills. These actions ensure the men and women of the ADF receive the highest standard clothing and equipment available.
 
The ADF provides safe, fit for purpose, high quality clothing and personal equipment to the men and women of the Australian Defence Force," said General Gillespie.


 

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[Keith]

From: Jeff Mills
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Thursday, May 06, 2010 9:15 AM
Subject: RE: Dud's army: dodgy kit puts troops at risk


Keith,
 
This is very interesting ready.  As I noted in my last email I am a lawyer working in Military Compensation.  This PDF makes for very interesting reading when one considers the statistics that the DVA trots out for the amount of claims for lower limb and back injuries.  It seems evident that the nature of the equipment has played a not insignificant role in many cases.
 
I would be interested in hearing from those who have made claims to know if these issues had been mentioned during the claims process or discussed with medical specialists?
 
Take Care.
 
Jeff Mills
 
Jeff Mills
Solicitor
BURNSLAW | legal protection
   
3 Carol Avenue, Springwood QLD 4127
t:  07 3290 3900
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w: www.BurnsLaw.com.au
 
 
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From:Keith Tennent
Sent: Thursday, 6 May 2010 8:09 AM
To: Veterans Email List; ESO List
Subject: Dud's army: dodgy kit puts troops at risk


 

Dodging the bullet
http://www.smh.com.au/national/the-tender-that-blew-up-in-the-armys-face-20100505-uasf.html

The man at the centre of a $23m kit bungle.

?       PDF: Complaints http://www.smh.com.au/pdf/soldier%20complaints.pdf

 

 
 

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[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science
Wedgetail Initial Acceptance Ceremony
RAAF Williamtown
Check against delivery

SPEAKER:

The HON. Greg Combet MP

Introduction

Can I please acknowledge:
 Mr Bob Feldmann, Vice President and General Manager Airborne Battle Management Boeing Defense Space and Security,
 Dr Stephen Gumley, Chief Executive Officer Defence Materiel Organisation,
 Air Marshal Mark Binskin, Chief of Air Force,
 Senior executives and members of the Royal Australian Air Force, Defence Material Organisation, The Boeing Company,

Northrop Grumman Corporation and BAE Systems Australia, and members of the 2 Squadron Association.

I am very pleased to be here today to mark the occasion of the Initial Acceptance of the first two Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft.

We have formally accepted the first two aircraft in an 'initial' configuration capable of supporting training and peacetime national tasking. 

Wedgetail as a Project of Concern

This $3.9 billion project has come a long way, and the path has not been straightforward.

It is fair to say that this project was drifting when the current Government was elected. The Wedgetail was one of the original procurements on the projects of concern list.

The developmental nature of this project led to significant schedule delays.

The Wedgetail aircraft is a "first of type" development, with Australia the first customer of the innovative Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar and the first military variant of the Boeing 737 airframe.

This project has been delayed by around 4 years.

From my point of view it was in the top three projects of concern, up there with the SeaSprite and the FFG Upgrade. It was a project where to some extent the contractors and Defence did not understand how grave the problems were.

However, to everyone's credit over the past couple of years there has been a renewed focus on cooperation, and considerable progress has been made. Notable achievements were:
 In December 2008, Boeing and the Commonwealth entered into a modified test and operational evaluation program.
 Following this an independent assessment of radar performance by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Lincoln Laboratories determined the extent of the performance shortfall based on flight test data.
 In April 2009, an operational utility demonstration was successfully conducted in Australia and provided insight into the operational potential of the Wedgetail.
 In November last year, the Commonwealth achieved a commercial settlement with Boeing which addressed the project delays; incremental delivery and compensation for projected performance shortfalls.
 As a result of this agreement, Boeing made two aircraft available to the Air Force for familiarisation activities while Boeing continued work on meeting its obligations. And
 In January this year an $800 million Through Life Support contract was signed here. That was a key step in our joint preparations to be ready to support the Wedgetail aircraft after they were formally accepted by the Commonwealth, which we are here to celebrate.

Where to from Here

However, we can not afford to rest on our laurels. A high level of commitment is required absolutely, if all the remaining project objectives are to be met. 

To this end, I look forward to seeing the remaining aircraft being progressively accepted over the coming year and the full operational capability being achieved at the earliest possible date.

In particular, I look forward to the delivery of the Electronic Support Measures and Electronic Warfare Self Protection Subsystems and improvements in both radar performance and integrated system performance over time.

I have no doubt that the Air Force is also very pleased to see this day arrive and is equally keen to see the remaining deliveries being made that will enable them to undertake the full range of operational activities for which this system is designed.

I am confident that the Wedgetail when full operational capability is achieved will be amongst the best airborne early warning and control aircraft in the world. It will be a tremendous force multiplier for the ADF.

We are interested in going beyond this - the MESA radar will be subject to a collaborative research and development program to examine potential improvements. This could provide real improvements in the radar and develop the radar expertise of Australian industry.

As part of this, the Government is pleased to see the work being done to provide CEA Technologies, an innovative Australian Radar company, with opportunities to play a major role in supporting the Radar Subsystem in service.

Conclusion

Today is a great day for the Air Force and the ADF with the delivery of the very innovative AEW&C capability that will undoubtedly make a significant contribution to future ADF operations and serve Australia well over the coming years.

We could not have arrived at this point without the committed leadership of numerous people, I'd like to publicly acknowledge the substantial roles played by Air Marshal Mark Binskin, Dr. Stephen Gumley, Warren King and Air Vice Marshall Chris Deeble, Boeing's Maureen Dougherty and Tony Parisida and BAE's Jim McDowell.

SMH
 
Dud's army: dodgy kit puts troops at risk

LINTON BESSER AND DAN OAKES

May 6, 2010

Australia's troops are exposed to unnecessary risk because of defective equipment issued by a Defence procurement unit riddled with questionable tender practices and incompetence.

A Herald investigation has discovered that hundreds of complaints by soldiers about their gear have not been acted on by Defence officials, leaving front-line combat troops in Iraq and Afghanistan with equipment known to fail.

Some of the standard equipment was designed during the Vietnam War.

Restricted Defence documents seen by the Herald demonstrate soldiers have persistently rejected the gear they are issued with by the Defence Materiel Organisation.

Their fears about the equipment are borne out by real and potentially deadly malfunctions.

In March last year, a team of soldiers in Afghanistan were put under prolonged exposure to enemy fire while removing a dead colleague whose body armour released prematurely - making it harder for them to drag his body to safety. Six months earlier, Defence officials were warned officially of exactly this type of equipment failure.

Serving defence force members, who have spoken to the Herald on condition of anonymity because they fear reprisals for speaking without authorisation, say this outmoded equipment exposes them to unacceptable risks.

Infantry soldiers, for example, say they cannot fit their ammunition magazines into the pouches designed to carry them; the buckles repeatedly break on their packs, chest webbing and pouches; the quick-release mechanism on their body armour either fails to release or releases inadvertently; and their backpacks are uncomfortable.

It also costs them. Soldiers spend up to $1000 replacing gear issued by the government, army reports reveal.

At the heart of the problem is the Defence Materiel Organisation which is charged with sourcing equipment. In the past nine years the clothing and personal equipment division has been investigated as many as 10 times over allegations of collusion and maladministration.

Four years ago, a damning report recommended sweeping changes to the way the DMO carries out its business.

Yet despite these investigations the Herald has established incompetence continues to mar procurement practices. Restricted documents show hundreds of reports of defective equipment have had little effect on officials charged with fixing it.

One insider described the unit as having ''repeated failures''.

''People are lazy, they don't want to take the time,'' he said. ''If you don't get held accountable then you don't care.''

Defence officials acknowledged that the clothing division has suffered from problems, but said it had improved considerably over the past four years. They say an element of dissatisfaction about equipment will always exist among troops, regardless of its quality.

In the latest blunder, a $23 million project for backpacks, webbing and pouches was halted partly because the newly appointed project manager, Lieutenant-Colonel Anthony Heath, mishandled the tender.

Lieutenant-Colonel Heath contacted a company that had been eliminated from the tender, and was alleged to have sought its assistance on behalf of BAE Systems, which was still competing for the contract.

He denied the allegation, but the tender was abandoned late last year after three internal investigations. Two of these found ''perceived bias'' had damaged the tender process.

A US company, Eagle Industries, which was not a bidder on the so-called ''modular load carriage'' project, was awarded a similar contract without tender, worth at least $2.7 million.

investigations@smh.com.au
 


Dodging the bullet
http://www.smh.com.au/national/the-tender-that-blew-up-in-the-armys-face-20100505-uasf.html

The man at the centre of a $23m kit bungle.

?       PDF: Complaints  http://www.smh.com.au/pdf/soldier%20complaints.pdf

 

 

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[Keith]

From: Terry DAVIES
Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2010 8:08 AM
Subject: Stress rife among new war veterans


Article from "The West Australian".


 
SOURCE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN

http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/newshome/7159046/stress-rife-among-new-war-veterans/

Stress rife among new war veterans

ANGELA POWNALL, The West Australian

May 4, 2010, 2:35 am

The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are creating a new generation of service men and women suffering the same mental problems that plagued Vietnam veterans, psychologists and veterans' advocates have warned.

 

Almost 34,000 Australian veterans have been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder or acute depression, including 1100 younger veterans from Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, Solomon Islands and Bougainville.

Perth psychologist Doug Brewer, who co-ordinates a treatment program for younger veterans suffering from PTSD at Hollywood Clinic, said the 1100 diagnosed cases were the tip of the iceberg. "There is a countless number affected psychologically who will come back and develop PTSD," he said. "That is going on all the time and we are not weighing up the cost."

Dr Brewer said younger veterans in particular were affected severly by being forced to stand by and witness atrocities that they could not prevent

Veterans' advocacy worker Rick Giblett said a big percentage of veterans had mental health problems, particularly Vietnam veterans and, increasingly, those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. "Family breakdowns, hyper-vigilance, nightmares, night sweats - all these issues (affect) their ability to function during the day," he said.

Mr Giblett said an ex-serviceman who was having a breakdown was turned away from the psychiatric clinic where he was a patient and spent the night on the streets because he felt too ill to return to his family.

In another case, Mr Giblett said he took a Vietnam veteran to the emergency department because he was having a breakdown.

The man had to wait 18 hours for a psychiatrist to see him.

He was found dead not long after.

Paul Copeland, from the Australian Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Veterans Association, served with the army for 20 years, including three years in special forces in Cambodia, where he was injured and discharged before later developing PTSD.

He said his discharge was hurtful. "You're like a broken robot, so they go out and get a new one," he said.

The Department of Veterans Affairs did not respond to a request for comment.

From: Terry DAVIES
Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2010 8:11 AM
Subject: Reconnaissance Missions - "Always the hunted"
 

SOURCE: THE WEST AUSTRALIAN

http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/newshome/7159045

'I struggled seeing kids bombed'

ANGELA POWNALL, The West Australian

May 4, 2010, 2:21 am

 

In the hostile and unforgiving terrain of Afghanistan, "John" and his Special Air Service Regiment comrades crouched in hiding for hours, hardly daring to breathe as enemy militia hunted them down.

On reconnaissance missions to find al-Qaida elements, the elite team would relay information about where to attack. It was dangerous and demanding work.

But as more of his friends were killed, maimed and injured and more innocent families were torn apart by bombs that missed their target, John's brave actions made him feel like anything but a hero.

His 11-year SAS career eventually saw adrenalin fatigue, the pressure of being an elite soldier and guilt take their toll.

John, 39, now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. To raise awareness of this hidden cost of war, the married father of four relived some of his traumatic experiences.

"I was always out there and I was always being hunted.

Just being in those particular zones for a long period of time really does wear away on you," he said. "I really struggled seeing kids fragmented from bombing, or just not being looked after. It's really hard. You're the cause. You're calling in bombs. Unfortunately bombs don't hit their target a lot of the time."

After two years as an infantryman, John joined the SAS and served in Bougainville, East Timor and Afghanistan. An injury led to his medical discharge in 2004, but the psychological impact began to affect him five years earlier in Timor when he was plagued by nightmares and drank heavily to block them out.

When he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2002, he was struggling.

John said it took two years and help from solicitors to get incapacity compensation and entitlements.

 

 

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[Keith]

From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Sent: Monday, May 03, 2010 2:44 PM
Subject: TREASURER WAYNE SWAN ADDRESS TO THE DEPLOYED SOLDIERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION - BRISBANE - 30 APRIL [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]


From: Visser, Odette

Sent: Friday, 30 April 2010 1:58 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients
Subject: TREASURER WAYNE SWAN ADDRESS TO THE DEPLOYED SOLDIERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION - BRISBANE - 30 APRIL [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]

 

THE HON WAYNE SWAN MP

 

TREASURER
 

ADDRESS TO THE DEPLOYED SOLDIERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION
 

Brisbane

30 April 2010
 

SERVICE, SACRIFICE AND SUPPORT
 

*** CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY ***
 

Thank you Jim [Shapcott, Chairman of the Deployed Soldiers Welfare Association], and thank you to everyone for coming here today to support this great cause.

 

Id firstly like to acknowledge:

 

       Brigadier Paul McLachlan ADC Commander from the 7th Brigade;

       The Deployed Soldiers Welfare Association, including Jim Shapcott [Chairman] and his Committee;

       Major sponsors: Suncorp, Devine, Ipswich City Council, Force 10, and Mitchell Communications; and

       All the other soldiers and officers from the 7th Brigade that are with us today.

 

This is the end of a special and even sacred week in our nation?s calendar, when we remember those who serve.  Like most traditions it evolves and changes in meaning for each new generation.

 

Some of you may have read Les Carlyons wonderful books about Gallipoli and the Western Front.  One of its strongest messages is that in the early years Anzac Day was a day of mixed emotions.  Pride at our troops courage and achievements, but also immense sadness.  The memories were too painful.  There were terrible physical wounds.

 

We forget sometimes that for the gassed, the amputees, the shell-shocked and the traumatised, the physical and mental pain endured for decades.  It?s what one of the finest of all Australian novels My Brother Jack is all about.

 

It was difficult for many of the survivors, having participated in the savagery of war, to see it as glorious.

 

The immediate horrors of the First World War have faded.  We can now see clearly what that generation and those who have followed it in other wars ? achieved.

 

In every conflict Australian troops punched well above their weight in France in 1918, in the skies above Europe, in the Western Desert, on Kokoda and in Korea and Vietnam.  They do so today in Afghanistan and on peace missions around the world.

 

But we owe it to them to remember what they endured too.  And to remember what the troops who served us expected and continue to expect in return.

 

Waiting to go over the top at the Nek or Fromelles, knowing that enemy machine guns were trained on their parapet, those original Anzacs would have asked us to ensure their sons never had to do the same.  They would also have hoped the people they left behind were well cared for.  If only we had been able to deliver on this.

 

Looking out at the audience here today I?m sure there are many with family histories that include service and sacrifice in one or both world wars.  And whose families were never the same as a result.

 

My family is no exception.  Even typical.

 

In 1914 like so many others my grandfather, David Temple Swan, rushed to the recruitment office and tried to join up.  He was rejected the first time probably because, expecting a short war, the army thought they could do without a 36-year-old who was already married with a child.

 

A labourer, 5-feet 8-inches, 138 pounds, with a scar on his left cheek, another scar from an old fistula elsewhere, and missing a lot of teeth, he probably wasn?t their first choice.  It sounds like hed had a tough life like most of his comrades probably.

 

But the Dardenelles campaign proved the war was going to be long.  The strong, fit soldiers portrayed in the film Gallipoli weren?t going to be enough to fill the ranks.  And so my grandfather was part of the reinforcements called upon after the evacuation.

 

He ended up in the 41st Battalion a Queensland unit, made up in large part of men from the sugar mill towns.  Their first task was to man the trenches on the Somme in the winter of 1916-17.  They had a tough time.  Let me give you a sense of what he and his comrades would have endured.

 

My grandfather was no poet or letter writer.  But the famous poet Wilfred Owen served on the same piece of front at the same time.  Heres his description of two days spent occupying a dugout in front of the British line:

 

?My dug out held 25 men tight packed.  Water filled it to a depth of 1 or 2 feet, leaving say 4 feet of air.  One entrance had been blown in and blocked  The Germans knew we were staying there and decided we shouldnt.  Those 50 hours [under heavy shelling] were the agony of my happy life.  Every ten minutes seemed an hour.  I nearly broke down and let myself drown in the water that was slowly rising over my knees.

 

Needless to say, that Christmas many men on this part of the front froze to death.

 

Terrible as that was, my grandfathers experiences during the war would only get worse.  In June 1917 the 41st participated in the attack on Messines ? the subject of that great new Aussie film, Beneath Hill 60.

 

Reading the battalions Intelligence Summary tells the story of what happened and in retrospect why my grandfathers life turned out as it did.  Let me give you a couple of extracts:

 

6/6/17: Battalion in line under continuous preliminary bombardment on divisional assault area.  Enemy retaliation on front line, communications trenches and batteries in rear.  Many gas shells on subsidiary line and approach route of assaulting troops  Casualties: 14 other ranks wounded.

 

7/6/17: Relieved at 2 am by assaulting battalions of 9th and 10th Brigades who filed into the assembly trenches of this sector for the attack on the MESSINES RIDGE.  41st Battalion filed out through a heavy bombardment with gas shells by enemy (especially through Ploegsteert Wood) to subsidiary line at MAISON 1875.  Many officers and men slightly gassed during this march Battalion personnel utilized for carrying parties for the assaulting battalions in captured line.  Casualties: 2 officers wounded.  26 other ranks.

 

I might add that on these days, travelling back and forth across no mans land, my grandfather and his comrades would have witnessed the horrors caused by huge mines exploding in front of them, which littered the ground with bits of human bodies.  He would have been witness to this misery.

 

This went on for my grandfather for a further three days, leading to more casualties another three officers and 57 other ranks.  Then there is this entry:

 

11/6/17: Battalion billeted in Catacombs furnishing carrying parties for  9th and 10th Brigades in new line.  Casualties: Killed 1 officer, 4 other ranks.  Wounded 2 officers, 30 other ranks.

 

My grandfather was one of those 30 other ranks.  He received shrapnel wounds to his back, probably caught in the open in an enemy artillery barrage.

 

The extraordinary thing about what my grandfather and his mates endured at Messines was that this battle was considered a success and cheap in terms of lives ? especially compared to what had occurred before at Fromelles and Pozieres and what was to come later in 1918.

 

By mid-September my grandfather was back in the line just in time for what the historians tell us was the most shocking and unendurable battle of the war Third Ypres.  It?s now a by-word for futility and slaughter, remembered for the rain, the mud, and the stories of men drowning in water-filled shell holes.

 

The 41st Battalion participated in the major battles of that campaign: Polygon Wood, Poelcappelle, Broodseinde, and Passchendaele.  The enemy ground gained per British life will give you a sense of the futility of the fighting:

 

       Polygon Wood  15,375 casualties for 1,250 yards;

       Broodseinde  20,000 casualties for 1,000 yards;

       Poelcappelle  7,000 casualties for 500 yards;

       Passchendaele  13,000 casualties for no appreciable gain.

 

A good proportion of those men were Australians.

 

The official sources merely record that the 41st had a bad experience there.  So bad indeed was it that at the end of the battle, one of the British Generals visiting the front burst into tears and asked, Good God, did we really send men to fight in that?

 

The following March, my grandfathers battalion helped halt the German Spring Offensive in front of Amiens.  He was injured again, this time in the hand.  Yet still the most costly battles lay ahead.

 

And the chances are that I wouldnt be standing up here talking to you today if my grandfathers health hadn?t succumbed to the influenza that swept through the ranks just as the fighting intensified.  He was hospitalised and his lungs simply packed it in and he never returned to the front again.

 

Possibly too old and unhealthy to begin with, he was not only wounded by shrapnel twice, but was gassed multiple times, endured two freezing damp winters in the trenches and no doubt saw more horrors to fill a hundred normal lifetimes.  Let me simply quote from his final medical report:

 

Essential facts of medical history: Pain across left chest.  Short of breath.  Wound in back.

 

Cause of disability: Strain attributable to service.  Gets shakes with illness.

 

A classic case of gassing, war strain, shell shock call it what you will.

 

As Les Carlyon tells us in his monumental history, The Great War, while only 3 per cent of gas casualties were fatal, the figure is misleading:

 

Many who had been gassed returned home with chronic bronchitis and skin rashes and died young.

 

Such was my grandfather.  Those in the family with memories of him recount that he was never the same.  He died in 1935, younger than I am now.  I think we can only guess at the privations my grandmother suffered and the lost opportunities that resulted for my father, uncles and aunts.

 

This sad story invites a crucial question that bears on why we are here today:  Did we do enough to look after men like my grandfather and the people like my grandmother and uncle they left behind?

 

I think its fair to say that the authorities at the time did the best they could given their resources and knowledge and societys expectations  especially through organisations like the Repatriation Commission, which was set up 92 years ago.

 

When he enlisted, my grandfather at least opted to have the maximum amount of two-thirds of his pay deducted for his wife and child  4 shillings per day out of 6 shillings pay.  Not much, but it showed he and the authorities of the day were thinking about the wives and children.

 

And when he returned he was rewarded by a grateful nation with a soldier-settler block.  Sadly, though, it proved to be such poor farming land that a man half his age and twice his fitness would have struggled to make it pay.  Like so many others, it failed.

 

My grandfather was let down in one important other respect, because a generation later his son ? my father ? endured similar experiences fighting in another war in the Pacific.

 

If there is a positive lesson from this very typical Australian tale it is this.  Having seen his father and mother suffer, and then his own mates suffer in war, my Dad was one of the many thousands who subsequently devoted their lives to looking after their fellow veterans, their dependents and the widows and children of the fallen.

 

My Dad eventually became manager of the Nambour RSL Club  and I have many fond childhood memories sitting in the bar of that club drinking raspberry lemonade while Dad went about his important business.

 

I havent recounted this personal story to claim any uniqueness.  Sadly my grandfathers and then my fathers experiences were commonplace.  And they were the lucky ones.  They came out alive.  They happened not to get in the way of a machine gun bullet.

 

While my grandfathers life was probably shortened by the war, he had another 17 years of life after 1918 that many men didnt.  My grandmother was at least spared the fate of becoming a young widow.  My father was given life.  I was born.

 

My ancestors, like many of yours, learned the hard way the lesson every Australian now understands: when we go to war we have to look after both the people who march away and the people they leave behind.

 

The war isn?t just fought at the front and doesn?t finish when the armistice is signed.  Its fought by the husbands and wives and children of our troops.  And those sacrifices stretch out over the decades that follow.  Every one of these people needs our moral and practical support.

 

We have to be there for them when theyre deployed overseas.  We have to be there for the families they leave behind.  We can?t let them do this heavy lifting for the nation all on their own.

 

The Deployed Soldiers Welfare Association is a practical expression of this idea.  Theres no better cause for us to support.

 

We dont send our young men and women off to die in their thousands in the way we did in generations past.  But war is always war.  The physical and psychological stresses are just as great.  And in conflicts like the recent one in Iraq and the current one in Afghanistan, sometimes the psychological stresses can be worse because those conflicts involve terrorists and civilians.

 

Our troops can never be certain who the enemy is and where danger lurks.  Their loved ones know this ? and know the problems it causes.  They want their husbands and wives and mothers and fathers to come back the same person who went away.  And the troops themselves want to come back to families united and strong and happy.

 

So let me end with thanks and with a plea.  Thanks for having expressed your support for Jim Shapcott and his wonderful organisation by coming here today.  And a plea to keep digging deep to enable the Deployed Soldiers Welfare Association to continue its work for the troops and friends and families making such a huge sacrifice on our behalf.

 

Many thanks.

 

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[Keith]

Fightback ruled out for troops
Mark Dodd
From: The Australian
May 03, 2010

TROOPS manning Australian defence bases are legally unable to defend themselves if attacked by terrorists and would have to ring 000 for police help.

A security review is under way to "clarify the status" of defence force personnel in the event of an attack on a military facility in the country, a spokesman for Defence Minister John Faulkner said yesterday.

But at the moment it does not give defence force personnel the right to mount an armed response if attacked, the spokesman said in response to questions from The Australian.

"Last year, the Prime Minister ordered a comprehensive review into base security, the recommendations of which are now being implemented."

The Rudd-ordered review followed foiled plans by Islamic militants to allegedly attack Holsworthy army base in Sydney.

Last August, four Melbourne men - alleged Islamic extremists - were arrested and charged with planning an attack on the huge defence facility in southwest Sydney.

The foiled plot is understood to have involved an attack through the base main entrance by the terrorists armed with automatic weapons.

As a result, Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Angus Houston, asked for clarification on the legal status for Defence personnel to mount an armed response.

The ADF's chief security officer, Frank Roberts, is quoted in the latest edition of the Army newspaper as saying Air Chief Marshal Houston had expressed concern that current laws could find defence force personnel facing legal action if they used force to defend themselves

 
 

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[Keith]

Why peacekeepers need to become lifesavers
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/wars-cant-be-decisively-won-until-peacekeepers-become-lifesavers/story-e6frg8yo-1225860477690

Mark Dodd The UN should accept that conflicts today are not about gaining territory but protecting civilians

 
 

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[Keith]

 
LAUNCH OF THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA DEFENCE SUB BRANCH

1.On 16 April 2010 the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, will join the President of the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL), Rear Admiral Ken Doolan (Retired), to launch an online sub branch, exclusively for serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel, to improve their access to RSL venues, support and advice services.

2.Defence supports the launch of this resource which will ensure that our soldiers, sailors and airmen and women have access to improved support services across all aspects of their lives.

3.This is a positive initiative that will provide ADF members access to timely advice, assistance and information via a dedicated RSL enquiry website. The RSL has made a commitment to acknowledge enquiries via this site within a 24-hour period and to respond within five working days of receiving an enquiry.

4.In addition to improved support and advice, ADF members who join the sub branch will receive a membership card which ensures their access to all RSL sub branches and clubs nationwide; along with discounts on merchandise and services; and regular updates on RSL activities and events via emails and a quarterly magazine.

5.The RSL plays an important role in supporting our ADF members past and present. It exists to ensure that programs are in place for the wellbeing, care, compensation and commemoration of serving and ex-service Defence Force members and their dependants.

6.Our commitments to ADF members are linked and Defence will continue to support like outcomes which benefit our people.

7.ADF members can join the online RSL Defence sub branch for free for the initial year of membership, with a $30 fee per year thereafter. The sub branch website is: http://www.rsldefencesubbranch.com.au.

CW Orme, AM, CSC

Major General

Head of People Capability/J1 Australian Defence Force

People Strategies and Policy Group

[Keith]

Female sailor from HMAS Success faces sex grope charge
By Ian McPhedran
From: The Courier-Mail
April 30, 2010


THE HMAS Success is embroiled in another alcohol-fuelled sex scandal after a female sailor allegedly went on a binge in Singapore.

It is believed the woman went ashore during a port visit this month, got very drunk and began to publicly grope her male colleagues.

One of the men made an official complaint and the Australian Defence Force Investigation Service has launched an investigation.

Defence Force chief Angus Houston said the ADF Investigative Service was looking into the incident.

"We take any instances of inappropriate behaviour seriously,'' he said in a statement.

The Success is already at the centre of a Commission of Inquiry by Roger Gyles, QC, over allegations of bullying, inappropriate relationships, public sex and drug abuse.

That inquiry has been delayed and Defence Chief Angus Houston has told a parliamentary committee that another 35 witnesses have been identified during hearings.

The inquiry is examining whether a culture of bullying existed in the ship's engineering department.

Evidence has been heard that some sailors were regularly drunk when the ship was in port and engaged in public sex acts

Inquiry: Navy 'sex ring' targeted women
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/breaking-news/predatory-culture-on-board-hmas-success/story-e6freono-1225840028228
 
HMAS Success: New probe into 'naval sex-r
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/national/new-inquiry-into-alleged-naval-sex-ring/story-e6freooo-1225829339505
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Wednesday, 28 April 2010 037/10

Enhanced communications for deployed forces

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced that the Government has

approved a significant initiative to enhance communications support to the Australian Defence

Force, including in the Middle East Area of Operations.

Under Defence Capability Plan Joint Project 2008 Phase 5A, Defence is already in the process of

acquiring part of the Intelsat IS-22 UHF payload providing coverage over the Indian Ocean

Region.  A contract for the provision of this payload was signed with Intelsat in April 2009.

Today's announcement involves approval to exercise the Government's option to purchase the full

ultra-high frequency (UHF) payload on the Intelsat IS-22 communications satellite at an

additional cost of around $193 million.  This brings the total IS-22 payload purchase cost to

$475.1 million.

"Purchasing the full satellite payload will improve operational effectiveness and enhance the

communications support to Australia's deployed forces in the Middle East and Afghanistan,"

Senator Faulkner said.

Coinciding with the visit by the United States Department of Defense Vice Chairman of the Joint

Chiefs of Staff, General James Cartwright, Senator Faulkner also announced that Australia and

the United States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on sharing their narrowband

UHF communications resources.

"This initiative will provide the United States added communications capacity for its

operations in Afghanistan by utilising the Australian payload on the IS-22 communications

satellite.  In turn the Australian Defence Force will gain access to communications capacity

over the Pacific Ocean region from United States' satellite resources," Senator Faulkner said.

The UHF Communications MOU complements the Wideband Global System satellite partnership between

Australia and the United States.  The arrangement will result in significant savings for both

nations, provide a more robust communications capability for the warfighter and add another

dimension to the Australian-US Alliance.

The satellite will be launched by the Intelsat Corporation in 2012.

US Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General James Cartwright and Vice Chief of the

Defence Force Lieutenant General David Hurley exchanged the SATCOM MOU in Canberra today.

Media Note: Imagery and vision of the joint signing will be available at:
www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Apr/20100428a/index.htm

------------------------------------------------------------------------

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Materiel and Science

New naval combat helicopter tender release

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner today announced that the Defence Materiel Organisation has released project solicitation documents to the United States Navy and Australian Aerospace for the supply of a new naval combat helicopter under Defence Capability Plan project AIR 9000 Phase 8.

Under this project, the Government will acquire sufficient helicopters to provide at least eight helicopters concurrently embarked on ships at sea, which under the White Paper requires a fleet of 24 helicopters. 

Senator Faulkner said that "The new naval combat helicopter will enhance the Royal Australian Navy's ability to conduct a range of maritime combat and other operations, including anti-submarine and surface warfare."

As announced by the Government in February 2010, the new helicopter will be either the Sikorsky-Lockheed Martin built MH-60R sourced through the United States Navy, or the NATO Helicopter Industries NH90 NFH sourced through Australian Aerospace.

"The competition to select a new helicopter has commenced on schedule ahead of a final decision about the new helicopter in 2011" Senator Faulkner said. "The release of tender documents now is in line with the schedule determined by the Government when it considered the project for First Pass Approval in February of this year." 

The Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, Greg Combet, said "This marks the transition of Project AIR 9000 Phase 8 to a formal competitive solicitation phase."

"A competitive process is consistent with the Kinnaird and Mortimer procurement reforms," Mr Combet said.  "It will allow the companies to offer innovative solutions that satisfy the capability, cost and schedule requirements and detail what opportunities they will offer local industry."

Senator Faulkner said that any decision Government makes in 2011 will take into account all relevant considerations including capability, cost, interoperability with other ADF capabilities, Australian industry opportunities, risk and value for money.

 
And just why did the RSL keep the bar open as this alleged behaviour unfolded and why did the RSL allow this alleged behaviour to occur on it's premises in the first place? I'll give you one guess. Money.

 

THE AGE

 

Drunken antics at Defence event

DAN OAKES

April 29, 2010

A DEFENCE Force basketball tournament descended into drunkenness, initiation ceremonies and sexual harassment, leading some troops to dub it ''schoolies week on a military base''.

A stinging confidential report on the tournament, seen by The Age, reveals that two Defence personnel were taken to hospital during the competition, held in December at the Latchford Barracks near Albury.

The nine-page report was submitted by the second-in-command at Latchford's Army School of Health and describes the consumption of alcohol at the eight-day tournament as ''extreme, excessive and unacceptable''.

The tournament was held two months before the head of Army, Ken Gillespie, lashed out publicly at what he said was a culture of alcohol abuse in the army. It also took place barely a week after the Chief of the Defence Force, Angus Houston, launched a plan for the recruitment and retention of women.

The report says the lieutenant-colonel supervising the tournament was among the worst offenders and that he was told beforehand by another officer in an email that ''now is not the time to be promoting consumption of alcohol, particularly at a sporting event involving all ranks''.

It is alleged that troops from Queensland said they intended stopping their Defence bus at country towns on the way to the tournament, turning the vehicle into a ''booze bus''.

After unsuccessfully asking for permission to run a bar at the barracks, the Defence Basketball Association decided to hold parties at a Wodonga pub and the local RSL, where they reportedly revelled every night until 2am.

''One of the female basketball players [who has requested to be anonymous] testified that initiation processes were being conducted at their theme parties at Wodonga RSL club,'' the report says.

''Examples included being made to 'act like idiots' at the demand of fellow teammates. She was peer-pressured into drinking games, beer-shot competitions [to the extent that she was throwing up in the ladies toilet] and placed in compromising situations whereby she was pressured to act out sexual positions to the jeering of other basketball members around.''

The report says the sexual harassment and drinking games were encouraged by the lieutenant-colonel supervising the tournament and other officers. One of the basketballers later contacted the Defence whistleblower's hotline to complain about the antics.

The report alleges that a female basketballer who had collided head-first with a wall during a game was moved off the court by other players before an ambulance arrived, despite fears that she might have serious head or spinal injuries.

The officer who ordered the players to move the injured servicewoman from the court later allegedly told the officer in charge at the Army School of Health the injured woman ''was in the way and we moved her so that the game could restart''.

The officer in charge was himself in hospital at this point, ''resting'' due to the ''extreme pressure he was placed under, [leading to] tremendous, unfair and undue stress''.

In February, Lieutenant-General Gillespie demanded that officers tackle an epidemic of problem drinking within the army, saying he was sick of hearing of soldiers being killed, injured or charged with criminal offences because of drinking.

A Defence Force spokesman said an internal review of the tournament was under way and it would be inappropriate to comment.

 

 


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[Keith]

------------------------------------------------------------------------

MSPA 137/10 Monday, 26 April 2010

ADF joins regional security exercise

Warships, combat aircraft, and soldiers from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) will join the armed forces of Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom in a major military exercise focussed on enhancing regional security.

Exercise BERSAMA SHIELD 2010 will be conducted under the auspices of the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) in various locations on the Malaysian Peninsula and in the South China Sea between 26 April and 7 May 2010.

About 240 personnel, 19 ships, 59 aircraft and various support elements are involved in the exercise that will enhance the interoperability of the combined air, ground and naval forces of the FPDA countries.

Chief of Joint Operations Command, Lieutenant General Mark Evans, said the ADF will participate in the exercise as one of the founding members of the FPDA, which was established almost 40 years ago as a regional security initiative.

"The FPDA continues to be an integral part of the regional security architecture because of its ability to remain relevant to the needs of its members by adapting to the changing security environment," he said.

"Since the FPDA's formation, the scope of its activities has expanded from air defence to the development of joint capabilities, which has helped to develop greater interoperability among the armed forces of member nations."

Lieutenant General Evans said BERSAMA SHIELD also provides the ADF with the opportunity to develop relationships with important security partners while reinforcing Australia's long-term commitment to regional stability.

The ADF assets involved in this exercise include HMA Ships Anzac and Success, eight F/A-18 combat aircraft from 75 Squadron and an AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft from 92 Squadron.

The Commander of the ASC, Wing Commander Kenneth Robinson, said BS10 would continue to develop and validate doctrines and procedures for interoperability among FPDA nations' navies, armies and air forces in a combined, joint scenario.

"BS10 is a fantastic opportunity not only for the Royal Australian Air Force but all the ADF assets and personnel involved to enhance key skills in an international environment," he said.

[Keith]

MSPA 134/10

Sunday, 25 April 2010

Anzac Day in East Timor

Australian and New Zealand troops serving in operations in East Timor have commemorated Anzac Day with a special Dawn Service.

The soldiers were joined by the Australian ambassador to East Timor, His Excellency Peter Heyward; the New Zealand ambassador to East Timor, Dr Tim McIvor; Commander of the International Stabilisation Force, Colonel Simon Stuart; leaders of the East Timor Defence Force (F-FDTL); and many local guests and dignitaries.

The service paid tribute to the ANZAC men and women who fought in the Gallipoli campaign during the First World War in 1915, and remembered all those who have served in the Australian Defence Forces, especially comrades who have fallen in battle.

?It is extremely important to remember those that have gone before us as they have shaped our values and made us who we are today, but also to remember those who are serving today on operations in theatres like East Timor,? Colonel Stuart said.

East Timor is the only global area of operation where the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces combine under a single force. 

?You feel like you?re carrying on the tradition of ANZACs from the past, we always get on together and work well as one force,? NZ Defence Force member, Captain Jeong Park said.

Commemorating Anzac Day on operations has added a deeper sense of pride in repaying the loyalty and sacrifice of past and present ANZACs.

?There is certainly a lump in the throat as you hear the national anthems played and look around at the faces of the young men and women that are serving their countries here today, they are not too dissimilar to those in the photographs of 1915,? Captain Jeong Park said.

The last post and the Turkish, New Zealand and Australian national anthems were played to mark the 95th anniversary of Anzac Day.

?Celebrating Anzac day on operations as part of a uniquely ANZAC force, the only ANZAC force on operations today, is certainly significant and we have certainly taking a moment to soak up this significance and atmosphere,? Colonel Stuart said.

Media note: Vision of the Dawn Service in East Timor will be fed to all networks via Parliament House, Canberra at 11:00am today.

Imagery will be available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/anzacday/2010/gallery/20100425j/index.htm
 

[Keith]

Special forces support uprising against Taliban
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/special-forces-support-uprising-against-taliban/story-e6frg8yo-1225857648585

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN special forces have reinforced Afghan villagers fighting Taliban insurgents in Oruzgan Province. The Australian Defence Force said local Afghans carried out an "apparent uprising against Taliban insurgents" because they were angry at their presence in the community.

Coalition to boost Afghan role
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/coalition-to-boost-afghan-role/story-e6frgczf-1225857647949
 
Greg Sheridan, Foreign editor A COALITION government would increase Australia's troop commitment in Afghanistan and take over allied military leadership in the Oruzgan province from the Dutch.

Abbott's address to the Lowy Institute on defence policy
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/tony-abbotts-address-to-the-lowy-institute-on-defence-policy/story-e6frgczf-1225857609811
 
Tony Abbott THE Opposition Leader speaks on the Coalition's defence policy.

Abbott open to Afghanistan troop boost
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/abbott-would-consider-sending-more-troops-to-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225857481085
 
2:13PM Joe Kelly TONY Abbott would be willing to send more Australian troops to Afghanistan if asked by the US, staking out a clear policy difference with Kevin Rudd on defence.

Abbott to aim spy planes at boatpeople
 
1:08PM Joe Kelly TONY Abbott has said a Coalition government would acquire three unmanned Global Hawk surveillance planes to allow earlier detection of illegal boats.

G-G visits Diggers in Afghanistan
Joe Kelly AUSTRALIAN troops in Afghanistan have been paid a surprise visit by Governor-General Quentin Bryce in the lead-up to Anzac Day.

 

 

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ABC NEWS
 
Diggers lay Timorese ally to rest
By Sara Everingham


Friend of Australia: Rufino Correia shakes hands with Australian Major Damien Spendelove in April 2003 (Defence Force: Supplied)

Audio: WWII East Timorese soldier laid to rest (AM)
Australian soldiers in Dili have helped lay to rest one of the last surviving Timorese men who served with Australian commandos during World War II.

The funeral late yesterday in Dili was not a traditional military send-off, but the Australian flag was draped over the coffin of Rufino Correia and Australian soldiers were pallbearers.

Descendants of Australian World War II veterans say the Timorese men were crucial to the survival of the Australian troops and not nearly enough has been done to recognise them.

It is unusual for Australian soldiers to preside over the funeral of a foreign citizen but the Commander of the Australian forces in East Timor, Colonel Simon Stuart, says the service in Dili was one way to show gratitude and to support the family of Mr Correia.

"It was a real privilege to us to be able to support them, a large family, not particularly well off," he said.

It is believed he was about 90 years old when he died earlier this week.

As a much younger man, Mr Correia had joined the Australian commandos in East Timor.

He was just one of many young Timorese men and boys, known as criados, who provided logistical support and vital information to help the Australians fight and survive.

"I can only go back to what Dad used to say - without them, we would never have survived, and all we brought to the criados and the people of Timor was deep and greater misery," said Helen Kenneally, daughter of Paddy Kenneally, who served in East Timor.

The Federal Minister for Rural and Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, says many commandos felt Australia was indebted to the East Timorese.

Mr Snowdon's father joined a group of the commandos after they left East Timor during the war.

"When the Australians left East Timor, the Japanese run amok and over a period a lot of East Timorese died and many of the criados would have died," Mr Snowdon said.

"So they paid the ultimate sacrifice for working with and alongside of Australian commandos."

Both Helen Kenneally and Warren Snowdon say Australia has not done enough to recognise the Timorese contribution.

"Certainly it has been at the front of the minds of the commandos, the commando association and parts of the RSL," Mr Snowdon said.

"We concentrate on what happened in New Guinea, we concentrate on what happened in the Middle East, as we should but the bottom line is in 1942 there was this elite group of Australian soldiers effectively stranded in East Timor and without the support of these criados, they might well have been massacred."

Helen Kenneally says the Government does need to do more.

There are calls for Australia to officially recognise the Timorese contribution with an award, although it is too late for Rufino Correia to be able to acknowledge such an honour.

 

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[Keith]

 
RAAF plane damaged by flare
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/raaf-plane-damaged-by-flare-on-board/story-e6frg8yo-1225857171807

Mark Dodd THE crew of an RAAF patrol plane landed their aircraft safely after it was damaged over Afghanistan by one of its own flares.

Second firm caught in Iran export crackdown
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/second-firm-caught-in-iran-export-crackdown/story-e6frg6nf-1225857170038

Richard Gluyas AN award-winning Melbourne manufacturer of advanced scientific equipment will relocate most of its production to Malaysia.

Spy plane in flare scare
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/spy-plane-in-flare-scare/story-e6frg8yo-1225856940457
 
1:47PM Mark Dodd THE Air Force will investigate damaged caused to a surveillance plane by counter-measure flares on a mission over southern Afghanistan

 

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[Keith]

MSPA 115/10 Tuesday, 20 April 2010


Defence personnel commended following SIEV 36 rescue

The Australian Defence Force has begun presenting commendations to 51 Service men and women who helped rescue, treat and evacuate those injured from the explosion onboard Suspected Irregular Entry Vessel (SIEV) 36 on 16 April, 2009.

The Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans said the commendations were awarded for the outstanding service, courage, drive, dedication and compassion shown by those involved in the rescue, treatment and evacuation of people involved in the SIEV 36 incident.

Our people worked professionally and with empathy under severe pressure to ensure those involved in the SIEV 36 incident were rescued, treated and evacuated quickly.

Superior levels of teamwork and cohesion were shown in developing pragmatic solutions to extraordinarily complex and challenging problems.

Special mention also needs to be made of the exemplary performance of the Headquarters Northern Command staff in Darwin who provided coordination and support during the rescue and evacuation of the critically injured. The Augmented Operations Branch provided support to the rescue and evacuation operation that was highly complex.

Importantly, all the rescued people survived which, given the extent of many of their injuries, was a most notable achievement, Lieutenant General Mark Evans said.

The first of a number of presentation ceremonies, to be conducted over the next few weeks, was conducted in Cairns today, the home port of the Armidale Class Patrol Boat crew, Ardent Four. The commendations were presented by Commander Border Protection Command, Rear Admiral Tim Barrett. Further presentations will be made to Darwin-based personnel in May due to crew availability and at the first available opportunity for other personnel who have since moved to postings in other localities in Australia and overseas.

ADF Gold (Chief of Joint Operations) Group Commendations have been awarded to all personnel from Navy, Army and Air Force who were embarked in HMA Ships Childers and Albany on 16 April, 2009, as part of Patrol Boat crews Ardent Four and Assail Two.

Chief of the Defence Force Commendations were awarded to Lieutenant Commander Barry Learoyd (Commanding Officer Assail Two), Lieutenant Commander Brett Westcott (Commanding Officer Ardent Four) and Air Force Corporal Sharon Jager. An ADF Gold (Chief of Joint Operations) Commendation was awarded to Chief Petty Officer Rachelle Burnett. An ADF Silver (Deputy Chief of Joint Operations) Commendation was awarded to Petty Officer Cheryl McCabe. An ADF Bronze (Deputy Chief of Joint Operations) Commendation was awarded to Petty Officer Rachele Karmiste.
 

Media note: A list of names of all recipients and images of recipients in Cairns along with some of their personal stories will be available for download at www.defence.gov.au/siev36

For further information contact:

Defence Media Liaison: (02) 6127 1999 / 0408 498 664

Mr Mark Tanzer-Regional Manager, Defence Public Affairs North Queensland: 0407 467 235

[Keith]

Ceremonies honour Korea diggers
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/ceremonies-honour-korea-diggers/story-e6frg6so-1225854869503

12:41PM Mark Dodd MOVING commemoration ceremonies have been held at the site of Australia's biggest military engagement during the Korean War.

Korean DMZ is unfinished business
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/korean-dmz-is-unfinished-business/story-e6frg6so-1225854699062
 
Mark Dodd, Panmunjon, Demilitarised Zone, South Korea THE threat of war appears to be abating in this most heavily militarised zone.

 
 

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MSPA 114/10 Monday, 19 April 2010

DEFENCE MEDIA ALERT

Defence personnel commended following SIEV 36 rescue

WHAT: The Australian Defence Force will begin presenting commendations to 51 Service men and women who helped rescue, treat and evacuate those injured from the explosion onboard Suspected Irregular Entry Vessel (SIEV) 36 on 16 April, 2009.

WHERE: HMAS CAIRNS ? Gags Patio

WHEN: 10:00am Tuesday 20 April 2010

WHO: Commander Border Protection Command, Rear Admiral Tim Barrett, RAN will present Commendations to 14 personnel who are current or former members of the Cairns-based Armidale Class Patrol Boat crew Ardent Four,  who were involved in SIEV 36.

PHOTO & PICTURE OPPORTUNITIES: Rear Admiral Barrett and some members of the Ardent Four crew will be available for interview and photo opportunities.


ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEDIA ACCESS TO HMAS CAIRNS

Media intending to cover the event should advise Mr Bernard O?Connor, HMAS CAIRNS Public Relations Officer ? Tel: 0419 019 980 ? and be at the front gate HMAS CAIRNS no later than 09:45am Tuesday 20 April. Photo identification will be required for entry to the base.

[Keith]

 
From: Bill and Margaret Krause
Sent: Sunday, April 18, 2010 8:10 PM
Subject: HMAS SYDNEY II COMMEMORATIVE FOOTBALL MATCH 24 APRIL 2010

HMAS Sydney II Commemorative Football Match

The Finding Sydney Foundation, the Australian Football League and the Royal Australian Navy in conjunction with the Sydney Swans and West Coast Eagles Football Clubs are pleased to announce that the inaugural Annual HMAS Sydney II Commemorative Football Match will be held on Saturday 24th April 2010 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 

 

HMAS Sydney II was a proud and distinguished fighting ship so it was with a profound sense of loss that the nation learned that she had been sunk with all 645 crew in a mutually destructive engagement with the German Auxiliary Cruiser Kormoran on 19 November 1941, some 112 miles West of Shark Bay, Western Australia.  The tragic fate of Sydney and her crew remained a mystery until she was found by the Finding Sydney Foundation on 16 March 2008 sitting upright on the ocean floor at a depth of 2,500 metres.

 

Hosted in 2010 by the Sydney Swans, the Match will be held annually between the Sydney Swans, representing her home port, and the West Coast Eagles, representing the State of her final operations and resting place.  The Match is in memory of the sacrifice made by Sydney?s men and by their families.

 

The HMAS Sydney II Trophy has been donated to the AFL by the Finding Sydney Foundation and will be flown in to the ?Bounce- Down Circle? by a Navy helicopter.   The trophy is in the form of a Ship?s Battle Honours Board showing Sydney?s distinct badge and her campaign and battle honours in polished bronze on a jarrah base and backboard as illustrated above.  The Clubs? logos, a description plate and space for recording the annual result are provided for on the trophy base.   

 

Campaign and battle honours are highly prized by the ships and aircraft squadrons so awarded and are always displayed, serving as a constant and proud reminder of past achievements.  The trophy is therefore evocative of the fighting spirit and teamwork shown by Sydney?s men and of an invitation for the two Clubs to perpetuate these sentiments by demonstrating the same spirit of competition and teamwork each year.

 

The Finding Sydney Foundation is also providing a perpetual trophy for the player judged as Best on Ground for each match.  The trophy is based on the casing of a 76mm shell fired by the present and fourth warship to be named HMAS Sydney.  As HMAS Sydney II?s short wartime history is one of triumph against the odds; of courage and ingenuity in adversity; of free and independent spirits who became a team formed by the bonds of mateship and necessity, the trophy will be awarded to ?the player who showed the greatest courage and skill in adversity, teamwork and fighting spirit."
 

The Best on Ground player will also be presented with a pure silver 2008 HMAS Sydney II $1.00 Commemorative coin as a keepsake
 

The Coin Toss before the start of each game will be carried out using a 2010 Anzac Day $1.00 coin

 

 A 25 year supply of both the silver HMAS Sydney and the Anzac Day coins has been generously donated by the Perth Mint (www.perthmint.com.au).

 

A tribute to HMAS Sydney II will be held along with an official observance ceremony prior to the commencement of the match.  To help in this commemoration, all family and friends of those touched by HMAS Sydney II are invited to attend.  Tickets can be purchased through Ticketek; www.ticketek.com.au or 132 849.


Commodore Bob Trotter OAM RAN (Ret'd) FIEAust

Director, Finding Sydney Foundation

0418 487 158; Fax: 08 9385 2287

www.findingsydney.com

www.sydneymemorial.com 

 

Important ?

1. The contents of this email and its attachments are strictly private and confidential, and are not to be used or distributed by you without my prior consent. Any unauthorised use of this email, its attachment or contents is prohibited.

2. If you receive this email in error you must immediately delete it then contact me. 

3.  Please note that I do not sit glued to my computer screen expecting matters of moment by email.  If urgent please text or call.

[Keith]

Jordan's King Warns Mideast War 'Imminent'
By Lord Stirling
4-17-10

This is rather frighting information. The Jordanian Royal Family is always well up-to-date on the intelligence of what is happening and about to happen in their "neighborhood". A war against Hezbollah and Lebanon is one of the main scenarios for trigging a war with Iran/General Middle East War/World War III.

There are somewhere between 40,000 and 60,000 or so rockets and guided missiles in Lebanon, placed there by Iran and Syria. These are normally under the 'command' of Hezbollah, but in reality are effectively controlled by Iranian and Syrian commanders. These rockets and guided missiles constitute a large percentage of the MAD (mutually assured destruction) strategic counter-force 'throw weight' from the Iranian/Syrian/Hezbollah alliance. Of course, the really 'big guns' are the Iranian Advanced Biological arsenal of genetically engineered viruses and these do not require rockets/missiles for delivery and in fact are a global strategic WMD (weapon of mass destruction) comparable in potential kill levels to global strategic thermonuclear warfare weapons.

The large number of 'Hezbollah' rockets/missiles are a grave danger that is specific to Israel. In the Second Lebanon War (which Israel lost), the 'Hezbollah' forces were simply demonstrating their ability to 'deliver ordinance-on-target' over northern Israel using mostly relatively short range unguided rockets and 'dumb' warheads (simple high explosive warheads). Like Saddam Hussein did in the first Gulf War with his Scuds (actually al-Hussein missiles; a modified version of the Scud), the Iranians and Syrians using their Hezbollah proxies, were delivering a warning by firing repeatedly into their enemy. They were demonstrating their ability to hit their enemy but were only, by choice, using low impact 'dumb' high explosive warheads. Saddam held back a force (19 or more) of missiles armed with WMD, which is why we did not 'finish' the war the first time. (It was only after he had denuded himself of his WMD and delivery capabilities that we began the Iraqi War - Second Gulf War).


The Iranians and Syrians and their Hezbollah allies/proxies have a considerable selection of WMD available for these 40,000 to 60,000 rockets/missiles (in addition to their Syrian and Iranian based longer range missiles). The WMD can range from FAE (fuel air explosive) warheads (which if fired in a coordinated pattern can lay down a FAE 'brew' over a wide area, such as over a heavily populated urban area) and achieve PSI (pounds per square inch) levels higher than standard NATO tactical nuclear warheads. The WMD can also include chemical warheads of various types. Syria and Iran have one of the largest (if not the largest) joint chemical warfare programs on Earth. Additionally, they can use Advanced Biologically produced biotoxin warheads for a longer lasting chemical war 'effect'. They can also use 'dirty bombs', that is Radiological warheads using things like Cobalt 60 and Strontium 90, which give the 'effect' of radiological fallout without using a nuclear blast. They can also use Radiological weapons encased in an advanced matrix containing hard to remove glue, so that the radioactive particles are glued to buildings, cars, etc., making any decontamination efforts most difficult.

The Israelis see these rockets/missiles and their assorted warheads as a grave threat. The Second Lebanon War was planned as the first step in a war against Syria and Iran but the low-cost but powerful AT-14 Russian built and supplied anti-tank missiles proved too much for the IDF armor; the losses were simply too high. This time the IDF will be using different tactics, strategies, and weapons.

Both Syria and Lebanon have make it very clear, over the last few months, that any large-scale Israeli attack on Lebanon/Hezbollah will be considered an attack on them and will immediately trigger a regional war with themselves and Israel. They simply cannot allow Israel to destroy the rocket/missile element to their MAD counter-force, as they know that the Syrian and Iranian homelands would be next. So any war on Lebanon/Hezbollah means a General Middle East War from day one.

Any Third Lebanon War/General Middle East War is apt to involve WMD on both side quickly as both sides know the stakes and that the Israelis are determined to end, once and for all, any Iranian opposition to a 'Greater Israel' domination of the entire Middle East. It will be a case of 'use your WMD or lose them' to enemy strikes. Any massive WMD usage against Israel will result in the usage of Israeli thermonuclear warheads against Arab and Persian populations centers in large parts of the Middle East, with the resulting spread of radioactive fallout over large parts of the Northern Hemisphere. However, the first use of nukes is apt to be lower yield warheads directed against Iranian underground facilities including both nuclear sites and governmental command and control and leadership bunkers, with some limited strikes also likely early-on in Syrian territory.

The Iranians are well prepared to launch a global Advanced Biological Warfare terrorism based strike against not only Israel and American and allied forces in the Middle East but also against the American, Canadian, British, French, German, Italian, etc., homelands. This will utilize DNA recombination based genetically engineered 'super killer viruses' that are designed to spread themselves throughout the world using humans as vectors. There are very few defenses against such warfare, other than total quarantine of the population until all of the different man-made viruses (and there could be dozens or even over a hundred different viruses released at the same time) have 'burned themselves out'. This could kill a third of the world's total population.

Such a result from an Israeli triggered war would almost certainly cause a Russian-Chinese response that would eventually finish off what is left of Israel and begin a truly global war/WWIII with multiple war theaters around the world. It is highly unlikely that a Third World War, fought with 21st Century weaponry will be anything but the Biblical Armageddon.

The entire World is facing a danger that is much worst than what it faced in the Cuban Missile Crisis of the early 1960s, which came close to going nuclear. At the present time, the AIPAC controlled political class in America is unwilling and seemly unable to mount any opposition to the Israeli drive towards war. This will be a fatal shortcoming that future historians will write about someday, assuming anyone is left to write about it.
Stirling  

 
 

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MSPA 109/10 Wednesday, 14 April 2010

Air Force PC9 aircraft incident over training area

During a routine mission this morning (Wednesday 14 April), an Air Force PC9 training aircraft from the Air Force Base at East Sale had two landing gear doors separate from the aircraft during flight.

The aircraft was operating in the East Sale Military Training Area, approximately 12 kilometres south west of Heyfield at the time of the incident, and then recovered safely to RAAF Base East Sale. Local Heyfield Police were immediately informed.

The loss of parts from aircraft during flight is unusual and is currently under investigation by Air Force.

The location of the missing doors has not been determined. The doors are primarily constructed of lightweight high-strength material and should not be handled without appropriate safety precautions.

Recovered parts will provide important evidence in establishing the cause of the incident. For these reason, members of the public who may discover the aircraft parts, should not handle them, but report their location to Air Force on 0419 891 825 or the local police.

[Keith]

 
MSPA 105/10 Wednesday, 14 April 2010

HMAS Success Commission of Inquiry program

What: Public hearings of HMAS Success Commission of Inquiry have adjourned for the time being.

When: Public hearings will recommence on Monday, 21 June 2010 at 10am.

Where: Level 11, Defence Plaza, 270 Pitt Street, Sydney.

The first session of the hearings dealing with events during the 2009 Asian deployment of HMAS Success has been adjourned. A large volume of material requires further and close analysis before hearings can continue.

The adjournment also fits with the fleet activity schedule of HMAS Success. The second session will commence on 21 June 2010. This session will complete hearings as to the events during the Asian deployment of HMAS Success and go on to deal with all relevant events and issues arising out of the events on the deployment.

The Commission of Inquiry's terms of reference are available at: www.defence.gov.au/coi.

[Keith]

THE AGE
 
Our bases retain role in US plan
DANIEL FLITTON
April 12, 2010

TOP-SECRET military bases in Australia will remain a key part of America's nuclear arsenal despite President Barack Obama's sweeping changes to limit the use of atomic weapons.

Defence Minister John Faulkner has hailed the new US nuclear posture as a significant shift, cutting the role of nuclear weapons but preserving what he described as effective ''nuclear blackmail'' - deterrence from atomic attack on the US or its allies.

''I don't beat around the bush about this sort of stuff - as long as nuclear weapons exist, of course Australia relies on US nuclear forces to deter nuclear attack,'' he said.

''It's true also to say - let's get everything on the table here - Australia supports that US nuclear deterrence posture by hosting the joint-facilities as well.''

The satellite communication base at Pine Gap near Alice Springs is the largest of the joint US-Australian facilities, believed to monitor possible nuclear missile launches from Russia and China.

Mr Obama last week set out new rules for the use of nuclear weapons, pledging for the first time that the US would not attack non-nuclear countries and only use atomic weapons in ''extreme circumstances''.

But he stopped short of declaring that America would never again be the first to use nuclear weapons as some arms control activists had hoped.

Senator Faulkner flew to Washington overnight to represent Australia at a special global summit aimed at stopping loose nuclear material ending up in the hands of terrorists.

He said the talks showed that the threat of nuclear terrorism was now a top international concern. ''As a major uranium supplier, Australia has got a particular interest in the security of nuclear materials,'' he said.

Terrorists groups such as al-Qaeda have long sought a nuclear weapon, although security analysts believe a so-called ''dirty bomb'' is the more likely danger.

Senator Faulkner recently blocked an Australian company exporting scientific instruments to Pakistan over fears the equipment could be diverted into weapons programs.

Pakistan last week raised the issue during a visit by Australia's national security adviser, Duncan Lewis, to Islamabad. But Senator Faulkner said he did not expect this would complicate talks in Washington to win Pakistan's co-operation in global efforts to secure nuclear materials.

Mr Obama had asked the leaders of 47 countries to Washington for the nuclear security summit, beginning tomorrow.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said at the weekend that it would be the largest global summit hosted by the US since the founding of the United Nations in 1945.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd declined the invitation, saying he needed to focus on healthcare reforms in Australia.

SMH
 
Defence tracking system loses sight of $30m
LINTON BESSER INVESTIGATIONS
April 12, 2010
 
A CRUCIAL information system designed to help the Defence Department keep track of billions of dollars worth of assets has been deferred again, pushing the long-awaited project $30 million into the red.

Questions have also been raised about the project's management after the government breached a pledge to exclude the consultancy KPMG from further work to prevent a ''conflict of interest''.

Even though it had originally been hired by Defence to advise on the project's requirements, KPMG went on to win no fewer than 41 contracts on the upgrade.

The latest phase of the Military Integrated Logistics Information System was to have been delivered by 2007, but the system will now not be operating until July.

The latest 10-month delay had been blamed on the number of people needing to be trained and on ''a risk of errors in the transition of data'' mid-way through the financial year, Defence said.

The delay has blown out the cost by $29.8 million - about 20 per cent of its initial budget.

In 2007-08, Mincom, the software company hired by Defence, had needed another 12 months to deliver its Ellipse system and the project's managers nominated last November as a new target date - a deadline that has now been extended.

In 2005, a senior Defence Materiel Organisation official, Frank Lewincamp, promised that KPMG would be excluded from future work on the project.

''We have gone to the private sector to seek specific technical expertise to support our decision-making process,'' he told a government committee.

''The company [KPMG] that has provided that to us is not engaged in the subsequent phases of the project, so is not in that conflict-of-interest situation.''

Despite this pledge, KPMG has been awarded no fewer than 41 contracts with the project since 2007, for a value of $14.9 million to $17.9 million.

A Defence spokeswoman told the Herald all conflicts of interest were avoided because KPMG was not the project manager. ''The provision by KPMG of $17 million [of] publicly tendered outcomes-based services subsequent to the initial scoping exercises in JP2077 2A and 2B [is] considered appropriate and does not constitute a conflict of interest,'' she said.

But the auditor-general had previously recommended that new policies be implemented to avoid ''perceived conflicts of interest arising from the engagement of a contractor to conduct the scoping phase of a project that provides the basis of a much larger tender''.

Do you know more?

investigations@smh.com.au

 
 

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[Keith]

Only DMO knows if Jane Wolfe was doing her job. If she was doing her job and was sacked illegally and unfairly as the Court has ruled then all is well and she has been reinstated. However if she was not doing her job the Court has interfered in the administration of DMO and this rot should stop. People who do not do what they get paid to do should be sacked. Period. If she was not doing her prescribed job this case could well verge on the commonplace habit of Courts to decide Government policy rather than administer the Law. The truth is the Courts in this country are not impartial each time they rule. There are often cases where Judges rule according to their personal and political beliefs and recently many Judges from the Federal and High Courts have acknowledged this behaviour.
 
 
 
THE AGE
 
Sacking of exec unfair, defence body chief admits
MARK DAVIS
April 9, 2010
 
THE man in charge of billions of dollars of federal government defence projects, Defence Materiel Organisation chief Stephen Gumley, has admitted treating one of his top executives unfairly when he sacked her a year ago.

The organisation's general manager, corporate, Jane Wolfe, yesterday won a long-running legal fight over the sacking and will not only get her old job back but will be paid 12 months of back pay and have her legal costs met by the government.

The Federal Court issued consent orders setting aside Dr Gumley's decision to sack Ms Wolfe on performance grounds and quashing a separate decision by then public service commissioner Lynelle Briggs clearing the way for the dismissal.

Speaking outside court, Ms Wolfe said: ''I took the matter on because I genuinely believe the values and the processes of the Australian Public Service do equate with natural justice and respect in how we treat each other and that was missing in my case. It has been a very tough 12 months but it has been worth it.''

The case has significant implications for the top echelon of the public service, the 3000-strong Senior Executive Service, where legal challenges to performance management decisions are rare.

It is also embarrassing for Dr Gumley, who was brought into Defence from the private sector to reform its multibillion-dollar military procurement operations, which have been plagued by cost blowouts and delays.

The orders came after government counsel Paul Vermeesch told the court that Dr Gumley and Ms Briggs now conceded there had been breaches of procedural fairness in the way Ms Wolfe was treated.

They accepted Ms Wolfe had been denied natural justice because she was not shown or given a chance to respond to material relied upon in deciding she should be sacked.

Dr Gumley sacked Ms Wolfe in March last year after a protracted wrangle over her job performance. She took action under administrative law, arguing Dr Gumley was ''actuated by malice'', had denied her natural justice and had failed to implement fair performance management, in breach of public service rules.

Until yesterday, Dr Gumley and the government had been defending the legal action, saying Ms Wolfe had been dismissed for unsatisfactory work performance after numerous warnings. The Defence Department had no comment on the case's outcome.

 
 

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SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Wednesday, 7 April 2010
031/2010

Implementation of the Defence Strategic Reform Program

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, announced today that the Government had considered and endorsed the implementation plan for the Defence Strategic Reform Program (SRP).

"The SRP is designed to give Australia a stronger, more agile and harder-hitting Defence Force.  After endorsing the detailed implementation plan, the Government is confident that Defence is well placed to achieve fundamental reform," Senator Faulkner said.

"The Strategic Reform Program is a major public sector reform initiative. The SRP extends over a decade and engages all areas of Defence. It will change how Defence works in fundamental ways. It will unleash forces of innovation and change. It will achieve $20 billion in cost reductions over a decade from 2009-10, to reinvest in Defence capability."

Defence is already on track to deliver the $797 million in cost reductions scheduled for 2009-10.

Addressing the Defence Senior Leadership Group in Canberra last Wednesday, Senator Faulkner said, "The SRP is not just about delivering savings and efficiencies. It is an integral component of the White Paper. It is the means by which we will build an organisation capable of delivering and sustaining Force 2030. To be blunt, while we have already started to build Force 2030 through decisions over the past year, achieving it in its full potential will not be possible without achieving the SRP in all its dimensions."

Senator Faulkner also acknowledged the work Defence had put into developing the full implementation plan.

"The detailed planning work that has been underway since May 2009 is critical to the success of the SRP. I congratulate and thank all those Defence personnel who have worked so hard to develop the implementation plan."

The Defence Strategic Reform Advisory Board, chaired by an external expert, Mr George Pappas, has been involved throughout the development of the implementation plan.

"The Board gave the Government a high level of assurance that the implementation plan is achievable," Senator Faulkner said. "The Board will continue to advise me over the life of the Program to assist in ensuring the reforms are being implemented in the way intended by the Government."

Senator Faulkner called on Defence's leaders to take what is best in Defence into the future. "Reform will not be easy. We have the opportunity and responsibility to make the SRP a reality. In doing so, we will create the Defence organisation Australia needs to help secure its future."

Information on the Strategic Reform Program is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/srp


 
MSPA 097/10

Wednesday, 7 April 2010

WA soldiers return from Solomon Islands

More than 80 soldiers from the Western Australian-based 13th Brigade will return home today after a successful four-month peacekeeping operation with the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI.)

The Australian contingent served on the operation known as Operation ANODE. They formed part of the Combined Task Force (CTF), which also includes troops from New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga.  

The CTFs contribution to the stability of the Pacific Islands nation included joint patrols with RAMSI?s Participating Police Force and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

RSIPF Acting Assistant Commissioner of Operations, Nathaniel Mosese, said the patrols had a positive effect on security, particularly over the Christmas and New Year period.

 ?Last holiday season was a historic occasion with police experiencing a record low in crime activities across Honiara City and surrounding communities, Assistant Commissioner Mosese said.

Operation ANODE is primarily manned by highly-trained Reserve soldiers who take leave from their civilian jobs for the duration of the deployment. Their specialist skills help them to engage positively with the local community and build relationships that are important to the mission.

Lieutenant Colonel David Thompson, Commanding Officer of the CTF, said Western Australia can be immensely proud of the way these soldiers have upheld the reputation of the Australian Army in the region.

They have received accolades from the police, RAMSI Special Coordinator Graeme Wilson and also from a number of Solomon Island Officials, Lieutenant Colonel Thompson said.  

?Reservists like the contingent from WA bring a number of different skills and maturity to this operation. They are very good at engaging with the local people and gaining their trust in a very short time.?

Troops from the New South Wales based 5th Brigade have relieved the outgoing contingent and will continue to assist in the RAMSI mission.  

Media note:
The returning soldiers are expected to land at approximately 4:00pm WA time.

Information on Operation ANODE is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/op/solomonislands/index.cfm


 
MSPA 096/10

Tuesday, 6 April 2010

HMAS Newcastle receives top Navy honour

The Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Newcastle has been awarded the Gloucester Cup by the Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, during a ceremony at Garden Island, Sydney.

Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Stephen Gilmore, AM, CSC, RAN, and Commodore Training, Commodore Daryl Bates, AM, RAN, joined the Governor-General in presenting the Commanding Officer of Newcastle, Commander Justin Jones, RAN, with the award which recognises the Fleet unit foremost in all aspects of operations, safety, seamanship, reliability and unit level training.

As Commander-in-Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Her Excellency also inspected the Royal Guard and the ship's company on the flight deck.

The Gloucester Cup was instituted in 1947 by the then Governor-General, the Duke of Gloucester, and acknowledges excellence in operational efficiency, seamanship, supply and administration, training, maintenance and resourcefulness.

Commanding Officer of Newcastle, Commander Justin Jones, said he was honoured to lead the ship which won the Gloucester Cup.

?This is a very proud day for our ship and recognises the hard work each and every crew member puts in,? Commander Jones said.

?Each individual has played a critical role in helping us achieve this award. I am particularly pleased that many families were also able to attend the ceremony today. They too have played an important role in supporting the Ship?s Companys performance. I feel very privileged to work alongside such a happy and dedicated crew.

The ship was also presented two other fleet awards.  The Spada Shield recognises the surface combatant foremost in operations, safety, reliability, warfare and unit level training, and the Australia Cup for excellence in marine engineering.

Last year the ship undertook its biggest fundraising effort ever by raising $57,000 for its charity, The Hunter Orthopaedic School in Newcastle. The Newcastle community was represented at the presentation by the Ship?s Lady, Mrs Margaret McNaughton AM, the Lord Mayor, Clr John Tate, and the Principal of Hunter Orthopaedic School, Mrs Allison Sellers.

HMAS Newcastle will deploy for four months in April to Guam, Japan and then Canada for the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy.  The ship will also participate in the international Exercise RIMPAC in Hawaii.

[Keith]

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/


TEAM UZUNOV


SOPHIE McNEILL MISSING IN ACTION?


WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 2010
SBS Dateline get it wrong on Afghan story
Post Script to my story: Scrutinising the media's scrutiny of defence

www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s2853029.htm

22 March 2010
In Search of Zahir Khan.


The ABC TV's Media Watch program did a take down on SBS TV's Dateline story about the Afghan scandal as reported by Sophie McNeill. Absolutely hilarious stuff up.
The identity of an Afghan man, Zahir Khan, was confused with someone else over an interview concerning a botched raid by Australian Commandos which resulted in the death of 5 children in February 2009.

SOPHIE McNEILL MISSING IN ACTION?

Will the real Zahir Khan please stand up?

Old Dateline website blurb about Sophie McNeill once read:
www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=10004

?Pick, arguably, the most dangerous region in the world today and that?s where you'll find Sophie McNeill.?

But not according to Media Watch
www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s2853029.htm

Sophie McNeill was in Australia when the story broke, and she stayed there. She couldn't have travelled safely to the remote village in Oruzgan where the killings took place. So instead, she explained to her viewers, Dateline turned for help to a producer it had worked with in Afghanistan before, called Fazel Reshad.

TEAM UZUNOV guarantee, when we do a big story we will go to the source, including on the spot in Afghanistan!


More on Sophie McNeill:


www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=10004


Reporting on the Reporters - Online Opinion

-------------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=10227&page=0
ONLINE OPINION


Scrutinising the media's scrutiny of defence
By Sasha Uzunov -  Tuesday, 30 March 2010   
 

If the media scrutinise the tip of the spear in combat - recent Australian soldiers' behaviour on the ground in the Afghan war - then they need to scrutinise the spear throwers - the politicians and defence experts and journalists.
 
A case in point has been SBS TV reporter Sophie McNeill and Fairfax newspaper journalists Jonathon Pearlman and Tom Hyland who have been ferociously targeting the Australian Army?s 1 Commando Regiment over a botched raid which resulted in the killing of children in Afghanistan last February.
 
Soldiers from that unit, largely reservist, could possibly face legal proceedings for murder, manslaughter, negligence and so on. But there are three important issues about the Afghan incident: due process of law, the presumption of innocence and who shapes Australia?s defence policy.
 
McNeill, Pearlman and Hyland have probably sensed Army blood and a possible Walkley Award for what they perceive is ?Australia?s My Lai?. But some of us who are journalists and ex-soldiers believe that McNeill, Pearlman and Hyland have a democratic right to scrutinise the military. We would uphold their freedom of speech. The irony is that the media do not believe that the ordinary tax payer has the right to scrutinise the media in its coverage of defence issues.
 
In 2008 McNeill requested I not contact her to discuss defence issues, including Afghanistan. Hyland has gone on the record to allude that those who are not Fairfax journalists but who scrutinise defence experts are involved in a curious crusade.
 
The question is why are Australia?s big name reporters so tough when it comes to ?exposing? defence scandals but are so panicked by a few straight forward questions about their war reporting credentials?
 
McNeill?s boss at SBS TV?s Dateline, Peter Charley, also does not like being questioned over how defence issues are covered.
 
Methinks SBS, the ABC and Fairfax protesteth too much!
 
Hyland the ?defence expert? for The Sunday Age wrote in ?Deadly Afghan raids expose leadership failings? on March 21, 2010:
 

The regiment's experiences have triggered an intense debate within army ranks - about Special Forces tactics, and wider questions about a political and military preference for sending Special Forces, rather than large infantry units, to conflicts like Afghanistan.
 

It is funny for Hyland to ask this question because the answer may not be to his liking. In fact it might be too close to home, if you pardon the pun. Let me explain.
 
On January 21, 2005 I wrote an op-ed piece for The Herald Sun newspaper in which I was the first to indentify this change in Australian Army warfighting doctrine.
 
Some have criticised General (Peter) Cosgrove on his over reliance on the SAS (Special Forces) to do the fighting in East Timor that would normally have been taken up by the regular infantry. But I think this criticism is unjustified.
 
Criticism should be aimed at the government of the day (Howard 1996-2007) and those at home squeamish about seeing a 19-year-old lad away from home for the first time fighting a war. Better to send the SAS, whose identity cannot be revealed ...
 
On September 9, 2008 I wrote:
 

To top that off, a legacy of the Nelson-Howard military doctrine has the Special Forces doing most of the fighting (in Afghanistan), because of the fear of casualties to our regular infantry units. The long term effect could be burn out of our Special Forces. But the irony is if we withdraw our SF units and do not replace them with infantry units, then the pressure on Taliban is eased. It is one contradictory military doctrine, to say the least.
 

Here is a key point that has been missed, until recently: why is it Australian Defence Policy to use Special Forces in an infantry role in Afghanistan, as well as throwing Army reservists in the deep end? Who caused this dramatic shift in defence thinking?
 
Something Hyland has not touched upon is that the change came about in Defence policy when two key ?experts?, Professor Paul Dibb and ex-Fairfax journalist turned government advisor Hugh White, decided to cut back the number of infantry. This led to the consequences of using reservists in combat roles and stretched our Special Forces to breaking point.
 
During Bob Hawke?s Prime Ministership (1983-91) he brought in British academic Professor Paul Dibb and ex-Fairfax journalist Hugh White. Their brief was to transform the defence department with a number of reports, Defence White Papers and so on. Instead we ended up with a mess that took more than a decade to bring under some form of control.
 
Mr Bruce Haigh, a former diplomat revealed during an interview with SBS TV?s Dateline program on September 27, 2000 that:
 

Defence is the department that?s divided amongst itself, as far as I can gather, and there are certain people inside Defence who?ve taken a certain line for a long period of time - the Paul Dibb line, if you like, which is high-tech, US-alliance - and you?ve got others who are saying, "No. We?ve got the situation to the north- we need to have more people in uniform, we need to have them trained, we need to have night-vision equipment provided for them. ?? the Australian Army can see what needs to be done, but many of the civilian Defence personnel, who?ve built their careers on playing up to this particular line, are arguing the other case, and feeling increasingly isolated, because they are not facing reality. That?s the problem.
 

Respected Brigadier Jim Wallace, former Special Forces Commander, wrote in 2003:
 

Unfortunately, Australian defence policy has been mainly wrong for the whole of this period. Even after we committed troops to East Timor, Professor Paul Dibb, the policy's chief architect, was standing in front of parliamentary committees vowing that Australia would not be conducting what he called "expeditionary" operations out of the region. This was despite a series of major UN deployments over many years to places as far afield as Rwanda and Somalia. Afghanistan and Iraq have hopefully now discredited this logic.
 
At the same time, Dr Hugh White was arguing in initial drafts for the 2000 white paper to reduce the size of our army to about 19,000, on the basis that, like Professor Dibb, he didn't see the Government needing options for deployment out of the region, particularly for sending the army. The result has been an incredible demand on the dedication and professionalism of our special forces as they have again been thrown into the breach that our supposedly expert defence planners couldn't predict.
 

We now await to see if McNeill, Hyland and Pearlman will be ferociously chasing ex-Fairfax journalist Hugh White for answers. Perhaps this is not part of the script. Only those who serve in uniform can and do make mistakes, those who are arm-chair generals can do no wrong!

-----------------
 
About the Author

Sasha Uzunov graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, in 1991. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army as a soldier in 1995 and was allocated to infantry. He served two peacekeeping tours in East Timor (1999 and 2001). In 2002 he returned to civilian life as a photo journalist and film maker and has worked in The Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. His documentary film Timor Tour of Duty made its international debut in New York in October 2009. He blogs at Team Uzunov.

[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Taliban IEDs `are harder to detect'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/taliban-ieds-are-harder-to-detect/story-e6frg8yo-1225847693547

Mark Dodd TALIBAN bomb-makers in Afghanistan are becoming more sophisticated, building explosives that are increasingly harder to detect.

GFC swells ranks of defence forces
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/financial-crisis-a-recruitment-boon-for-defence-forces/story-e6frg8yo-1225847576197

4:12PM Mark Dodd THE global financial crisis has proved a windfall for the nation?s defence forces, which are experiencing record levels of recruitment.

Wedgetail radar project nears completion
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defences-troubled-wedgetail-airborne-radar-project-nears-completion/story-e6frg8yo-1225847564339

3:54PM Agencies THE end is in sight for the troubled Wedgetail defence project, now running more than four years late because of major technical problems.

This from a country which had a huge and successful aircraft manufacturing industry during WW2 and which had the fourth largest AirForce in the World at the time.
 
Subs fitted with dud generators
DAN OAKES
March 31, 2010
 
THE AGE
MOST of Australia's strife-ridden Collins class submarines were fitted with dud generators when they were built, it was revealed yesterday.

The senior Defence official in charge of rehabilitating the Collins class fleet, Kim Gillis, told a Senate sub-committee that the navy had discovered five of the six submarines were built with flawed Australian-made generators.

''The generators on HMAS Collins, the original ones, were manufactured in France. Inspections of those indicate they're very solid and we're not expecting to have a failure of those,'' said Mr Gillis.

''The remainder of the Collins class submarines had their generators manufactured in Australia, and are susceptible to this particular failure. They weren't done properly when they were first manufactured.''

Mr Gillis said the fault was confirmed during repairs on the HMAS Farncomb, which was recalled to port last month after suffering generator failure, but had overhauled generators reinstalled yesterday. Mr Gillis stressed that the repair job had taken about a third of the predicted time.

It is believed the cost of modifying one of the Australian-made generators is about $125,000, and each submarine carries three generators.

The Collins class boats, the largest conventionally powered submarines in the world, have become synonymous with controversy, underperformance and delay since the first of the fleet, HMAS Collins, was launched in 1996.

Last month, it emerged that HMAS Rankin will be out of action for five years and HMAS Sheean for four years. It was also revealed that the federal government is demanding $5 million in compensation from the Australian Submarine Corporation over separate defects that have kept HMAS Collins incapacitated.

By the time the Sheean and Rankin are relaunched, they will have overhauled generators. The two remaining boats, Waller and Dechaineux, will be nursed along with the sub-standard generators until their next scheduled maintenance.

''We do have three generators on each submarine, normal requirement is to only operate two, so what you can do is by operating them at 80 per cent of their normal operating profile, you actually restrict the likelihood of a failure,'' Mr Gillis told the committee.

Mr Gillis also said the government would have little chance of getting compensation from the manufacturer of the generators, which drew a hostile response from the sub-committee chairman, Labor MP Arch Bevis.

''If we're in the habit of handing out money to Australian businesses, or American businesses, or anyone else, we should sure as hell be in the business of making sure that what they provide is what we paid for,'' he said.

Defence also admitted yesterday that the European-designed helicopter that will replace Australia's military helicopter fleet is showing significant flaws in testing.

The Age revealed last month that a German military report had pinpointed serious deficiencies in the MRH-90 helicopters

 
 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website
 
http://www.anzmi.net/  Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

ONLINE OPINION - Australia's e-journal of social and political debate
 
www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=10227

Scrutinising the media's scrutiny of defence.
By Sasha Uzunov
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
 
Afghanistan: only those who serve in uniform can and do make mistakes, those who are arm-chair generals can do no wrong!
 
If the media scrutinise the tip of the spear in combat - recent Australian soldiers' behaviour on the ground in the Afghan war - then they need to scrutinise the spear throwers - the politicians and defence experts and journalists.
 
A case in point has been SBS TV reporter Sophie McNeill and Fairfax newspaper journalists Jonathon Pearlman and Tom Hyland who have been ferociously targeting the Australian Armys 1 Commando Regiment over a botched raid which resulted in the killing of children in Afghanistan last February.
 
Soldiers from that unit, largely reservist, could possibly face legal proceedings for murder, manslaughter, negligence and so on. But there are three important issues about the Afghan incident: due process of law, the presumption of innocence and who shapes Australias defence policy.

The question is why are Australias big name reporters so tough when it comes to exposing defence scandals but are so panicked by a few straight forward questions about their war reporting credentials?
 
...read the full story and leave your comment at...
 
www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=10227
 
 
 
About the author
Sasha Uzunov graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, in 1991. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army as a soldier in 1995 and was allocated to infantry. He served two peacekeeping tours in East Timor (1999 and 2001). In 2002 he returned to civilian life as a photo journalist and film maker and has worked in The Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. His documentary film Timor Tour of Duty made its international debut in New York in October 2009. He blogs at Team Uzunov.

[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Defence seeks 100 technology and communications staff
Fran Foo
From: The Australian
March 30, 2010
 
THE Department of Defence wants to add 100 full-time workers to its technology and communications team as it gears up for the biggest overhaul in decades.

The hiring spree comes as Defence begins work on its data centre consolidation program under the watchful eye of consultancy firm KPMG.

According to Defence chief technology officer Matt Yannopoulos, Defence is looking mainly for project managers and business analysts.

IT architects, network engineers and security specialists were also on the list, Mr Yannopoulos said.

"We will be looking for another 100 people over the next three to six months.

"Sixty per cent of the recruitment will comprise project managers, who can run really large projects, and business analysts."

He is hopeful that Defence's current crop of IT contractors will opt for a permanent role instead.

Mr Yannopoulos said Defence was in talks with the Australian Computer Society and universities to "get our brand out there" to attract potential employees.

Defence's chief information officer group has around 1650 employees, including 227 contractors.

It has 200 rooms spread across seven locations that can be classified as data centres. The plan is to have less than 10 facilities.

KPMG bagged a four-month, $1.68 million contract expiring on May 31 to help Defence with its data centre business case preparation.

"We're getting our data centre strategy together and we need to have a clearer view of all our facilities. What KPMG finds will be fed into our overall plan."

He said Defence had been in contact with a few suppliers on the government's interim data centre panel to "potentially exercise a lease with them."

Meanwhile Mr Yannopoulos wants to drastically reduce Defence's printer footprint as it has one printer for every five people. "There's a very diverse range of brands and we'd like to see a reduction of that."

There are 17,000 printers for 90,000 employees.

Overall, Defence is under pressure to identify $20 billion in "efficiency savings" over the next 10 years.

 
THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Diggers get to keep bayonets
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/diggers-get-to-keep-bayonets-as-weapons/story-e6frg6nf-1225847179104

Mark Dodd THE US Army says the bayonet is obsolete but Australian Diggers will continue to use it as a close-quarters weapon.

Air force drone skills will be useful here
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/air-force-drone-skills-will-be-useful-here/story-e6frg6nf-1225847177847

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN troops operating unmanned spy planes in Afghanistan are learning skills that will be used for asylum-seekers

 
 

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[Keith]

From: David
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Saturday, March 27, 2010 5:32 PM
Subject: Re: Australian soldiers could be charged over Afghanistan raid


Keith, What sort of leaders do we have now?  Charging soldiers for doing as they are told in a war is absolutely ridiculous. Is the information that commanders receive foolproof or is some information not really reliable. They have a lot of pilots to charge through WW11, Korea, Vietnam and all other conflicts that bombs were dropped and killed civilians. Sorry I was born during an air raid in 1941 and believe war is war and everybody in that country is involved and if they are not willing to do something about the situation themselves well to be cynical Too Bad. If those men are charged then all of the Australian Forces that are deployed in Afghanistan should withdraw and come home. That war is not worth fighting if this is the way they are going to play it.
 
David Moore

The time will come when Australian Troops are withdrawn from Afghanistan, and Afghanistan will tumble on as it has for a thousand years or more. Corrupt, violent, patriarchal, and torn asunder by internal hatreds and rivalries and religious factions. Our presence is not going to change that and nor should we bother trying to change that. We went there on the pretext of capturing Bin Laden, dead or alive. We went there on the pretext of combating international terrorism. These flimsy reasons are false. John Howard did what Washington wanted and ever since Australian Governments and Oppositions have been trying to justify what cannot be justified.
 
Bin Laden has never been captured and there is ample reliable evidence to suggest he died in 2001. Terrorism continues around the world, as it has from time immemorial. It is just the methods which have changed, not the tactic. The world has never ever been a peaceful happy chappy place. A fact of life.
 
On top of this we are creating another generation of killed and disabled Troops and the disabled will need rehabilitation, health care and compensation for decades to come. On top of this these Troops are political pawns. They have been used to gather in political support at home and abroad to keep Governments in office.
 
This whole sorry saga is a farce of the first order and our presence in Afghanistan does not make one Australian one bit safer at home.
 


CIA paper reveals plans to manipulate European opinion on Afghanistan

By Daniel Tencer
Friday, March 26th, 2010 -- 3:41 pm

'Out-of-the-box' CIA think tank proposes concerns over women's rights, fear of terrorism as ways to boost support for Afghan war

Evidently spooked by the collapse of the Dutch government over the country's involvement in Afghanistan, the CIA has put together a strategy proposal to prevent what it fears could be a "precipitous" collapse of support for the war in Afghanistan among European allies.

A document marked "confidential / not for foreign eyes," posted to the Wikileaks Web site, suggests strategies to manipulate European public opinion on the war, particularly in France and Germany.

The document doesn't propose any direct methods by which the CIA could achieve this -- there are no references to planting propaganda in the press, for example -- but it does lay out what it sees as the key talking points to changing hearts and minds on the war. Among its proposals, the policy paper suggests playing up the plight of Afghan women to French audiences, as the French public has shown concern for women's rights in Afghanistan.

For the German audience, the document suggests a measure of fear-mongering about the possible fallout of NATO failure in Afghanistan. "Germany’s exposure to terrorism, opium, and refugees might help to make the war more salient to skeptics," the document asserts.

Read the report here, courtesy of Wikileaks.

The policy paper was prepared by a group called the "CIA Red Cell," which describes itself as having been tasked "with taking a pronounced 'out-of-the-box' approach that will provoke thought and offer an alternative viewpoint on the full range of analytic issues."

"The fall of the Dutch Government over its troop commitment to Afghanistan demonstrates the fragility of European support for the NATO-led ISAF mission," the document states. "Some NATO states, notably France and Germany, have counted on public apathy about Afghanistan to increase their contributions to the mission, but indifference might turn into active hostility if spring and summer fighting results in an upsurge in military or Afghan civilian casualties."

The CIA report notes that 80 percent of the French and German public are opposed to the war, but offers a loophole: Public apathy, which has allowed European leaders to extend and broaden their involvement in Afghanistan despite deep opposition.

But "if some forecasts of a bloody summer in Afghanistan come to pass, passive French and German dislike of their troop presence could turn into active and politically potent hostility," the report states.

GET OBAMA INVOLVED

The CIA Red Cell points out that President Obama continues to enjoy popular support in Europe at levels he has not seen in the US in months. The report suggests getting the president involved in selling the Afghanistan war to Europeans.

"The confidence of the French and German publics in President Obama’s ability to handle foreign affairs in general and Afghanistan in particular suggest that they would be receptive to his direct affirmation of their importance to the ISAF mission—and sensitive to direct expressions of disappointment in allies who do not help," the report states.

The report notes that "when [opinion poll] respondents were reminded that President Obama himself had asked for increased deployments to Afghanistan, their support for granting this request increased dramatically, from 4 to 15 percent among French respondents and from 7 to 13 percent among Germans."

To change French minds, the CIA Red Cell proposes linking the Afghanistan war to the effort to improve women's rights in Afghanistan. It also proposes pointing out that the Afghanistan mission is more popular in Afghanistan than it is in Europe, at least according to the statistics cited in the report.

"Afghan women could serve as ideal messengers in humanizing the ISAF role in combating the Taliban because of women’s ability to speak personally and credibly about their experiences under the Taliban, their aspirations for the future, and their fears of a Taliban victory," the report asserts.

"Highlighting Afghans’ broad support for ISAF could underscore the mission’s positive impact on civilians. About two-thirds of Afghans support the presence of ISAF forces in Afghanistan, according to a reliable ... poll conducted in December 2009," the report states.

For the German public, the message should be somewhat different, the report states. "Messages that dramatize the consequences of a NATO defeat for specific German interests could counter the widely held perception that Afghanistan is not Germany’s problem. For example, messages that illustrate how a defeat in Afghanistan could heighten Germany’s exposure to terrorism, opium, and refugees might help to make the war more salient to skeptics."

Numerous news reports in recent years have suggested that the CIA is more deeply involved in the Afghanistan war than it has been in previous wars. For instance, when news broke that seven CIA agents had been killed in a suicide bombing at a forward operating base, it highlighted the fact that the CIA has been operating essentially as a branch of the military in Afghanistan, running the unmanned aerial drone strikes against the Taliban.

That suicide bombing also highlighted the difficulties the agency faces in getting a grasp on the situation in the Central Asian country. CIA operatives had believed Humam Khalil Abu-Mulal al-Balawi, the suicide bomber, was willing to work as an informant for them. They were apparently so completely unaware of his status as a double agent that they had prepared a birthday party for him in advance of his arrival, when he proceeded to blow himself up.

 
NATO won't destroy Afghan poppy fields

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:04:40 GMT


 
Opium poppy fields in Afghanistan
 
 
NATO has rejected an appeal made by Russia for eradication of opium fields in Afghanistan, arguing that the sole source of income in the region cannot be removed.

Addressing a meeting of the NATO-Russia Council on Wednesday, head of Russia's Federal Drug Control Agency (FSKN) Victor Ivanov said "Afghan opiates led to the death of 1 million people by overdose in the last 10 years, and that is United Nations data. Is that not a threat to world peace and security?"

The Russian official tasked NATO forces with "normalizing the situation in Afghanistan" which includes "the elimination of drug production."

Meanwhile, NATO spokesman James Appathurai voiced understanding for Russian concerns, given the country's estimated 200,000 heroin and morphine addicts and the tens of thousands dying each year as a result of their addiction.

However, he went on to say that the Afghan drug problem had to be handled carefully in an effort to avoid alienating local residents.

"We share the view that it has to be tackled," the spokesman said. "But there is a slight difference of views," Appathurai added.

"We cannot be in a situation where we remove the only source of income for people who live in the second poorest country in the world without being able to provide them an alternative. That is simply not possible," the NATO official explained.

According to statistics provided by Ivanov, Russia was the single largest consumer of heroin in 2008. Moscow blames NATO for the surge in heroin trafficking from Afghanistan to Russia.

The production of opium in Afghanistan has skyrocketing since the US-led invasion of the country in 2001.

SG/CS/RE
 
 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website
 
http://www.anzmi.net/  Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

From: Murray Stirling
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Saturday, March 27, 2010 10:21 AM
Subject: Re: Australian soldiers could be charged over Afghanistan raid


Dear Keith, This would be the most ridiculous charge ever, is this defence arrangement being run by idiots or what, if anyone should be charged it is the fools responsible for our guys being there. This is all the more reason for a complete withdraw of all out troops. These Afghans know what is what and they put innocent children and woman in engagement areas. Must be great to claim $ for injuries to families. When are the powers to be going to realize what is going on. I would like to know who is in Brigadier McDade ear, or is it simply he has know idea what is going on. If anyone gets charged over this the morale of our troops will be going down the drain.
 
Murray Stirling 

[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
New jets put us on war footing
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/new-jets-put-us-on-war-footing/story-e6frg6nf-1225846189139

Jared Owens AUSTRALIAN air power has taken "a quantum leap forward" with the delivery of five F/A-18F Super Hornets yesterday.

The forgotten past of war's Hill 60 tunnellers
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/film-digs-up-forgotten-past-of-wars-hill-60-tunnellers/story-e6frg8n6-1225845882965

Mark Day Australian and Allied soldiers created the largest blast the world had yet seen

 
 
SMH
 
Australian soldiers could be charged over Afghanistan raid
SOPHIE MCNEILL, NICK MCKENZIE AND RAFAEL EPSTEIN
March 27, 2010
 
THE Defence Force's chief military prosector is assessing whether Australian commandos deviated from an operation plan during a bungled raid in Afghanistan last year and if that could lead to sanctions or criminal charges.

Six Afghan civilians were killed in the raid, in February last year. Assessing the soldiers' actions, the prosecutor, Brigadier Lyn McDade, is examining the extent to which the compound the civilians lived in was mentioned in the original plan of operations, known in the army as a CONOPS.

It is understood that at the time the soldiers found nothing when they searched the first compound they entered near the village of Surkh Morghab, in Oruzgan province. The commandos had been ordered to look for a local Taliban leader.

When they searched a second compound nearby, the soldiers from the First Commando Regiment exchanged gunfire with an Afghan man; they also used hand grenades. The man with the gun was killed, along with a teenager, two younger children and two babies.

Brigadier McDade will soon announce whether any of the soldiers will face charges of manslaughter, or whether a commanding officer will face a charge of negligence.

The investigation and possible prosecution is one of the most serious criminal investigations in the Defence Force in decades.

It is understood that Brigadier McDade is examining if the CONOPS included detailed provisions for the raid on the second compound, and in what way that plan contributed to any decision to search that compound, where the civilians were killed. If the second compound was not adequately discussed in this document, some personnel involved could face charges.

The Herald has also confirmed that investigators did not visit the scene of the incident and did not meet survivors of the attack.

It is understood that late last year, when investigators wanted to go to the scene of the incident, their request was blocked by other military personnel, who cited safety concerns in a combat zone.

 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Diggers sent to Afghan front line
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/diggers-sent-to-afghan-front-line/story-e6frg8yo-1225845525890

Brendan Nicholson DOZENS of army instructors who have been fighting with Afghan army units are standing by to join a major NATO oftensive in Kandahar province.

US, Russia on brink of nuke treaty
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/us-russia-on-brink-of-nuclear-arms-treaty/story-e6frg6so-1225845092608
 
9:56AM Tony Halpin and Michael Evans THE US and Russia are on the verge of clinching a key nuclear arms treaty after Barack Obama signalled that his administration was refocusing on foreign policy in the aftermath of the bruising healthcare battle

 
  

MSPA 082/10 Thursday, 25 March 2010

DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

Aussie Hercs clock 20,000 operational hours

Air Forces airborne workhorse, the C-130 Hercules, has just exceeded 20,000 flying hours supporting Australian and Coalition troops in the Middle East.

The significant milestone was reached during a mission to aero-medically evacuate Australian soldiers wounded in an Improvised Explosive Device strike late last week.

Pilot of the C-130J to break the mark, Flight Lieutenant Glen Foster said it was a major achievement for the detachment to reach 20,000 operational hours.

Its a credit not only to the aircrew, but to the maintainers who keep the Hercs in the air and the support provided by Defence Materiel Organisations Air Lift Systems Program Office, Flight Lieutenant Foster said.

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and crews have been deployed to the Middle East since February 2003.

The original deployment was C-130H model airframes were joined by the newer C-130J model on a rotational basis in September 2004.

The C-130J model, flown by RAAF Base Richmonds 37 Squadron, took sole responsibility for the Middle East deployment in mid 2008.

C-130 Detachment Executive Officer Squadron Leader Sarah Stalker said the three aircraft in the Middle East average about 50 hours in the air each week and are supported by an intensive maintenance program.

?When we support a big rotation of troops into and out of Afghanistan we use two of our aircraft each day,? Squadron Leader Stalker said.

?Proactive maintenance by the ground crew has provided us with high aircraft availability and mission success rates.

In the 20,000 operational flying hours, crews have flown more than 11,300 sorties and the aircraft have transported more than 140,000 personnel and nearly 31,000,000 kilograms of cargo.

The C-130 Detachment in the Middle East supports Australias commitment to Afghanistan under Operations SLIPPER and PALATE II and the remaining Australian forces in Iraq under Operations RIVERBANK and KRUGER.

Media note: Imagery is available at:
http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100325/index.htm

[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Mafia sailors' bullied females
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/mafia-sailors-bullied-females/story-e6frg6nf-1225844963490
 
"MAFIA-STYLE" bullying of female sailors initially went unrecorded because of problems with the navy's reporting system, an inquiry has heard.

Cold War spy plane on Taliban mission
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/cold-war-spy-plane-u2-on-new-mission-to-find-taliban-bombs/story-e6frg6so-1225844619704
 
10:00AM Michael Evans THE U2 spy aircraft, famed for Cold War espionage missions over the Soviet Union, has a new lease of life as the best spotter of Taliban roadside bombs.

Ferra signs second MOU over F-35
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/ferra-engineering-signs-second-mou-over-f-35-joint-strike-fighter/story-e6frg8yo-1225844424374
 
5:45PM AAP UNITED States defence companies Marvin Engineering and Lockheed Martin have signed a second memorandum of understanding with Brisbane-based firm Ferra Engineering for more work on the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) project.

 
 

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[Keith]

Son of Diggers' protector killed in raid
EXCLUSIVE: Jeremy Kelly, Surkh Morghab, Afghanistan
From: The Australian
March 23, 2010

Source: The Australian

A POLICEMAN who helps to guard one of the most dangerous roads that Diggers use in Afghanistan does not blame the Australian commandos for a bungled raid in which his son, three other children and two adults died, and plans to continue to work with them.

The Director of Military Public Prosecutions is considering charges against the soldiers involved in the raid last year, which could result in manslaughter or negligence charges being heard by court martial.

But Abdul Qayam, 35, who guards one of the many police checkpoints on the way to Surkh Morghab and who lost his seven-year-old son Nawab in the raid on February 12 last year, does not believe the Australians are guilty. Rather, he says, they were misled by a local spy who led them to believe the house the Australians raided contained a Taliban leader, Mullah Noorullah.

The Australian travelled through Taliban territory to the village of Surkh Morghab last week to interview the families of those killed.

Announcing the tragedy last year, the Australian Defence Force said five children were killed, but official Afghan police report says only four people died.

The report, a single, handwritten sheet with a police stamp on it, says those killed in the raid were: Noorullah Khan; his eight-year-old son Esamullah; Zakira Khan, believed to be about 20; and Nawab Qayam, 7. But surviving relatives and local agencies said two other infant children died. They were a girl, Gulsema, and a boy, Esmatullah.

The bereaved families were each given as compensation two cows for each person killed.

Those interviewed by The Australian denied there was anyone called Noorullah Khan living in the house and thought he had been mistaken for Amrullah Khan. The police report says six people, two women and four children, were wounded in the attack.

The village of Surkh Morghab is about 10km northeast of the Oruzgan capital of Tarin Kowt, where most of Australia's personnel are based.

While the ADF never says exactly where attacks on its troops take place, locals said the road to Surkh Morghab, through the Chora district, had been the scene of many roadside bomb attacks against foreign forces, including Australians.

Last week's attack on an Australian Bushmaster troop carrier, in which six Australians were wounded, three seriously, happened in Chora.

The dusty rutted road slices through a patchwork of crops, which at this time of year are bursting through the fertile soil.

Abdul Qayam, 35, guards one of the many police checkpoints on the way to Surkh Morghab.

In the fields below is the rusting body of a police vehicle hit by a roadside bomb.

Qayam carries with him badges given to him by Australian special forces soldiers, and has a picture of Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai stuck on the magazine of his Kalashnikov.

Qayam's son, Nawab, was staying in his brother-in-law Zahir Khan's house, which was hit in the raid on February 12 last year and he was one of those killed.

In the skies, Dutch gunships buzz around, part of a NATO operation, we're told, in the neighbouring village of Dey Jowz.

Qayam agrees to accompany us after a local doctor comes from the area near the house and says it is safe to travel there if we stay only a short time. Qayam recruits another policeman and six of us cram into a Corolla station wagon and drive up the road.

About 2km down the road, Qayam orders the driver to stop. We walk alongside small irrigation canals feeding the young crops. It's spring, which is the traditional start to the fighting season. Here, opium plantations dominate the landscape.

We've walked only 10 minutes before we come to a house in a mud-walled compound. An old man greets us warmly. He has a frazzled beard almost as white as his turban, scorched skin and eyes almost permanently closed from decades under the sun.

He orders a young boy to go into the house and direct all women to remain indoors as foreigners will be coming in.

There is no gate and it's unlikely the commandos had to bust their way into the house on the night they launched the attack.

Inside the compound, an infant plays in the dirt. Two baby chickens and a cow compete for space next to a 1.5m-high pile of dried poppy stems in one corner.

In the middle of the compound is a derelict well.

Even by Afghan standards, the family is poor and the home an unlikely residence for the senior Taliban commander said to have been the target of the attack.

We are guided through the compound by Amrullah's cousin and neighbour, Haji Dastegar.

Children are sent to bring the bullet and shrapnel-riddled shawls that some of the six people killed that night were clutching.

We ask to see where the victims were buried. They are on a small hill behind the house and each grave is decorated with strips of ripped clothing, the clothes of those who lie beneath.

Qayam grabs a shredded waistcoat on one of the graves. It belonged to his son, Nawab.

"I really loved my son but he was killed mistakenly," he says.

Asked if the soldiers deserve to be punished, Qayam replies: "Not the soldiers, they didn't know. The raid was a mistake. They were deceived by others.

"The guy who gave the wrong report should be punished. The Australians are not guilty. The guilty person is the spy who reported my house."

Qayam does not know who the spy was, but he wants to find out. He says he received $US1500 ($1643) compensation from the Australian troops and he is happy to keep working for them.

"I work with them for the past three years and I will continue to work with them and The Netherlands forces," he says. "I am working hard to keep the road safe."

Haji Dastegar is less forgiving.

"The people are sleeping and they are coming and killing them," he says. "How can I be happy with these Australians?"

There are more than 40 graves in the village cemetery. Many of them are only 60cm long.

Death in Afghanistan, a world leader in infant mortality, is all-too common.

But in most cases, there's an explanation for the death.

The families of those killed on the night of February 12 last year are still waiting for theirs.

Last night, an ADF spokesman said: "The Director of Military Prosecutions has this matter under consideration and it would be inappropriate for any public comment to be made about the investigation of the incident or about the progress of the DMP's deliberations."

 
 

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[Keith]

Australian soldier fights on despite injury in Afghanistan
From: AAP
March 20, 2010
 
 

Afghanistan: Australian SAS soldiers wounded in Afghanistan during a battle with Taliban fighters are being treated at a Dutch run surgical field hospital at the coalition base at Tarin Kowt. The hospital is staffed by Australian trauma specialists who will be fighting to save the life of one soldier and repair eight others. Source: AAP

AN injured Australian soldier continued fighting in southern Afghanistan for two days before he sought help, so he didn't let his mates down.

The latest casualty occurred on Tuesday from an improvised explosive device detonated by suspected Taliban insurgents.

The soldier, who sustained back injuries, was one of six Australian Defence Force personnel hurt while travelling in a Bushmaster military vehicle in the Chora Valley, in southern Afghanistan's Oruzgan province.

It brings the tally of soldiers injured in Afghanistan in 2010 to 14.

The commander of the Australian forces in the Middle East, Major General John Cantwell, said the injured soldier would receive medical treatment in the United Arab Emirates.

A medical assessment will determine whether he returns to duty.

``In this case, we have a young bloke who has toughed it out for 48 hours because he didn't want to let his mates down,'' Maj Gen Cantwell said.

``As soon as he completed the mission and was safely back to Tarin Kowt with his mates he sought help.''

The injured soldiers were initially treated at Tarin Kowt, but three of them were transferred to a medical facility in Kandahar, in southern Afghanistan.

They will return to Australia for rehabilitation.

Another soldier is being treated at a US medical facility in Landstuhl, Germany before he is brought back to Australia.

Maj Gen Cantwell said it was unfortunate the soldiers were injured, and it was appropriate for them to return to family and friends.

One soldier will remain in Tarin Kowt and has returned to duty.

To date, 11 Australian soldiers have died and 114 have been injured in Afghanistan since the Howard government sent troops to the US-led war in 2002.


 
 

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[Keith]

TEAM UZUNOV blog

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/

Sunday, March 21, 2010
FAIRFAX CRUSADE AGAINST 1 COMMANDO REGIMENT

 In 1998, a year before the break out of conflict in East Timor, Lieutenant General Frank Hickling, then Chief of the Australian Army, wisely undid some of the damage caused by defence experts in their running down of the Army's warfighting capability. It seems the Australian media have failed to scrutinise these "failed defence theorists" in light of recent controversies in Afghanistan. Hickling is pictured (second from left) with then Major General Peter Cosgrove, the mission commander. Photo source: ADF.


FAIRFAX'S "CURIOUS CRUSADE" AGAINST 1 COMMANDO REGIMENT
By Sasha Uzunov

Fairfax newspaper reporters Jonathon Pearlman are Tom Hyland are ferociously targeting the Australian Armys 1 Commando Regiment over an alleged botched raid which resulted in the killing of children in Afghanistan last February. Soldiers from that unit, largely reservist, could possibly face legal proceedings.

But there are three important issues being missed here in the Fairfaxs crusade: due process of law, the assumption of innocence and who shapes Australia?s defence policy.

Heres a recap. Pearlman wrote in the Sydney Morning Herald on 5 December 2009

www.smh.com.au/national/soldiers-may-be-first-to-face-charges-for-combat-since-vietnam-20091204-kaxw.html?skin=text-only

A NIGHT-TIME raid in which five Afghan children were killed has cast a cloud over Australia's elite forces and could result in combat-related charges against Australian soldiers for the first time since the Vietnam War.

TEAM UZUNOV on 7 December 2009 reported the other side of the story in www.scoop.nz.co

The Australian Armys elite reservist unit, 1 Commando Regiment, is being made a scapegoat over allegations of misconduct in Afghanistan, a former unit member has told TEAM UZUNOV.

The experienced ex-Commando said that he was deeply concerned over claims that poorly trained and led members had breached rules of engagement during a raid on house in Afghanistan which resulted in the deaths of 5 local children after grenades had been thrown last February.

My concern is the unit has been left out to dry by the Defence Department even before judgement has been passed. Let due process of law take place, he said. If people were innocent then that should be shouted from the rooftops but if people were guilty then throw the book at them.

Whatever the outcome of the investigation, the responsibility is with the government of the day as well Defence Department bureaucrats. It is they who send troops to war.

Tom Hyland, the defence expert for The Sunday Age in "Deadly Afghan raids expose leadership failings" on 21 March 2010 wrote:

?Now, 12 months on, members of the unit await a decision on whether they will face criminal charges over the deaths of Amrullah and the children, killed on February 12, 2009.

Tom Hyland quote:, Sunday Age, 21 March, 2010

" Along the way, it has exposed a rivalry almost as old as the army itself, between full-time troops and part-time reservists - chocos, some regulars call them, chocolate soldiers who can't take the heat."

TEAM UZUNOV quote, 7 December 2009,

http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0912/S00060.htm

Traditionally a fierce rivalry has existed between the Australian Regular Army (ARA) and the Army Reserve (Ares). Reservists are known as chocolate soldiers or chockos for allegedly not being able to withstand combat and melt under pressure.

Some Regular soldiers and officers see the reservists as allegedly incompetent or as weekend warriors. Some reservists regard their full time colleagues as lifers unable to think outside the box.

Tom Hyland, Sunday Age, 21 March 2010

"The regiment's experiences have triggered an intense debate within army ranks - about Special Forces tactics, and wider questions about a political and military preference for sending Special Forces, rather than large infantry units, to conflicts like Afghanistan."

2005 UZUNOV STORY ON THE OVER USE OF THE SAS (extract):

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2009/01/minister-on-afghan-fact-finding-trip.html
The Herald Sun newspaper
A grand political warrior

by Sasha Uzunov21 January 2005

...Some have criticised General (Peter) Cosgrove on his over reliance on the SAS to do the fighting in East Timor that would normally have been taken up by the regular infantry. But I think this criticism is unjustified.

Criticism should be aimed at the government of the day (Howard 1996-2007) and those at home squeamish about seeing a 19 year old lad away from home for the first time fighting a war. Better to send the SAS, whose identity cannot be revealed...

TEAM UZUNOV ? 9 September 2008

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2008/09/failed-nelson-howard-doctrine-on.html

NELSON-HOWARD MILITARY DOCTRINE: contradiction?

To top that off, a legacy of the Nelson-Howard military doctrine has the Special Forces doing most of the fighting (in Afghanistan), because of the fear of casualties to our regular infantry units. The long term effect could be burn out of our Special Forces. But the irony is if we withdraw our SF units and do not replace them with infantry units, then the pressure on Taliban is eased. It is one contradictory military doctrine, to say the least.

Both Pearlman and Hyland are quite correct to scrutinise the above story and we would encourage them to do so in an even handed manner. We would encourage them to examine overall defence policy and who shapes it.

Here is a key point that has been missed: why is it Australian Defence Policy to use Special Forces in an infantry role in Afghanistan, as well as throwing Army reservists in the deep end? Who caused this dramatic shift in defence thinking?

Hyland has gone on the record as calling anyone, other than fellow Fairfax journalists, who scrutinises defence experts or defence policy engaged in a ?curious crusade.? See link: www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=9078&page=0

What Pearlman and Hyland will not touch upon is the change came about in Defence policy when two key experts Professor Paul Dibb and ex-Fairfax journalist turned government advisor Hugh White decided to cut back the number of full time infantry soldiers with the consequences of using reservists in combat roles.

Heres a blast from the past:

http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=8179
Generals and Diggers saved the day in Timor 20 November 2008

Influential Defence expert and former Fairfax journalist, Hugh White, has revealed that Australia?s involvement in East Timor succeeded because of the Indonesian military?s (TNI) reluctance to fight a full scale war; this is partly true.

"Interfet succeeded as well as it did largely because Habibie and the TNI allowed it to succeed," White said.

Interfet was the name of the 1999 Australian led mission to restore order after East Timor declared its independence from 24 years of harsh Indonesian occupation. BJ Habibie was the then President of Indonesia who permitted East Timor to hold a UN supervised referendum.

White, who was the deputy secretary (strategy and intelligence) in the Defence Department, and the mastermind behind the Interfet mission, fails to mention four big factors behind the success.

They are: the brilliant leadership of two Australian Army generals, Frank Hickling and Interfet Commander Peter Cosgrove, the calibre of the Special Forces, the SASR, and the ordinary digger when confronted by the pro-Indonesian militia groups.

There was a secret war in East Timor fought by Indonesian Special Forces: Kopassus. The objective was to inflict as many casualties on Australians and New Zealanders in the hope that their respective governments would withdraw.

The Howard government at the time deliberately used the Armys elite Special Forces unit, SASR (Special Air Service Regiment), to do most of the fighting in East Timor: fighting which should have been performed by the infantry.

The political logic was that the public and media would accept SASR casualties rather than a 19-year-old infantryman, fresh out of home or from a small country town.

But political logic does not necessarily make good military sense and vice-versa. In East Timor the pro-Indonesian militia tried to inflict as many casualties as possible on our infantry units, including battalions made up of many reserve/part time soldiers, in the hope that Australia would withdraw.

Heres more on Dibb and White

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2008/09/rudd-real-mccoy-on-defence.html

September 23, 2008 - RUDD THE REAL McCOY ON DEFENCE?

Whatever PM Rudd?s true motivation is, you have hand it to him he is a very clever strategic/foreign affairs operator that many pundits have not given him the credit. Let me explain by drawing a comparison with Bob Hawke, another ALP Prime Minister (1983-91), also with messianic tendencies.

Hawke was known as the great conciliator whose claim to fame was his ability to bring opposing groups to the negotiating tables and hammer out a deal. During his Prime Ministership he brought in British academic Professor Paul Dibb and ex-Fairfax journalist Hugh White. Their brief was to transform the defence department with a number or reports, Defence White Papers and so on. Instead we ended up with a mess that took over a decade to bring under some form of control.

Mr Bruce Haigh, a former diplomat revealed during an interview with SBS TVs Dateline program on 27-9-2000 that:

Defence is the department thats divided amongst itself, as far as I can gather, and there are certain people inside Defence whove taken a certain line for a long period of time - the Paul Dibb line, if you like, which is high-tech, US-alliance - and youve got others who are saying, "No. Weve got the situation to the north- we need to have more people in uniform, we need to have them trained, we need to have night-vision equipment provided for them.  The Australian Army can see what needs to be done, but many of the civilian Defence personnel, whove built their careers on playing up to this particular line, are arguing the other case, and feeling increasingly isolated, because they are not facing reality. That?s the problem.

Respected Brigadier Jim Wallace, former Special Forces Commander, wrote in 2003:

?Unfortunately, Australian defence policy has been mainly wrong for the whole of this period. Even after we committed troops to East Timor, Professor Paul Dibb, the policy's chief architect, was standing in front of parliamentary committees vowing that Australia would not be conducting what he called "expeditionary" operations out of the region. This was despite a series of major UN deployments over many years to places as far afield as Rwanda and Somalia. Afghanistan and Iraq have hopefully now discredited this logic.

At the same time, Dr Hugh White was arguing in initial drafts for the 2000 white paper to reduce the size of our army to about 19,000, on the basis that, like Professor Dibb, he didn't see the Government needing options for deployment out of the region, particularly for sending the army. The result has been an incredible demand on the dedication and professionalism of our special forces as they have again been thrown into the breach that our supposedly expert defence planners couldn't predict.

Professor Dibbs response was to make the snide remark on the ABC TV Lateline program on July 11, 2002 that Wallace was a retired brigadier.

The moral of the story is if your a big name Fairfax journalist you have a "Special Media Licence" to scrutinise or a 'Media Sheriff's Badge" which no one else seems to be entitled to.
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------
 
TEAM UZUNOV
 
Sasha Uzunov graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, in 1991. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army as a soldier in 1995 and was allocated to infantry. He served two peacekeeping tours in East Timor (1999 and 2001). In 2002 he returned to civilian life as a photo journalist and film maker and has worked in The Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. His documentary film Timor Tour of Duty made its international debut in New York in October 2009. It picked up a Platinum Reel Award from the 2009 Nevada Film Festival (US). He blogs at Team Uzunov.
 

http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/

 

TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY WEBSITE

[Keith]

SMH
 
Navy vindicated over sinking
http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/politics/navy-vindicated-over-sinking-20100319-qm1l.html
 
MIRANDA DEVINE In the end, the inquest into the fatal explosion of the asylum seeker boat SIEV 36 off Ashmore Reef last year did not scapegoat our navy.

 
 

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[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Saturday, 20 March 2010
034/2010

New Chinook CH-47 helicopters

Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) has signed a contract with the US Army Security Assistance Command to acquire seven CH-47F Chinook helicopters, two Simulators and associated spares.

"The aircraft will replace the existing fleet of six CH-47D Chinooks operated by C Squadron of the 5th Aviation Regiment based in Townsville, and the first two aircraft are planned to enter service in 2014, with all seven in service by 2017," Mr Combet said.

"The CH-47D fleet is providing outstanding support to the ADF, particularly in Afghanistan, and this acquisition of seven new CH-47F Chinook helicopters by the Australian Government will strengthen our ability to support our soldiers in the future.

"The CH-47Fs purchased for the Australian Defence Force are planned to incorporate some minor Australian specific mission equipment enhancements including crashworthy crew and passenger seating, fitment of Miniguns, and underfloor ballistic protection.

"However, the primary aircraft elements will remain consistent with the US Army fleet so we can leverage the benefits of their large fleet for engineering and other support.

"The contract to procure the aircraft through the US Government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme was signed at a ceremony at the Australian Embassy in Washington on Friday 19 March.  It follows Government approval of Project AIR 9000 Phase 5C announced by the Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, on 25 February 2010.

"Australian industry will have the opportunity to incorporate the Australian specific enhancements and to support the new helicopters as part of through-life support arrangements," Mr Combet said.

The contract was valued at $513.5million. 

[Keith]

Australia worst in defence spend
Brendan Nicholson
From: The Australian
March 20, 2010
 
DEFENCE officials have been caught short by a new report revealing that Australia and its closest ally, the US, are the world's most wasteful nations when it comes to buying and maintaining military equipment.

The US and Australia came at the bottom of a list of 33 countries ranked according to how efficiently they spent their defence budgets in the analysis prepared by global consultants McKinsey.

Brazil, Poland and Russia came out on top of the 33 nations which account for 90 per cent of global defence spending.

McKinsey is uniquely placed to compare the effectiveness of defence spending across nations because it had been invited to carry out comprehensive audits in many of the countries included in its latest research.

The US-based company was called in by the Rudd government to carry out a massive internal search for waste in the Australian Defence Force and the Department of Defence. It recommended that the government should force Defence to find savings of $20 billion over a decade to help pay for major purchases of ships, submarines, aircraft and guns.

That advice triggered an extensive waste elimination program within the department.

The latest McKinsey study says the US and Australia are the world's worst performing countries with regard to "equipment output for every dollar spent".

But Australia did much better than the US when the "tooth to tail" ratio was calculated to show how many personnel it took to keep fighting soldiers in battle.

Norway came out top with 54 per cent at the teeth end, 36 per cent considered non-combatants and 11 per cent in combat support.

The US had just 16 per cent of its personnel in front-line roles and 84 per cent in non-combat or support roles.

Australia had 34 per cent of its personnel in combat roles.

The average was 26 per cent in combat roles.

McKinsey says countries that support their own defence industries by building their own equipment rather than buying it off the shelf from international suppliers were likely to pay more for it.

The Australian government plans to have 12 submarines built in Adelaide to replace the Navy's six Collins Class boats. Analysts have warned that could cost at least $35bn, while submarines could be bought off the shelf for much less.

A spokesman for Defence Minister John Faulkner said the minister was aware of the report and that the government had made eliminating waste a high priority.

Analyst Andrew Davies of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute said "a long-term epidemic of over-optimism in Defence" was largely to blame for regular cost blowouts.

As an example, he said, at the start of the process of buying the US Joint Strike Fighter to replace the RAAF's F-111 bombers and F/A-18 fighter-bombers, the RAAF estimated that each JSF would cost $US50m. That had now blown out to $US90m each.

 THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Briton tells how he shot Aussie in Iraq
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/briton-tells-how-he-shot-aussie-in-iraq/story-e6frg6nf-1225843059377

Jamie Walker A BRITISH security contractor facing the death penalty in Iraq for shooting dead Australian Darren Hoare has described how the former RAAF guard lunged for his pistol during a drunken fight, forcing him to fire in self-defence.

Medal for ending phone bombs
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/medal-for-ending-phone-bombs/story-e6frg6nf-1225843035726

Brad Norington, Washington correspondent MICHAEL Steer feels rightly pleased that he has saved the lives of thousands of allied soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq after his work stopped the use of mobile phones to trigger roadside bombs.

 
 

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[Keith]

Bayonet thrust aside as tactics change
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/us-army-drops-bayonet-training-as-tactics-change/story-e6frg8yo-1225842187092

9:31AM Michael Evans IT HAS been a decisive weapon in armies' arsenals since the 16th century but now the bayonet has been dropped from US military training drills.

 
They should look about 6 feet underground. He has been dead for years.
US forces vow to keep up Bin Laden hunt
 
8:53AM US FORCES are still trying to capture Osama Bin Laden despite the Attorney-General yesterday saying that the al-Qa-ida leader would never be taken alive.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/stanley-mcchrystal-vows-to-keep-up-hunt-for-osama-bin-laden/story-e6frg6so-1225842162390

ABC NEWS
 
Australia 'needs to deter' asylum seeker violence
 
The NT Coroner found an explosion on an asylum seeker boat last April was deliberately lit (Australian Defence Force)

The Australia Defence Association (ADA) says the nation needs to show it will not accept acts of violence by asylum seekers trying to enter Australia.

The comments come after the Northern Territory Coroner found an explosion on an asylum seeker boat last April was deliberately lit.

The findings have been referred to police.

ADA executive director Neil James says the navy and Customs are facing escalating violence from asylum seekers and illegal fishermen.

He says there needs to be a strong deterrent to rising violence.

"We've had to increasingly more heavily arm and protect our boarding parties," he said.

"Even a short time ago they didn't have to wear stab vests, for example, and helmets - and they didn't have to carry as many firearms.

"They've been attacked with machetes and knives."

He says any violence should be taken into account when deciding whether to grant asylum.

"The bottom line here is that we've had asylum seekers coming to this country for 60 to 70 years without having to employ high levels of violence to get into the country," he said.

"Why has this suddenly changed now? It needs to be deterred and prevented and where necessary, punished."

The Opposition is calling on the Government to cancel the permanent protection visas granted to the three Afghan men the coroner said were part of a plot to disable the SIEV 36.

But Refugee Action Coalition spokesman Ian Rintoul says regardless of what police rule, the asylum seekers should be allowed to stay in Australia.

"It's an absolute tragedy that lives were lost, but when you look at the whole picture the blame lies much more on the circumstances that those asylum seekers were placed in," he said.

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 067/10

Tuesday, 16 March 2010

One Commando Regiment Army Reservists reach out to Oruzgan

Special Force reservists from 1st Commando Regiment have successfully completed their mission in Afghanistan of providing protection for the local Afghan population.

Thanks to their efforts in Oruzgan province, Taliban insurgents now have less access to the population and local Afghan police have a stronger presence.

Their mission over winter was Population Centric Operations, which involved heading to remote and dangerous parts of Oruzgan that were at risk of insurgent influence, and working to build the support of local communities for the Afghan National Security Forces and International Security Assistance Force efforts to maintain security in the province.

They did this by listening to community leaders, conducting medical clinics, providing humanitarian assistance, and conducting community based security assessments, in conjunction with Oruzgans Provincial Police Reserve, whom they supported and trained.

The Officer Commanding, Major B said that in addition to their skills as fully trained Commandos, the reservists brought a wide variety of skills and experience from their civilian lives.

I think on this tour the reservists value added to the population centric strategy adopted by the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG), Major B said.

The reservists wide variety of skills and life experience came to the fore when dealing with the civilian population, something we must continue to do if we are to be successful in helping the people of Afghanistan. 

Most important however is that we are all fully trained Commandos who were able to perform magnificently in arduous conditions.

The dedicated efforts of the SOTG personnel built on the successes of previous rotations in helping to weaken the Taliban insurgency and make them less able to intimidate the local population. 

The SOTG and their Afghan partners provided protection for the local civilians who were targeted by insurgents ? offering a good test of Commando core skills.

The SOTG mission over winter involved patrolling deep into remote and dangerous parts of Oruzgan and neighbouring provinces where the Taliban still maintain significant influence over the population. 

Media note: Imagery is available at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100209c/index.htm

http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100316/index.htm

[Keith]

 
Private Robert Charles Moncrieff
1944 - 1966

Robert (Bob) Moncrieff was born in Hamilton, NSW, December 17, 1944.

He attended Cooks Hill High School, and after attaining the Intermediate Certificate he worked as a hardware salesman with the firm Fred Ash Ltd in Newcastle.

He enlisted in the Army April 21, 1964 and was allocated to the Royal Australian Infantry. He underwent Special Air Service (SAS) selection in 1965 and was posted to the SASR April 21, 1965

Bob came from 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment ranked as private, on posting as a driver/batman. He was posted to E Troop 2 SAS Squadron on January 13, 1966.

Within the SAS he took courses in basic parachuting, small craft handling and signals.

In October 1965, he deployed to Papua New Guinea to complete preparation training with 2 SAS Squadron before deployment to Borneo in January 1966.

Bob was a person so full of life that everyone with whom he came in contact immediately liked him. Bob was always there for anyone who needed a laugh or to run an idea past. He was neither the fittest or toughest SAS soldier of his time, but he was extremely dedicated and put in many extra hours of training to be the best soldier he could be. He always said that the proud day of his life was when he was presented his sandy beret (the beret worn only by SAS).

Bob was a keen surfer from his early life in Newcastle and was an avid "bird watcher" at Cottesloe Beach on Sundays with is mates. Bob also loved parachuting and convinced some of his colleagues to buy a shared, second-hand sports chute. He and his investment partners spent many weekends at Rockingham keeping up their sky-God skills.

Bob was swept away in a river crossing on March 21, 1966 during SAS operations in Indonesia, during the Indonesian Confrontation. His remains have been found thanks to the tireless work of many ex-serving and serving members of the Special Forces family and an official Army investigation.


 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Missing Patrolmen Found After 44 Years

The remains of two Australian servicemen missing in action in Indonesia since 1966, have been found and positively identified.

"Special Air Service (SAS) patrolmen Lieutenant Kenneth Hudson and Private Robert Moncrieff were part of an SAS patrol and were conducting border security operations during the Indonesia Confrontation between the Federation of Malaysia and Indonesia," Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science said.

"Lieutenant Hudson and Private Moncrieff were separated from the rest of their patrol during a river crossing in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, on 21 March 1966.

"When the two men failed to failed to rendezvous with their patrol as planned, the patrol returned to its base in Sarawak.

Despite extensive searches to locate the patrolmen at the time, they were not found," Mr Combet said.

In 2008, Army commenced an investigation to try and locate the human remains of the two men. The Army immediately asked for assistance from the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI). Agreement was received in 2009, along with the offer of direct assistance from officers of TNI to form a joint investigation and research team. 
 
"I would like to recognise and praise the efforts of the official Australian Army investigation team, and express gratitude for the support of the TNI during the investigation," Mr Combet said.

"Due to this great level of cooperation and assistance provided by the Indonesian Government and the TNI, the Army will be able to bring the remains of Kenneth Hudson and Robert Moncrieff home to their families.

"In particular I would like to acknowledge the assistance of the residents of Sanggau province, who offered the recovery team significant assistance. The team discovered that at the time of the disappearance it was local Indonesians who had found the bodies of the two men and recovered them and gave them respectful burials. It was the same Indonesians who helped the joint team locate the burial sites and recover the remains.

"I would also like to express my sincere thanks to many within the ex-serving and serving SAS community for their role in the recovery of the remains which were recovered from two burial sites, six kilometres apart.

"The perseverance and determined efforts of the ex-serving and serving SAS community have contributed to the final success to locate and recover the remains of the two missing soldiers.

"Planning is now well underway to repatriate the remains of Lieutenant Hudson and Private Moncrieff to Australia. The date for repatriation will be advised when known.

"Their families have awaited their return for 44 years. They will now be able to bring their loved ones home and lay them to rest with proper military honours," Mr Combet said.

The official Army investigation report and findings have been presented to and accepted by the West Australian Coroner.

In 1965-66 the Australian Army was involved in border security operations during the Indonesia Confrontation between the Federation of Malaysia and Indonesia. This included cross border operations of Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) patrols, part of the Australian Forces stationed in the Malaysian state of Sarawak.

Media Note:
The families of the Lieutenant Hudson and Private Moncrieff have requested privacy and will not be conducting media interviews at this present time.

Imagery is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Mar/20100316c/index.htm

Biographies for Lieutenant Hudson and Private Moncrieff are available at: www.defence.gov.au

[Keith]

The boffins at DMO should very carefully check this equipment for bugs.
 
Israel defence deal
March 16, 2010
 
THE AGE
Australia has signed a multimillion-dollar deal with an Israeli defence company to develop a next-generation command and communications system for the Australian Defence Force.

Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science Greg Combet said Haifa-based Elbit Systems Limited won the $349 million contract after a worldwide open tender.

Elbit will develop a command, control and communications capability for elements of the army, Special Operations Command and the Air Force's combat support group.

 
 

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[Keith]

SMH
 
Navy cadet fought waves to save others
TERRY SMYTH
March 15, 2010
 
Michelle Lakin ? award.

''I DON'T know how I picked up the courage,'' Michelle Lakin says. ''You just don't know what you're capable of until you get into these situations.''

Ms Lakin, 25, is one of 68 people to be awarded Australian Bravery Decorations.

They will be announced today by the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce.

A recipient of the Commendation for Brave Conduct, Ms Lakin was 15 in 2000 when she and two other teenage naval cadets capsized in nasty weather in Broken Bay, off the Central Coast.

Ms Lakin, who now serves with the navy and is based in Darwin, swam out to recover her companions each time the boat turned over.

''We were unable to right the craft and soon became exhausted in the heavy seas,'' Ms Lakin said.

''We had two- to three-metre swells and were very close to Lion Island. That was a bit scary because we weren't sure whether the dinghy was going to drift to the island and smash onto the rocks.''

Ms Lakin's citation says she ''maintained her composure, reassuring and supporting the cadets as their situation worsened''.

Fighting fear and hypothermia, the three teenagers clung to the upturned boat for more than two hours. Rescuers were unable to reach them.

''My CO, who was in the sea boat trying to get close to us, kept screaming, 'We can't come closer! It's too rough!'''

She tied her companions' life jackets together to prevent them separating. ''I held them tight and eventually we got onto the top of the boat and I was hugging them and, to take their minds off what was happening, I sung to them. It's weird what you do in these situations.''

The bravery awards, established in 1975, recognise civilians who risked their lives to save those in peril.

This year's major award, the Star of Courage, went to a Western Australian newsagent, Ronald Gianoncelli, who successfully fended off an armed robber after being shot by him.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Monty's boozy Aussie double fooled Nazi spy
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/d-day-montgomery-spy/story-e6frg6so-1225839889393
 
Ben MacIntyre Newly released documents reveal how a bit actor played a starring role in the lead-up to D-Day

Sailors had sex to `end harassment'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/female-sailors-had-sex-on-ship-to-end-harassment/story-e6frg8yo-1225840211821
 
FEMALE sailors had sex with "predatory" male colleagues on a navy ship to avoid further harassment.

 
 

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[Keith]

Navy warship zapped by friendly fire
Cameron Stewart
From: The Australian
March 12, 2010

UP to 60 sailors aboard the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Sirius have been exposed to radiation after another warship accidentally locked its powerful air warning radar on to the navy tanker off the NSW coast.

Defence says the radiation levels were not significant enough to pose a health risk to the crew, despite the fact the sweep of the radar on to HMAS Sirius set off a fire alarm and knocked out communications equipment. The incident occurred off the NSW south coast last Friday, when the Sirius was transferring fuel and water to the Anzac frigate HMAS Warramunga.

"During this activity, when the ships were around 55m apart and travelling parallel to each other, Warramunga's long-range air warning radar was active, thereby inadvertently causing about 1-2 minutes of radar sweep across Sirius," a Defence spokesman said.

"This was because the radar was incorrectly `blanked' to the wrong side. This is outside normal operating procedure and the radar was put into standby mode as soon as the error was realised."

Sources say the radar caused a fire siren on Sirius to sound and communications equipment to fail. It unnerved the 60-strong crew, many of whom reported to the ship's medical officer to ask whether the accident posed health risks.

Defence said the crew was "not exposed to a dangerous level of RF (radiofrequency) radiation," because the ships were 55m apart and the "personnel danger zone for the radar is within 26m of the antenna".

"As Sirius was well outside this danger zone, there is no radiation risk to personnel in the ship," a spokesman said. "The ship's company of Sirius have been provided with this information."

An investigation found it was caused by "human error through incorrect application of radar sector blanking".

Defence could not explain why the radar set off a fire alarm on Sirius and even suggested that the timing of the alarm may have been a coincidence.

"During this time (of the radar sweep), a fire alarm on the Sirius falsely activated (but) it is not known if this was a coincidence or related to the operation of the long-range air warning radar,"a Defence spokesman said.

The Warramunga recently returned from the Indian Ocean, where it was deployed to help combat Somali pirate attacks on commercial ships off the Horn of Africa and Somalia.

Formerly a commercial tanker, the Sirius is a fleet replenishment vessel commissioned in 2006, which provides fuel and water to ships at sea. She is named in honour of the flagship of the First Fleet of British convicts sent to Australia in 1788.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AGE
 
$124m of defence weapons useless
DAN OAKES
March 11, 2010

MORE than $1.2 billion worth of defence munitions are useless or are not ready for battle, the national auditor has found.

Of the non-serviceable ordnance, $124 million worth of bombs, grenades, shells, bullets and missiles are totally beyond repair, according to an Australian National Audit Office report released yesterday.

The auditor also found the Defence Materiel Organisation, which buys equipment for the defence force, has not tightened up its armament procurement process, despite promising four years ago that it would.

The findings come on the heels of a report in The Sydney Morning Herald that uncovered seemingly profligate and inexplicable spending by the Australian Defence Force.

The auditor also found that Department of Defence is locked into a contract whereby it pays French arms giant Thales $93 million a year to maintain arms factories that produce ''increasingly irrelevant items''.

The factories, at Benalla in Victoria and Mulwala in NSW, are underutilised and marked by ''an inability to meet preparedness requirements'', said the auditor. Although the contract with Thales is to end in 2015, Defence may be liable for further, unspecified payments after the contract finishes.

The auditor's report was a report card on earlier recommendations made in 2006. Although Defence claimed it had implemented all 15 recommendations, the ANAO found only four had been fully implemented, with the remaining 11 at varying stages of implementation or not even under way.

One of the problems Defence must tackle, the auditor said, is armament serviceability. At June 2009, Defence held $2.9 billion worth of armaments, of which 42 per cent, or $1.21 billion, were ''other than serviceable''.

Of that, $124 million worth of ordnance was beyond repair. The rest was either repairable, was pending inspection, had limited use or was beyond their expiry date. The auditor found that the army alone had 57 per cent of the value of its ordnance in a non-serviceable condition.

''As a result of the ANAO's work in this current audit, which focused on the procurement of non-guided explosive ordnance for Army, the ANAO identified there were a range of ongoing issues which detracted from the effective procurement of explosive ordnance for the ADF,'' the report said.

''Cumulatively, the impact of these issues is substantial. In this light, there remains considerable scope for improvement in the management of explosive ordnance and it will be important for Defence and the DMO to effectively implement the current reform programs under way that seek to remediate them.''

Australian Defence Association executive director Neil James said last night that many of the problems could be traced back to cost cutting over the years, particularly the contracting out of storage to private companies such as Thales.

''Part of the problem is the contracting out, the commercialisation of things previously done by the three services. The services might have done them more expensively, but they did them more efficiently,'' he said.

 
 
ABC NEWS
 
Defence works to fix Iraq pay 'anomaly'

The Defence Department says it is working to resolve a pay anomaly involving Australian soldiers serving overseas.

ABC TV's Hungry Beast program says soldiers travelling to and from Iraq are not receiving the tax-free benefit and allowance owed to them.

It says a document given to the program shows a proposal to give all soldiers access to benefits was raised with the chief of joint operations, Mark Evans, last November.

A Defence Department spokesman says the matter is being reviewed, but not all soldiers have the same entitlements.

 

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[perthpaul]

reference this last story:

"in the face of the enemy"

this is the interesting part of the comment that is worth looking at more closely.

The explosive devices are planted and surveilled by the enemy (same as a minefield)

Is this not in the face of the enemy?

As the enemy waits for the bomb members to show up.

Its a no brainer that Brass do not have the brains to get their logic around.

[Keith]

THE AGE
 
'Hurt Locker' team forgotten
NICK MCKENZIE
March 10, 2010
 
Their work helped inspire The Hurt Locker (inset), but for Australian explosives experts such as Tony Gilchrist (above, on one of his 102 missions in Iraq), it seems Oscars come easier than bravery awards.

IF ART is meant to imitate life, then something went wrong when Kathryn Bigelow's film, The Hurt Locker, won the main awards at the Oscars.

In contrast to the very public adulation of the film, there has been a battle for recognition waged behind closed doors at the Australian Defence Force headquarters in Canberra.

In this battle, Australian soldiers who were part of the secret multinational taskforce in Iraq, whose work helped to inspire The Hurt Locker, have come out losers.

Despite the unique and deadly nature of their work and the support of the recently retired ADF deputy chief of joint operations, Greg Evans, none of them have been decorated for bravery.

Among the soldiers is former army captain Tony Gilchrist, who served an incredible 102 missions with the Combined Explosive Exploitation Cell in Iraq.

His missions include one in 2005 in which he crawled on his hands and knees to find a bomb hidden just metres from where two other devices had exploded hours before, killing four US soldiers and maiming one of Gilchrist's colleagues. On another occasion, Gilchrist defused a live suicide vest by hand.

Serving with Gilchrist was army sergeant Andrew Street, who served on more than 70 missions and was shot at, handled bikes packed with explosives and attended bomb scenes where secondary devices were known to be hidden.

Another Australian member of the bomb taskforce, Drew Martin, went "outside the wire" to dangerous bomb sites on more than 15 occasions.

The men's work exposed them to danger and carnage, sometimes on an almost unimaginable scale. Live bombs, known as secondary devices, hidden beneath the debris and the twisted bodies of dead soldiers and civilians, posed a constant threat.

Insurgents also waited for bomb squad members to attend blast sites so they could launch rocket and sniper attacks.

Senior defence sources have told The Age that the half-dozen or so Australians who served with the Combined Explosive Exploitation Cell were undoubtedly among the bravest soldiers who served in Iraq and have not been properly recognised by the ADF.

Because the men have already received awards for distinguished service, it is difficult to subsequently grant them medals to recognise their brave conduct in particular incidents. The sources blame the inflexibility of Australia's defence awards system for this failure.

Among the men's most senior supporters is retired Air Vice-Marshal Greg Evans, who was their commander in Iraq and who privately pushed for the ADF to reconsider upgrading its medals.

He declined to comment to The Age, but it is believed he is disappointed that, due to the rigidity of the awards system, the ADF was unable to easily deal with an anomaly when it occurred.

Executive director of the Australian Defence Association Neil James said it was an anomaly that should be corrected and was indicative of a tendency in the military to give bravery awards to those in ''more glamorous roles, like the special forces''.

''Bomb squad members have always found it difficult to win recognition ? [they] have been short-changed,'' he said.

Last October, Lieutenant-General Mark Evans confirmed in a letter obtained by The Age that the commendation already given to Andrew Street "does not inherently recognise bravery". But he stated that having reviewed Street's conduct, it served as an "appropriate recognition of his outstanding actions".

Gilchrist, who is campaigning for Street and the other Australian bomb squad members to receive bravery awards, was perplexed at this decision.

He is also frustrated at the failure of the ADF to contact any of the US bomb squad members who witnessed Street's conduct in Iraq.

In contrast to their Australian colleagues, the US and British members of the bomb taskforce have had their bravery promoted by their defence forces and been given some of their nations' highest bravery awards.

One of Gilchrist's colleagues who lost his left leg and part of his left arm after detonating a secondary device at a bombsite, British captain, now major, Peter Norton, was awarded the George Cross, Britain's highest award for gallantry not in the face of the enemy.

Gilchrist and Street both attended the bombsite where Norton was injured and helped find another hidden bomb.

Gilchrist stressed that his desire for his Australian colleagues to have their role fully and formally recognised was not about seeking publicity. He said it was about knowing that the price they paid for their service had been properly noted by those that sent them to war.

Gilchrist, along with most of the men he served with, have left the army suffering from trauma.

"We are not saying we are heroes. We just want our time in Iraq recorded for what it was,'' he said. ''Then we can try to get on with the rest of our lives."

 
 

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[Keith]

The best way to support these Troops is to bring them home, just like the majority of Australians want. Australians have applied the common sense test and found the Afghan conflict very wanting.
 
Special forces probed after children's deaths
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/special-forces-probed-after-childrens-deaths-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg6nf-1225838454551

Brendan Nicholson THE investigation into a tragically botched raid on a homestead in Afghanistan that killed five children has focused on the Australian special forces soldiers who carried out the raid, and on the officers who planned and authorised the operation.

THE AUSTRALIAN

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Old bombers to cost a million
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/old-bombers-to-cost-veterans-a-million/story-e6frg8yo-1225837143607

Cameron Stewart THE Rudd government will not repeat John Howard's failed attempt to attract the votes of veterans  by promising them obsolete military weapons.

RAAF's Super Hornets locked in for escort duty for Obama visit
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/raafs-super-hornets-locked-in-for-escort-duty-for-obama-visit/story-e6frg8yo-1225837132059

Mark Dodd FOUR of the RAAF's new Super Hornet fighters will escort Air Force One on the flight from the US to Canberra when Barack Obama visits this month.

RAAF relies on buffer in JSF delay
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/raaf-relies-on-buffer-in-latest-jsf-delay/story-e6frg6nf-1225836722376

Cameron Stewart and Mark Dodd THE troubled Joint Strike Fighter program has suffered another blow.

 
 

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[Keith]

If these sick urban warrior groupies want to be Soldiers then let them enlist in the Australian Defence Force where the bullets, wounds and weapons are real and live. These people are sick wannabees who are now encouraging our school kids, already fed a diet of online and computer game violence, to think War is the natural course of events and that killing is good and cool. Get these groups out of our schools, shut them down and tell them if they want to play Soldiers we can send them the addresses for all ADF recruitment centres.
 
 
Website promotes schools as 'killing fields'
By Andree Withey

ABC NEWS

PreviousNextSlideshow: Photo 1 of 2

 
The company has been asked to remove any inappropriate references to the schools from its promotional material. (ABC News)

Map: Macgregor 4109
Concerns have been raised over the promotion of some Brisbane and Gold Coast schools as venues for weekend war games.

The laser skirmish business Urban Assault promotes the schools on its website as the perfect set-up for 'killing fields' and 'the best urban assault battlefields'.

The company is promoting Robina, Macgregor and Springwood state high schools, along with Coolangatta Primary School, for weekend skirmish games.

Education Queensland (EQ) has asked the company to remove any inappropriate references to the schools from its promotional material.

Margaret Black, the president of the Queensland Council of Parents and Citizens Association (QCPCA), says she is shocked that schools would be described that way.

"I was actually astounded when I was told that was on that website and when I went and looked, I was absolutely horrified," she said.

"I spoke to people I know in those schools and they weren't even aware it was on the site.

"In speaking to education Queensland yesterday they weren't aware it was on the site.

Ms Black says in north Queensland, a school was asked to hire out its grounds for skirmish, but after consultation with the community it was rejected.

"I'm also of the belief that one or two of those schools mentioned on the website had already made a decision not to rent out their grounds any more and have demanded that they be removed from the site," she said.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd also wants to know why some schools are being hired out for 'skirmish' war games.

Mr Rudd says he does not know why it is necessary.

"The key thing is to make sure that P and Cs [Parents and Citizens Associations] and P and Fs [Parents and Families Associations] for that matter are properly supported by what governments are doing," he said.

"I think no one would argue that the Federal Government has been out there supporting local schools in recent times.

"As to why people would find it necessary to run these as fundraisers, I'd have a few questions in my own mind, but I'd really like to know the local detail."

Ms Black says it is up to each school to decide what their community wants and it is not for her as QCPCA president to dictate what any school should do.

She says the fundraising aspect of allowing skirmish games in school grounds is insignificant.

"We've advocated for a long time that the school grounds should be used by the community after hours, in consultation with the school and the P and C and the community," she said.

"If that's the decision of the school, that's their choice.

"It's not about fund raising - it's about using the school facilities for community as the community sees fit."

Ms Black says she would be surprised to hear of any school getting significant funds out of outside groups holding skirmish games in school grounds.

She says one of the schools involved holds it just four times a year and it is also happening interstate.

"Both state and private schools are used for activities after hours and most times it's not for fundraising purposes," she said.

"It's for the fact that there's a great community facility there that the community should be entitled to use and both state and federal governments advocate quite strongly about the school community and the grounds be able to be used."

The ABC has approached Queensland Education Minister Geoff Wilson for comment.

 

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[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
 
Sent: Tuesday, March 02, 2010 4:32 PM
Subject: 'Defective' choppers have potential - ADF

THE Australian Defence Force says the new transport helicopters it is buying have excellent potential despite a German report outlining a range of defects.

 A defence spokesman said Australia was seeking an English translation of the German Army trial report on its NH-90 helicopters.
He said all matters of operational effectiveness and airworthiness were taken seriously and the German report would be reviewed in detail.

"Australia is working with other nations and industry to address any issues arising as the NH-90 is introduced into service," he said.

"The aircraft, which has excellent potential, is relatively early in its developmental cycle. It is essential that any issues are identified and appropriately rectified so that the full combat potential of the aircraft can be realised."

Australia is acquiring 46 of these helicopters to replace Army Black Hawk and Iroquois helicopters and Navy Sea Kings through a deal worth $3.3 billion.

In Australian service, the NH-90 will be known as the MRH-90 for multi-role helicopter.

This is a European design, manufactured by NH Industries, a joint venture of Eurocopter, Agusta and Fokker.

Of the Australian helicopters, four were manufactured in Europe with the rest to be assembled in Brisbane by Eurocopter subsidiary Australian Aerospace.

The German military is the largest single customer, buying 152.

But a 103-page internal military report, leaked to German daily newspaper Bild last week, pointed to many shortcomings and even recommended using alternative aircraft in operational scenarios.

The problems include limited clearance so that soldiers have trouble getting in and out, a rear ramp too weak to support fully equipped soldiers, seats unable to accommodate soldiers weighing more than 110 kilograms and limited interior space,
which means there's no room for a door gunner.

SMH
 
Dogs of war caught up in scrap over freight terminal
JACOB SAULWICK
March 3, 2010

Sydney needs more rail freight to get trucks off the road. Defence needs to train dogs to detect bombs in Afghanistan. These two ambitions are colliding as the Rudd government tries to organise the largest freight terminal in Australia on land occupied by the army.

The departments of Infrastructure and Defence are locked in negotiations about land at Moorebank, used by the army but slated for a huge freight and truck terminal.

And while Defence has agreed to move, sources have told the Herald that a major sticking point is that it uses the site to train sniffer dogs.

The stand-off also means a potential budget headache for the government. The Infrastructure Minister, Anthony Albanese, has committed $300 million to developing the Moorebank terminal, but Defence is holding out for more than $400 million, the Herald has been told.

State and federal governments have been talking about the need for a terminal that links trains and trucks since at least 2005 to help move the increasing amount of freight flowing through Sydney's docks.

Both the Howard government and Labor opposition promised work on the terminal before the last election, and the project was recommended by Infrastructure Australia.

But talks between Defence and Infrastructure have bogged down over how much it will cost the army, which has a school of military engineering on the site, to relocate.

Sources have told the Herald that Defence brass argue that the need to maintain dog training is a reason to delay the shift. Discussions have also focused on the amount of Defence land needed for the project.

In 2007 the then opposition spokesman, Martin Ferguson, blasted state and federal governments for the delay.

''The planning process for Moorebank has been too slow ? Both the Department of Defence and the state government need to act with more urgency,'' he said.

Spokesmen for the Defence Minister, John Faulkner, and Mr Albanese said talks were continuing and an announcement would be made in due course.

Some Moorebank residents have complained there has been little consultation.

 
 

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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Hurt Locker in trouble over Oscars campaign

 
Will it win? Best picture favourite The Hurt Locker. (www.imdb.com)
Iraq war drama The Hurt Locker has been engulfed by controversy in the final sprint to the Oscars finishing line but should still win the coveted best picture prize at the awards extravaganza next Monday AEDT.

The independent film about a US Army bomb disposal unit in Baghdad emerged as the overwhelming favourite to win the top honour at the 82nd Academy Awards after collecting a string of other honours earlier this year.

However it has been revealed in the past few days that one of the film's producers, Nicolas Chartier, has broken strict rules concerning negative campaigning.

Chartier could face censure from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences after sending emails to swathes of Oscar voters urging them to vote for The Hurt Locker instead of a "500 million dollar film".

Chartier's emails were seen as a direct attack on best picture rival, James Cameron's big-budget science-fiction blockbuster Avatar.

The Frenchman has since been forced to issue an embarrassing apology, describing his email as "inappropriate and stupid".

"My email to you was out of line and not in the spirit of the celebration of cinema that this acknowledgment is," Chartier said.

"I was even more wrong, both personally and professionally, to ask for your help in encouraging others to vote for the film and to comment on another movie.

"As passionate as I am about the film we made, this was an extremely inappropriate email to send - and something that the Academy strongly disapproves of in the rules.

"My naivete, ignorance of the rules and plain stupidity as a first time nominee is not an excuse for this behaviour and I strongly regret it."

A spokeswoman for the Academy declined to comment on what action - if any - might be taken against Chartier.

Analysts have speculated that sanctions could range from withholding tickets to the ceremony for individuals connected to the film, all the way to the nuclear option of eliminating The Hurt Locker from the best picture race.

Pundits, however, are sceptical that the controversy will adversely impact the film's Oscars hopes, noting that the furore erupted only days before Tuesday's 5:00pm deadline for final ballots.

"When it's this late in the game, most of the ballots - or a good percentage of them - will be in," said Pete Hammond, Maxim magazine film critic and an awards season expert with the Los Angeles Times.

"It takes time for a story like this to permeate into the Academy.

"Will it have any effect? I doubt it. The bottom line is I think people still tend to vote for the film they like the best."

Veteran Oscarologist Tom O'Neil from the Los Angeles Times' TheEnvelope.com agrees.

"I'd say around three-quarters of the ballots were done by the time this broke," O'Neil told AFP.

"The widespread consensus is that The Hurt Locker has it in the bag and that even these issues aren't going to trip it up."

This year's Oscars, which take place at the Kodak Theatre, will see eight other films vying for best picture alongside Avatar and The Hurt Locker.

Other nominees include acclaimed science-fiction thriller District 9, Pixar's animated Up, sports drama The Blind Side and Quentin Tarantino's World War II revenge fantasy Inglourious Basterds.

Recession-era drama Up In The Air is also nominated along with low-budget films including An Education, Precious and A Serious Man.

Clear favourites have emerged across most of the other major categories.

Kathryn Bigelow is widely expected to become the first woman in Oscars history to win the best director prize for her work on The Hurt Locker, while Jeff Bridges and Sandra Bullock are poised to take the top acting awards.

"It looks as if all the top award races are locked in now," said O'Neil.

"It looks like there will be virtually no suspense.

"Usually you can feel the rumblings of a possible upset at this stage. But there's been nothing like that so far."

- AFP

 
 

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[Keith]

The money God rules supreme in the world.
 
 
From: Terry Davies
Sent: Monday, March 01, 2010 8:16 AM
Subject: Kmart wants us shopping on Anzac Day


Source: The Daily Telegraph

Kmart wants us shopping on Anzac Day



By Gemma Jones, Political Reporter From:
The Daily Telegraph March 01, 2010 12:00am



ON Anzac Day, Australia remembers its fallen - but retailer Kmart believes we want to go shopping.

The department store has applied to the State Government for permission to trade before the traditional opening of 1pm.

"Kmart submits that there is a desire within the community to see our stores open before 1pm on Anzac Day," the application said.

"Customers who are used to being able to shop at any time would potentially be severely inconvenienced by our closure. In short, they would not be able to obtain necessity items when they want."

The department store also wants to open on Easter Sunday and Boxing Day for the next three years because it says shopping is an important "leisure activity".

RSL President Don Rowe was outraged Kmart would want to trade on the morning of Anzac Day.

"We're totally opposed. Surely to God they can take a morning off to commemorate Anzac Day. That is what it is about, it is not about business," he said.

"I totally disagree [with their reason]. We see huge crowds at Anzac Day services. For them to think people want to go shopping ... they are not in touch with reality."

Rivals Woolworths said they would not make application to open any of their supermarkets or department stores on Anzac Day.

"It is one of those times in the year you just wouldn't dream of opening," spokeswoman Clare Buchanan said.

"It would never occur to us to put in an application to open on that day, for any of our brands."

In its application, Kmart said it believed people wanted to shop on Anzac Day and that customers appreciated 24-hour trading and that it had driven rising sales.

A Kmart spokeswoman denied the store was seeking to open on Anzac Day morning, claiming the move was "not for anything other than if there have been changes to legislation going forward".

The application was for "retail trading on restricted days" and there was no mention in Kmart's application of any changes in the law but it did state it wanted to be "exempt" from the two-year-old Shop Trading Act so it could open on the three public holidays.

In its application to open on Boxing Day, Kmart said that when stores were allowed to open on public holidays previously, "our business has seen great success".

It wants to open on Easter Sunday because Australia is multicultural and it says: "Shopping is an important social activity for our customers nationally."

The application went on to say shopping "provides for the opportunity for families to come together ... and gives them reason to spend special time with one another."



"A" Field Battery, Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery, is the oldest Unit in the Australian Military and the longest continuously extant. "A" Bty RAA wears the White Lanyard of the left shoulder, unlike all other Corps who wear the lanyard on the right shoulder, and is the only Australian Artillery Unit to bear the Kings and Queens Colours in Banner form. The Colours for all other Australian Artillery Units are the Guns with the Sovereign's Crest emblazoned on the barrels.
 
MSPA 050/10 Monday, 1 March 2010

DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

Australian Army turns 109

One of the oldest institutions in Australian turned 109 years old today, as the Australian Army celebrated its birthday at the Australian War Memorial.

To mark the occasion, a commemorative service was held at the Australian War Memorial around the Pool of Reflection.

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie spoke to the officers and soldiers about the importance of the occasion.

?As Army marks its 109th year, we have a great deal to be proud of in the service our people continue to give their country,? said Lieutenant General Gillespie

?Today, we pause to remember the great work of this fine institution and to reflect on the manner in which the Australian Army has served this nation.

?We will continue to grow as an organisation and ensure that the traditions of Army are maintained and carried into the future.?

The Australian Army has a proud history and now has soldiers deployed on major operations in the Middle East, East Timor and the Solomon Islands.

The history of the Australian Army goes back over a hundred years to the year of Federation.  

Each of the six colonial governments was responsible for the defence of their own colony until Federation on 1 January 1901.  It was then that the Australian Constitution stated that all defence responsibility was vested in the Commonwealth Government.

The newly formed Commonwealth Government created the Department of Defence on 1 March 1901.  It was from this time that the Australian Army came into being.


Media Note:
Vision of the ceremony will be distributed to all networks at Parliament House this afternoon.

Still images are available at:
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Mar/20100301b/index.htm

The PM should have simply sacked Peter Garrett. Then appointed a new Minister. Garrett was lazy, incompetent and politically naive.
 
Defence fears as Combet 'rescues Garrett'
ABC NEWS

 

The Australia Defence Association says the Prime Minister's decision to give Greg Combet extra duties will detract from his core work in Defence.

Mr Combet is the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science and the Assistant Climate Change Minister.

Last week, when Environment Minister Peter Garrett was demoted, Mr Combet was given the extra task of running the Government's energy efficiency programs, including the home insulation scheme.

The Australia Defence Association's Neil James says that is a ridiculous workload.

"It just seems a bit of a pity that one of Defence's two ministers is putting so much of his time into having to rescue other people," Mr James said.

"Our information is up to 80 per cent of his time's now being spent on climate change matters and having to take over the matters previously done by Minister Garrett only means there'll be even less time to look after his core job in Defence."

But Mr Combet says he can handle the workload.

"I've done large, complex things in the past," he said.

"The key is to have the resources available to you and to understand the scope and breadth of the task, and to divide it up into the achievable pieces of responsibility that are necessary, and to delegate and to have good people help."

Mr Combet says it is too early to say what he needs to do to fix the flawed insulation program.

He says his first task is to comprehend the issues and formulate a strategy to fix the problems.

"It's far too early [to come up with a strategy]," he said.

"I don't mean to be evasive about it and I'm not being but I got this job late on Friday afternoon; it's now first thing Monday morning.

"I have to get a good look [at it] if I'm to give people advice based upon a sound understanding of all of the issues.

"I need to take just a little bit of time to get across all of the detail of all that's occurred. I haven't been involved in the program previously."

 
 

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[Keith]

Exactly! Australian Liberal politics have been captured by the radical far right.Moderate and balanced Liberals views are swamped by the radicals in the Party and have been since at least 1996. The days of Menzies true Liberalism have gone, maybe never to return. This country needs leaders who, while working to strengthen ties with countries who honestly share similar values with us , are not afraid to stand up and put Australia first. During the years of the Howard Prime Ministership we saw an Australian Government support without question the worst excesses of the worst American President in history, George Bush. The result has been the unnecessary death and wounding and disablement of young Australians for no reason other than to please the Americans.There are those in the halls of the US Congress who want to see Australia return to being a questioning and courageous ally.
 
 
Australia must be put first second and third.
 
The War on Terror Is Anti-Conservative
By Philip Giraldi
View all 19 articles by Philip Giraldi
Published 02/26/10            

Why Real Conservatives Oppose the War on Terror

[This speech was part of a panel sponsored by the Future of Freedom Foundation http://www.fff.org/ Campaign for Liberty http://www.campaignforliberty.com/ and the Ladies of Liberty Alliance (LOLA)
http://www.iamlola.org/ held on February 20th at the 2010 CPAC. The panel presentation was titled "Why Real Conservatives Are Against the War on Terror."]

Benjamin Franklin once observed that those who would trade their liberties for security will wind up losing both. James Madison stated that no nation can preserve freedom in the midst of perpetual warfare. Few can question that America's Founding Fathers epitomize true conservatism. There is something seriously wrong in America today precisely because the elites from both political parties have forgotten about Franklin and Madison and ignored their wise counsel.

No one should doubt that ill-conceived security measures and the greatly exaggerated fear of terrorism have driven much of both foreign and domestic policy since 9/11 -- it was undeniably a horrific experience for this nation, but it did not threaten the survival of the American Republic. Its perpetrators and their heirs do not do so today. Only we Americans can do that and we are doing so by overreacting to the danger and compromising our own liberties.

Conservatives should be the voice of reason. They should demand commensurate and realistic responses to genuine foreign and domestic threats rather than overkill, more bureaucracy, and lots of unneeded government pork. The government's creation of a no-fly list with one million names and a terrorist suspects list with nearly half a million entries exemplify that damage that has already been done. If there were even one per cent that many people in the US actually threatening terrorist acts there would be waves of bombings in the streets. That that has not taken place tells you that both the lists and the process used to compile them are essentially bogus.

The expression war on terror is meaningless. Terror is a tactic, it is not a foreign government or political movement. To use the expression a "terrorist group" is equally misleading as the groups which come in all shapes sizes and colors are essentially political and have frequently clearly defined political objectives even if they use terrorism to advance their agenda. In most cases, the groups we call terrorists seek to take over the government of the countries where they operate, replacing groups not dissimilar to themselves who are currently in charge.

Why is what we call something important, whether we use the expression "terrorist" or not? It is important because how you name and define something shapes how you think about it and how you respond to it. It frames the narrative. Instead of bumper sticker definitions, we should instead be asking whether international groups that use terror genuinely threaten either the United States or any vital national interest. If we were to undertake such an analysis, we would quickly learn that frequently the terrorist label is misleading.

The exploitation of fear of terrorism by those in government has led to wars that did not have to be fought. Fear has been the key to the door for expansion of government and government powers and the people in charge in Washington have seized the opportunity. It has also eroded the liberties that have defined us as a nation. To cite only one example, the position taken by the Obama Administration in early February that it is all right to assassinate American citizens overseas based on secret information, violates principles of due process and deprives every citizen of the constitutional right to defend himself before a jury consisting of his peers.

While government expanded, and because bureaucrats view the world in terms of institutions and power, America's leaders looked at the terrorism tactic and drew all the wrong conclusions, namely that those we call terrorists hated the United States for no rational reason and that there was a military solution that could be imposed to make the terrorists go away. The Washington elite confused America's ability to field a large army with something we call policy, in this case foreign policy, not understanding that using the military is a failure of foreign policy, not an alternative to it. The same officials and politicians also created a vast and ineffective homeland security bureaucracy, the domestic equivalent of an interventionist foreign policy, that has stripped many Americans of their fundamental liberties here at home. Predictably, the international situation has become even more unstable as a result of the enormous expansion of the security state. When meddling in the affairs of others began to produce bad results, the solution was more meddling, most recently in Somalia and Yemen, never looking at intervention itself as a possibly source of the instability and the terrorism.

Some of the numbers behind what has happened should appall every true conservative. The United States now spends nearly one trillion dollars every year on the military, homeland security, and intelligence. Much of the money is borrowed from China. If one assumes that there are something like 5,000 active terrorists in the world, and there are likely less than that, it works out to something like $200 million per terrorist per year every year. Fear of terrorism drives growth in government and has led to involvement in multiple little wars and some bigger ones as well as subsequent exercises in nation building, all of which have been unconstitutional, and none of which have turned out well. The so-called global war on terror, now referred to as overseas contingency operations, is without end and without limits, and has made the US hated and feared in most of the world, not respected. It has even made American citizens potential targets of their own government without any recourse to the protections afforded by the constitution.

And America's war against the world did not have to happen. There are real threats in the world against Americans and American interests, but military action in support of the national interest should only be a last option after every other step has been taken. And then there is the issue of blowback. Why is America the target of terrorists and suicide bombers? Surely not because it has freedoms that some view negatively. As Usama bin Laden put it, in possibly the only known joke made by a terrorist, if freedoms were the issue al-Qaeda would be attacking Sweden. Congressman Ron Paul, former CIA Bin Laden Task Force head Michael Scheurer, and numerous others have noted that America has become a target because it is involved militarily in so many countries, meddling in other people's business. As they put it, "They are over here because we are over there."

Above all, the American people should follow the money. It is fashionable to blame the Republican Party for many of our ills, but the war party in America is bipartisan. It is driven both by the lust for power and the good old fashioned profit motive. The current push to attack Iran has more Democrats behind it than Republicans and it is fully supported by a media that has been characterized as being largely liberal but which really shares the collectivist viewpoint and interests of the Washington elite. War is big business and it produces money and jobs for a lot of people, ranging from think tanks to defense contractors to congressmen and senior government officials who are looking for a nice income supplement when they retire. The American people must demand a change in that dynamic. Into the early fifties it was still possible for a traditional conservative Republican like Russell Kirk or Senator Robert Taft to object to America's growing global role without being labeled an isolationist or being ostracized by one's own political party. That changed as war became an engine driving the economy with a bit of pork sweetening the deal in every congressional district. Today, one might argue, that weapons are the only thing that the United States produces for which there is a worldwide demand. That is not only sad, it has been the undoing of the American Republic.

In short, real conservatives who believe in small government, fiscal responsibility, a rational foreign policy based on the national interest, and non-involvement in other people's quarrels should never support global wars on terror or global wars on anything. They should reject completely the insidious and absurd notion that Washington can intervene all over the world and not raise taxes to pay for the cost, handing our security over to the Chinese lenders and bankrupting our children and grandchildren. Some in Washington have already seen the folly of our present course and are speaking out. "The moral and constitutional obligations of our representatives in Washington are to protect our liberty, not coddle the world, precipitating no-win wars while bringing bankruptcy and economic turmoil to our people." Ron Paul said that in 2008 and it should be the rallying cry for a constitutionally based foreign and defense policy that truly benefits the American people.


Copyright ? 2010 Phil Giraldi

 
 

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[Keith]

Australia's shrinking air force
Cameron Stewart
From: The Australian
February 27, 2010 12:00AM
 
THE nation's air combat force has withered to its smallest size in a generation, with less than half of the country's fighter jets available for operations.

At times this year as many as three out of four of the RAAF's 86 fighter jets have been grounded due to maintenance, upgrades or safety concerns.

Of those warplanes that are available, only a handful can be sent into combat because they do not yet have sufficient electronic protection to survive against modern air defences.

The Weekend Australian understands that only 21 of the RAAF's 71 F/A-18 Hornets are currently available, while the 15 ageing F-111 strike bombers were only cleared to fly again last week after being grounded early this month when an in-flight emergency forced a safety review.

The parlous state of the frontline air force has added urgency to the arrival of 26 F/A-18 Super Hornets that were purchased for $6 billion by the Howard government and are due to start arriving next month.

Defence Minister John Faulkner refused to discuss the current availability of the RAAF's fighters, but maintained: "Air force is at all times generating sufficient combat capability to meet government requirements."

The government has promised to inject more funds into making defence equipment more battle-ready. It has recently come under pressure to explain why the navy has been unable to put more than one of its six submarines to sea on a regular basis.

Defence sources say the F/A-18 Hornet fleet, which is of 1980s vintage, has been hit by maintenance issues, delayed upgrade programs and staffing problems.

After a safety review, the F-111 fleet was cleared to fly again on February 19, but the 1960s-vintage strike bomber is due to be retired at the end of the year and is considered unlikely to be given heavy operational requirements from now on.

The RAAF's 71 Hornets were designed in the US and assembled in Australia in the 1980s.

As a result, they have been subjected to rolling upgrades to their systems and airframes to ensure they can provide effective air defence until the first squadron of new Joint Strike Fighters comes into service in 2018.

The problems with the RAAF's fighter fleet are mirrored in many other areas of the defence force, where billions of dollars of powerful weaponry is awaiting upgrades or promised replacements and cannot be deployed.

The navy's eight Anzac frigates cannot be sent into a hotly contested war zone because of a lack of defensive weaponry, while the army cannot deploy its 33 Black Hawk helicopters to war zones because they are vulnerable to shoulder-launched missiles.


Australia's First Super Hornets Preparing to Fly Home

What:   Royal Australian Air Force personnel from No. 1 Squadron are in the United States preparing Australia's first F/A-18F Super Hornets for the flight to Australia. 

Where: Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, United States.

When: 1pm - 2:30pm, Thursday, 4 March 2010.

Who: Air Commodore Mel Hupfeld, Commander Air Combat Group, Group Captain Steve 'Zed' Roberton and Wing Commander Glen Braz, Commanding Officer No.1 Squadron will be available for interview.

No. 1 Squadron personnel are conducting test flights on Australia's first F/A-18F Super Hornets at the United States Navy host Squadron VFA-122. 

No. 1 Squadron's preparations include conducting air-to-air refuelling training in readiness for the long flight to Australia, commencing 19 March 2010. 

Media note: Media wishing to attend must register by 5 pm Monday 1 March (California time) with the NAS Lemoore Public Affairs Officer, Melinda Larson, office (559)998-3393, mobile (559)381-0592 or (602)540-2969 or by e-mail at:  melinda.larson@navy.mil

Unregistered media will not be admitted to NAS Lemoore.

[Keith]

The reference to the "Veterans" pensions below is inaccurate and misleading. This matter is to do with the military superannuation schemes and not disability compensation pensions paid to War Veterans. Some who receive the superannuation income have never been to War.The two schemes are separate and not at all related.
 
THE AUSTRALIAN
 
 
Scientists warned against JSF
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/scientists-warned-defence-department-against-joint-strike-fighter/story-e6frgczf-1225834053074

Cameron Stewart AN internal Defence study warned that the new Joint Strike Fighter would be a high-risk venture for Australia.

Warning on passport fraud 'ignored'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/warning-on-passport-forgery-ignored-says-former-diplomat/story-e6frg8yo-1225834538957

Mark Dodd and Paul Maley IN 2004, it was an open secret in Canberra's Middle Eastern community that Israeli agents were trying to obtain passports to be used by Mossad.

Cosgrove against increasing Agfhan role
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/former-defence-chief-peter-cosgrove-warns-australia-against-increasing-role-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225834515560

9:59PM Joe Kelly FORMER chief of the defence force Peter Cosgrove has warned Australia not to take greater responsibility in Afghanistan.

Veterans' pensions under fire
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/veterans-pensions-under-fire/story-e6frg6nf-1225834058524

Mark Dodd THE Rudd government is accused of casting 63,000 veterans and their families on to the welfare scrap heap by failing to index military pensions.

Defence to open up on war info
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defence-department-to-open-up-on-war-information/story-e6frg8yo-1225834053191

Mark Dodd DEFENCE Minister John Faulkner has urged more openness from the military on the war in Afghanistan.

Envoy to reassure Jakarta on visas
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/envoy-to-reassure-jakarta-on-visas/story-e6frg6nf-1225834053247

Paul Maley Australia's ambassador  has told Indonesia it is not included on a list of 10 high-risk countries.

US Navy allows women on submarines
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/us-navy-allows-women-to-serve-on-submarines/story-e6frg8yo-1225833875127

THE US Navy has decided to allow women to serve on submarines, ending one of the last all-male bastions in the American military.

UN vetoes Fiji army chief's Iraq role
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/un-blocks-senior-fijian-army-officer-colonel-pita-driti-from-peacekeeping-role-iraq/story-e6frg6so-1225833792223
 
Mark Dodd THE UN has refused to appoint a senior Fijian army officer to head the country's peacekeeping corps in Iraq over human rights violation fears.

US generals cast doubt on gay ban lift
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/us-generals-cast-doubt-on-lifting-gay-ban/story-e6frg8yo-1225833791633

THE US Army and Air Force chiefs have voiced doubts about Barack Obama's vow to lift a ban on gays serving openly in the military.

Ex-judge to head new navy sex inquiry
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/roger-gyles-to-head-new-inquiry-into-hmas-success-sex-ledger/story-e6frg8yo-1225833788126
 
Mark Dodd FORMER Federal Court judge Roger Gyles will head a new inquiry into allegations of sexual misconduct involving male crew members of HMAS Success.


Do our Troops use the US helmet?
 
ABC NEWS
 
US helmets useless against Taliban snipers
 
Helmets not up to the job: A Marines machine gun team in action near Marjah (AFP: Patrick Baz)


Taliban snipers have emerged as a lethal threat to US troops waging an assault in southern Afghanistan, as their bullets can penetrate American helmets, the US Marine Corps commandant said.

Homemade bombs or improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have been the main killer of NATO-led troops in the Afghan war, but General James Conway has told lawmakers that snipers pose an equally serious threat to coalition troops fighting in the Marjah area of Helmand province.

"Right now, the biggest threat in Marjah is not necessarily the IEDs for our killed in action. It is the sniper that takes a long-range shot and can penetrate our protective equipment, particularly the helmet," General Conway told the US House Armed Services Committee.

He said the Marine Corps was pressing the defence industry to come up with a better helmet that could withstand a 7.62mm round from the AK-47 assault rifles favoured by the insurgents.

"So we continue to pound the table on that with hopes that one day we'll have that piece of gear in hand," General Conway said.

In announcing the deaths of troops in the Afghan mission, the Pentagon does not specify if a soldier or marine has been killed by a sniper. But it has cited small arms fire as the cause of death in numerous cases in the Marjah assault.

About 15,000 American, Afghan and NATO forces launched Operation Mushtarak (Together) in Marjah on February 13 in what has been billed as the biggest military operation since the 2001 US-led invasion that brought down the Taliban regime.

-AFP
 

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[Keith]

The United States military industrial complex operates more on successful tendering than equipment reliability and it is pushed by the military industrial firms getting first access to taxpayer dollars at any cost, so to speak. In other words technical reliability and function often takes a second place to winning a tender and anyway often times the tender process is corrupt and driven by politics and personal nepotism. Additionally the US industrial complex is capable of mass production to fill the holes during War which result in the mass loss of equipment. We are not in this latter position.
 
Scientists warned defence department against Joint Strike Fighter
Cameron Stewart
From: The Australian
February 25, 2010
 
AN internal Defence study warned that the new Joint Strike Fighter would be a high-risk venture for Australia, admitting that the plane had weaknesses, including poor engine thrust that made it difficult to dodge missiles.

The blunt criticisms of the warplane contained in the study by Defence scientists in 2000 have never been aired publicly by the government.

But the Defence Science and Technology Organisation study, obtained by The Australian, was far more critical of the other fighter jet options available to Australia if it did not choose the JSF.

The document uses highly undiplomatic language to trash the performance of the warplanes used by Australia's closest allies.

The DSTO study, described as a "first-cut analysis" of Australia's future fighter needs, was written two years before the Howard government signed up to the US-led JSF program in 2002, abandoning the tender process and stunning aircraft manufacturers.

Titled "A Preliminary Assessment of Inhabited Platforms for AIR6000" and written by the DSTO's Graeme Murray and David Carr, the study is significant because it is one of only a handful of studies that looked at alternatives to the JSF.

The government plans to buy 100 JSFs for $16 billion in what will be the largest Australian defence purchase in history.

The DSTO report, written at a time when the JSF existed only on paper, said that if Australia signed on to the JSF program, it would be doing so without knowing the plane's final capability and costs.

"JSF has present serious shortfalls in engine performance and incomplete sensor-fusion capability," the DSTO said.

"The aircraft lacks engine thrust in the baseline configuration due to the high weight, affecting the use of manoeuvrability to defeat missile attack."

It also warned of hi-tech risks in the program because of tight schedule and cost targets, but it gave the plane strong marks for its stealth, range, payload and its "all weather, 24-hour lethality".

It said the JSF would not be cheaper to acquire than other fighters, but would be cheaper to maintain and service.

The study favours the JSF over other options and is blunt about the shortcomings of Australia's other fighter options. It describes the US F-16 used by the US Air Force as having a weak airframe and poor stealth.

"Old airframe lacks agility to outmanoeuvre missiles and has a small internal fuel capacity," the DSTO said of the F-16.

It said Europe's Typhoon fighter had limited strike capability and was unreliable.

"Present (strike) capability is lacking due to limited sensors and weapons carrying capability," it said of the Typhoon.

"Low reliability will mean high costs to operate."

It said Sweden's Gripen fighter had poor stealth, an underdeveloped electronic warfare system and payload and range limitations.

The DSTO found that the earlier version of the F/A-18E Super Hornet -- not the Block II version that has since been purchased by Australia -- was underpowered, lacked endurance and "risks being shot from behind with a radar-guided missile".

The US F-15E lacked stealth while France's Rafale had an unreliable and weak engine.

"The F-15E is good now, but not likely to be defensible in the expected electronic warfare environment in the 2010 timeframe," the DSTO said. "Rafale has short-term shortfalls in engine and radar performance."

The DSTO said the F-22 fighter -- the production of which was recently cancelled by US Defence Secretary Robert Gates -- had limited strike capability and was very expensive.

Despite these criticisms, the study recommended narrowing Australia's choice of a new fighter jet to only three: the JSF, the American F-15E and the French Rafale. 

SMH
 
Defence executive challenges sacking
MARK DAVIS NATIONAL EDITOR
February 25, 2010

 
ONE of Australia's most senior public servants, the head of the Defence Materiel Organisation, Stephen Gumley, faces a court challenge over his sacking of a senior executive after a protracted wrangle over her performance.

A former DMO general manager, Jane Wolfe, is asking the Federal Court to overturn the sacking, arguing that Mr Gumley failed to implement a fair performance management system.

Ms Wolfe's statement of claim says Mr Gumley was ''actuated by malice'' when he terminated her employment and alleges he sacked her to deprive her of the chance to transfer to another federal department.

But in a defence lodged with the court, the government's solicitors insist Mr Gumley dismissed Ms Wolfe on the grounds of unsatisfactory performance after extensive discussions about her performance over nearly 18 months. The case is scheduled to be heard in April.

A win by Ms Wolfe would have significant implications for performance management of the most senior officials in the public service. She was in the public service's 3000-strong senior executive service, a level where sackings are rare and legal challenges to dismissals even rarer because the salary levels usually bar them from pursuing unfair dismissal claims under industrial law.

The DMO manages billion-dollar military hardware construction and acquisition projects which have been plagued by cost overruns and delays. The organisation has been at the forefront of efforts to improve the efficiency of defence procurement.

Ms Wolfe is asking the court to carry out a judicial review under administrative law of Mr Gumley's decision to sack her last March. She is seeking reinstatement and compensation and is also taking action against the Public Service Commissioner, Lynelle Briggs.

She claims Mr Gumley did not comply with public service requirements to have a fair and open performance management system in place and followed ad hoc procedures in assessing her performance. She says the DMO breached dispute settling procedures by refusing her request to refer the dispute over her performance to a mediator.

But Mr Gumley's defence says he made his performance expectations clear to Ms Wolfe in six meetings and 20 separate items of correspondence over 17 months, including nine warnings that she could be dismissed. It says he offered Ms Wolfe assistance but she did not take up the offer.

 
 

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[Keith]

Savage cuts still won't fix Defence
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/savage-cuts-still-wont-fix-defence/story-e6frgczf-1225833627452

Mark Dodd SAVINGS are on track but the department will remain under-financed.

Rudd sets spy agencies on boats
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/rudd-sets-spy-agencies-on-boats/story-e6frg6n6-1225833633935

Brendan Nicholson, Paul Maley THE government will unleash the full resources of its major spy agencies against people-smugglers and criminal gangs threatening border security.

Expand terror checks, says Somali leader
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/expand-terror-checks-says-somali-leader/story-e6frg6nf-1225833658154
 
Lauren Wilson, Drew Warne-Smith THE Rudd government should extend its regime of security and identity checks to everyone applying for a visa to Australia, a Somali leader has said.   

Visa crackdown on 'terror' nations
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/visa-crackdown-on-terror-nations-in-security-white-paper/story-e6frg8yo-1225833480049

Joe Kelly VISITORS from about 10 countries such as Somalia and Yemen will face tougher visa scrutiny under a stricter security regime for Australia.

$7.5bn defence headache
DAN OAKES
 
THE AGE
 
February 24, 2010
MORE than $7 billion worth of major defence projects are either over budget or behind schedule, with the poorly performed Collins-class submarines topping the list.

Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet revealed yesterday that there were about 10 items on the ''projects of concern'' list, which he instituted after the Rudd government took power. It is believed the total value of the projects is $7.5 billion.

Defence says there are nine publicly known projects and a small number that cannot be disclosed for commercial or security reasons.

Apart from the submarines, the rest of the list is a well-documented tale of woe, including anti-ship missiles for Anzac Frigates, Wedgetail early warning aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and a program to replace armoured and conventional trucks.

Speaking at an Australian Defence Magazine conference, Mr Combet said focusing on projects of concern allowed government and industry to ''break the logjam of continued delay'', citing the botched $1 billion Seasprite helicopter program as an example.

''Since the government implemented the projects-of-concern process, we have seen hard decisions taken and good results achieved,'' he said.

''The Seasprite helicopter received the level of scrutiny necessary under the projects of concern and government took the tough decision to cancel the project with all the facts to hand,'' Mr Combet said.

He also said a number of projects had been struck from the list after being placed back on track, including the Tiger armed reconnaissance helicopter and M113 armoured personnel carrier upgrade. It is believed the value of projects removed is about $6 billion.

The Collins-class submarines, along with the turbulent Joint Strike Fighter project, are Defence's biggest materiel headache. Earlier this month it emerged that two of the six submarines will be out of action for a combined total of at least nine years.

Mr Combet also revealed that only nine of 28 other projects that the government has set benchmarks for this financial year have reached their target.

[Keith]

Under NATO the production of opium poppies has skyrocketed since the invasion of Afghanistan. Afghanistan is the worlds leading supplier of heroin. Heroin and other hard drugs are widely available in Afghanistan and across the Middle East and sub continent. Thus there is little wonder ADF members are coming home with serious addictions.
 
Shocking statistics show health impact on Australian troops
Article from: SUNDAY MAIL
James Campbell

February 21, 2010 12:00am

THE cost of caring for injured Australian veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq has exploded in the past two years, with mental illness the leading cause of disability.

Department of Veterans Affairs figures provided to The Sunday Mail reveal the annual cost of caring for veterans under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act has risen 280 per cent - from $4.7 million in 2006-07 to $17.9 million in 2008-09.

The figures show the number of disability pensions paid to veterans of East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan has grown dramatically over the same period.

The most common conditions claimed were stress and adjustment disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder, which leapt by 45 per cent from 534 in 2007-8 to 775 last financial year. The next most common was hearing loss, up by 40 per cent from 458 to 645.

The most shocking figures show that in the past two years the number of diagnosed alcoholics jumped 57 per cent from 177 to 278 while the number of East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan veterans who are so depressed they qualify for a pension was up 58 per cent from 189 to 300.

The new figures follow alarming Sunday Mail revelations last November that Diggers had been returning from Afghanistan and Iraq with drug addictions after using cocaine, heroin and other hard drugs on tours of duty.

Freedom of Information figures showed hundreds had tested positive to a string of illegal drugs since Australian troops were sent to Afghanistan and Iraq.

The president of Queensland welfare organisation Young Diggers, John Jarrett, said soldiers were mainly developing addictions to cocaine.

"Soldiers are going over there, healthy and normal, and coming back with all kinds of addictions," he said.

Almost 4000 ADF personnel have made claims for injuries and illnesses attributable to their time in East Timor, Afghanistan and Iraq.

The cost of caring for returned personnel is expected to grow in the next decade with between 30,000 and 40,000 defence force members deployed to the Middle East since 2003.

Mr Jarrett was not surprised by the sudden rise in claims, but believed it was only the tip of the iceberg. He said many soldiers would not develop problems until decades later.

"In 20 or 30 years they can fall off their perch just like Vietnam veterans did," he said. "A lot of the young people ... don't really realise the issues they have until they are posted to another unit or take their discharge and get out of the military."

Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin said the Military Compensation Scheme had only been in place for a few years.

"We do expect that it would grow as more claims are made and, as people's conditions stabilise, permanent impairment claims are made," he said. "We are committed to ensuring that veterans receive all the support that they need for conditions arising from their service."

Australian Defence Force members are caught between a rock and a hard place. To do their jobs inevitably means some civilian casualties, and civilian casualties radicalizes the Afghan population. On top of this the gung ho American attitude has often led to avoidable civilian casualties.This is not as suggested a Military matter with responsibility laying with legal Officers, this is a political matter at home where it is the Government which puts young Australians in harms way.
 
The best way to support our Afghan Troops is to bring them home.
 
Army's lethal legal gap
TOM HYLAND
THE AGE

February 21, 2010
ARMY chiefs have refused to act on warnings that major gaps in the training of military legal officers are increasing the risk of Australian troops killing civilians in Afghanistan.

The legal officers - lawyers in uniform - were not properly trained for their role in advising commanders on the legality of targeted killings of insurgents, an inquiry has found.

Instead, they were left to learn on the job, during combat operations.

The findings are in a report by Colonel Rodger Shanahan, who conducted an army inquiry into an incident last April when four Afghan men were killed in a US air strike ordered by an Australian commander in Oruzgan province.

Civilian casualties are a major cause of friction between ordinary Afghans and foreign forces, undermining allied efforts to win support in the battle against the Taliban.

Australia has paid compensation to the families of civilians killed, even when the troops were found to have acted within their rules of engagement.

Colonel Shanahan found the four men killed were ''very likely'' to have been insurgents, and he made no adverse findings against the soldiers involved.

But his report recommended the army improve the training of legal officers, who approve ''kinetic'' attacks on ''dynamic'' targets - air strikes on insurgents where there might be little time to plan the attack.

Colonel Shanahan said legal officers were responsible for authorising such attacks, but ''they are neither trained nor certified in the kinetic targeting process before they deploy''.

''From a duty-of-care perspective this shortfall needs to be addressed,'' Colonel Shanahan said.

His report went to Lieutenant General Mark Evans, Chief of Joint Operations, who has rejected the recommendations.

In a written response to questions from The Sunday Age, a Defence spokesman said inquiries such as Colonel Shanahan's were set up ''in order to continually improve ADF's processes''.

''However, in some circumstances the appointing authority may not agree (with) a specific recommendation,'' the spokesman said. ''This is the case with regard to this recommendation.''

The spokesman said legal officers were trained in the legal aspects of targeting but did not need ''intimate knowledge'' of each phase of the process.

Australian soldiers operate under international and Australian law, including the Geneva conventions, which make them liable to charges in the event of war crimes. The key issue is whether the target is a combatant. Other legal factors in the targeting process include the risk of civilian casualties.

The men killed on the night of April 27-28 were hit by missiles and bombs fired by a US drone aircraft, known as a Reaper.

The weight of evidence was that they were insurgents laying roadside bombs, but Colonel Shanahan's report reveals that some officers thought they were farmers irrigating their fields.

He reinforced his call for greater training of legal officers by highlighting the risk of civilian casualties in a conflict where it was hard to distinguish insurgents from civilians.

''There is ? a very heavy responsibility on commanders and their staffs whenever they take a decision to engage targets to make sure that they understand the targeting process intimately, for the consequences of not doing so are enormous,'' the report said.

It was anomalous that officers who were likely to use deadly force were ''neither trained nor tested in it'', the report added.

''If in future a targeting error is made, individuals will suffer the consequences, the enemy will gain [a propaganda] victory, and the ADF will be open to criticism for failing to provide an adequate level of training and evaluation for those responsible for the kinetic targeting decision-making process prior to deployment.''

 
 

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[Keith]

Asylum-seekers could be charged over boat blast
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/asylum-seekers-could-be-charged-over-boat-blast/story-e6frg6nf-1225831966147

CRIMINAL charges could be laid against three asylum-seekers accused of deliberately lighting a fire that resulted in the deaths of five Afghans.

Sights set on Afghan action
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/footy-hopefuls-sights-set-on-afghan-action/story-e6frg6nf-1225831959679

Peter Wilson, Europe correspondent RENDAN Nikolajew, a promising AFL player, will soon be seeing a different kind of action

Top-gun fighter in a spin
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/top-gun-fighter-in-a-spin/story-e6frg8yo-1225831942248

Cameron Stewart, Associate editor Cost blow-outs, delays and doubts over the Joint Strike Fighter's capabilities are causing concern in the defence community here and in the US

Spies work with India on sport terror threat
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/spies-work-with-india-on-sport-terror-threat/story-e6frg6nf-1225831556674

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN intelligence agencies are closely liaising with their Indian counterparts over threats by al-Qa'ida-linked militants against sports teams.

THE AGE
 
Asylum seekers 'knew of fire plan'
 LINDSAY MURDOCH | Many of the asylum seekers on boat that exploded near Ashmore Reef, killing five, were aware of plan to set it alight, Northern Territory Coroner says.

Major army tender cancelled after bias allegations
DAN OAKES AND LINTON BESSER
February 19, 2010
 
THE AGE
A MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR tender for essential battlefield equipment has been cancelled after allegations that the army's tender process was biased.

A secret investigation into the $20 million contract for backpacks found there was ''perceived bias'' within the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) against an Australian business, which lost out to a multinational defence company. A separate investigation failed to find who leaked a defence report related to the tender process to one of the companies bidding for the contract.

The failed tender will be a major embarrassment to the DMO, after a scathing 2006 report found the combat clothing division was riddled with problems and must be reformed.

The revelation that the tender had been cancelled two years after the request for tender went out came in a Senate estimates committee hearing in Canberra two weeks ago.

Asked by opposition defence spokesman David Johnston what the status of the tender was, DMO official Brigadier Bill Horrocks said only that there had been allegations of ''impropriety'', investigated initially by the Inspector-General, and that a probity auditor then recommended that the tender be scrapped.

Questioned by The Age, the Department of Defence initially did not disclose the allegations of bias. However, a spokesman eventually confirmed the allegations when explicitly asked.

He refused to detail who was accused of bias, or the circumstances of the allegation.

''The Inspector-General Division reported that there may have been bias in the tender process and recommended that an independent probity auditor investigate the tender process,'' the spokesman said.

''The independent probity auditor reviewed the process and concluded that there was perceived bias affecting the tender process, but that there was insufficient evidence to support a finding of actual bias.''

Brigadier Horrocks also revealed that the tender had not yet been redrafted, meaning it could be years before the new equipment reaches Australian troops.

The department said the cancellation of the tender had not left diggers with ageing or substandard packs.

''The [existing] individual load carriage equipment meets the Australian Defence Force's requirements, is of a high quality and was introduced after a rigorous testing regime,'' the spokesman said.

''Defence [Department] continues to satisfy the Australian Defence Force's operational and sustainment requirements for this equipment under existing contracts and standing offers.''

The allegations of bias and cancellation of the tender come almost four years after a report commissioned by former defence minister Brendan Nelson found the DMO clothing division was dogged by over-work and lack of supervision and that it had fallen into ''disrepair''.

The report said some tenderers for contracts had complained that the clothing division had deliberately thumbed its nose at departmental policy and had not given all tenderers the same information.

Between 2001 and 2006, Defence's internal fraud squad conducted reviews of the way personal equipment and clothing procurement was conducted. The reviews all focused on allegations of impropriety.

 
 

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[Keith]

Spies work with India on sport terror threat
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/spies-work-with-india-on-sport-terror-threat/story-e6frg6nf-1225831556674

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN intelligence agencies are closely liaising with their Indian counterparts over threats by al-Qa'ida-linked militants against sports teams.

Follow-up `vital after insurgency is broken'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/follow-up-vital-after-insurgency-is-broken-says-dutch-general-of-afghanistan/story-e6frg6nf-1225831552212

Mark Dodd NATO-LED coalition forces in Afghanistan are on track to break the back of the Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan within 12 months.

Diggers to get new portable missiles
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/new-portable-missile-system-for-australian-army/story-e6frg8yo-1225831416575
 
Mark Dodd THE army has upgraded its anti-armour capability with the signing of contracts today for a new-generation portable missile system.

ASIO monitoring India security threat
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/asio-monitoring-india-security-threat-to-athletes/story-e6frg6nf-1225831393566
 
Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN intelligence agencies are closely liaising with Indian counterparts over threats by militants against sports events in the country.

From: Terry Davies
Sent: Thursday, February 18, 2010 8:27 AM
Subject: German Army testing equipment at Woomera
 
 

Source: The Advertiser

 

German army testing new equipment at Woomera

 

Kim Wheatley From:
The Advertiser February 17, 2010 8:21pm

 

THE German Army has invaded Outback South Australia.

But it's a friendly force from the European powerhouse, which is testing the breaking point of new armaments against the backdrop of the harsh and hot conditions of the Woomera Prohibited Area.

More than 100 soldiers are conducting the field trials - including live firing - from the Boxer armoured vehicle and the Weisel reconnaissance vehicle.

A Boxer armoured transport vehicle (also known as MRAV / Multi Role Armoured Vehicle) being tested at Woomera.

Source: The Advertiser

The Mikado mini-unmanned aerial vehicle, which features an infrared camera for surveillance, is also being put through its paces. The choice of Australia as a testing ground reflects the "close political, military and strategic co-operation" between the two countries, which has been reflected most recently in the war on terrorism in Afghanistan.

"Australia, from a German perspective, is the only place possible for the climatic and near-operational conditions," German army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Stefan Heydt said.

"We are fighting in Afghanistan and we need to test this equipment to ensure our personnel are safe on the ground."

The trials are scheduled to begin on the weekend and end in early March, when the company will relocate to Townsville to test the equipment in hot, humid conditions.

Ironically, the decision to build the Woomera rocket range in 1947 was partially as a consequence of German rocket attacks on Britain during World War II.

But six decades on, this German invasion is creating a mini-economic boom for the town.

The local hotel-motel, the Eldo Hotel, is expecting 117 German soldiers and civilians.

"The Germans are easy because they like meat and potatoes which we have lots of," manager Phil Young said.

"It's great for us - obviously they're on tight timelines but it's still good for the town."

The largest plane in the world, the Soviet-built Antonov, was used to transport the vehicles.

[Keith]

MSPA 039/10 Tuesday, 16 February 2010

Navy's Fleet sails into action off the East Coast

Eleven Australian Navy warships have sailed out of Sydney Harbour to begin an intensive five-week war game stretching from Southern New South Wales to Queensland.

The Fleet Concentration Period (FCP 10) is an annual event, designed to test and hone the skills of thousands of men and women from the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).  The New Zealand Navy will also be on show, with the giant multirole ship HMNZS Canterbury playing a key role in the exercise.
 
The exercise will begin at Jervis Bay, with anti-surface warfare serials, surface gunnery against towed targets and naval gunfire support against shore batteries.  It will then progress to more complex scenarios and the task group will head north to the coast off Newcastle for comprehensive anti-air warfare manoeuvres against RAAF Hawk aircraft.

Simultaneously, an amphibious ship, clearance divers and an Army combat team  will conduct in-depth training within Queensland's Shoalwater Bay Training Area, culminating in an amphibious landing of soldiers from the 3rd Brigade (3 Bde).  Whilst in Jervis Bay simulated mine clearance operations, utilising advanced technological equipment and Navy divers, will occur.

Commodore Training, Commodore Daryl Bates, says it will be a very busy time for the RAN.

"The training these ships will undertake over the next five weeks will be as challenging as it is varied.  The aim is to make sure we are well prepared for the year ahead," Commodore Bates said.

FCP 10 is part of the RAN's ongoing training program and will increase Australian Defence Force capability to protect Australia and its interests.  In addition FCP 10 will strengthen defence relationships and improve interoperability with the Royal New Zealand Navy.  It is a carefully planned activity and will be conducted within strict environmental, safety and risk management constraints.


THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Improved Firepower for the ADF

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today announced improved firepower for the ADF with contracts being signed for a new anti-armour weapon capability.

Defence has contracted SAAB Bofors Dynamics for the supply of the M3 84mm Carl Gustaf anti-armour support weapon, Mr Combet said.

These new weapons provide an increased direct fire support capability and will be employed by the Infantry, Special Forces and RAAF Airfield Defence Guards.

Soldiers will appreciate the weight savings afforded by the M3 Carl Gustaf anti-armour weapon.

The value of the contract with SAAB Bofors Dynamics is approximately $10.5m which includes the supply of weapons, spares and documentation to support the system,? Mr Combet said.

In addition, Mr Combet announced the contract with BAE Systems Australia to supply the enhanced sighting system for the newly acquired M3 84mm Carl Gustaf anti-armour weapon.

The value of the contract with BAE Systems Australia is approximately $16m which includes the supply of sighting systems, spares, documentation and three years of support for the system, Mr Combet said.

The enhanced sighting system includes thermal technology which provides the ADF with an increased direct-fire support capability when used with the M3 84mm Carl Gustaf anti-armour weapon.

Furthermore, the new sight will also now permit engagements during day, night and adverse conditions, Mr Combet said.

[Keith]

The same policy should be implemented for ESO Executives when on the job.
 
Drunk soldiers to get the sack
ABC NEWS

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/02/17/2821697.htm?section=justin

The commander of the Northern Territory's biggest army barracks says troops who are repeatedly caught drink-driving or involved in alcohol-fuelled violence will face the sack.

 
 

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[Keith]

US defence chief can't put price on JSF
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/us-deputy-secretary-of-defence-bill-lynn-cant-put-price-on-f-35-warplanes/story-e6frg8yo-1225830626636

5:33PM Michael Owen, SA political reporter THE massive Joint Strike Fighter project is going to be delayed and cost more, the US Deputy Secretary of Defence Bill Lynn says.

Britain unveils high-tech armour goo
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/britains-ministry-of-defence-unveils-high-tech-armour-goo-robotic-hand/story-e6frg8yo-1225829578603

Tom Coghlan GOO that flows around soldiers but hardens against bullets sounds like a James Bond gimmick. Well, it is British, but it's not science fiction.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AGE
 
101st Australian soldier wounded
TOM HYLAND
February 14, 2010


AUSTRALIAN forces in Afghanistan have reached a grim milestone, with the wounding of two soldiers bringing to 101 the number of Australians wounded since they were first sent to the conflict in 2001.

The two were injured - one seriously - when Australian troops were hit in three separate roadside bomb attacks on Friday.

All the incidents happened in the Mirabad Valley, north-east of the main Australian base at Tarin Kowt in Oruzgan province.

In the first of Friday's incidents, a soldier suffered minor wounds when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded, the ADF said in a statement.

The Brisbane-based soldier was from a taskforce that had only recently arrived in Afghanistan.

In a second incident, soldiers on foot patrol were injured by another IED.

The wounded soldier was first flown to Tarin Kowt and then to a US military hospital at Bagram, near Kabul.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Friday 12 February 2010
019/2010


Increased focus on submarine availability

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that a new Australian Submarine Program Office will be established in Adelaide next month.

?The establishment of the joint Australian Submarine Program Office is a vital step towards achieving the submarine output Government expects, Mr Combet said.

The Australian Submarine Program Office will be established in Adelaide to jointly manage submarine availability required by Government.

The idea for a new project office follows discussions between the Navy, the Defence Material Organisation and ASC Pty Ltd on how better results can be achieved.

The Government has made clear to all parties involved in the maintenance of the Collins Class Submarines that we expect better results. We understand this will take time but we are determined to see an improvement.

This marks the start of a new partnership between Navy, the DMO and ASC which will set the basis for a strong and enduring submarine capability over the next decade, Mr Combet said.

The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russell Crane, DMO Program Manager Submarines, Mr Kim Gillis, and CEO of ASC Pty Ltd, Mr Steve Ludlam, met to develop a new charter to drive the relationship between the three key players in Australias submarine force.

Discussions between the parties have also focused on a way forward for HMAS Farncombs generator repairs and a maintenance schedule change which will improve overall submarine availability, Mr Combet said.

HMAS Farncomb is in maintenance following the electrical failure of one of its three main generators last month.

The office will commence work in March and will operate as an integrated product team of Navy, DMO and ASC personnel led by DMOs Director General Submarines Commodore Bronko Ogrizek.

 
 
MSPA 036/10

Friday, 12 February 2010

HMAS Coonawarra is best establishment in Navy

HMAS Coonawarra personnel have been acknowledged for having the best Navy establishment in the Nation in a presentation today by His Honour, Mr Tom Pauling AO QC, Administrator of the Northern Territory.

His Honour awarded the historic solid-silver Governor's Cup to the Commanding Officer of Coonawarra, Commander Richard Donnelly, ADC, RAN during a traditional ceremony involving the establishment's Navy personnel. Commander Donnelly said on behalf of all in Coonawarra, that they were honoured by the recognition.

Having recently assumed command, Commander Donnelly was quick to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of his predecessor, Commander Ainsley Morthorpe, CSM, RAN and the ship's company of Coonawarra, in attaining the award.  Commander Morthorpe was in attendance.

"Commander Morthorpe and his team worked tirelessly to maintain comprehensive support to Navy's fleet activities during a period of extremely high operational tempo for the Armidale Class Patrol Boats," Commander Donnelly said.

"Additionally, Coonawarra personnel have award winning occupational health and safety achievements, making them worthy recipients of the Cup."

Chair of Navy's judging committee Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Steve Gilmore, AM, CSC, RAN praised all in Coonawarra, for being such positive representatives of Navy.

"The interaction between Coonawarra and the local community has been exceptional, with Navy's reputation all the better for the hard work and professional approach of Coonawarra's personnel," Rear Admiral Gilmore said.

His Honour, Mr Tom Pauling AO QC, took the opportunity of his visit to Coonawarra, to meet many of the personnel whose teamwork underpinned the award.    

The Governor's Cup is a prestigious Navy award presented annually to the RAN Establishment or Regional Headquarters judged the most proficient in administration, management, operation and local stakeholder relationships.

The Cup itself was presented to the Navy's first Flagship, the battle cruiser HMAS Australia by the Governor of Natal in 1913 when the ship visited South Africa on her delivery voyage to Australia.  

Media note: Imagery is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Feb/index.htm

[Keith]

MSPA 035/10 Thursday, 11 February 2010

HMAS Success Inquiry

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has today directed that a fresh inquiry into a range of matters arising from equity and diversity issues on board HMAS Success be conducted.

"I have taken this decision following legal advice that the initial administrative inquiry is flawed due to bias. The flaws were identified during a review of a Redress of Grievance raised by a sailor involved in the initial inquiry. I am very disappointed that the inquiry was flawed; however it is imperative that serious matters such as this are dealt with thoroughly," said Air Chief Marshal Houston.

"While I regret the need for a fresh inquiry, I am pleased that the flaws in the initial inquiry have been identified by internal review processes. We now have an opportunity to get the inquiry process right. While I remain confident that overall the Military Justice system is working well, this outcome has reinforced my concern that aspects of the system need to improve.

"I intend to appoint a retired senior Judge to undertake the fresh inquiry. His terms of reference will be comprehensive and include a complete review of the circumstances surrounding the range of matters arising from the equity and diversity issues on board HMAS Success. I also propose to offer the Senate Committee the opportunity to be consulted on the terms of reference for the fresh inquiry.

"I have discussed this initiative with the Minister for Defence who shares my disappointment and my determination that we get this fresh inquiry, and the process, right.

"I understand that initiating a fresh inquiry that will require input from all personnel involved will be unexpected, distressing and protracted. I have not taken this decision lightly, but given the circumstances, I have no other option.

"The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, has given his strong support to the fresh inquiry," Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

"Ensuring that my personnel behave appropriately, ashore and at sea, is fundamental to the cultural reform that I am driving as part of the New Generation Navy program. Equally important is my commitment to ensuring that all my personnel have access to a fair, robust and just inquiry system and that they are supported throughout the process," Vice Admiral Russ Crane said.

A further announcement will be made when the framework of the fresh inquiry has been determined and a senior retired Judge, appointed to lead it, has been confirmed.

Defence will not comment further on the details of this matter at this time.


Plot thickens over Faulkner's blocked ships
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/plot-thickens-over-defence-minister-faulkners-blocked-ships/story-e6frg8yo-1225827882151

Sean Parnell, FOI editor TWO of the three shipments that Defence Minister John Faulkner blocked on security grounds last year were not destined for Iran.

RAAF grounds F-111s after air show mayday
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/raaf-grounds-f-111s-after-air-show-mayday/story-e6frg6nf-1225829346735

Mark Dodd THE Royal Australian Air Force has grounded its F-111 strike aircraft after an emergency at the Singapore International Air Show last week.

Defence pay still being bungled
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/defence-pay-still-being-bungled/story-e6frg6nf-1225828957633
 
Mark Dodd DEFENCE pay bungles are continuing despite government moves to fast-track introduction of a new payroll system, Senate estimates was told yesterday.

Navy sex claims inquiry 'biased'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/navy-sex-claims-inquiry-biased/story-e6frg6nf-1225829348475

Mark Dodd THE HMAS Success "sex ledger" inquiry will be reopened over concerns that an earlier formal defence investigation was biased.

Kabul diplomats to leave US compound
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/kabul-diplomats-to-get-new-mission/story-e6frg8yo-1225829178318

Mark Dodd AUSTRALIAN diplomatic staff in Kabul will relocate from the high-security US embassy compound into new leased premises within months.

War games with Burma row
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/war-games-with-burma-row/story-e6frg6nf-1225828964092

Mark Dodd MILITARY contacts with the Rangoon did not compromise the government's strong diplomatic stand against Burma, Senate Estimates was told yesterday.

Chinese kit has force up in arms
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/chinese-kit-has-force-up-in-arms/story-e6frg6nf-1225828954325

Mark Dodd A CHINESE offer to produce Australian combat uniforms would have saved the Australian Defence Force $1.5 million, a Senate hearing was told yesterday

 
 

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[Keith]

Two subs out of action for 9 years
http://www.theage.com.au/national/two-subs-out-of-action-for-9-years-20100210-nsgh.html

 DAN OAKES | Two of Australia's six trouble-racked Collins class submarines will be out of action for a combined total of at least nine years.

 
 

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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
New mental health rehab for combat veterans
By Online political correspondent Emma Rodgers

 

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is setting up a new rehabilitation program which it hopes will stop soldiers suffering from mental health problems from leaving the service.

Announcing the program today at Senate Estimates, Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston says the ADF wants to ensure soldiers who are unwell are treated quickly.

The program will be headed up by David Morton, who has been managing a veterans' counselling service within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"We recognise that post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and other mental health issues must be taken seriously," Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

"We also recognise that we have a duty of care to ensure early identification and the provision of treatment to allow these individuals to continue as valued members of Defence and the wider community."

Mental health program coordinators will also be recruited to establish regional teams in Darwin, Townsville, Melbourne and Brisbane.

A review of mental health care in the ADF last year by Professor David Dunt found resources and staff were inadequate.

It also found that mental health problems were stigmatised in the ADF, and there were barriers to seeking health care.

Experts estimate that up to 10 per cent of combat veterans returning from the Middle East and Afghanistan may be suffering long-term mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Around 1,550 soldiers are now deployed in Afghanistan, with another 850 also stationed in the Middle East.

 
 

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[Keith]

Wouldn't it be nice to get the kids out of the media rooms and let the adults in who actually have experience and check their sources.


THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 10 February 2010
017/2010

Combat uniforms made in Australia

Contrary to some media reports this morning, combat uniforms worn by Australian Soldiers are manufactured in Australia.

No Australian troops are currently deployed, or in training, wearing combat uniforms made from Chinese fabric.

A tender was won late last year by a local clothing manufacturer from Bendigo, Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) to provide camouflage uniforms under an interim arrangement.

This is great news for the Bendigo economy and provides great support for local manufacturing and jobs.

ADA will be sourcing the fabric used to make these uniforms from Bruck Textiles in Wangaratta for the contracted period.

There was never a requirement to use Chinese fabric on combat clothing.

Under the contract ADA put forward an option to supply additional uniforms if required. For these uniforms ADA said they would source the fabric from a Chinese company.

This option has not been exercised by the Department of Defence and it will not be exercised.

The combat clothing that Australian troops will be supplied with is required to meet exacting specifications. All fabric used in uniforms is rigorously tested before use.

The Government is committed to giving Australian products a fair go, as long as local industry is competitive on schedule, cost and capability.

Last year, the Government spent over $6 billion in Australia on the acquisition and sustainment of defence materiel.

[Keith]

COURIER MAIL
 
Diggers' uniforms made in China
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,26702541-952,00.html
 
AUSTRALIAN soldiers will be sent to war wearing uniforms made from camouflage material made in China under a new round of Defence cost-cutting.

Vote now: Where should the uniforms be made?
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/poll/1,,5003440-5043290-0,00.html

Your say: Should Defence buy Australian?
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,26702541-952,00.html#submit-feedback

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Tuesday, 9 February 2010
016/10

Another step forward for Defence Health

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the appointment of Mr David Morton as the Australian Defence Force's (ADF) Director General of Mental Health, Psychology and Rehabilitation.

"Mr Morton's appointment is another step in the ADF's ongoing commitment to protecting and enhancing the health and well being of Australia's servicemen and women," Mr Combet said.

"His leadership and expertise will be vital for Defence as we continue to implement the recommendations from the 2009 Dunt Review into mental health.

"Mr Morton's appointment will result in better and more efficient health care as part of Defence's ongoing health reforms and restructure.

"The establishment of the Mental Health, Psychology & Rehabilitation branch is also a clear demonstration of the progress Defence is making in providing holistic care to ADF members."

Professor David Dunt completed a thorough mental health review last year at the Federal Government's request. The Dunt Review provided the catalyst for major health care reform and the Government is supporting Defence with an additional $83 million over the next four years to implement recommendations.

"The health and wellbeing of personnel is a priority for Defence and all wounded ADF members receive comprehensive support, whether it is for physical or emotional wounds," Mr Combet said.

"The ADF has one of the largest workplace mental health support systems in Australia, with a range of mental health and counselling services available to ADF personnel."

Mr Combet said that Mr Morton was well placed to make a very valuable contribution in this new role.

"David Morton's addition to the Joint Health Command leadership team will provide the final piece in the Command's areas of expertise and responsibilities," Mr Combet said.

"Mr Morton's previous work with the Department of Veterans' Affairs and Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service and his intimate involvement with delivering support services to Australia's war veterans deserve special recognition and will be a cornerstone of his work with Joint Health Command."

The ADF's Surgeon General and Chief of Joint Health Command, Major General Paul Alexander, said that "Defence is bringing the concepts of health and well-being together as a complete package. It's critical to understand that physical and emotional injuries require support to mend long after visible scars have healed.  This is vital for the ADF to meet our commitment to providing best practice healthcare.

"The success of our rehabilitation programs is remarkable. Last year 87 per cent of all personnel who undertook rehabilitation returned to duties.

"One of the major aims of the ADF's Mental Health Strategy is to de-stigmatise mental health problems and to encourage personnel to come forward for treatment sooner rather than later.  Early treatment in these cases is one of the keys to successful treatment."

"David Morton will work with me and the rest of the Command to make sure those who are diagnosed with injury, including mental health conditions, access the extensive rehabilitation programs available.

"Mr Morton's appointment is another significant milestone in the important and far-reaching reform.  It will give every member of the ADF, and the public, greater confidence in the delivery of Defence's high-quality health care services," Major General Alexander said.

MSPA 033/10 Tuesday, 9 February 2010

Special Operations Task Group discuss future with Afghan elders

The Australian Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) with their Afghan partner force have facilitated a major gathering (shura) of village elders and religious leaders in Chenartu, north-east of Tarin Kowt, as part of their current focus on reaching out to Afghan communities across Oruzgan province.

During the meeting, village leaders and representatives were consulted to gain an understanding from the community of their key needs and ideas for development proposals. With a force including Australian Defence Force (ADF) medics and coalition aid agency representatives (who work closely with AusAID staff in Oruzgan), the Special Operations Task Group explored all opportunities to engage the community.

The Commanding Officer of the SOTG, whose name can not be disclosed for security reasons, said: "We continue to reap the significant benefits of our combined operations with our Afghan partners, particularly when engaging the local population. Our partner force bring with them a unique understanding of local conditions. Conducting these operations in close cooperation with our partner force allows us greater clarity and understanding of the community's needs."

The Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans, accompanied by the commander of Australian forces in the Middle East, Major General John Cantwell, witnessed first-hand the population centric operations conducted by the SOTG soldiers. Both spoke with Chenartu locals participating in the shura, which was attended by 150 members of the community. 

Lieutenant General Evans said the shura was a clear indication that there was strong support for the International Security Assistance Force. "The large number of leaders and religious representatives here is an important sign that community confidence is growing. They said to me they were committed to the defeat of the Taliban."

Alongside the shura, a clinic run by the Special Forces medics provided treatment to over 200 people throughout the day. "These events are critical in gaining the trust of local communities," the Commanding Officer of the SOTG said.

"To be able to sit among the people, to hear their problems and ideas for the future, to witness the community spirit and the confidence of the locals, is to really appreciate that there is significant progress being achieved in local communities having the confidence to take ownership of and address their current and future challenges. 
"The work of the Australian forces continues to build strong relationships in Oruzgan and I am confident that we are on track with our mentoring work and security operations, operating within the community and protecting the people from the fear and intimidation of the Taliban,." Lieutenant General Mark Evans said at the end of the visit.

Media note: Still imagery will be available at:
http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100209c/index.htm

[Keith]

China pushes for closer ties
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/china-pushes-for-closer-military-ties/story-e6frg6nf-1225827622315

Cameron Stewart CHINA has pushed for "deeper" military ties between the People's Liberation Army and the Australian army.

 
 

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[Keith]

Rival choppers fight for navy deal
Mark Dodd
From: The Australian
February 06, 2010



COMPETITION is intensifying between the two main contenders for the $3.5 billion navy combat chopper contract, a deal made urgent by the 2008 decision to junk the troubled Seasprite program.

The choice to replace the navy's ageing fleet of 16 S-70B Seahawks is between a modernised variant, Sikorsky's MH-60R, and Eurocopter's fly-by-wire NH90-NHF.

At RAAF Fairbairn yesterday, an NH90 borrowed from the Italian navy was put through its paces in front of senior defence officials and Canberra-based NATO ambassadors. On the tarmac and under a stormy Canberra sky, Australian Aerospace chief executive Jens Goennemann spruiked the NH90 chopper's cutting-edge capabilities.

"This is the most modern naval helicopter, it's full-composite construction, corrosion resistant, fly-by-wire," Dr Goennemann said. "It's a true multi-role helicopter. It can be used in its primary role of anti-ship and anti-submarine, but it is also a transport helicopter because you can take the (anti-shipping) equipment out in less than four hours."

The helicopter has a formidable weapons system and is able to sink large warships, with its Marte Mark2-S anti-shipping missiles able to be fired from a distance of 35km.

Unlike its competitor, it incorporates some of the latest advances in aircraft safety and is able to float for up to 15 minutes in rough seas in the event of a ditching - time enough to allow the crew to escape.

But while the NH90 is the most advanced of its type in the world, it is also more expensive, about $50 million each compared with $30m-$40m for the US-built competitor.

In service for barely two years, the aircraft are already operating in Italy and The Netherlands, with other customers including France, Germany, Portugal, Finland, Sweden and Norway.

For the past week, the aircraft has been conducting weapons and performance appraisal tests at Nowra naval base.

While rival Sikorsky is expected to pitch the benefits of a cheaper, fully imported chopper, Australian Aerospace says at least 700 full-time jobs will be created if the Royal Australian Navy buys its aircraft.

The RAN desperately needs an anti-submarine and anti-shipping strike capability after the Rudd government axed the Seasprite project - a decision that cost Australian taxpayers more than

 
 

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[Keith]

Warning to Afghans wrong
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/warning-to-afghans-wrong-navy-chief/story-e6frg6nf-1225826892153

Lex Hall THE commander of a navy patrol boat has admitted that a warning notice telling 47 Afghan asylum-seekers to return to Indonesia was wrongly issued.

Obama to bolster Rudd's Asia-Pacific plan
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/barack-obama-to-bolster-kevin-rudds-asia-pacific-community-plan/story-e6frg8yo-1225826664738

Mark Dodd KEVIN Rudd can expect strong American support for his push for a new Asia-Pacific Community when Barack Obama visits, the US ambassador says.

PM defends blocking shipments to Iran
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/shipments-to-iran-blocked-to-prevent-nuclear-proliferation-rudd/story-e6frg8yo-1225826605423

Samantha Maiden KEVIN Rudd today confirmed that Australia had blocked shipments to Iran on at least three occasions.

 
 

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[Keith]

During WW2 Australia's Air Force was the worlds fourth largest and we had a huge home based aircraft manufacturing industry.
 
F-35s in strife as project chief sacked
Cameron Stewart
From: The Australian
February 03, 2010 12:00AM
 
THE massive Joint Strike Fighter project is in serious trouble only two months after the Australian government committed itself to buying the yet-to-be-completed F-35 warplane.

US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has sacked the general in charge of the F-35 project, saying the plane had a "troubling performance record" and was beset by cost overruns and delays.

"The progress and performance of the F-35 over the past two years has not been what it should," Mr Gates said in Washington. "A number of key goals and benchmarks were not met."

His comments reflect growing frustration in the Obama administration over the progress of the ambitious project, raising fears of further delays that could jeopardise the RAAF's hopes of having the plane in service from 2018.

Mr Gates's actions forced the Australian government -- which has previously denied any serious problems with the F-35 project -- to admit there were issues with the schedule, costs and risks associated with the project.

"The Australian government welcomes the decisive action taken overnight by the United States government to reduce the risk in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program," Defence Minister John Faulkner said.

"The budget reflects a restructuring of the JSF program to stabilise its schedule and cost."

Mr Gates was more blunt, sacking the officer in charge of the program, Major General David Heinz, to show that "when things go wrong, people will be held accountable".

He said the Pentagon would withhold $689 million in performance fees from lead contractor Lockheed Martin, which is developing the plane in Texas.

The project to build more than 2400 F-35s for the US military and eight partner countries including Australia has been bogged down by problems with the aircraft's weight, software and stealth technology, causing blow-outs in production schedules and costs.

In November, Australia committed $3 billion to buy an initial batch of 14 F-35s, and it plans eventually to purchase 100 of

the fifth-generation stealth warplanes at a cost of about $16bn.

Many defence experts were critical of the government's decision to commit to the plane while it is still in test-flight stage.

Mr Faulkner yesterday conceded the F-35 project would continue to face risks, but said Australia had planned for the problems.

"Significant cost and schedule buffers were built into Australia's project in anticipation of the steps announced in the US," he said.

The RAAF is anxious to avoid further delays because the F-35 will replace its F/A-18 Hornets, which will be nearing the end of their life by 2018, when the first operational squadron of F-35s is due to enter service.

Tuesday, 2 February 2010
014/2010

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

FIRST STEEL CUT FOR LHD 02 AMPHIBIOUS SHIP

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today announced that Navantia of Spain has commenced construction of Australia?s second Landing Helicopter Dock hull (LHD 02) at Navantia?s shipbuilding yard in Ferrol, Spain.

This is a great achievement with the steel being cut by Navantia 7 weeks ahead of schedule, said Mr Combet.

The Commonwealth has contracted BAE Systems Australia to provide two large Amphibious Ships (LHDs) that will form part of the ADFs broader amphibious deployment and sustainment system.

Under the project the Spanish shipbuilder Navantia is the design authority and is subcontracted to BAE Systems Australia to construct and fit out the hulls of two large Amphibious Ships for the ADF.

I am pleased to report that the LHD project is on schedule, with whole of ship design reviews completed and the keel laying of LHD 01 taking place exactly one year to the day from first steel being cut.

After completion of LHD 01 and 02, both hulls will be transported to Australia.

The superstructures will then be constructed, fitted out and integrated with the hulls at BAE Systems Australia?s Williamstown dockyard.

Once the hull arrives at Williamstown dockyard, the combat system will be installed by SAAB Systems Australia, which will also integrate the combat management system.  The communications system will be supplied by L-3 Communications,? said Mr Combet.

The next milestone will be the launch of LHD 01 in Spain in March 2011. LHD 01 will arrive at Williamstown dockyard in 2012, with LHD 02 arriving in 2014.

[Keith]

US changes head of JSF fighter program
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/us-changes-head-of-jsf-fighter-program/story-e6frg8yo-1225825807337

10:41AM Staff reporters THE US Government has decided to replace the manager of the F-35 fighter program due to cost overruns and a lack of progress.

Asylum-seekers rescued against orders
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/sailor-rescued-asylum-seekers-against-orders/story-e6frg6nf-1225825680110

Lex Hall A navy sailor defied orders and  rescued asylum-seekers from a burning boat

Defence spin sold build-up
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defence-spin-sold-build-up-in-naval-firepower/story-e6frg8yo-1225825232574

Cameron Stewart DEFENCE conducted a global diplomatic blitz last year to head off possible international concerns about the new Defence white paper.

Sailor denies kicking asylum-seeker
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/sailor-denies-kicking-siev-36-asylum-seeker/story-e6frg6nf-1225824881216

Lex Hall A ROYAL Australian Navy sailor has denied kicking an Afghan asylum-seeker to prevent him boarding a rescue boat.

New sub project warned of dirty fight
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/new-submarine-project-warned-of-dirty-fight/story-e6frg6nf-1225824881162

Cameron Stewart DEFENCE has received a confidential report on how to avoid the mistakes made by the Collins-class submarine program when it builds its new fleet of subs.

Navy push for closer links
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/royal-australian-navy-push-for-closer-links-with-asia/story-e6frg6nf-1225824883595

Sean Parnell, FOI editor THE failure of Collins-class submarines and other navy vessels not only threatens Australia's defence capabilities but also its pursuit of stronger diplomatic ties with Asia.

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Tuesday, 2 February 2010
013/2010

ADF PAYROLL AND PAY SYSTEM REFORM

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the immediate establishment of a high powered Australian Defence Force (ADF) Payroll Task Force and number of initiatives to accelerate reform of the ADF Payroll and Pay System.

"There is no doubt the ADF payroll system still needs remedial work. These ten measures are aimed at rectifying current deficiencies," Mr Combet said.

"The Task Force will drive the ongoing reform of the ADF pay and personnel processes, and report to Ministers on a monthly basis.  In keeping with the Strategic Reform Program, this will include the consolidation of all military payroll processing under one area of responsibility within 18 months."

Over the next three months the Government and Defence will:

* Immediately establish a Task Force for ADF Payroll and Pay System Reform to be co-chaired by Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General David Hurley, and Deputy Secretary (Defence Support), Mr Martin Bowles;

* Review and report on the adequacy of existing payroll procedures and compliance with them;

* Create a small specialist deployed civilian payroll administration cell that will drive consistency between the in-theatre and in-country payroll processing;

* Undertake quality assurance checks of International Campaign Allowance payments;

* Promote a common customer access channel including the 1800 DEFENCE number for members and their families to contact about pay related issues;

* Review the entire process for payment of deployed allowances and put in place revised checks and balances to ensure members are paid correctly;

* Enhance quality assurance processes that provide greater focus on control, supervision and checking of personnel data from local commander to the transactional processing area;

* Widen the current performance management regime to include control and compliance reporting on payment of ADF allowances;

* Develop a systematic forward looking Audit program to support the controls and compliance reporting around payroll processing; and

* Issue further official advice outlining the steps being put in place to improve the payroll system. This advice will also emphasise the obligation of personnel to meet their responsibilities on payroll matters including review of payslips and notification of errors as soon as possible.

The Task Force will be responsible for oversight of these initiatives and the achievement of greater integrity and accuracy in the ADF Pay and Personnel processes.

"The initial steps of the Task Force will include remediating pay issues that arise for individual ADF members, including the recent overpayment of the International Campaign Allowance," Mr Combet said.

"Additionally, the Government has endorsed a long term plan which would replace Defence's current three pay systems with a more modern personnel ICT system.

"This will result in complex transactions and manual processing being undertaken by one central authority, not fragmented as is currently the case.

"Defence have already embarked upon a "technical refresh" of the current human resource and payroll system. This refresh will upgrade the technology and provide a modern platform that will stabilise the current system and prepare for the development of a robust payroll system of the future.

"It is important Government and ADF members can have confidence in the integrity of pay and personnel processes.

"Continuing problems in the area of pay for the ADF are unacceptable to the Government. It is also unacceptable to the individuals and their families who are paid incorrectly, and who are required to enter into repayment arrangements.

"The Government understands that the volume of manual transactions, which last year amounted to over 3 million, means human error is always a possibility. But the number of incorrect payments is unacceptable," Mr Combet said.

 
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
008/2010

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

F-35 JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER (JSF) RISK REDUCTION ACTION IN THE PRESIDENTS BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011

The Australian Government welcomes the decisive action taken overnight by the United States (US) Government to reduce risk in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Program.

The Presidents Budget for Fiscal Year 2011, released on 1 February 2010 (US time) reflects the US Governments strong ongoing commitment to the JSF Program as the backbone of the future tactical aircraft inventory for the US Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps and partner countries, including Australia.

The budget, which has yet to go through the Congressional legislative process, reflects a restructuring of the JSF Program to stabilise its schedule and cost.

The US Department of Defense has adjusted JSF procurement quantities based on new data on costs, likely orders from international partners, and realigned development and test schedules.  Nearly US$11 billion has been allocated for the JSF in Fiscal Year 2011, along with a strategy to stabilise its cost and schedule.  In Fiscal Year 2011, the President?s Budget proposes the acquisition of 43 aircraft  and possibly more depending on contractor performance.

In restructuring the JSF Program to deal with cost and schedule issues over the last two years, US Secretary of Defense Gates has withheld a considerable amount of performance fees from JSF prime contractor Lockheed Martin.  Additionally, Secretary Gates has directed a change in the leadership of the US Joint Strike Fighter Program Office and, given the importance of this program to the future of military aviation, has elevated the level of the JSF Program manager to that of a 3-star officer.

The Australian Governments staged acquisition approach to the JSF, commencing with the acquisition of 14 aircraft, has strongly mitigated risk in relation to this vital program.  As part of the Governments JSF acquisition strategy, significant cost and schedule buffers were built into Australias project in anticipation of the steps announced in the US today.

As is to be expected with such a large and complex project, the JSF will continue to face risks.  Australia will continue to work closely with the US and other international partners to closely manage these risks and ensure the success of the JSF Program.

[Keith]

SMH
 
Ex-army captain made to return super
BELLINDA KONTOMINAS COURTS
February 1, 2010

A FORMER army captain who stole rocket launchers from the Australian Defence Force has been ordered to pay back some of the $195,000 in superannuation contributions made by the Commonwealth.

The decision was handed down last week in the NSW Supreme Court under laws designed to keep public servants honest.

Shane Della-Vedova, who had served in the army over three periods between June 1978 and August 2008, was sentenced in 2008 to 10 years' jail for misappropriating 10 M1 single-shot rocket launchers between 2001 and 2003.

Nine of the rockets, later sold to a criminal with suspected terrorist links, are still missing. The weapons had been written off as old ordinance that had been destroyed from the army's stockpile.

Della-Vedova told a court during his sentencing hearing he had accidentally left the rockets in the boot of his army vehicle after a day spent blowing up other rockets deemed unsafe. They had remained in his garage until he had sold them to a man believing they would end up in ''some stupid person's house up in the boondocks''.

But the sentencing judge said it was ''wholly unbelievable'' that Della-Vedova would not have suspected the weapons would end up in terrorists' hands.

A Supreme Court judge, Ian Harrison, agreed Della-Vedova should repay part of $194,166 in superannuation, telling the court he should ''not be permitted to hold out one hand to receive his employer's contributions to his superannuation fund whilst simultaneously committing a fraud upon that employer with the other hand''.

The Director of Public Prosecutions had argued that Della-Vedova forfeit his entire superannuation entitlements.

However, Justice Harrison found that Della-Vedova should only pay back the contributions accrued when the offences were committed.

The matter was adjourned until later this year for the final amount to be determined.

Neil James, the Australia Defence Association's executive director, said the court had taken a ''commonsense approach'' to deterring others from engaging in corruption against the commonwealth.

''The message sent is that the punishment for an offence is beyond just the imprisonment,'' he said. ''Normally speaking, you only seize the superannuation for reasonably serious offences.''

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AGE
 
'Best and bravest who gave their all' laid to rest
BELINDA TASKER, FROMELLES
January 31, 2010

CHILLY conditions and a sprinkling of snow has marked the start of the reburial of 250 Australian and British soldiers in France, more than 90 years after they disappeared during a ferocious World War I battle.

About 400 people braved the wintry conditions yesterday to witness the first reinterment of the soldiers who were unearthed from a mass grave near the rural village of Fromelles, near Lille.

After a dusting of snow the skies cleared for the burial of the first soldier with full military honours at a new cemetery built by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission at Fromelles.

Prayers were said and official speeches made by Australian, British and French officials as the coffin was laid into the frozen, snow-covered ground.

Australian Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin said the story of the 250 soldiers would play a central part in the history of the Battle of Fromelles.

''The courage and sacrifice of those who fought and died here is sadly typical of what took place across the Western Front for far too long,'' he said.

''They represent a generation lost in time, the best and bravest who gave their all.''

Most of the remaining soldiers will be reburied gradually in February, during similar ceremonies.

The soldiers' bodies were unearthed from an unmarked mass grave on the outskirts of a wood near the northern French village of Fromelles in 2009 after a painstaking search.

For the Melbourne school teacher, Lambis Englezos, who led army officials to the mass grave, the reburial process is particularly poignant, despite the fact he will be unable to attend.

Mr Englezos launched a search for the mass grave in 2002 and six years later persuaded Australian and British army officials to carry out a limited excavation of where he believed the soldiers were buried by German troops.

His research was spot on and the process of excavating the soldiers' remains ended in September last year.

''It's been a long journey,'' Mr Englezos said.

''It's a wonderful result and each of the soldiers will get their dignity and, hopefully, their identity.

''That's always been the thrust,'' he said.

After the first soldier is reburied, all except one will be reinterred with full military honours during ceremonies to be held throughout February.

The final body will be reinterred on July 19, when a major commemorative event will be held at the cemetery's official opening to mark the 94th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles.

AAP

ABC NEWS
 
Honouring the fallen: the soldiers are being reburied near where their remains were discovered

Fallen Fromelles soldiers laid to rest 

The first of 250 unknown British and Australian soldiers who died in World War I have been reburied in France.

The soldiers, who were killed in the 1916 Battle of Fromelles, are being buried at new a cemetery near where their remains were discovered in 2008.
 

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[Keith]

SMH
 
Scapegoat insanity for our navy
http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/politics/scapegoat-insanity-for-our-navy-20100129-n400.html

 MIRANDA DEVINE | The inquest into the explosion of the asylum seeker boat SIEV 36 off Ashmore Reef last year, killing five people and injuring 40, has all the hallmarks of a witch-hunt.

SMH
 
Defence personnel feared attack, inquiry told
http://www.smh.com.au/national/defence-personnel-feared-under-attack-inquiry-told-20100129-n495.html

 LINDSAY MURDOCH | When Adrian Medbury saw a wooden asylum-seekers' boat explode after bobbing in calm sea he thought nine of his Australian Defence Force colleagues onboard had been attacked.

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 28 January 2010 009/2010


SUCCESSFUL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR WOMEN IN THE NAVY TO EXPAND IN 2010

The Australian Government has welcomed the results of a new initiative to enhance female leadership in the Royal Australian Navy by expanding the program.

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, said that the Government is committed to improving opportunities for women in the ADF to undertake leadership roles.

"The Navy Women's Leadership Program was conducted throughout 2009 with 28 women and was the first program of its kind in the ADF," Mr Combet said.

"The program provided the opportunity for female leaders, from the rank of Leading Seaman to Commander and APS equivalents, to participate in five Australian Women and Leadership Forum events.

"I am pleased to announce that the Women's Leadership Program will be conducted again in 2010, and will include for the first time a women's mentoring program for an additional 50 Navy women.

"The new mentoring program is highly regarded and has been implemented in many corporate and public sector organisations around Australia, as part of gender diversity strategies to help women achieve their career potential and counter the gender imbalance in the workforce.

"The female officers, sailors and public servants who completed the program provided extremely positive feedback and have indicated strong enthusiasm and motivation to implement their new skills in the workplace," Mr Combet said.

"The Navy Women's Leadership Program aligns itself with the objectives outlined in the Chief of Defence Force Action Plan for the Recruitment and Retention of Women in the ADF."

The programs are being run as part of the New Generation Navy initiative, which seeks to improve Navy's culture, leadership and structure.

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

The Contribution of Defence Science and Innovation to Maritime Security

DSTO Maritime Defence Technology Symposium
Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre
2pm, 27 January 2010

Check-against-delivery

Professor Robert Clark, distinguished guests from the USA, UK and Canada, ladies and gentlemen,

I am very pleased to be here with you today to open the Defence Science and Technology Organisation?s Maritime Defence Technology Symposium.

This is the inaugural DSTO Maritime Defence Technology Symposium and I would like to congratulate DSTO on this initiative.

Science and innovation play a crucial role in the maritime security of nations.

From the replacement of oar propelled ships by sailing ships, the rise of ironclads to the Dreadnought revolution, technological advancements have been crucial to naval warfare and maritime security in general.

As the largest island nation, we are acutely aware of the importance of maritime security. The 2009 Defence White Paper deservedly focused on the challenges in the maritime domain.

Existing role of DSTO in support of Naval Platforms

This is why this symposium is timely and the DSTO is uniquely placed to host this symposium.

The organisation has an esteemed record in providing scientific support to all facets of Australia?s maritime security.

DSTO undertakes research and advisory work across a vast range of subject areas. One of these roles is to provide science and technology support to major Defence projects.

It also conducts technical analysis and operations research studies to inform projects about technical feasibility and the capability of different options being considered.

These activities form a critical part of the studies phase of major projects, such as SEA 1000  the Future Submarine ? but more about that later.

DSTO brings together subject matter experts from within the organisation and from peer organisations overseas, particularly the US, the UK and Canada to provide analysis for major projects.

By engaging with Australian industry, international design and manufacturing companies and allied government research organisations around the world, DSTO is able to harness the most innovative and creative people working in defence and national security.

I believe some of those people are in this room today. Welcome.

Among the invited speakers are overseas experts from public sector research organisations in the USA, UK and Canada and the US Navy. Their presence here is no accident.

For, access to technology on a government-to-government basis will play a key part in the development of the Future Submarine for example, especially in the design stages. There is much to be gained through these multilateral relationships in terms of access to knowledge, expertise and facilities, particularly for large scale tests.  

History of DSTOs support for maritime security

Scientific support has been vital to Australias ability to defend its shores. Over the last 100 years this support has been delivered by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, along with other earlier research organisations that now form part of DSTO.

Australias defence scientists have a proud history of supporting the Royal Australian Navy.

While early research focused on munitions development and testing, Australias maritime defence science program began in earnest in 1956 with the establishment of the Royal Australian Navy Experimental Laboratory at Rushcutters Bay, about four kilometres from here.

Known as RANEL, the laboratory was essentially a product of Cold War tensions, with an emphasis on research that focused on Soviet submarine infiltration and attack.

The laboratory was largely concerned with the development of sonar capabilities, but the value of scientific support for the Navy was quickly evident and RANEL soon increased its scope to include operational research and analysis in all areas of naval concern.

RANEL also developed expertise in exercise analysis in the early 1960s and undertook major order of battle studies for the Navy during the early and mid 1960s. This led to an extension of scientific support encompassing all aspects of naval warfare, not just anti-submarine warfare.

By the mid-70s, RANEL had become known as the Royal Australian Navy Research Laboratory. In 1975, management of the laboratory moved from Navy to the newly formed Defence Science and Technology Organisation and became known as DSTO Sydney.

Over the past 50 years, the focus of DSTO Sydney has moved from sonar systems in deep ocean, blue water environments to an emphasis on shallow water littoral operations.

Throughout its existence, the laboratory, whether part of Navy or DSTO, has been a centre of excellence for maritime operations research for the Royal Australian Navy.

And the Defence Science and Technology Organisation has continued to commit resources to this important area.

Working together with Navy and industry, defence scientists have conceived, developed and introduced into service a number of unique and world leading maritime capabilities of which Australia can be truly proud.

Let me highlight some of these capabilities.

Ikara

Project Ikara was developed in the 1960s to provide the Navy with a ship-borne anti-submarine weapon that could be deployed at a stand-off range of at least 10 miles. This was far greater than any other ship-launched anti-submarine weapon at the time. This was a remarkable achievement for a defence science community that had a fraction of the resources of nations such as the USA and USSR.

Essentially, Ikara was a rocket-launched vehicle that deployed a commercially available torpedo. It was sold to the UK, Brazil and New Zealand.

Mulloka

In the 1970s the DSTO?s Mulloka Project developed an advanced medium range active sonar system suitable for use in Australian waters. It involved a vast increase in operating frequency and transmitting power and was a radical departure from previous systems.

Kariwara

Building on strong research and industrial development efforts involved in some of the earlier projects, DSTOs Kariwara project developed a thin-line buoyant submarine towed array.

DSTO scientists discovered a way of using Kevlar and a gel substance in the array, which proved to be a far superior solution than the earlier oil-filled systems.

The technology provided many advantages over a liquid-filled array - a modular and compact construction, robustness, slim line, environmental friendliness and, most important, an enhanced acoustic performance.

The Kariwara slim-line array technology has since been the basis for further developments by Australian industry. The primary civilian application has been in seismic survey work, leading to a successful export program.

This is one of many examples of a defence technology being spun off to civilian use.

Barra Sonobuoy

The Barra passive array sonobuoy was one of DSTOs most successful projects, undertaken in conjunction with the United Kingdom. This new system was developed to be deployed from aircraft and helicopters to detect, locate and classify quiet submarines and surface ships.

It remains the most effective directional sonobuoy system in operational use to identify quiet submarines. This is an important point given the increased proliferation of quiet diesel submarines in the Asia Pacific region.

Australian Minesweeping System

The Australian Minesweeping System is another success story. It incorporates the DSTO-developed compact sweep, comprising Dyad permanent magnets, which emulate the magnetic signatures of target vessels, causing sea mines to detonate safely.

Further developed by industry, this system has earned over $70 million in exports to the UK, USA, Indonesia, Japan, Poland and Thailand with India making a large purchase only two years ago.  

LADS

In 1972, DSTO started investigating fast and more efficient techniques in conducting hydrographic surveys of Australias continental shelf. Many years of research and development led to the design and construction of the Laser Airborne Depth Sounder, known as LADS.

Using an infrared laser directed from an aircraft, the system is able to measure the depth of the seabed, enabling scientists to produce a hydrographic map.

Developed in conjunction with Australian industry partners, the system has generated more than $100 million for the Australian companies involved, much of which has been in export sales, returning valuable royalties to the Commonwealth.

Nulka

One of DSTOs best known innovations is the active missile decoy, Nulka. It was developed in partnership with industry and the US Navy from an original DSTO concept and has revolutionised ship protection with its unique, hovering rocket which entices missiles away from the vessel.

Nulka has seen active service in the Gulf War. To date approximately 930 Nulka rounds have been produced for the Australian, United States and Canadian Navies. The Nulka system has now been installed on more than 130 surface combat ships, with deployment on further ship classes planned.

Annual sales of more than $40 million, make it Australias largest regular Defence export. With a total contract value of around $700 million, the Nulka project is reported to have created 400 jobs in Victoria and South Australia.

As I have the honour of being the minister responsible for both defence science and defence industry, I would like to see more of these projects that involve close cooperation with industry and significant export orders.

DSTO support for submarines

Turning our attention to submarine technology, defence science support to Australia?s submarine program began in World War One with the AE1 and AE2 submarines, both boats being casualties of that conflict.

As an aside, DSTO recently closed the loop, so to speak, with these early submarines following the 1996 discovery of the AE2 in the Dardanelles, where it was scuttled in 1915 during the Gallipoli campaign. A small team of defence scientists, working in their own time, designed and engineered a camera that was used by divers to film inside the wreck during an archaeological survey in September 2007.

Much more recently, DSTOs scientists played a critical role in the development and deployment of Australias Collins class submarines. The recently published history of the Collins class submarine highlighted how DSTOs scientific expertise was fundamental to the implementation of this complex project.

DSTO developed the steel and welding technology for the hulls and developed the anechoic tiles which make them less vulnerable to detection by other submarines or ships. When the submarine project ran into difficulties, DSTO helped solve many of the problems with the diesels, generators, propeller, noise signature and combat system.

The lessons learned from the Collins experience have been invaluable for DSTO, which is now undertaking research to support the Future Submarine project and the next generation of undersea warfare.

SEA1000

When we announced in the 2009 Defence White Paper that the Government is planning to acquire a new fleet of submarines to replace the Collins class boats from 2025 we sparked debate that I welcome.

I say welcome, although the debate has at times been rather heated.

Let me take a few moments to canvass some of the issues each side of the debate argues so passionately.

On the back of the Collins project, which experienced cost and schedule overruns, as well as some well-publicised technical difficulties, we have been criticised for undertaking another potentially developmental project.

A range of procurement options are available to Government, covering a broad spectrum from purchasing a design off-the-shelf through an evolution of the existing Collins Class, to a completely new ground-up design.

Let me begin by stating that the acquisition strategy for the Future Submarine program has not been finalised.

Having said this, there are several important reasons why we are examining our ability to design and assemble the future submarines in Australia.

Firstly, this program could provide significant potential industrial and military capability opportunities because of its size and duration, among other things.  The construction phase alone is likely to run for over twenty-five years and the boats themselves will probably be in service until 2070.  

Secondly, our geography and strategic circumstances are very different from those in Europe, from where most of the world?s innovative conventionally-powered submarines originate. The potential for these designs to meet our future capability requirements ? or form a developmental base for them - will need to be carefully considered.

I believe it is very important that we build on our considerable experience with the Collins class in deciding not only how we will acquire a submarine that meets our needs in such a critically important strategic military capability. But also to make sure that we build the necessary capability to sustain the platform and ensure we have access to the necessary capability to develop it through its long service life.

The Future Submarine has the potential to be the most complex and expensive defence procurement in Australias history, particularly if the Government decides to push the technological envelope with regard to its capability, where Australia would be blazing a trail in conventionally-powered submarine technology. We must not underestimate the significant challenges that this would present us.

We know that - which is why we have already started working on capability definition and identification of the technology drivers.

Additionally, as the design, development and build would be a whole-of-nation undertaking, it is essential that we bring our industry and international partners into the mix from the earliest stages to assist us to make the strategic decisions that need to be made at an early stage of this procurement.

DSTO support for SEA1000

I am sure you all appreciate the challenges submarines face in operating in the underwater environment. Ill talk now about some of those difficulties and how DSTO is working to overcome them.

DSTO is conducting a thorough study of the science and technology requirements for the SEA 1000 project.

It is looking at the key criteria that will determine the range, endurance, weapons, sensors and number of personnel needed for the Future Submarine.  

The early decisions that need to be made, such as the platform size, propulsion and energy storage systems, sensor configuration, combat system, weapon systems and crew numbers, are all features that drive decisions around the design.  

DSTO is assisting the project in identifying these drivers and analysing the technical maturity of different solutions.

An example of this was the examination of Human Systems Integration issues for the Future Submarine project understanding how people will operate the platform is a fundamental consideration that will influence the specification of the submarines.

Major Defence projects have a science and technology plan managed by DSTO. For the SEA 1000 project, specific activities being undertaken include:
o Future Submarine operational and technical drivers studies
o Combat system analysis studies
o Energy storage and integration studies
o Signature analysis studies
o A payload deployment applied program
o Capability analysis and modelling studies, among others.

One area where DSTO?s technical expertise will be absolutely critical is the submarine propulsion and drive train. This includes power generation, motors, battery technology and integrated platform management systems. Subject to decisions yet to be made, Australia may need to rely on the ingenuity of its own defence scientists to develop and integrate sustainable propulsion and drive systems.

It is important to note, however, that the technology of these systems will continue to evolve over the next decade and beyond.

As a result, it is essential that DSTO assist the Future Submarine project in monitoring technology trends to facilitate obsolescence management throughout the design and build phase of the project. DSTO will also conduct R&D on technologies for insertion into the Future Submarine during its life to maintain the capability edge.

In the meantime, DSTO is also investing in a number of technologies that provide a capability edge.

These include submarine stealth, advanced battery solutions, combat system technologies and how payloads will be launched and recovered. Payloads include weapons, sensors and unmanned vehicles.

A key research and development program within DSTO is focused on maximising the performance of sonar systems. As sonar is the primary sensor of submarines, DSTO is at the forefront of underwater sensing technologies.

In addition, DSTO has a vibrant program focused on understanding the linkages between the environment and sonar system performance; linkages that involve, for example, understanding the sea bottom conditions in areas where we operate, the changing water temperature, density and layers of water, biological activity and so on.

Another trend emerging in underwater warfare is towards the increased use of uninhabited vehicles for a number of applications including, for example, mine warfare, and the deployment of sonar arrays for persistent surveillance and environmental assessment.

However, autonomous operation of such vehicles is only at the research stage at this time in the maritime environment, particularly in the undersea warfare domain.

I note that the launch and recovery of autonomous vehicles, for example, is one of the challenges being addressed at this symposium.

Finally, I cannot miss the opportunity to emphasise the issue of systems integration  which is taxing the minds of defence scientists around the world.  

Im pleased to see that the symposium program includes a number of highly influential and well respected experts in this area.

Given the complexity of the SEA1000 project, I encourage early consideration of system integration challenges and careful management of integration risks.

Conclusion

Our strategy is to take an integrated approach to delivering capability outcomes to the SEA1000 and other maritime projects.

This will involve contributions from DSTO as well as Australian Industry, universities and, importantly, international partners.  

I trust this symposium will be a great success and I hope it is the first of many more.

I wish you all the very best over the next few days and I would like to thank you all for your participation.

End.

MSPA 022/10
Wednesday, 27 January 2010

ADF SUPPORT TO HAITI

The Australian Defence Forces contribution to the relief effort in Haiti commenced today with the initial deployment of Royal Australian Air Force Air Traffic Controllers (ATC).

Two RAAF ATC officers, including the contingent commander Flight Lieutenant Matthew Ferguson-McLellan, departed Sydney this afternoon for Miami and will be joined later this week by three more officers. The group will conduct pre-deployment training in Miami then move forward to Haiti.

Group Captain Forster Breckenridge, Officer Commanding Number 44 Wing, where the ATC are drawn from, said the team is eager to get to Haiti, wanting to help those suffering from the effects of the disaster.

?We want to get on the ground and start working to get the relief flights into those who so desperately need it, he said.

The Air Traffic Control Officers will be embedded with a US Air Force team to provide specialist duties including tower and approach control in Haiti, Group Captain Breckenridge said.

This deployment will build on the experience gained by the RAAF performing similar duties in Iraq.

We have worked closely with our US air traffic control counterparts in the Middle East so the skill sets and methods of operations are well known and understood by both forces.

These officers will help alleviate the pressure and improve safety at the main airport in Haiti where much of the air traffic for this aid operation is arriving.

The highly trained RAAF ATCs will provide integrated civil/military Air Traffic Services to support humanitarian assistance operations, using skills honed in Baghdad, Sinai, Somalia, East Timor, Solomon Islands, Banda Aceh and Sudan.

The five officers will deploy to Haiti for up to two months, subject to regular reviews of the situation.

Media note: Imagery is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Jan/20100127c/index.htm

Group Captain Forster Breckenridge, Officer Commanding Number 44 Wing is available for interview.

[Keith]

Defence bureaucrats fail ministers
Sean Parnell, FOI editor
From: The Australian
January 28, 2010

THE litany of failures in Defence extends well beyond the Collins Class submarines, with significant hardware and manpower deficiencies and even the department admitting it has failed ministers on policy.

In a letter to accompany a series of briefs for Defence secretary Ian Watt, Defence chief Angus Houston and bureaucrat Stephen Merchant declared the "great speed and precision" of military operations belied the cumbersome and ineffectual work of the department.

"This capacity to mount and sustain operations contrasts with what, on occasion, has been a more ordinary level of performance in meeting the government's directions on non-operational matters -- indeed, sometimes there have been very poor levels of performance," they wrote in the August 18 letter.

"These failures to deliver on policy expectations will frustrate and disappoint you, as they do us."

While Defence Minister John Faulkner yesterday gave a public update of hardware issues in the navy, the documents obtained under Freedom of Information laws provide a more stark assessment of our maritime capabilities.

The frigates Senator Faulkner mentioned were suffering from delayed upgrades and a lack of marine technician sailors; the yet-to-be-replaced Seahawk helicopters were "increasingly difficult to support"; three of six landing craft heavy vessels would need to be withdrawn from service this year to "manage personnel and operating costs", well ahead of the delivery of new amphibious assault ships; and coastal mine hunters had some emerging "absolescence issues" with communications and combat systems.

Even the dependable HMAS Success, the backbone of the logistic support fleet, was in trouble, with its single hull failing International Maritime Organisation requirements for double hull oil tankers from 2010, requiring Defence to seek a waiver until the hull can be reconfigured.

A strategic reform plan is being rolled out not only to realise savings in Defence to purchase new hardware, but to create a vastly different force in line with last year's white paper.

Dr Watt -- who was head-hunted by Senator Faulkner -- was warned by Air Chief Marshal Houston and Mr Merchant the SRP "will remain a high-risk endeavour for some time to come, requiring unwavering leadership attention".

"Over the past 20 years Defence has embarked on a number of internal reform measures, many of which have failed to deliver their promised results and, in some cases, damaged our internal assurance processes," they say.

A key element of the program was to "sharpen accountabilities" to stop Defence repeating its mistakes, including the special forces pay debacle.

The documents released under FOI laws, supported by Senator Faulkner, have helped The Australian reveal the extent of injury and illness claims from a decade of conflict, the strain of repeated overseas deployments, a move to send more reservists to the frontline and challenges in recruitment and retention.

Rescuers 'kicked boatpeople in head'
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/rescuers-kicked-boatpeople-in-head-corporal-sharon-jager/story-e6frg6nf-1225824148182

Lex Hall, Northern Territory correspondent AN air force corporal has told how desperate Afghan boatpeople were abused and kicked by Australian defence personnel as they tried to climb aboard a rescue craft.

'Too dangerous' to visit jailed Aussie
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/kabul-jail-access-too-dangerous-for-consular-officials-to-visit-jailed-aussie/story-e6frg6nf-1225824141448

Jeremy Kelly AN Australian man on death row in Kabul has no access to consular officials because the prison where he is being held is deemed too dangerous to visit.

Upgraded frigates finally join fleet
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/upgraded-frigates-finally-join-fleet/story-e6frg6nf-1225824141749

Mark Dodd THE navy has its ships after completion of a $1.5bn project

Cash talks under way to secure release from death row
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/cash-talks-under-way-to-secure-release-of-australian-from-death-row-in-kabul/story-e6frg6nf-1225824141321

Mark Dodd, Gavin Lower LAWYERS representing an Australian security guard on death row in Kabul for killing an Afghan colleague are negotiating with the victim's family.

Defence bureaucrats fail ministers
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/defence-bureaucrats-fail-ministers/story-e6frg6nf-1225824143319

Sean Parnell, FOI editor THE speed of men in the field is not matched by those at desks.

New subs to be built in Adelaide whatever the pick
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/new-subs-to-be-built-in-adelaide-whatever-the-pick/story-e6frg8yo-1225824141618
 
Brendan Nicholson A DECISION on whether to replace the troubled Collins Class submarines with a new design or to buy one off the shelf is yet to be taken.

Weekend warrior has shot at army full-time
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/weekend-warrior-has-shot-at-army-full-time/story-e6frg6nf-1225824145196
 
Sean Parnell DEFENCE is looking to make more use of its reservists.

Rescuers kicked asylum-seekers in head
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/rescuers-kicked-asylum-seekers-in-head-to-save-room-on-boat-for-defence-personnel/story-e6frg8yo-1225824079210

5:32PM Lex Hall DEFENCE personnel kicked asylum-seekers in the head to stop them from clambering aboard a rescue boat in the aftermath of a fatal explosion.

Warships return after $1.5bn upgrade
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/hmas-sydney-melbourne-darwin-and-newcastle-return-after-15bn-upgrade/story-e6frg8yo-1225823958916

Mark Dodd A TROUBLED $1.5 billion upgrade of the Navy's four Adelaide class frigates has finally been completed, almost five years behind schedule.

PM to intervene in case of ex-soldier
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/rudd-vows-to-act-as-robert-langdon-faces-death-penalty-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225823941457

Samantha Maiden KEVIN Rudd has vowed to intervene in the case of a former Australian soldier who has been sentenced to death in Kabul for murdering an Afghan.

Seven minutes to decide on death
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/seven-minutes-to-decide-on-death-sentence-for-australian-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg6nf-1225823755739
 
Jeremy Kelly ROB Langdon did not have much time to sweat as three appeal-court judges deliberated on his death sentence.

 
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

GUIDED MISSILE FRIGATES UPGRADE PROJECT
DELIVERS RESULTS

Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) had received the Chief of Navy's agreement to take the upgraded Guided Missile Frigates (FFGs) into a formal program of Naval Operational Test and Evaluation. 

Senator Faulkner made the announcement at the opening of the Pacific 2010 International Maritime Congress in Sydney.

"On the basis of the significant progress that has been achieved, Project SEA1390 Phase 2.1, the FFG Upgrade Project, has now been removed from the list of Projects of Concern," Senator Faulkner said. 

"This brings the FFG Upgrade contract closer to completion. There is now a defined pathway to the completion of the Project, with the issues surrounding Project of Concern classification sufficiently remediated to remove it from the list.

"There is still work to be done to tune and tailor the delivered systems to Navy's contemporary requirements.  There is also an ever-present need to configure and augment the systems in ships deploying into operational areas to ensure that they have the best available capability to meet the threats in those areas.

"We have learned valuable lessons from the FFG Upgrade experience and, despite its problems, we are delivering a much improved capability," Senator Faulkner said.

The Navy's operational testing, evaluation, and tailoring process will support wide operational employment of these very capable ships. 

"The upgraded FFG capability sets an international benchmark for what can be achieved with this class of ship.

"I congratulate all involved on the outcomes achieved from this very challenging upgrade project," Senator Faulkner said.

[Keith]

Economy a threat to recruitment
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/improving-economy-makes-defence-recruiting-harder/story-e6frg8yo-1225823755476

Sean Parnell, FOI editor A RESURGENT economy would not only give jobseekers more options than the military, but potentially entice existing servicemen to leave.

 
 

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[Keith]

Australia's sub-standard submarine fleet down to just one
Article from: COURIER MAIL
 
Ian McPhedran

January 25, 2010

THE navy's submarine capacity has dropped to just one fully capable boat after a major power fault forced the emergency docking of HMAS Farncomb.

And the rest of the fleet could be affected by the manufacturing problem that crippled one of three electrical generators on board the submarine.

The boat was at sea off the WA coast last week when the defect occurred and is now tied up at HMAS Stirling navy base south of Perth.

An angry navy chief, Vice- Admiral Russ Crane, has ordered the submarine maintenance agency, ASC, to urgently address the broken generator and get the boat back to sea as quickly as possible.

"We are working hard to ensure this fault is rectified as soon as possible. The Australian public, the Defence organisation and our navy family expect nothing less," Vice-Admiral Crane said.

The 50-person crew, which the navy said was never in any danger, will be transferred to the oldest boat in the six-vessel fleet, HMAS Collins, to continue training.

The Collins experienced a major mechanical failure last August and is unfit to go to war.

That means just one boat, HMAS Waller, is available to provide underwater security for the nation.

The other three boats, Rankin, Sheehan and Dechaineux, are in dock for various stages of their maintenance cycles.

ASC will charge taxpayers $330 million to maintain the six Collins boats this year and a frustrated Vice-Admiral Crane has demanded urgent action on the latest problem to beset the troubled $6 billion fleet.

Earlier this year just one Collins boat was fit for sea following a battery malfunction on board HMAS Waller.

Despite the lack of working submarines, Vice-Admiral Crane said the nation's maritime defence remained strong.

"We continue to have a credible submarine capability available," he said.

"The multi-layered approach to our defence enables us to minimise the impact of contingencies such as this."

The latest docking comes as submarine crew numbers were picking up and the demand for training time was increasing.

VC hero praises all in service

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/vc-hero-praises-all-those-in-service/story-e6frg6nf-1225823430311

Mark Dodd SAS Trooper Mark Donaldson might have to delay plans to rejoin his mates in Afghanistan after being named Young Australian of the Year 2010.

Gallantry award for private
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/gallantry-award-for-private/story-e6frg6nf-1225823430099


Lanai Vasek THEY would sacrifice everything to protect our country on the battlefield, but most of us will never know their identities.

ADF warms to reservists at front
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/australian-defence-force-mulls-options-for-increased-role-for-reservists/story-e6frg8yo-1225823058381

Jamie Walker THE ADF is looking at options to make "more effective use" of reservists on the frontline.

 
 

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[Keith]

Are Australian Forces using this bomb detection equipment in Afghanistan?
 
Head of bomb detector company arrested in fraud investigation

Government announces ban on export of devices to Iraq and Afghanistan

By Kim Sengupta, Defence Correspondent

Saturday, 23 January 2010

Hundreds of people have been killed in horrific bombings in Iraq after a British company supplied "bogus" equipment which failed to detect explosive devices.

The head of the company, which has made tens of millions of pounds from the sale of the detectors, has now been arrested and the British Government has announced a ban on their export to Iraq and Afghanistan.

But questions were being raised last night about why action had not been taken sooner on the supply of the detectors which leading weapons specialists had condemned months ago as "useless and dangerous". The equipment, which operates on a "dousing" principle and has no electronic components ? was also sold to Pakistan, Lebanon and Jordan, all countries suffering deaths and injuries through terrorist bomb attacks.

Iraqi families who have suffered in the blasts last night condemned their own government as well as the British authorities for allowing the extraordinary security failure. Among the attacks that the detectors, it is claimed, had failed to prevent were suicide bombings in October last year which killed 155 people and blasts two months later which resulted in 120 more deaths.

Jim McCormick, a 53-year-old former police officer, was arrested by Avon and Somerset police on Thursday after Chief Constable Colin Port ordered an investigation. The Iraqi Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki, has also ordered an inquiry into the purchase of 1,500 of the ADE 651 detectors by his officials who paid ?45,000 apiece for the equipment when they were on sale elsewhere for about ?15,000 each.

Last night it was announced that Lord Mandelson had asked the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to ban the export of the ADE 651 device to Iraq and Afghanistan. In a statement the department said: "The reason the ban is limited to these two countries is that our legal power to control these goods is based on the risk that they could cause harm to UK and other friendly forces. The British embassy in Baghdad has raised our concerns about the ADE 651 with the Iraqi authorities. We have offered co-operation with any investigation they may wish to make into how the device came to be bought for their military as bomb detection equipment."

Mr McCormick, who served with Merseyside police before becoming managing director of the company ATSC, said that his "highly successful" ADE series was based on a similar principle to dowsing ? the belief that certain types of woods can detect water underground.

He claimed recently: "We have been dealing with doubters for 10 years. One of the problems we have is that the machine does look a little primitive. We are working on a new model that has flashing lights."

Avon and Somerset police said Mr Port became aware of the problem through his role as the chairman of the International Police Assistance Board. A spokesman stated: "We are conducting a criminal investigation and as part of that a 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation. That man has been released on bail pending further inquiries. The force became aware of the existence of a piece of equipment around which there has been many concerns and in the interests of public safety launched its investigation. Given the obvious sensitivities around the matter ... we cannot discuss it any further at the moment."

The "bomb detector", a small hand-held wand, with a telescopic aerial on a swivel, is used in dozens of checkpoints in Iraqi cities including Baghdad. It is claimed that it had failed to detect two tonnes of explosives used by suicide bombers to murder 155 people and destroy three ministries in October last year. There was a similar alleged shortcoming when 120 people were killed in another series of bombings in December.

ATSC's sales literature claims that the device can detect minute quantities of explosives from 1km away on land and up to 3km away from the air. Mr McCormick had held that a "card reader" in the device can detect anything "from explosives to elephants".

However Sidney Alford, a leading explosives expert, who has advised the UK and US military, told the BBC's Newsnight programme that an examination of the card showed it had "nothing to do with detection of TNT. There is no microprocessor, there is no digital memory, there is no way to store any information... This is a very cheap tag which I would estimate would cost about two or three pence." Mr Alford added that he was "horrified" that the device had been exported from the UK. "It could result in people being killed in the dozens, if not hundreds."

Major General Richard J Rowe, of the US army, who oversees the training of Iraqi police in Baghdad, stressed that the American forces did not use the ADE 651. He said: "I don't believe there is a magic wand that can detect explosives. If there was, we would all be using it. I have no confidence that these work." The American professional magician James Randi has charged that the detectors were a "blatant fraud" and offered Mr McCormick $1m if he could prove that they work.

However the device has some defenders in Iraq. Major General Jihad al-Jabiri, the head of the Interior Ministry's directorate for combat explosives, said: "Whether it's magic or scientific, what I care about is detecting bombs. I don't care what they say. I know more about bombs than the Americans do. In fact, I know more about bombs than anyone in the world."

Iraqis who have suffered from bombings are angry at the "fiasco" surrounding the devices. Hakim al-Safi, a 48-year-old teacher whose son Haidar died in the October bombings, said: "I am angry. I do not know who I am angry with more, the people who made these stupid things and then made money or our government officials who paid so much money for these things which failed to protect us. And the British Government, did they not know what was being done from their land?"

 

 
 

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[Keith]

Ron Paul On World War I & US Interventionism - Powerful Speech

http://eclipptv.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=9628

[Keith]

The simple facts are that young Australians are well informed, they will no longer allow Governments to use them for political games and young Australians are aware of the often poor treatment which has been meted out to War Veterans from time to time over the years. Therefore they will refrain from enlisting. Thus the Government is trying to plug the enlistment hole with Reservists, who are also finding it hard to attract volunteers.
 
The solution is simple. Give back a career opportunity to volunteers so that they can retire on their superannuation after 20 years and move on to another career if they wish and stop using the ADF as a political tool. Also get rid of the do-gooders and trendy ratbags out of the Military who preach political correctness, who want women to be men, who treat Military life like a 9-5 job and who molly coddle young Soldiers. Discipline must return to being discipline and not a situation where Soldiers and Officers have a say in obeying orders. Young Soldiers do not need discipline they want discipline. There is great danger in watering down discipline. Just ask those who have been to war how it would be if people had a choice in obeying orders.
 
The Military does not work on having conferences and running support networks to decide what orders one has to follow.
 
Defence coy on reservist frontline deployments
ABC NEWS

The Federal Government will not say whether a large Defence Department review on the role of reservists, will mean more will be sent to the frontline.

The Australian newspaper is reporting defence officials conducting the review, are considering a secret plan to send more part time soldiers to Afghanistan and Iraq.

The newspaper says it is part of moves to combat battle fatigue, particularly for troops on repeat deployments.

A spokesman for the Defence Minister John Faulkner says no decision has been made yet because the government has not received the report.

He says the review is examining the structure of the reserves, including training.

 
 

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[Keith]

The best way to support our Afghan Troops is to bring them home. Let those who call for the continued deployment to Afghanistan be the first to send their kids and grandkids to enlist.
 
Fifth-generation serviceman injured, traumatised and abandoned by the military

Sean Parnell
From: The Australian
January 23, 2010 
 
ANDREW Bird has dealt with the victims of Taliban torture in Afghanistan, the worst of natural disasters in Pakistan, human failings in the Solomons and the constant threat of death on repeat deployments to Iraq.

Through the worst of it, this fifth-generation serviceman felt he had the Australian Defence Force behind him. Indeed, as an army media officer, he often had the best soldiers, top brass, diplomats and politicians alongside, and ordinary Australians there for the ride, too, given they would see his authorised footage and photos.

But leaving Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital two years ago, head bandaged and throbbing, Major Bird could not have felt more alone. Having sustained serious ear trauma in a helicopter depressurisation in southern Afghanistan, Major Bird had just undergone surgery that would save his balance, but not the hearing in one ear, nor prevent the ringing in the other ear.

This once proud officer found himself facing medical discharge, with the early symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, and no one in the army to help him through.

"All through that, mate, army was f . . king missing in action," Major Bird, 34, told The Weekend Australian this week.

"I came out of hospital, head in bandages, and had to get a taxi back to my apartment. The bloody taxi driver had to help me up to my apartment -- it was a f . . king disgrace."

Spending so much time overseas and being constantly on call fractured Major Bird's personal relationships, and he found no military structure to fall back on. Unable to recover his health, or his usefulness to the army, Major Bird was eventually shunted off to the Department of Veterans Affairs to consider his care and financial needs. Six weeks ago, his promising career came to an end.

As revealed this week, a decade of conflict has seen the DVA accept liability for 9134 injuries and illnesses from 3884 personnel as a result of their time in East Timor, Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Rudd government has emphasised its commitment to the continued health and wellbeing of the troops and is expected to push through improvements this year.

But for Major Bird, building a new life on the Gold Coast, change could not come soon enough. He was made to undergo repeated medical reviews -- and a senior bureaucrat had him in tears when she suggested his condition wasn't as bad as the doctors thought.

The paperwork was extensive and often indecipherable, especially for someone such as Major Bird who was on heavy painkillers, and whose PTSD affected his memory, his confidence and feelings of personal safety.

Defence is now improving its mental health programs and transition arrangements, while the DVA is working on its paperwork and reducing the number of medical reviews required.

Major Bird wants a special army cell to guide injured and ill troops through treatment and rehabilitation, their dealings with the DVA and the move back to civilian life.

"Even on my last day I didn't get a phone call, no letter," he said. "You would have got better support had you come back dead."


How many have experienced this? Today a rooster, tomorrow a feather duster. It is extremely difficult for career military members to shift from the Military to civilian life where they are nobodies. This is particularly so for members who held rank and were treated with respect and had much much authority.
 

From: Ron King
Sent: Saturday, January 23, 2010 7:22 AM
Subject: Re: Fifth-generation serviceman injured,traumatised and abandoned by the military


Good Morning Keith.
 
Well why does this story not surprise me and a lot of veterans would also be able to relate to this story. It is a sad event when a soldier no matter what rank does feel abandoned. The whole problem does start with the old discharge cell and ones departure from the military.The feeling of ones service as you stand there and not one person says thanks for your service , unit farewells etc are really from your service mates and  are not from the army or service you were in.
 
The other problem is also when one goes to the doctor specialist whatever and starts his claim process. His whole thing is dealing with civilians at DVA who do not understand war related problems. The government and the higher echelon at DVA do not understand nor can they comprehend war related injuries. They also do not realize that one goes from having every thing done medical records his service records kept up to date in most cases and having the various departments of the service doing their bit, to all of a sudden no one cares .
 
The processes used at the DVA are not we care or respect you and your service but just another regimental number. Your claims are investigated by a 20 year old who does not have any idea what war is about. He/she does not and cannot relate injuries /sickness to war service and in a lot of cases does hold up claims etc whilst they are getting up to speed on various cases. These very same people get promoted and carry that attitude up the line with them and sit on review boards etc, even go on to become assistant commissioners. As a pensions officer I have sat in on reviews and the people who were there representing the service did not even have a clue and the chairperson now up there with the DVA they did not even understand.They said yes the problem was caused by the members service but no pension, The government cannot have it both ways.
 
RW  KING.

[Keith]

Radical Christianity is just as sick and dangerous as radical Islam. Trijicon has a warped sense of values.When I went to Vietnam I did so because I was ordered to do so and because at the time I believed Vietnam was a just cause. I didn't go to support ANY religious beliefs.

 
Row over 'biblical' weapons in Afghanistan

Brendan Nicholson
From: The Australian
January 22, 2010
 
AUSTRALIAN special forces soldiers are using gunsights with biblical references etched on to them as they fight the Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan.

The ADF has several hundred of the sights, which are prized by elite troops for their accuracy over long range.

Their use by US, British and New Zealand troops has raised alarm among military leaders that it could reinforce views among extremists that the West is waging a crusade against Islam.

The Australian Defence Force is investigating how to remove biblical references etched on to gunsights, without damaging the weapons.

The ADF and military authorities in the US, Britain and elsewhere thought the letters and numbers on the sights were simply stock or model numbers until a US soldier in Afghanistan complained to the Military Religious Freedom Foundation that the initials referred to passage from the Bible. One example was JN8:12 which turned out to be a reference to chapter eight, verse 12 in the Book of John: "When Jesus spoke again to the people he said 'I am the light of the world.

" 'Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life'."

While coalition soldiers were unaware of the significance of the initials, military officials quickly became alarmed that religious extremists could take some propaganda advantage from them being proof the West was waging a crusader war against Islam.

The ADF confirmed yesterday it had been unaware of the meaning of the inscription when the sights were issued to troops.

"The Department of Defence was unaware of the significance of the manufacturer's serial number," the spokesman said. "The sights were procured because they provide mature technology which is highly reliable, in wide use by our allies and best meet Defence requirements. Soldiers are confident in the utility of the sight and the positive and proven effect which it is having on operations."

The spokesman said Defence was conscious of the sensitivities over this issue and was assessing how to address them.

Another inscription was 2COR4:6, which is an apparent reference to Second Corinthians 4:6 of the New Testament. The passage reads: "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

US military rules prohibit religious proselytising in Iraq or Afghanistan and were drawn to prevent criticism that the US was on a religious crusade in its war against al-Qa'ida and Iraqi insurgents.

The sights are used by US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and in the training of Iraqi and Afghan soldiers.

The maker of the sights, Trijicon, has a $US660 million ($725m) multi-year contract to provide up to 800,000 sights to the US Marine Corps, and additional contracts to provide sights to the American Army.

Trijicon issued a statement saying: "As part of our faith and our belief in service to our country, Trijicon has put scripture references on our products for more than two decades.

"As long as we have men and women in danger, we will continue to do everything we can to provide them with both state-of-the-art technology and the never-ending support and prayers of a grateful nation."

Biblical message on Kiwi soldiers' guns
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/biblical-message-kiwi-soldiers-guns-3336762
 
Going to war in Afghanistan with Biblical citations stamped on their weapons is not appropriate for New Zealand soldiers, the Defence Force says.

Biblical citations have been found on weapon sights used by New Zealand troops in Afghanistan however the Defence Force say they will be removed.

[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Wednesday 20 January 2010
003 /2010

HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF ADF MEMBERS A PRIORITY

Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, said today that the Government was determined to support ADF members who have been wounded overseas.

"The health and wellbeing of Defence personnel is a top priority for the Rudd Government, and that is why we are putting considerable funding into new and improved Defence health initiatives" Mr Combet said.

"For example, the Government is investing over $150 million over the next decade into the ADF Rehabilitation Program which helps wounded ADF members return to service or transition to the care they need.

"In fact, last year, that program achieved an 87 percent return to work rate which is above the national average for similar programs."

"Since coming to power the Rudd Government has also completed a thorough mental health review within Defence, and has allocated funding of an additional $83 million over the next four years to implement the recommendations of this review.

"This includes enhancing the mental health workforce, improving mental health training and expansion of programs to support members who are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. These funds are also targeted at improving the transition services provided to members."

"We are also researching and investigating new health care technologies to support our troops in the field, including digital radiology and improved surgical capability during deployments.

"We will continue to provide our personnel with world class health care, that is why we are also funding a comprehensive e-health system to improve the maintenance of ADF health records," Minister Combet said.

Mr Combet also commented on reports in the media today about the number of individuals who have been wounded on deployment.

"Over the last decade there have been a number of people who have been wounded or injured during their course of their deployment. This is an unfortunate result of what can be very dangerous work.
 
"This is why the Government is committed to improving health and wellbeing programs for ADF members and the reason we have increased spending in these areas.

"Of the 22,232 ADF personnel deployed to East Timor and the 25,650 deployed to Middle East Area of Operation (MEAO), 3,605 individuals have made injury claims.

"I am advised by General Alexander, the head of Defence's Joint Health Command, that this health data shows that our defence force compares very favourably in relation to our allies on the number of injuries and the percentages of injuries that are occurring" Minister Combet said.

Mr Combet also dismissed claims by the Opposition that the Defence Health budget may be subject to cuts under the $20 billion Strategic Reform Program.

"It is ridiculous for Mr Baldwin to criticise this Government on its contribution to the Defence Health budget, given that we are spending more on health services for our soldiers, sailors and air men and women than was spent by the previous government.

"The reforms being made under the Strategic Reform Program will make sure that we are able to spend even more on frontline services, such as priority programs to support the health and wellbeing of ADF members."

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 20 January 2010
 005/2010

1000 TROOPS FAREWELLED IN BRISBANE

Around 1000 troops about to deploy on operations to Afghanistan, the Middle East and East Timor were farewelled this afternoon at a parade in Brisbane's Gallipoli Barracks.

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, told the troops that Australia was proud of them and that they and their families would be at the forefront of thoughts while they were serving their country overseas.

"The Government and the people of Australia are proud of the work that you will be doing overseas and you should be as well. The work that you will be carrying out in your country of deployment will benefit many people over many generations," Mr Combet said.

Mr Combet also thanked the family and friends of the deploying troops.

"The support provided by you is invaluable, and can not be underestimated. I am sure that the period ahead will be filled with some apprehension and anxiety, but I also know that you are proud of all of those on parade for what they have achieved so far and the tasks they will soon undertake."

The deploying personnel are drawn from a range of units from across Australia but are predominantly from units of the South Queensland-based 7th Brigade.  

The troops are deploying as part of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force, Timor Leste Task Group Seven, Force Support Unit Three and Force Communications Element Three.  

"There are approximately 3300 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed to 13 operations overseas and within Australia to protect Australia and its national interests.

"Additionally, approximately 500 ADF members are actively protecting Australia's borders and offshore maritime interests."
 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 20 January 2010
004/2010

ADFA WELCOMES NEW CADETS
 
Today 264 high school graduates from across Australia have been appointed as Midshipman and Officer Cadets in the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, congratulated the new ADF members and wished them every success.

The young men and women being appointed across the nation today have been through a highly competitive application process and have proven that they have potential to become future leaders in the ADF, Mr Combet said.

Not only have they been accepted into the ADF, but also into the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy (UNSW@ADFA).

They are about to embark on exciting and challenging careers, where over the next three to four years they will undertake a challenging program of military training, leadership development and academic studies.

I offer my congratulations and best wishes to all the ADFA appointees across Australia today and during the next week,? he said.

ADFA offers an exciting, rewarding and challenging experience to Year 12 graduates. As Midshipmen and Officer Cadets they undertake a three year military and leadership training program while studying undergraduate degrees in Arts, Business, Science, Engineering or Technology through UNSW@ADFA.  

They are paid to study, have their tuition fees and textbooks paid for by the ADF, enjoy a fantastic lifestyle, and graduate with a guaranteed job in the Navy, Army or Air Force.

Across Australia this week around 320 young men and women will be appointed to the Navy, Army and Air Force as Midshipman and Officer Cadets, with further appointment ceremonies being conducted on the 22 and 25 January 2010.

For information about a place at ADFA and a career in the Navy, Army or Air Force, log on to defencejobs.gov.au or call 13 19 01.

Media Note: Imagery will be available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/Jan/index.htm

Defence told PM Kevin Rudd to stay silent on Centaur to keep onside with Japan    

EXCLUSIVE: Cameron Stewart
 
   From: The Australian
   January 21, 2010
 
THE Defence Department secretly warned the Rudd government to remain silent about Japan's culpability in the 1943 sinking of the Australian hospital ship, Centaur, fearing that a renewed focus on the wartime atrocity could damage military ties with Tokyo.

The confidential warning was issued by Defence in late 2008 shortly before the federal government announced that it would help fund a search for the wreck of the Centaur, which was discovered last month 45km east of Queensland's Moreton Island.

The Centaur was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine on May 14, 1943, killing 268 people, despite it being clearly marked as a hospital ship. Japan has never taken full responsibility for the attack that prime minister John Curtin said violated "all the principles of common humanity".

A Defence document signed by Peter West, an assistant secretary of Defence's International Policy Division on September 4, 2008, and endorsed by both the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet warned the then defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon that the controversy over the Centaur was still powerful enough to pose dangers for relations between Australia and Japan.

"We want to avoid a public debate over whether the sinking of the Australian Hospital Ship Centaur was legal," Defence said in its report to the minister.
"Given the passage of time and depth of the waters in which the wreck is likely to be, it will be extremely difficult to conduct a conclusive investigation into the sinking. A public debate about the legality of Japan's actions could damage our improving bilateral defence relations with Japan."

When the wreck of the Centaur was discovered last month, the Rudd government carefully avoided any fresh controversy, saying Japan had apologised repeatedly for its wartime actions and was "now a different country".

The Defence report on the Centaur advised that there would be no legal basis for Australia to demand an apology from Japan over the sinking of the hospital ship.

"Japan bears no special obligation in the case of the Centaur," the report says.
"Legally Japan discharged its responsibilities to Australia in the 1951 San Francisco Peace Treaty, which recognised that Japan should pay reparations to the Allied Powers for the damage and suffering caused by it during the war."
Defence said this treaty waived all other wartime claims by allies against Japan, including any new ones involving Centaur.

The report advised the government not to ask Japan to help fund or assist in the search for the Centaur. "There is a strong reticence in Japan to engage on wartime issues," the report says. "Despite repeated Australian efforts, the Japanese government and bureaucracy showed little interest in assisting with the discovery of the Japanese midget submarine M24 near Sydney in 2006.

"There is no reason to expect that Japan would be willing to contribute funding or assistance to the search effort to find Centaur. Japan did not make any contribution to the discovery of the Japanese midget submarine M24; nor did Germany provide financial support for the recent discovery of HMAS Sydney and SMS Kormoran." The report recommended that Defence and the DFAT tell the Japanese embassy "that while we would appreciate any archival material that might assist Australian authorities to locate the wreck of the Centaur and understand the circumstances in which it sank, we are not seeking any financial or practical assistance".

Defence said Japan should be given updates on the search effort and should be told of the wreck's discovery before it was publicly announced.

In 1943, the Japanese government issued a statement denying responsibility for the sinking of the Centaur and has never since acknowledged that submarine 1-117 commanded by Lieutenant Commander Hajime Nakagawa was responsible for the sinking.

However an acknowledgment came from the Japanese navy in 1979 in its History of Submarine Warfare.

The official history specifically acknowledges that Nakagawa was responsible.
Only 64 people survived the sinking by clinging to debris for 36 hours until help arrived.
 
 

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[Keith]

The Government has had time enough to attend to most of these matters. Admittedly these are complex matters BUT they are complex because successive Governments over many years have made them complex as they have played politics with the Veteran vote.Liberals have traditionally taken the Veteran vote for granted without doing any hard work while Labor has traditionally written off the Veteran vote because it has seen the Veteran community as a Liberal stronghold.Inaction by successive Veterans Affairs Ministers of all persuasions has stymied progress to solve the issues and Legislation and another reason this is so is because for many many years the Veterans Affairs portfolio was seen as a seat warming Ministry where lazy and incompetent members could wallow around playing Minister but doing nothing effective about real concerns. Many ESO leaderships sat idly by as this process continued on decade in decade out. Minister Griffin has been a good solid Minister with a genuine concern about his flock. If he is to cement his place as one of Australia's great DVA Ministers he must resolve serious outstanding legislation and service delivery matters.
 
The Opposition must come up with real alternatives and support the Government where support is warranted. There is no room for any in the Opposition to spin these matters and rely on publishing glib shallow media releases.
 
Kevin Rudd's promises to veterans bogged down in reviews
Sean Parnell

From: The Australian
January 20, 2010 12:00AM

VETERANS and serving defence force members will be watching the Rudd government closely this year to ensure Labor's promise to care for injured and ill troops is reflected in policy and in practice.

With troops injured in East Timor, Afghanistan and Iraq now having their claims processed under any of three different acts, there has been a push for uniformity and less bureaucracy.

The government has yet to act on its examination of the previous government's response to the Clarke Review of veterans' entitlements.

Labor is also due to consider changes to the way in which the nature of service classification for operational deployments and the attendant conditions of service are determined and implemented.

A nature of service review is understood to be responding to 92 ministerial representations spanning 30 areas of concern.

Separately, the government is awaiting a report arising from a broader review of the military rehabilitation and compensation system, with a steering committee still consulting stakeholders.

A spokesman for the Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin said a nature of service review would "recommend possible legislative and policy changes" in relation to the three acts, along with improvements to claims handling.

"The review is a significant step . . . towards addressing concerns with military rehabilitation and compensation, including perceived disparities," he said.

The review is due to report to government by the end of March but Mr Griffin signalled it may be delayed because of the complexity of matters raised.

He was not able to say when the Clarke Review would be completed.

 
 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Austal delivers US ship
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/austal-delivers-us-ship/story-e6frg8yo-1225820600413

Sarah-Jane Tasker AUSTRALIA'S Austal Ships has delivered its first  $520 million Littoral Combat Ship to the US navy

 
 

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THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Gas risk remains for navy boats http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/gas-risk-remains-for-navy-boats/story-e6frg6nf-1225815368349
 
Michael McKenna A SAILOR was gassed aboard one of the navy's Armidale-class patrol boats last year because of the same design defects found to have caused a leak that almost killed four crew in 2006.

AFP secrets undermine air safety
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/afp-secrets-undermine-air-safety/story-e6frg6nf-1225814549094

Paul Maley AUSTRALIA'S police commissioners have warned of dangerous gaps in airport security, accusing federal law enforcement agencies of failing to share vital criminal intelligence.

 
 

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[Keith]

ASIO eyes group after attempt to buy sub http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/asio-eyes-mystery-group-after-attempt-to-buy-sub/story-e6frg6n6-1225814011176

Cameron Stewart THE spy agency ASIO has investigated a bizarre attempt by a mystery group to purchase a derelict former Royal Australian Navy submarine.

Slow progress on a security strategy http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/opinion/slow-progress-on-a-security-strategy/story-e6frg6zo-1225813625427

Sally Neighbour THE long effort to come up with a future counter-terrorism policy has raised doubts whether Australia has fully faced the gritty threat, says Sally Neighbour.

Failures blamed for gassing of sailors http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/navy-failures-blamed-for-gassing-of-four-sailors-on-armidale-patrol-boats/story-e6frg6n6-1225813666545

Michael McKenna THE navy's Armidale class patrol boats were put to sea with faults and oversights that caused an accident in which four sailors were almost killed.

Centaur apology `not necessary' http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/centaur-apology-from-japanese-not-necessary/story-e6frg6nf-1225813304496

AUSTRALIANS seem to have moved on from needing an apology from the Japanese for the 1943 sinking of the hospital ship Centaur.

Japan refuses to accept Centaur responsibility http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/japan-refuses-to-accept-responsibility-for-sinking-of-centaur/story-e6frg6n6-1225812940951

Rowan Callick and Andrew Fraser THE Japanese government yesterday refused to take responsibility for the sinking of the Centaur.

Centaur in a sea of doubt http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/centaur-in-a-sea-of-doubt/story-e6frg6z6-1225812568607

Andrew Fraser THE discovery of its wreckage fails to explain why this floating hospital was attacked by the Japanese.

Grim struggle to survive after a surprise attack http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/grim-struggle-to-survive-after-a-surprise-attack/story-e6frg6z6-1225812568688

Andrew Fraser SEAMAN Albert Taylor couldn't sleep as Australian Hospital Ship Centaur steamed off the coast of southeast Queensland.

Attack shifts to $3bn defence shortfall http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/attack-shifts-to-3bn-defence-shortfall/story-e6frg6nf-1225812250778

Mark Dodd CLAIMS of a looming $3 billion defence budget shortfall underline long-held concerns

$3bn hole in defence strategy http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/bn-hole-in-defence-strategy/story-e6frgczf-1225811910476

Patrick Walters, National security editor KEVIN Rudd's ambitious defence plans may never be delivered, as a looming multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall is likely to force a major review.

Diggers cleared of killing seven men http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/diggers-cleared-of-illegally-killing-men-in-afghanistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225811813019

Agencies TWO internal defence inquiries have found that diggers acted appropriately in the killing of seven local men in Afghanistan in April.

Ranaudo 'died instantly in bomb blast' http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/private-benjamin-ranaudo-died-instantly-in-bomb-blast-defence-inquiry-finds/story-e6frg8yo-1225811314247

UPDATED: Mark Dodd PRIVATE Benjamin Ranaudo died instantly when a roadside bomb exploded in Afghanistan, a defence inquiry into his death has found.

Wedgetail maker agrees to pay $100m delay fee http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/boeing-to-pay-100m-for-wedgetail-delays/story-e6frg6nf-1225811145006
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor The company has spent an estimated $1.9bn of its own funds trying to fix the glitches in the Wedgetail project

Top Guns will be quiet and curfewed http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/super-hornet-fighters-to-curb-brisbane-night-noise/story-e6frg8yo-1225810465908

AUSTRALIA'S Super Hornet fighters will adapt night flying to appease Brisbane residents concerned about noise.

Terror plotters 'a danger even after prison' http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/terror-plotters-a-danger-even-after-prison/story-e6frg6nf-1225810402664

Natasha Robinson PROSECUTORS believe five men who conspired to plan a terrorist attack will still present a danger to the public even after serving decades in prison.

 

Nation given N-bomb warning http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/nation-given-n-bomb-warning/story-e6frg6nf-1225809977267

Christian Kerr AUSTRALIA may be forced to acquire nuclear weapons to tackle deteriorating Asian security, a government-funded defence think tank has warned.

Villers-Bretonneux plots stripped bare http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/villers-bretonneux-plots-stripped-bare/story-e6frg8yo-1225809983785

Mark Day The French have been accused of desecrating an Australian World War I memorial.

 
 

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[Keith]

Navy failures blamed for gassing of four sailors on Armidale patrol boats
Michael McKenna
From: The Australian
 
December 26, 2009 THE navy's Armidale class patrol boats were put to sea with design defects, missing operating procedures and inadequate training that caused an accident in which four sailors were almost killed.
A secret report into the gassing of the crew aboard HMAS Maitland has raised more questions about the 16-strong fleet of Armidale patrol boats, twice recalled to port for emergency repairs since they were commissioned in 2005.

The $28 million boats, dubbed "Armifail" by frustrated sailors, have been dogged by problems including fuel contamination, engine trouble, blocked toilets, lack of personal storage, inadequate lighting and overcrowding.

Unusually for military vessels, the sleek 56m, aluminium-hulled Armidales were designed and constructed by West Australian-based Austal Ships to meet commercially based classification standards, and later modified to meet navy regulations.

Four sailors on training exercises aboard the Maitland off Darwin in August 2006 were gassed with hydrogen sulphide, commonly known as rotten egg gas, and possibly carbon monoxide, after a leak in the ship's sewerage system.

A secret report into the accident, obtained by The Weekend Australian, found effluent had not been properly treated aboard the ship and that 615 litres of sewage was stored in holding tanks for three days because there was no equipment to take the discharge in port.

This caused a build-up of the toxic gases, which leaked into the 21-crew ship's spare accommodation area -- normally used to hold rescued asylum-seekers -- after a valve failed when the sewage was being pumped out at sea.

The investigation found the location of air vents and sewage discharge lines did not meet specifications despite the ship being approved for duty.

At the time of the accident, the boat had "no coherent" sewage management plan and no environmental plan, and investigators found crew training inadequate.

Some of the problems had already been raised in previous reports. A week before the accident, the ship had returned to port after "persistent H2S (hydrogen sulphide) odours" led to the discovery of defects in black water tanks.

Chief petty officer Kurt MacKenzie, was the worst affected of the sailors and spent several days in intensive care in Darwin.

He spent further weeks in hospital and will next year be discharged medically unfit from the navy, after 23 years' service and membership of the 16-member elite Minor War Vessel Sea Training Unit.

It is not the first accident of its kind. Naval Reserve Cadet Kenneth Dax was killed in 1981 when the sewerage system of supply ship HMAS Tobruk leaked hydrogen sulphide gas. In 1985, three sailors were killed and 56 injured when maintenance ship HMAS Stalwart also leaked hydrogen sulphide.

A year later, a Naval Board of Inquiry into the Stalwart, which is no longer in service, found the fatal accident could have been avoided if correct marine engineering practices had been followed.

There was no such public inquiry into the accident aboard the Maitland, with the investigation's findings kept secret amid warnings that anyone leaking the report would be charged under navy regulations.

Chief Petty Officer MacKenzie said yesterday he was launching legal action for compensation on the grounds that the accident could have been prevented.

The veteran sailor dismissed claims by the navy that it had fixed the problems aboard the fleet of Armidale class boats, which patrol Australia's northern waters.

"From what I have been told, only one of the boats is close to meeting the recommended safety upgrades out of the report," Chief Petty Officer MacKenzie said.

"The navy rushed these boats into service -- they were dangerous and we suffered as a result. My career is over. I only have about 40 per cent of lung capacity and a range of other medical problems. But the navy couldn't care less. They didn't conduct a public board of inquiry investigation; they opted for a report they could keep secret."

Chief Petty Officer MacKenzie has been offered the maximum payout of about $400,000 plus a pension, but he says it is not enough, given that his injuries were "not an accident" and that he had had a bright career ahead of him.

The Defence Department issued a statement to The Weekend Australian saying it was unable to release the report into the accident or comment on any findings of the investigation.

Asked if the navy had fully implemented the recommendations of the report into the accident, the ADF said it was still working on the ships.

"The Armidale class patrol boat is a safe, capable and reliable asset," the statement said. "Like any new class of vessel, a number of improvements in design functionality have been identified and are now being implemented."

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 444/09

Wednesday, 23 December 2009

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATED AUSTRALIAN-STYLE
ON OPERATIONS

From snow and sub-zero temperatures to monsoon rains and tropical humidity, approximately 3,800 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed overseas and conducting border protection operations will be spending Christmas this year far from home and family.

Afghanistan

Winter in Afghanistan can be harsh, with temperatures in Tarin Kowt frequently below freezing but a traditional Christmas roast lunch prepared by Australian cooks will no doubt warm up those deployed.

Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force-2 Regimental Sergeant, Major Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Darren Murch said the lunch will bring soldiers together to share a meal and swap a few stories. He said a church service and a concert conducted by the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment band will be the highlights of the day.

"The Christmas parcels have been flooding in and the telephones and internet will be well used on the day to offer best wishes to family and friends back home," WO1 Murch said.

While it will be business as usual for the Special Operations Task Group, a Santa suit may be put into action. The Special Forces soldiers will celebrate the day with a traditional Christmas lunch and they already have their Christmas decorations in place in the mess. 

Australian personnel in Kandahar will celebrate with a Christmas lunch with their British counter-parts followed by an Aussie barbecue dinner. On Boxing Day, the Afghanistan version of "The Ashes" will be played out when they take on the Brits in a game of cricket.

In the neighbouring Helmand Province, Australian gunners attached to the British Army will also celebrate with their British hosts. Theirs will be a day spent in Spartan surrounds, and while the team will enjoy the celebrations they will be ever poised to provide immediate artillery support to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

Middle East

An Aussie-style barbecue breakfast will be on offer at the Middle East location affectionately known as "Billabong Flats" for personnel serving with the National Headquarters, the C130 Hercules and AP3 Orion aircraft detachments, the Force Communications Unit and the RAAF Combat Support Unit.  The troops will join their US colleagues for Christmas lunch at the American mess before returning for a traditional Christmas dinner back at "Billabong Flats".

HMAS Stuart will be continuing operations in the Gulf of Aden conducting counter terrorism operations. In line with Royal Australian Navy tradition, the officers will help serve the sailors a Christmas meal on board.

As well, a team of 25 Royal Australian Navy officers and sailors will spend Christmas coordinating maritime security operations throughout the region. Commander of the Combined Task Force 150, Commodore Richard Menhinick has tactical control of Coalition ships and aircraft from many nations.

Meanwhile, in Iraq, members of the ADF Security Detachment (SECDET) protecting the Australian Embassy in Baghdad will spend Christmas on duty maintaining security and ensuring the success of the diplomatic mission. The Australian Ambassador, Robert Tyson, and his staff will join Officer Commanding SECDET, Major Nigel Earnshaw and Company Sergeant Major Stephan McCaig in cooking a BBQ lunch for the diggers as they rotate off security shifts and return from escort tasks.

The Commander of Australian troops in the Middle East, Major General Mark Kelly thanked the Australian public for their ongoing support of the troops in the region and their generosity of spirit.

"This time of year is especially difficult for all deployed personnel - separated from their families and loved ones. However, we can all be comforted by the knowledge that our people are working hard, for a good cause," said Major General Mark Kelly. 

Sudan

In Khartoum, most of the 17 Australian personnel serving with the United Nations Mission in Sudan will also be gathering around a barbecue for their Aussie Christmas lunch.

Solomon Islands

For the troops in the Solomon Islands and Timor, the tropical monsoon is the setting for Christmas festivities.

About 80 Australian Army soldiers and Australian Police in the Solomon Islands will be sharing Carols by Candlelight with the local community. A Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings will uphold the tradition with the officers serving the enlisted men. An ANZAC cricket team will also take on the Police in the traditional Boxing Day cricket match.

The Commander of the Combined Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel David Thompson said the Reserve soldiers from Australia will join soldiers from New Zealand and Papua New Guinea as well as police officers from Australia and the Pacific region.

 "Christmas in the Solomon Islands, like in Australia, is traditionally a time for celebrating with family and close friends, but for those of us on mission while celebrating together we will, of course, be with our loved ones in spirit," Lieutenant Colonel Thompson said.

East Timor

The sporting theme prevails in East Timor, where members of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) will have two days of sports.

The Commander of the ISF, Commodore Stuart Mayer said personnel at each of the three bases around Dili will join sport with festivities on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

"We wanted to make sure that no-one missed out on hitting a cricket ball or playing some footy before eating a big lunch, so we have spread Christmas festivities over two days", Commodore Mayer said.

Border Protection

As well, off Australia's northern coast-line, up to 500 personnel will be conducting border-protection operations as part of Operation RESOLUTE - and will continue operations alongside their Customs colleagues during the festive season.

Message from the Chief of Joint Operations

The Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans said the Australian public holds a deep respect for its deployed people.

"Christmas Day is an important time to reflect on the year that has passed and the challenges that lay ahead. We have personnel deployed on 13 operations, working in important roles from border protection and peace keeping missions to counter-piracy and combating terrorism," he said. 

"Our personnel deployed on operations share a common bond and while the presence of families and loved ones cannot be replaced, I am sure the mateship of colleagues will provide support."

[Keith]

$3bn hole in defence strategy

Patrick Walters, National security editor
From: The Australian
December 19, 2009


KEVIN Rudd's ambitious defence plans may never be delivered, as a looming multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall is likely to force a major review of planned equipment for the army, navy and air force.

Budgetary pressures have already delayed the acquisition schedule for the RAAF's $16bn joint strike fighter and are set to worsen as the government seeks to return the federal budget to surplus amid a tight clamp on departmental spending.

By some estimates, the defence budget shortfall could be as high as $3bn from 2011 to 2013 as real defence costs continue to soar well above the rate of inflation.

The immediate funding squeeze on defence has already caused the government to postpone consideration of several major equipment acquisitions including the planned $3bn naval helicopter and the army's $500 million self-propelled artillery, along with the scrapping of a possible fourth air warfare destroyer.


Related Coverage

PATRICK WALTERS: Reality bites defence dream http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/opinion/reality-bites-defence-dream/story-e6frg6zo-1225811907621

Reality bites defence dream The Australian, 7 hours ago http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,26505840-5014047,00.html

Business, defence leaders join forces The Australian, 23 Oct 2009 http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,26252685-2702,00.html

Regular updates will give certainty The Australian, 1 Jul 2009 http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,25720917-5013479,00.html

Defence moves to bring horizon closer The Australian, 18 Jun 2009 http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,25657827-31477,00.html

'No explanation for $4.3bn Defence boost' Adelaide Now, 27 May 2009 http://news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,,25545903-5005962,00.html


Other major planned defence equipment programs face further procurement delays, including the air force's P-8 Poseidon long-range surveillance aircraft and a new generation of land vehicles for the army.

The government has made a commitment to fund defence at 3 per cent real growth to 2018 but leading defence experts agree this won't even go near to funding the Rudd government's white paper, which promised the biggest defence build-up since World War II.

Defence experts contend that real defence costs for equipment, personnel and logistics are increasing by about 2 per cent more than the average CPI. The government's 3 per cent real spending pledge fails to meet the funding gap required to deliver the white paper.

The government's hugely ambitious defence equipment plans are now hostage to the Defence Department's search for almost $20bn in internal savings over the next decade.

Defence's strategic reform program is designed to produce a massive $4.9bn by 2012-13 including $1.9bn in savings in 2012 alone, compared with almost $800m this year.

With the defence force set to gain a new generation of hi-tech ships, aircraft, vehicles and weapons later next decade, defence leaders are even more concerned about whether extra money will be found for the defence budget beyond the current forward estimates period, which runs to 2013.

The big ramp-up in Australia's defence-capability spending will largely occur beyond 2014, and senior government sources worry that the large funding top-up due to be returned to Defence beyond 2015 may not materialise.

This would put at risk not just the RAAF's planned acquisition of 100 joint strike fighters but the navy's 12-strong next-generation submarine fleet.

The defence white paper, published in May, promised Defence an extra $146bn over the next 20 years and provide the Australian Defence Force with a superior force of next-generation equipment.

Among the white paper's plans were a doubling of the navy's submarine fleet to 12 and the replacement of the Anzac-class frigates with eight larger ships equipped with helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and anti-submarine sonars.

It included the allocation of 100 F-35 joint strike fighters to the RAAF as well as eight new long-range surveillance aircraft to replace the ageing AP-3C Orion fleet.

The army's regular infantry forces were to evolve into 10 battalion-sized "battlegroups", a new fleet of 1000 protected vehicles was planned to replace the current generation of armoured personnel carriers, while the army also gained seven new CH-47F Chinook transport helicopters to replace its existing D models.

This white paper's ambitious equipment plan is due to be achieved by providing 3 per cent increases in real funding to 2018 and 2.2 per cent average real growth from 2018 to 2030.

The planned $20bn savings from the strategic reform program are also all destined to be returned to Defence to be invested in higher priority capabilities. But the government's immediate savings demands have already meant the defence budget will struggle to achieve the 3 per cent target over the period to 2013.

In his recent audit report on the defence budget, management expert George Pappas warned that real funding increases of 3 per cent a year would probably be insufficient to meet all of Australia's needs.

Instead, Mr Pappas said the government's force structure plans as outlined in the white paper should dictate a real growth rate in spending of 4.2 per cent. "The real cost of military equipment continues to rise, the operational demands and strategic challenges for our defence forces remain high, and the call on the national budget from other priority areas is considerable," said.

 

 
 

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MSPA 433/09 Thursday, 17 December 2009

RELEASE OF INQUIRY OFFICER REPORT INTO THE COMBAT DEATH OF PRIVATE BENJAMIN RANAUDO

The Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General David Hurley, today released details about the death of Private Benjamin Ranaudo who was killed in action in Afghanistan on 18 July 2009.

Private Ranaudo was a member of the Infantry force protection element with the 2nd Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force. On 18 July, the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force was involved in a cordon and search operation in the Baluchi Valley.

Private Ranaudo and another Australian soldier were part of the cordon and search operation when at 6.47 am local time an insurgent-placed improvised explosive device (IED) was initiated by an anti-personnel mine in close proximity to the two soldiers.

General Hurley said that Private Ranaudo died instantly as a result of the explosion while the other Australian soldier was wounded and three local Afghan civilians were injured in the blast.

The Inquiry Officer found that training, intelligence, planning and orders were all sufficient prior to the incident and there were no associated shortcomings which contributed to Private Ranaudos death, said General Hurley.
 
The Inquiry Officer was also satisfied that the soldiers involved in this incident were trained and practiced in identifying the majority of Improvised Explosive Device threats and that they were aware of the general threat in the area they were operating in.

The Inquiry Officer made one recommendation which was that a Commission of Inquiry not be appointed into the circumstances surrounding Private Ranaudos death. This recommendation was accepted by the Chief of the Defence Force and agreed to by the Minister for Defence.

Ben was an exceptional soldier. He was a role model for other soldiers always setting only the highest of examples and standards. He was a fiercely loyal mate with a great sense of humor and a big heart.
 
Ben was a very popular and much loved member of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) and the 2nd Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force who will be sorely missed, General Hurley said.

General Hurley also said that the injured civilians and soldier wounded in the same incident were evacuated in two aeromedical flights to the Role 2 Medical Facility at Camp Holland near Tarin Kowt. The injuries sustained by the civilians were not life threatening and they were subsequently released from the medical facility.

The seriously wounded Australian soldier described his medical treatment as 'first class'.  He has since returned to Australia where he is receiving ongoing medical support and is expected to return to work early in the New Year.?

An unclassified version of the Inquiry Officer report into the circumstances surrounding the death of Private Benjamin Ranaudo is available on the Defence website: www.defence.gov.au/coi/index.htm


THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 17 December 2009
130/2009

JSF SCARE CAMPAIGN IRRESPONSIBLE

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, said today that consultation about the environmental impact of the new Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) was already underway, almost a decade ahead of the aircraft?s arrival at RAAF Williamtown.

Mr Combet said that Defence was conducting community consultation about the JSF in the Williamtown area as part of the preparation of a Public Environment Report (PER).

?Accusations made by the Member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin, that Defence is not listening to community concerns about the JSF are completely unfounded,? Mr Combet said.

Defence is a decade out from introducing the JSF to RAAF Williamtown and is already considering additional measures to minimise the environmental impact of the aircraft.

These measures include minimising the use of afterburner take-off, greater use of simulation for training and reduced air weapons range use.

Defence is also already looking into options for JSF flight paths, and how it can revise flight profiles such as track changes, noise abatement profiles, limiting late night flying or flying during sensitive periods, and minimizing over-flying of heavily populated areas.

Mr Combet said that the Member for Patersons comments were undermining confidence in RAAF Base Williamtown.

"Bob Baldwin is ill-informed and is putting at risk investor and community confidence in RAAF Base Williamtown,? Mr Combet said.

"Defence is pro-actively consulting the community about noise issues years in advance of the aircraft arriving in the region.

 I am very aware of community concern about the environment around bases. The community has expressed their interest in this project, 200 residents attended public information sessions and 70 formal submissions were received during the PER process. We are listening to the community, and we are taking their concerns very seriously.

With a completed PER process and a clear understanding of community concerns, we will be able to clearly assess and mitigate the impact as best we can, well before the aircraft commence their operational service in Australia, Mr Combet said.

[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Thursday, December 17, 2009 7:27 AM
Subject: Re: Grieving mother of fallen Digger misses out on compensation,urges soldiers to check insurance


Good Morning Keith.and all.
 
This is an absolute disgrace to the military personnel who are serving. The absolute lies and promises made by the insurance companies to sell a policy. This happened to us in the 60s and is still going on today by the sound of things.
 
The pollies send young Australians to war (not many of their own families ). They should be covered for compo and their families, being compoed for their lives if lost. Going to war means someone will be wounded or KIA.
 
 This a fact of war. The prime minister says along with all pollies you cannot place a price on a life offered in the service of ones country.
 
The insurance company should be deregistered and banned from all government facilities and service people discouraged from using this company ever again. The inference that a person was only insured for accident what a lot of cods wallop. Of course the company will apologise it has saved them a lot of money in a payout.
 
This company should be made to pay. Minister use what was given to you and stand up to this company cough up or no more government sites to peddle your insurance policies.

[Keith]

The estates of single Soldiers and Officers who have been killed in action during the various Wars Australia has been committed to have not been entitled to standard loss of life Commonwealth compensation.This policy I believe is based on the assumption that single/unattached service persons leave no dependants behind and that the grief and adjustment required by non spousal and non offspring dependants is not as deep and traumatic.
 
In some cases single military persons do leave behind legal and other dependants.
 
This policy is a flawed and unthinking policy.
 
The immediate families of single unattached service persons are just as traumatised and require just as much life adjustment as spousal and children next of kin. Additionally there is no difference between a single and a married/partnered life. All life is the same and must be treated with the same respect and compensation.Many if not most Soldiers who enlist and who remain single while at War have no knowledge that if they are killed in action their families will not receive death compensation.
 
This policy needs changing.
 
 
Grieving mother of fallen Digger misses out on compensation, urges soldiers to check insurance
Fiona Hudson
From: Herald Sun
December 17, 2009
 
 
Jennifer Ranaudo holds a photograph of her son Private Benjamin Ranaudo, who was killed in Afghanistan, and a letter informing her that his life insurance policy will not be paid out. Picture: Craig Borrow Source: Herald Sun

THE grieving mother of a young Digger killed in Afghanistan has urged soldiers to check their insurance after missing out on compensation for her son's death.

Fallen hero Private Benjamin Ranaudo assured his family before his tour of duty that he'd organised a life-insurance policy through the army.

But his Narre Warren mum Jennifer Ward was stunned to discover that the private policy covered injury only; death cover was an "optional extra".

"He went away to war thinking he was completely covered if anything happened," she said. "How many other boys are over there risking their lives thinking they've got life insurance when they haven't ticked the right box?

"They think their wives and girlfriends and children will be looked after, and they might not be."

Pte Ranaudo stepped on a land mine while on a search mission on July 18.

An official report on his death is due to be handed down in Canberra this morning by defence force vice-chief Lt-Gen David Hurley.

Mrs Ward said Benjamin's fiancee had spoken to other troops overseas who were also under the mistaken impression they were totally covered in case of death.

The Defence Department deducted about $62 a month from Pte Ranaudo's pay to cover the private insurance policy with AIG Australia, now known as Chartis.

Mrs Ward said her son was "like most 22-year-olds - not really paper-savvy".

She said the insurance company should take more care to explain the standard policy to defence force staff signing up.

"He's not a car. He's not a piece of furniture," she said.

"The people who sold it to him knew where he was going, and why. Why didn't they make it clearer?

"It's not that we want the money. It's about making sure other boys know they mightn't be covered."

The family received a lump-sum payment from the soldier's superannuation policy, but nothing from the private insurance company.

Chartis Insurance last night extended sympathies to the family.

"We commend Mrs Ward on taking the initiative to urge other defence force families to review their policy cover," company spokesman Ron Wadson said.

A Defence spokeswoman quoted from a media release dated May 16 which said: "Personnel are encouraged to seek independent professional advice when considering insurance matters and before making any commitment to purchase."

The Veterans' Affairs department is conducting a review of military compensation arrangements. A report to the Minister is expected in March.

 

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[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 7:23 AM
Subject: Re: Stressed Australian soldiers turn to drugs


To All.
IT would appear that the defence Dept and the so called leaders and pollies have learned nothing over the years on veterans returning home from war.
 
During the Vietnam war we had soldiers returning from war and were treated in two areas, the young National Serviceman off the plane /ship and then told at the airport here's your ticket and report to Melbourne discharge centre on such and such a date to be discharged, These people never received a debrief and never were given details where to seek medical help if needed but were turned loose on the home town with a pocket full of monies and a pub ready to take their monies. They woke up three weeks later with massive head ache and broke and were left to pick up their lives again .
 
The regular soldier arrived home on the ferry/plane and were marched through Sydney in our case weapons handed in after the march loaded on a truck , and once again turned loose with a report date back to the unit, The marriedies went home with no idea as what is going on, and then the trouble started booze .dreams . the old what is going on , and then the years of crap started for the family. The lucky ones worked through it and survived the unfortunate ones did not, and of course this helped towards the problems of most veterans of today. I also have no doubts this did affect veterans of all wars.the following points should be made.
 
 
a. briefing made available to the families on what to expect.
 
b. debriefing on the HMAS  Sydney on the way home.
 
c. debriefing available for the families on return on how to deal with the changes to be expected.
 
d.and if this was not enough a weeks wind down before going on leave.
 
The big change in life is one day you are armed and patrolling and looking for or engaging the enemy and the next day or few days you are home in bed with your misses a belly full of booze and a pocket full of personality and heaps of friends drinking you monies. and of course the soldier has learned the easy way out and that is in most cases is beer and more beer and the next thing no one cares.
 
The higher echelon of the department need to look into some sort of shelter to have as a wind down centre even if it 5 days before touching down , and if affected by drugs or booze then placed in drying out period this could also save good aussie soldiers lives and stop them becoming another war casualty.
 
RW   KING   OAM

[Keith]

The best way to support our Afghan Troops is to bring them home.
 
Stressed Australian soldiers turn to drugs
Article from: COURIER MAIL
By Peter Michael

December 15, 2009

DIGGERS are turning to illicit drugs and alcohol as combat stress takes a rising toll on up to one-third of Australia's overseas troops.

Defence has ordered a top priority study into combat stress as doctors and soldiers claim ecstasy use is rising among returning Diggers.

Poll: Are you concerned about illegal drugs in Queensland? http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/poll/1,,3102-5042601-0,00.html

The Drugs Scourge: Special in-depth section http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/indepth/date/0,,5018883,00.html

Operation Unite: Booze crackdown hits Valley http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,26481102-3102,00.html

The Punch: Sydney is awash in cocaine http://www.thepunch.com.au/articles/sydney-awash-with-coke/

Private Darren McKellar, 23, of Townsville-based 1 RAR, has broken ranks to reveal his nightmarish ordeal as one of the forgotten casualties of war.

Pte McKellar, who has toured both East Timor and Afghanistan, said young soldiers were hitting the party drug scene and ecstasy was freely passed around on nights out.

The young Digger was taken to Townsville Hospital's acute mental health unit under an involuntary treatment order after a drunken stand-off with police shortly after returning home from a six-month deployment in Afghanistan last month.

He was not charged with any offence but was handcuffed and detained for assessment. He wasn't diagnosed with any mental illness after two weeks.

Doctors, army welfare support groups, the Federal Opposition and his mother Lyn McKellar, a nurse, yesterday condemned the tragedy of his detention.

His case has emerged as one of hundreds of potential post-traumatic stress disorder cases as the Defence Force grapples with the protracted eight-year military campaign in Afghanistan.

Ms McKellar yesterday said her infantry combat medic son was "not mad or psychotic".

"I'm really disgusted and disappointed with the ADF. It breaks my heart to know other young Diggers who come home may fall into the same hole," she said.

Pte McKellar said he felt like he had been "kicked in the guts and tossed on the scrapheap".

"I love the army, but for me to get locked up like that simply because I was fresh back from war makes me feel cheated by the same system I swore allegiance to serve and protect," he said.

Townsville Hospital's Sam Baker said doctors in the military city were treating rising numbers of soldiers for both drug abuse and combat stress.

Dr Baker, who is the Australian Medical Association spokesman in north Queensland, said some hit the bottle while others, usually younger soldiers, experimented with illicit drugs such as ecstasy.

"Some adapt and cope. But for some alcohol and drugs is a form of escapism," he said.

A Defence spokesman said Australian soldiers were screened for "readjustment issues" up to six months after active service in Afghanistan.

Young Diggers spokeswoman Sherrie Fox said the treatment of Pte McKellar was disgusting and deplorable.

She said it was estimated one-third of serving and ex-serving veterans had PTSD or depression.

1 RAR Association spokesman Mike Waldron said the detention of the young Digger appeared to be a "massive over-reaction".

 
 

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[Keith]

Report suggests single naval shipbuilder for $250bn plans http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/report-suggests-single-naval-shipbuilder-for-250bn-plans/story-e6frg6nf-1225809977365

Patrick Walters, National security editor AUSTRALIA'S naval shipbuilding industry must face up to further radical reform, including the option of a single naval constructor, according to a defence report commissioned by the South Australian government.

Nation given N-bomb warning http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/nation-given-n-bomb-warning/story-e6frg6nf-1225809977267

Christian Kerr AUSTRALIA may be forced to acquire nuclear weapons to tackle deteriorating Asian security, a government-funded defence think tank has warned.

Rann seeks deal to build a flotilla http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/rann-seeks-deal-to-build-a-flotilla/story-e6frg6nf-1225809982463

Patrick Walters OVER the next 30 years Australia could spend up to $100 billion on new warships for the navy.

Defence to buy off the shelf http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/defence-to-buy-equipment-off-the-shelf/story-e6frg6nf-1225809549487

Cameron Stewart AUSTRALIA will buy a its military equipment ready-made from overseas to ensure that purchases are delivered on time and on budget.

THE AUSTRALIAN
 

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[Keith]

Thursday, 10 December 2009
 
054/2009

AUSTRALIAN FORCES DRAWDOWN IN EAST TIMOR

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced that the Australian commitment to the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in East Timor will draw down from approximately 650 to around 400 personnel by February 2010.  

The overall size of the joint Australian-New Zealand force will decrease from 800 to 550 personnel.

The reduction of the number of ADF personnel was agreed following extensive discussions with East Timors leadership, the United Nations and our ISF partner New Zealand, Senator Faulkner said.    

The security situation in East Timor has remained stable since the February 2008 attacks on East Timors President and Prime Minister.  In January 2009, 100 ADF members deployed to Operation ASTUTE were withdrawn from East Timor with no significant effect on the security situation.

The decision to reduce the number of ADF personnel recognises the ongoing calm security situation in East Timor and the efforts of the Government and people of East Timor to uphold this. It will see the ISF increase its focus on capacity-building of East Timor?s military forces (F-FDTL), Senator Faulkner said.

The coalition will continue to transition to capacity-building activities with the F-FDTL, building on successful ISF and F-FDTL projects such as the water project at Uatolari and the health clinic in Ossa Huna.  

These efforts support Australias longer term commitment to the F-FDTLs development through the Defence Cooperation Program in East Timor.  They are part of Australias commitment to supporting East Timor's development as a stable and prosperous nation.

The planned drawdown will commence with approximately 100 ADF members returning to Australia in mid December 2009. The subsequent drawdown to an ADF commitment of approximately 400 ADF members will occur gradually during the January to March 2010 period.  

The Australian servicemen and women completing their deployments can now look forward to a period of leave, reconstitution and training back in Australia following their time in East Timor, Senator Faulkner said.  

I thank all the returning ADF personnel for their professionalism and service in this important operation.  

The current New Zealand contribution will remain unchanged at 150 personnel.

The ISF is in East Timor at the request of the Government of East Timor and the United Nations.  

Operation ASTUTE is the ADF contribution to the ISF and New Zealand?s contribution is Operation KORU.  Further information concerning Operation ASTUTE and KORU can be found at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEX/global/opastute/index.cfm

http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/operations/deployments/east-timor/default.htm

[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence


MINISTER FOR DEFENCE VISITS TOWNSVILLE ADF ESTABLISHMENTS

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today visited Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Base Townsville on a familiarisation tour of the two military establishments.

At Lavarack Barracks, Senator Faulkner met with members of the First Battalion the Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR) Band.  Officer Commanding 1 RAR Band, Major Daniel Hiscock and members of the band were rehearsing to present a concert to troops who are away from their families on operations over the Christmas period.  

As well as its official role in support of the First Battalion, the 1 RAR band travels extensively throughout the region entertaining the public at civic festivals and shows from Rockhampton to Port Douglas and as far afield as Mt Isa.  It helps raise money for a number of charities and performs regularly at major community events such as Townsvilles Carols on the Strand.  

At the 4th Field Regiment Gun Park, Senator Faulkner observed soldiers training to refine their artillery skills.  The Gun Park was constructed as part of the Lavarack Barracks Redevelopment Project Stage 4, and enables artillery, mortars, fast air, armed helicopters and naval fire for the two Battle Groups in Townsville.

At RAAF Base Townsville, Senator Faulkner met with members of Number 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron (1AOSS), the largest operational unit in the RAAF with detachments at every major operational Air Force Base.

RAAF Base Townsville is in the middle of a busy exercise period with three simultaneous exercises going on. During these exercises, the Base is supporting an additional 700 Air Force personnel and four additional aircraft platforms - F/A-18, PC-9s, C-130 Hercules and AP-3C aircraft.

Senator Faulkner also visited the Combat Survival Training School (CSTS) which provides tri-service aircrew training to increase survivability in the event the crew crash, or are forced to make an emergency landing.  

At Number 44 Wing Detachment, Senator Faulkner met air traffic controllers who provide services to both military and civil aircraft 16 hours a day, seven days a week.

Media Note:

Imagery is available at:
http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/faulkner/gallery/20091208/index.htm

[Keith]

 
 
Canadian media have picked up The Aussie Commando story.
 
http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/defencewatch/default.aspx

 
THE OTTAWA CITIZEN NEWSPAPER

Today is Tuesday December 8, 2009
 
 
COMMANDOS AS SCAPEGOATS IN AFGHAN KILLINGS?
By Dave Pugliese Mon, Dec 7 2009 COMMENTS(0) David Puglieses Defence Watch

 
Filed under: special forces in Afghanistan, killings of civilians, 1 Commando Regiment
 
Editors note:  Journalist and former soldier Sasha Uzunov is todays guest writer for Defence Watch. He files this commentary about an ongoing controversy in Australia concerning Australian commandos and an investigation into the death of five Afghan children during a raid in February.  Two inquiries into the incident have been conducted by the Australian Defence Force and the details have been passed on to the Director of Military Prosecutions for further investigation. Few other details have been released.


---------------------------------------------------------------------

An Australian Army Reserve Special Forces commando unit has been accused of killing 5 Afghan children in an alleged botched raid...But c ould political cutbacks, and a short sighted defence policy be the real problems?



http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Exclusive -

COMMANDO REGIMENT IN FIRING LINE:
?Chocko?s? and coppers hung out to dry?

By Sasha Uzunov

The Australian Armys elite reservist unit, 1 Commando Regiment, is being made a scapegoat over allegations of misconduct in Afghanistan, a former unit member has told TEAM UZUNOV.

The experienced ex-Commando said that he was deeply concerned over claims that poorly trained and led members had breached rules of engagement during a raid on a house in Afghanistan which resulted in the deaths of 5 local children after grenades had been thrown last February.

My concern is the unit has been left out to dry by the Defence Department even before judgement has been passed. Let due process of law take place, he said. If people were innocent then that should be shouted from the rooftops but if people were guilty then throw the book at them.

Whatever the outcome of the investigation, the responsibility is with the government of the day as well Defence Department bureaucrats. It is they who send troops to war.

The ex-Commando spent over 20 years with the Sydney based 1 Commando Regiment (1 Cdo Regt) and served in Papua New Guinea, East Timor and the Middle-East.

The unit, he says, consists of a core full time staff, complimented by highly trained reservists from all walks of life. He revealed that there was a high percentage of New South Wales and Victorian Police officers within the ranks.

?The coppers are little group of their own and unfortunately some people see them as a law unto themselves. But that?s not their fault as these guys work together in civilian life as well,? he said.

The ex-Commando laughed at a report in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald newspapers by defence reporter Jonathan Pearlman who wrote :

Link: www.smh.com.au/national/soldiers-may-be-first-to-face-charges-for-combat-since-vietnam-20091204-kaxw.html?skin=text-only

The Herald/Age understands that some of the soldiers in the sub-unit were reservists who worked as police in Australia and that questions have been raised about the possibility they were not properly trained in military procedures for entering houses.

The ex-1 Cdo Regt soldier said there was no great major difference between a military and a police procedure for a room clearance. Im sure the coppers wouldve picked it within a few seconds of training.

Traditionally a fierce rivalry has existed between the Australian Regular Army (ARA) and the Army Reserve (Ares). Reservists are known as chocolate soldiers or chockos for allegedly not being able to withstand combat and melt under pressure.

Some Regular soldiers and officers see the reservists as allegedly incompetent or as weekend warriors. Some reservists regard their full time colleagues as lifers unable to think outside the box.

1 Cdo Regt has its headquarters in Randwick, Sydney and consists of 1 Commando Company in Sydney and 2 Commando Company, in Williamstown, Melbourne, Victoria.

The unit belongs to the Australian Armys Special Operations Command together with the Perth based regular army Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and Sydney-based regular army 2nd Commando Regiment (formerly 4 RAR  Commando).

The ex-Commando said if the politicians and media were not happy with reservists in Afghanistan ?then don?t send them.?

As revealed in an earlier TEAM UZUNOV story in 2008:

Link: http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2008/09/failed-nelson-howard-doctrine-on.html

The legacy of the Nelson-Howard military doctrine has the Special Forces doing most of the fighting, because of the fear of casualties to our regular infantry units. The long term effect could be burn out of our full time Special Forces.

SF BURN OUT?

"Twice now we have had to deploy special forces in Afghanistan and twice now we have had to withdraw them because they are too tired," said Neil James, of think tank the Australian Defence Association in October 2006.

The highly respected Brigadier Jeff Sengelman DSC CSC, deputy commander of Special Operations, revealed the SAS had faced problems with recruiting and retaining soldiers but put a positive spin by also saying that it did not affect its operational capability.

In fact Australian Defence policy over the past 20 years, including that of the current Rudd Federal government, has been to fight wars by the seat of our pants by listening to desk-bound defence theorists and their crazy ideas.

EAST TIMOR CRAZINESS

The farsighted actions of an unheralded Australian Army General saved the lives of Australian soldiers in East Timor.

There is enormous respect for the popular commander of the successful Timor mission (INTERFET) Australian Army General Peter Cosgrove and he deserved to be recognized.

But we must also acknowledge the actions of then Chief of the Australian Army Lieutenant General Frank Hickling.

The Interfet Mission led by Australia intervened in East Timor to avert a catastrophe after the tiny Southeast Asian land had declared its independence from Indonesia in August 1999.

Pro-Indonesian Timorese militia groups supported by Indonesian Special Forces, Kopassus, went on a murderous rampage against independence supporters and later international peacekeepers.

Interfet then handed over control to the United Nations Transitional Administration for East Timor (UNTAET) in January 2000, and the Australian media believed the militia had been defeated. But the militia was simply biding its time and waiting to strike at what it thought was a soft target, Australian Army reservists.

Legendary infantry battalion 6RAR from Brisbane would be the next to go to Timor. It had, over the past decade, been gutted by cost cutting by defence experts. 6RAR had to be rebuilt with reservists grabbed from other units around Australia.

When 6RAR arrived in East Timor in early 2000 it came under ferocious militia attack but held its own.

In 1998, a year before East Timor erupted, the far-sighted Chief of the Australian Army, Lieutenant General Frank Hickling, a combat engineer who saw action in Vietnam, went from unit to unit ordering his senior commanders that he wanted all full time and reserve soldiers to sharpen up their war fighting skills.

He was concerned that the army?s combat troops had gone soft because of the focus on peacekeeping missions. It was his foresight that kept Australian soldiers, both regular and reservist, alive on the battlefield in Timor despite the cutbacks from the bureaucrats.

The brutal murder and later mutilation of New Zealand soldier Private Leonard Manning by militia in July 2000 was a signal of what the militia had in store for Australian and international soldiers.

(end)
 
TEAM UZUNOV
 
Sasha Uzunov graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, in 1991. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army as a soldier in 1995 and was allocated to infantry. He served two peacekeeping tours in East Timor (1999 and 2001). In 2002 he returned to civilian life as a photo journalist and film maker and has worked in The Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. His documentary film Timor Tour of Duty made its international debut in New York in October 2009. He blogs at Team Uzunov.
 

TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY FILM WEBSITE

http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/

[Keith]

MSPA 420/09 Monday, 7 December 2009

NAVY TAKES COMMAND OF MAJOR MULTINATIONAL TASK FORCE IN GULF FOR FIRST TIME

A team of 25 Royal Australian Navy officers and sailors will depart this week for the Middle East to form the command group of a Coalition Naval Task Force engaged in maritime security operations throughout the region.

Combined Task Force 150 conducts counter terrorism and maritime security operations in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Gulf of Oman.

As Commander of the Task Force, Commodore Richard Menhinick will have tactical control of Coalition ships and aircraft from many nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Iraq, Pakistan, Germany and Australia?s HMAS Stuart.

Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Mark Evans says it is the first time an Australian Officer has been assigned to this coalition command position one of the most senior naval appointments in the Middle East Area of Operations.

Commodore Menhinick and his team will be responsible for a combined crew of up to 1600 personnel; it is a very important role and a great endorsement for the professionalism of the Royal Australian Navy, Lieutenant General Evans said.

I would like to especially thank the families and friends of these personnel for their ongoing support and wish those deploying continued success and safety.

Commodore Menhinick says he is confident his team is prepared for their mission.

I am fortunate and privileged to lead such a capable and experienced team. We will meet all challenges directly and professionally and build upon the outstanding reputation of the Australian Defence Force in the international community, Commodore Menhinick said.

Our mission will be to sustain maritime security in the region, which includes deterring and countering terrorist movements at sea, to keep the seas open and safe for international shipping.

It is with mixed emotions we say goodbye to our families and friends, thanking them for their understanding and support, while looking forward to being in such an important leadership role, Commodore Menhinick said.

[Keith]

AFP union attacks Afghanistan role http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/afp-union-attacks-afghanistan-role-for-australian-police/story-e6frgczf-1225807509717

Paul Maley THE AFP Association has criticised Kevin Rudd's commitment to send extra police to Afghanistan in lieu of fighting troops.

Beheadings a Taliban warning http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/beheadings-a-taliban-warning-to-invaders/story-e6frgczf-1225807513056

TWO gruesome beheadings just outside the main Australian coalition base in Afghanistan's southern Oruzgan province have served as a chilling reminder to newly arrived Australian Federal Police, Diggers and their coalition counterparts of the ability of Taliban insurgents to strike on their doorstep.

NATO to send 5,000 more troops to Afganistan http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nato-countries-to-send-5000-more-troops-to-fight-war-in-afganistan/story-e6frg8yo-1225806880458
 
David Charter in Brussels and Roger Boyes in Berlin NATO countries have pledged more than 5,000 troops to join the US surge in Afghanistan, a figure well short of American

 
 

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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
Soldiers not charged over deadly Afghan raid
 
The Australian Defence Force conducted two inquiries into the incident (defence.gov.au)

Related Story: Afghanistan condemns civilian deaths in Australian raid http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/02/13/2491422.htm


Related Story: NATO allies add 7,000 to surge
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/05/2762803.htm


Related Story: 'Cobra's Anger' unleashed in Taliban heartland
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/05/2762860.htm


Related Story: Obama rushing 30,000 troops to Afghan front line
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/02/2759611.htm


Australia backs Obama's Afghan strategy
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/02/2759942.htm



Related Story: Taliban promise to fight US troop surge

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/03/2760354.htm


Related Story: Americans will die: Taliban's surge verdict

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/03/2761096.htm

Related Story: Afghan surge results promised by 2010

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/04/2761519.htm


The Defence Department says no charges have been laid against Australian soldiers involved in a deadly raid in Afghanistan earlier this year.

Five Afghan civilians were killed and four were injured in a raid involving Australian troops in February.

A suspected insurgent was also killed.

The Australian Defence Force conducted two inquiries into the incident and a brief of evidence has now been provided to the Director of Military Prosecutions for further investigation.

The soldiers are believed to be from the Reserve Unit, One Commando Company, which was deployed to Afghanistan at the end of last year.

Shortly after the February incident, the ADF said its soldiers acted in "accordance with their rules of engagement", after they came under fire from Taliban insurgents, but did not say whether Afghan troops were involved in the operation.

The operation, ISAF said in a statement, was conducted by both ISAF and Afghan forces but a spokesman for the alliance did not know which of the two forces had led the raid.

Raids by foreign forces on homes and mosques are a major source of resentment against international soldiers in Afghanistan and President Hamid Karzai has repeatedly asked military commanders to leave house searches to Afghan troops.

Australia has around 1,100 troops in Afghanistan, mainly in Uruzgan province where the Taliban has a strong presence.

The issue of civilian casualties is sensitive in Afghanistan, and has eroded public support for Mr Karzai's Government and for the presence of some foreign soldiers fighting Taliban militants in the country.

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Saturday, 5 December 2009

120/2009

DEFENCE REMOVAL AND RELOCATION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES CONTRACT SIGNED

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that Defence has entered into a contract with Toll Transport Pty Ltd, trading as Toll Transitions Pty Ltd, for the provision of Removal and Relocation Administration Services to Australian Defence Force ADF members.

ADF members and their families are required to move periodically to meet Defences requirements and it is important that these relocations are done as efficiently as possible, and that ADF families are happy with the results, Mr Combet said. 

I am confident this new contract will offer improved removal and relocation services to Defence personnel.

This contract is a major step forward in how Defence manages relocations, as it provides ADF members with a single point of contact and source of information for removals.

The contract has been designed to incorporate improved and enhanced occupational health and safety provisions and is in line with the Safe Work Principles Statement outlined by the Government earlier this year.

To ensure that the Government requirements are met, new and stronger audit and management arrangements have been put in place to allow Defence to monitor compliance.

A further initiative within the contract is the establishment of a Removal Services Consultative Forum. This new forum will consist of union, industry and Defence families? representatives that will advise Defence on any performance and compliance issues.

The Government is serious about improving the standard of removals and this forum will be a voice recommending to Defence how it can continue to improve the overall performance of its removal services, Mr Combet said. 

The removal and relocation contract will commence on 1 July 2010.  The total cost of both removal and relocation components is more than $1 billion for the first five years.

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Tuesday, 1 December 2009 117/2009

AUSTRALIAN DIGGERS LAID TO REST IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, paid tribute to fallen Second World War diggers who were laid to rest at Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea earlier today.

The families of Lance Sergeant James Garrard Wheeler and Lieutenant Talbot Logan were present as the remains of their loved ones and two unknown Australian soldiers were buried with full military honours.

This is a time to remember the courage of these men, and recognise the considerable grief their loss has caused their families  both then and now, said Mr Combet.

The men were laid to rest at Bomana alongside more than 3300 of their comrades who also died during the Pacific campaigns of the Second World War.

Australia owes a debt of gratitude to all 39,000 servicemen and women who died during the Second World War, and today?s military funeral is an appropriate way to commemorate the service and sacrifice of these diggers, and provide some comfort to the loved ones they left behind.

The identified men were killed in separate incidents that occurred exactly one month apart  the first on 1 December 1942.

Lance Sergeant Wheeler was killed 67 years ago today while attempting to reach an injured comrade during the US Army 126th Regiments fight around Huggins Road Block on the Soputa/Sanananda Track, Mr Combet said.

Lieutenant Logan was in command of 9 Platoon when he was killed on 1 January 1943 by a Japanese sniper during the 2/12th Battalion?s attack on Giropa Point at Buna.

The Australian Army provided an honour guard at the ceremony which was also attended by the Deputy Chief of Army, Major General Paul Symon.  Members of the Australian Federation Guard fired volleys over the graves and a lone bugler played the Last Post.

The soldier?s remains were recovered from battlefields around Buna, Sanananda and Popondetta.  An Army investigation team positively identified two sets of remains, and those unidentified have been buried under a headstone marked Known Unto God.

Media note:
Imagery will be available at www.defence.gov.au/media/download later today


FURTHER BACKGROUND

For more information on Australian service in Papua New Guinea during the Second World War visit www.ww2australia.gov.au/beachheads/.


Lance Sergeant James Wheeler

James Wheeler was born on 29 August 1919 in Narrabri. He completed his senior education at The Armidale School (TAS) from 1932 to 1937 where he was an outstanding sportsman ? Captain of the School Rugby 15, Junior Fencing Champion, member of the First 11, Sgt. in GPS Cadet Corps, Senior Prefect and a good marksman.  After leaving school he joined the Bank of New South Wales in Mungindi and was employed as a bank clerk.

On the outbreak of war he enlisted in the Australian Army (2nd AIF) on 26 Oct 1939. After enlistment he was taken on strength of the 2/1st Field Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, (6th Division) on 9 November 1939 and embarked as part of the first Australian convoy to the Middle East in January 1940.  Gunner Wheeler arrived at Kantara, Egypt in February 1940 and his regiment undertook intensive training in Palestine. At that time, he undertook signaller training and after receiving his signaller qualification was promoted to Bombardier in March 1940. From early December 1940 through to March 1941, 2/1st Field Regiment was involved in the Australian advance against Italian forces in North Africa. The regiment fought at Bardia, Tobruk, Derna, Barce and Benghazi before proceeding to Greece in March /April 1941. in the withdrawal from Greece, James was among those evacuated to Egypt. Bombardier Wheeler was promoted to Lance Sergeant in August 1941.

Lance Sergeant Wheeler embarked with his unit in March 1942 but it did not directly return to Australia. On 5 April 1942, Colombo in Ceylon was attacked by Japanese carrier borne aircraft and two Australian brigades remained in Ceylon for some months. The regiment arrived home in early August 1942. His home-stay was very short and he embarked for Port Moresby on 15 August 1942. The regiment was responsible the artillery defence of the city and came under the command of Commander Corps of Royal Artillery - New Guinea Force. Two troops of artillery were trained to be air portable. James was deployed at short notice with Blackforce commanded by Major A.G. Hanson to Popondetta where he, along with his Forward Observer, Lieutenant Alfred Daniels, were placed in support of  United States Army 'I Company, 126th Infantry Regiment.

The role of the two-man Forward Observer party was to direct the Artillery onto the enemy. The nature of the jungle meant they had to accompany the American forward fighting patrols as it was not possible to give adequate support to the attacking infantry from the American infantry base in the rear.

It was during the 126th Regiments fighting around Huggins Road Block on the Soputa/ Sanananda Track that 23 year old Lance Sergeant Wheeler was killed.  He was making a gallant attempt to reach Lieutenant Daniels who had been mortally wounded by enemy fire. It was 1 December 1942. Lieutenant Daniels is also buried at Bomana.

Lieutenant Talbot Timothy (Tim) Logan

Tim Logan was born in Kyambu, Kenya on 10 February 1913. He later spent time in England before travelling to Australia where he enlisted in the Australian Army (2nd AIF) on 20 Oct 1939 at the age of 26.

At the time of enlistment he was working as a stockman and living near Maxwelton, Queensland.  After initial training he was taken on strength of the 2/12th Infantry Battalion in December 1939.  He was promoted to corporal in January 1940 prior to the battalion sailing for the Middle East on 5 May 1940. En route, the battalion was diverted to the Scotland and sent by rail to Salisbury Plains (Colchester) to undertake rigorous training in preparation for the German invasion of Britain that did not eventuate. The Australians embarked for Egypt in November 1940. During the voyage, which sailed via the Cape of Good Hope, Tim Logan was promoted and arrived in Egypt on 31 December 1940 as a Lance Sergeant. He was again quickly promoted, this time to Warrant Officer Class Two in February 1941.  From April to June, Warrant Officer Logan participated in the defence of Tobruk, before being withdrawn to attend officer training school. At the conclusion of this training he was promoted t
 o Lieutenant on 19 October 1941.

Lieutenant Logan marched into the 18th Training Battalion in October 1941, eventually rejoining his old Battalion, 2/12th Battalion, just prior to it sailing to Australia from Suez in February 1942. Prior to leaving Australia in 1940, Tim Logan married Lorne Daisy Mabel Deacon and he was reunited with her after the battalion arrived back in Australia in March 1942. Lieutenant Logan embarked for New Guinea in Aug 1942 and arrived at Milne Bay where the 2/12th Battalion mounted a successful counter-attack against Japanese invasion forces between August and September. After occupying Goodenough Island between 22 October and 28 December, the 2/12th Battalion deployed to Buna to ?add weight? to the Australian attack on Buna. It was during the 2/12th Battalion?s attack on Giropa Point at Buna that Lieutenant Tim Logan, in command of 9 Platoon, was killed by a Japanese sniper just short of the beach between the mouth of the Simema Creek and Giropa Point.  His official appointment wa
 s Second-in-Command of ?A? Company, but due to the shortage of officers, he readily volunteered to command 9 Platoon in this extremely important attack against a well defended Japanese position. Tim was shot and killed at 0851 hours on the 1 Jan 1943; he was 29 years old.

Tim Logan was survived by his wife Lorne who died in 1987 and their son Fred who is married to Neola and lives near Bribie Island Queensland.

www.defence.gov.au

[Keith]

Troops set to get more protection
JOSH GORDON
November 29, 2009
 
THE AGE
THE Federal Government has ordered a multimillion-dollar upgrade of protection and armour for troops and their equipment in Afghanistan in the face of escalating casualties from roadside bombs and rocket attacks.

Defences of Australia's Tarin Kowt base in southern Afghanistan are also being strengthened at a cost of nearly $40 million, as the security situation continues to deteriorate. Improvised explosives such as roadside bombs, along with mortar and rocket attacks, are taking a rising toll on Australian forces.

The upgrades were approved by cabinet's National Security Committee following a full review of force protection. Soldiers will receive better body armour and helmets, Australia's ASLAV armoured vehicles will be strengthened to deal with roadside bombs, and CH-47 Chinook helicopters and naval helicopters will be fitted with more protection against rocket attacks.

Troops and vehicles will be provided with improved electronic countermeasures to protect and warn against improvised explosive devices.

Defence is also acting on recommendations to improve protection for our soldiers from indirect fire when they are in their bases. A Counter Rockets, Artillery and Mortars (C-RAM) capability for bases in Afghanistan is under investigation.

The upgrade follows a high level review by Defence Force chief Angus Houston ordered by John Faulkner in July in one of his first acts as Defence Minister.

Senator Faulkner said protection of soldiers remained the highest priority for the Government. ''The review is a thorough analysis and includes a way forward for addressing any force protection concerns for our deployed forces,'' he said.

In a report to Parliament, Senator Faulkner said that in the past few months there had been heavy fighting across southern and eastern Afghanistan, with coalition forces pushing Taliban insurgents out of ''numerous strongholds, towns and villages''.

''In our own area of operation in Oruzgan province, Australian soldier have freed areas of Taliban control in places like Mirabad,'' he said.

The report to Parliament said more than 92 Australian soldiers had been wounded in action, 34 of them in the past year alone, with most casualties inflicted by so-called improved explosive devices such as roadside bombs.

Tomorrow President Barack Obama is expected to press Australia to send more troops to Afghanistan when he meets with Prime Minister Rudd.

Even though Australian officials have repeatedly ruled out increasing the Australian commitment of 1550 troops the Washington Post reported that President Obama was preparing to ask for more.

It said the Obama Administration officials had indicated that much of the discussion tomorrow would focus on whether Australia would contribute more troops in light of the US's new assessment of strategy, which will be announced on Tuesday.

 

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[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Advance purchase could well put Defence out on a wing http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/advance-purchase-could-well-put-defence-out-on-a-wing/story-e6frg6nf-1225804521831

Patrick Walters, National security editor It's a risky business committing to the purchase of hi-tech aircraft that are still in development, writes National security editor Patrick Walters

New Aghan policy 'a strategy for success' http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/new-aghan-policy-a-strategy-for-success/story-e6frg8yo-1225804574841

Mark Dodd BARACK Obama's revamped Afghanistan policy will be a strategy for success in a bloody conflict characterised by worsening Taliban violence.

 
 

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[Keith]

ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT CULTANA TRAINING AREA, CULTANA, SA GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9787
       Kelly Release 84 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT PUCKAPUNYAL MILITARY AREA, VIC GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9786
       Kelly Release 85 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT WIDE BAY TRAINING AREA NEAR GYMPIE, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9785
       Kelly Release 82 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT GALLIPOLI BARRACKS, ENOGGERA, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9784
       Kelly Release 82 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT LAVARACK BARRACKS, TOWNSVILLE, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9782
       Kelly Release 89 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT KOKODA BARRACKS, CANUNGRA, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9781
       Kelly Release 88 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT GARDEN ISLAND, SYDNEY, NSW GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9780
       Kelly Release 87 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT HMAS PENGUIN, SYDNEY, NSW GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9779
       Kelly Release 86 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT SIMPSON BARRACKS, WATSONIA, VIC GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9771
       Kelly Release 90 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT GREENBANK TRAINING AREA, GREENBANK, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9769
       Kelly Release 81 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT RAAF BASE AMBERLEY, IPSWICH, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9766
       Kelly Release 80 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT LONE PINE BARRACKS, SINGLETON, NSW GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9765
       Kelly Release 79 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT IN QLD, NSW, VIC, SA AND THE ACT GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9764
       Kelly Release 92 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGE, DUNTROON, AND MAJURA TRAINING AREA, ACT GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9763
       Kelly Release 78 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

    ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FACILITIES PROJECT AT TOWNSVILLE FIELD TRAINING AREA, TOWNSVILLE, QLD GIVEN THE GO AHEAD http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Kellytpl.cfm?CurrentId=9762
       Kelly Release 77 /2009 Thursday, November 26, 2009

[Keith]

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
Defence receives troubled Wedgetails http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/defence-takes-delviery-of-first-two-troubled-wedgetail-jets/story-e6frg8yo-1225804219270

Mark Dodd DEFENCE has taken delivery of two Wedgetail airborne early warning aircraft, four years behind schedule for the $4 billion project.

Two Wedgetails handed over to RAAF http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/two-wedgetails-handed-over-to-raaf/story-e6frg8yo-1225804157876

DEFENCE has taken delivery of the first two Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft to allow RAAF aircrew to start training.

RAAF first to put JSF on flightline http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/raaf-first-to-put-joint-strike-fighter-on-flightline/story-e6frgczf-1225803948129

Patrick Walters, National security editor AUSTRALIA will take delivery of the F-35 in batches.

 
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Wednesday, 25 November 2009
051/2009

F-35 JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER?AUSTRALIA?S NEXT GENERATION AIR POWER

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced that the Australian Government had approved acquisition of the first batch of F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft as foreshadowed in the 2009 Defence White Paper.

There has been considerable public interest in the potential acquisition of the F-35 JSF. The Government examined the JSF?s capabilities very carefully in the context of the Air Combat Capability Review and 2009 Defence White Paper deliberations, and remains confident that the JSFs combination of stealth, advanced sensors, networking and data fusion capabilities, when integrated into the networked Australian Defence Force (ADF), will ensure Australia maintains its strategic capability advantage out to 2030.

The Government has approved acquisition of the first 14 Conventional Take-Off and Landing (CTOL) Joint Strike Fighters and infrastructure and support required for initial training and testing, at an estimated cost of $3.2 billion.

Approval of this first batch of JSF aircraft is evidence of the Rudd Governments strong commitment to defence and our commitment to implementing the Defence White Paper, Senator Faulkner said.

Approval of the next batch of aircraft and all necessary support and enabling capabilities, sufficient to establish three operational squadrons and a training squadron of CTOL JSF, will be considered in 2012.  This will fulfil our White Paper commitment to acquire three operational squadrons comprising not fewer than 72 aircraft.

By 2012, Defence will have much firmer cost estimates for the remaining aircraft and necessary support and enabling capabilities as part of the planned first multi-year buy that is expected to comprise over 1000 aircraft for the US, Australia and other partners. This will allow for much more effective planning of the final JSF acquisition in the context of the overall Defence Capability Plan, Senator Faulkner said.

Acquisition of an additional operational squadron bringing the total number of JSF aircraft to around 100 will be considered at a later date in conjunction with a decision on the withdrawal of the F/A-18F Super Hornet.

Australias first JSF aircraft will be delivered in the United States in 2014 to commence initial training and test activities. Australias first operational squadron will be based at Royal Australian Air Force Base Williamtown, and is planned to be ready for operations in 2018.  All three operational squadrons are planned to be in service in 2021.

The decision follows many years of unprecedented evaluation and planning by all nine countries involved in the JSF?s development.

Defence has done more analysis on this platform than any other platform in the acquisition history of the ADF, Senator Faulkner said.

Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin said: ?The JSF acquisition will allow Australia to maintain its regional air combat superiority.  It will also enable Australia to effectively contribute to regional security and enhances opportunities for interoperability and commonality to support future coalition operations.

To date, 25 Australian companies have won approximately US$200 million in the development and early production phase of the JSF.  As Australia and other countries commit to JSF acquisition, significantly increased opportunities for Australian industry will open up, as agreed in the Industry Participation Plan with Lockheed Martin and its JSF industry partners.

Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet said:  ?Government and Industry will need to continue to work together as JSF Team Australia to maximise benefits for Australian industry in the JSF Program in the face of stiff international competition. Consideration of acquisition of the next batch of aircraft in 2012 will provide Government the opportunity to review Lockheed Martin?s progress on implementing the Industry Participation Plan.

It is important that where Australian companies offer value for money, Lockheed Martin and its JSF industry partners give fair consideration to Australian industry, Minister Combet said.

The Governments acquisition decision will also allow Lockheed Martin and its JSF industry partners to establish formal relationships with Australian industry to meet Australias defence self reliance requirements in supporting the JSF.

Our commitment to the JSF will allow Australian industry to become integrated into the global JSF support system, ensuring our aircraft are supported in the most cost effective way. Commitment to the JSF also opens up opportunities for Australian industry to contribute to regional and global support of the JSF, Minister Combet said.

The Program Manager, Air Vice-Marshal John Harvey said: This acquisition decision cements our commitment to the JSF Program and our commitment to the US and other international partners to make the JSF Program a great success.

 


THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 25 November 2009
 108/2009


CARIBOU RETIRES TO RAAF MUSEUM


What:

Caribou A4-152 to be received by RAAF Museum

Where:

RAAF Museum at RAAF Base Williams (Point Cook)

When:

Thursday, 26 November 2009, 1.00pm


A4-152 has accumulated 20,360 flying hours, and was delivered to RAAF Richmond on 13 June, 1964 with two others. The oldest, A4-140, is being handed over to the Australian War Memorial on Friday. The Caribous were the first RAAF aircraft deployed to Vietnam and the last to withdraw. A4-152 served in Vietnam October 1967 to September 1968.  It was severely damaged in an accident in Vietnam and was shipped home for repairs to Bankstown. Its operations after repair included in Sumatra in 1971, with the UN in 1975, 1976, 1977 and 1978 and survey flights in West Irian in 1976. The aircraft served on humanitarian support missions in the Solomons in 1980 and 2003 and on peacekeeping missions in East Timor in 1999.

Media note:  After landing the aircraft is expected to taxi through a water spray provided by a local CFA fire truck on the tarmac near the Museum flight line building.  The aircraft will stop in front of the bleachers used by public visitors during Museum interactive days.  

Interested media are requested to come to the Point Cook main gate at 12.30pm for escort to the venue.

The aircraft will officially be handed over by its captain, No 38 Squadron Executive Officer, Squadron Leader Victoria Rookyard, when she hands the Director, RAAF Museum, Mr David Gardner, its logbook.


THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 25 November 2009
109 /2009

RAAF CARIBOU RETIRES TO AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL


What:

Following a flypast at a height of 500 feet over the Australian War Memorial and Canberra Airport, Caribou A4-140 will be received by the Australian War Memorial

Where:

Qantas Hangar, Canberra Airport

When:

Friday, 27 November 2009
Flypast approx 12.50 pm
Hand over ceremony 1.00 pm

A4-140 is the Air Force's oldest remaining Caribou, and is the oldest aircraft in the Australian Defence Force fleet. It was part of the initial three Caribou which were delivered to Australia in April of 1964. In its 45 year career, A4-140 flew in Vietnam from 1968 to 1971. In 1975, it was involved in evacuation missions between East Timor and Darwin. The aircraft supported further flood relief in Australia in 1983 and 1988, and supported the Search and Rescue detachment at RAAF Base Pearce in the 1980s.  A4-140 has continued active service with 38 Squadron.

Media Note:

Timings of flypast may be subject to change due to operational requirements. The aircraft will stop in front of the Qantas hangar.

Attending media are required to fax photographic ID to the Australian War Memorial on (02) 6243 4585 by 11 am Thursday. Please include an email address for receipt of fax and location map. Media should arrive by 12.30 pm Friday.

The aircraft will officially be handed over by Air Commodore John Oddie, Commander Air Lift Group to Ms Nola Anderson, Assistant Director, Branch Head National Collection.


THE AUSTRALIAN
 
RAAF first to put JSF on flightline http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/raaf-first-to-put-joint-strike-fighter-on-flightline/story-e6frgczf-1225803948129

Patrick Walters, National security editor AUSTRALIA will take delivery of the F-35 in batches.

Rudd signs off on largest defence buy http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/kevin-rudd-signs-off-on-purchase-of-14-f-35-joint-strike-fighters/story-e6frg8yo-1225803790418

Patrick Walters, National security editor THE Rudd government has signed off on Australia's largest ever defence purchase, approving the $3.2bn buy of 14 F-35 joint strike fighters.

 
 

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[Keith]

 

MSPA 407/09 Tuesday, 24 November 2009

AIR FORCE WELCOMES ARMY KING AIR

A ceremony at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Townsville on Friday marked the handover of three King Air 350 aircraft from Army to Air Force. The aircraft, formerly operating under Army Aviations No. 173 Air Surveillance Squadron, will now be flown by RAAFs No. 38 Squadron.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin, said the King Air will act as an interim replacement for the ageing DHC-4 Caribou, which will be retired this year.

The three King Air which arrived at Townsville last week will be joined by another five brand new King Air in the first half of next year, Air Marshal Binskin said.

Leased through Hawker Pacific, the King Air is equipped with turboprop engines, modern avionics and a glass cockpit.

The King Air is a far more advanced aircraft than the 1950s-era Caribou, being able to cruise at more than three times the altitude, twice the speed and twice the range, Air Marshal Binskin said.

It is ideally suited for moving people quickly across northern Australia and throughout the region.

This is especially important when we are called on to provide assistance to the civil community within Australia and on disaster relief efforts in our neighbourhood.

The new fleet of King Air can provide a degree of efficiency and reliability which we have struggled to achieve with our fleet of ageing Caribou.

At the same time, the 38 Squadron King Air pilots and technicians will also gain useful experience working on a modern aircraft type, allowing them to more efficiently transfer to other parts of the RAAF fleet.

The King Air will be an interim until the arrival of a new Light Tactical Fixed-Wing transport aircraft, to be selected under Project AIR 8000 Phase Two.

Air Marshal Binskin also paid his respects to the King Airs service with the Army. This transfer effectively marks the end of more than 40 years of fixed-wing aircraft operations, with Army now operating an all rotary-wing fleet,? he said.

Our partnership will continue through the withdrawal of the Caribou, with its roles to be efficiently distributed amongst Air Forces fleet of King Air and Hercules, as well as Army Aviations fleet of Black Hawks, Chinooks and MRH90s.

[Keith]

Off-the-shelf threat to defence industry http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/off-the-shelf-threat-to-defence-industry/story-e6frg6nf-1225802738569

Mark Dodd OFF-the-shelf military purchases offer big savings and reduced risk for taxpayers compared with do-it-yourself, but come with a major trade-off.

Defence chiefs support $16bn JSF purchase http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/defence-chiefs-support-16bn-joint-strike-fighter-purchase/story-e6frgczf-1225802721875

Patrick Walters, National security editor AUSTRALIA'S defence chiefs have firmly backed the RAAF's planned $16 billion investment in the joint strike fighter.

Brit nuclear expert to head sub builder http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/british-nuclear-expert-stephen-ludlam-to-head-australian-submarine-corporation/story-e6frg8yo-1225802191808

5:02PM Mark Dodd A LEADING British expert in nuclear engineering technology, Stephen Ludlam, is the new head of the Australian Submarine Corporation.

 
 

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Not only did phony Tony mislead but so too did George Bush and John Howard. Once again young Australian lives were lost and health ruined because of politicial duplicity. Read the Lie of the Century here http://www.whatreallyhappened.com/WRHARTICLES/lieofthecentury.html
 
ABC NEWS
 
Blair misled MPs on Iraq war: papers
By Europe correspondent Emma Alberici

 

Secret British government papers reveal that former prime minister Tony Blair misled MPs and the public about the reasons the country was going to war in Iraq.

Britain's Sunday Telegraph has published correspondence between military commanders and their political masters.

The correspondence shows that in July 2002, Mr Blair told the public and MPs that Britain's objective in Iraq was "disarmament, not regime change", and that there had been no plan for military action.

But the documents reveal that a full invasion of Iraq was being planned five months earlier.

The leaked reports also reveal that Britain was not prepared for war and was under-equipped when the invasion began in 2003.

The need to conceal that fact had "constrained" the planning process and the result was a "rushed" operation "lacking in coherence and resources", which caused "significant risk" to troops and "critical failure" in the post-war period.

The revelations come two days before public hearings begin in the Iraq inquiry.

 
 

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F-35s hit by delays, cost blowout
Cameron Stewart
From: The Australian
November 23, 2009
 
A DEFENCE report from the US has confirmed that the massive joint strike fighter project is now far behind schedule and over budget, raising doubts about when Australia will receive the plane.

The report, prepared by the Defence Contract Management Agency for the US Defence Department, was obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by the Star-Telegram newspaper in Fort Worth, where Lockheed-Martin is building the joint strike fighter, the F-35.

It shows that Lockheed and other contractors are about six months behind in delivering F-35 aircraft for flight testing and that there are also delays in components for future production aircraft.

Only seven of the 13 test planes have been completed on time and only four of these have flown. The test-flight program is severely behind schedule, with only 128 of 441 scheduled test flights for this year having taken place. The report supports recent findings by Pentagon analysts and reported in The Australian that the F-35 program could cost an additional $16 billion and face a two-year slippage unless remedial action was taken.

The Pentagon convened a meeting on the F-35 program over the weekend to find ways to avoid further schedule slippages and cost overruns. Australian representatives were not invited to the internal Pentagon meeting but were briefed on the progress of the project earlier this month.

A Defence spokesman in Canberra said: "All potential cost increases and schedule delays are of concern and the Australian project team continues to work with all its partners to address the risks and minimise any impacts."

Australia hopes to buy as many as 100 F-35s with cabinet's national security committee expected to sign off on the $16bn purchase early in the new year. The F-35 will replace the RAAF's current strike fleet of F-111 bombers and FA 18s and will be the nation's largest defence purchase.

Already the planned acquisition of the F-35 has slipped by two years, with the RAAF not due to get its first operational squadron until 2018-19 at the earliest.

A Defence spokesman said that despite the challenges facing the F-35 project, it was making progress and that the US was committed to making it a success.

"Overall the JSF program continues to make good progress but as a developmental program many challenges remain," the spokesman said. "The Australian government has taken account of information to date to ensure we have sufficiently mitigated risks arising from these challenges."

 

Chinese base plan causes headache

by Mark Dodd
From: The Australian
November 23, 2009 


EAST Timorese plans to build a naval base for Chinese-made patrol boats has raised concerns about Beijing's military influence in a region traditionally regarded by Canberra as its own.
Plans to develop a navy base at Betano in the south were announced last week by East Timorese Secretary of State for Defence Julio Pinto.

The timing coincides with growing unease in the Gusmao government over Australian peacekeeping troops.

Mr Pinto said Betano would be an important base to refuel the new craft during coastal patrols between western Viqueque and Betano.

Last year, the Gusmao government controversially agreed to buy two 1960s-era 43m armed Shanghai Class patrol boats for $25 million, a deal that apparently included construction of a landing dock on the south coast.

While no offer has been made to give China military access, the base underscores growing military links between Beijing and Dili.

Those ties are consistent with Dili's desire to assert more independence from Canberra and Jakarta, said Hugh White, head of Australian National University's Strategic and Defence Studies Centre.

"What Australians fail to recognise -- notwithstanding our role 10 years ago -- for East Timor, living next door to a country like Australia is somewhat uncomfortable," Professor White told The Australian.

"Seeking to balance Australia's role, and for that matter Indonesia's role, in their international position is a perfectly understandable thing to do."

While there was nothing illegitimate about China taking an interest in East Timor, Australian governments have always been "very neuralgic" at the idea of external powers gaining military bases in the inner arc of islands to our north, he said.

"That neuralgia is very clearly expressed in the 2009 (defence) white paper so that if China acquires military basing access to East Timor, that would raise some important issues for the (Rudd) government," Professor White said.

Defence under fire for part-time cuts

Nicola Berkovic
From: The Australian
November 23, 2009
 
DEFENCE has come under heavy criticism for a decision to refuse part-time work opportunities to workers at one of its call centres, which has led to an exodus of mothers and older workers.

More than 20 public servants, or about 30 per cent of staff, have left the call centre in the NSW town of Cooma over the past two years.

Current and former staff told The Australian the move to cut flexible work was also part of a culture of bullying and micromanagement that had led to a "toxic" work environment at the call centre. Community & Public Sector Union deputy secretary Michael Tull said since last year, staff had been denied part-time work at the centre, which handles calls for Defence recruitment and pay inquiries from military staff, among other services.

"These problems are indicative of a serious under-funding issue at the Cooma call centre," Mr Tull said. "In our view, this problem has gone on too long and senior management need to fix it now."

He said flexible work was part of the Defence workers' collective agreement and must be available to all staff: "No ifs, no buts."

A spokeswoman for Defence said the call centre no longer supported part-time work other than for those returning from maternity leave or with medical conditions, due to "operational requirements". She said the centre's annual attrition rate of 15 per cent was well below that of other call centres.

However, a former staff member said Defence was one of only three larger employers in Cooma to offer good pay and conditions. As a result, employees were willing to stay much longer than the 18 months to two years most workers remained at call centres. . But she said she left feeling disillusioned and disheartened after being denied part-time work.

Staff members also said their performance was micro-managed, with workers criticised for trivial and subjective matters, such as the number of times they used a caller's name, which had an impact on their pay increases.

The Defence spokeswoman denied there had been bullying at the centre. She said while one accusation of bullying had been made over the past 18 months, it was determined to be baseless.

 

 

 
 

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[Keith]

Combet flags ADF changes to lure women

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/combet-flags-adf-changes-to-attract-and-keep-women/story-e6frg8yo-1225799850652

Samantha Maiden WOMEN are the target of a recruitment drive by the armed forces and the government has urged male soldiers to change their attitude.

THE AUSTRALIAN NEWS


THE HON. DR MIKE KELLY MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support

Friday, 20 November 2009
076/2009

DEFENCE HONOURS AND AWARDS TRIBUNAL INQUIRY INTO RECOGNITION FOR PEACEKEEPING SERVICE FROM 1947 ONWARDS

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, today announced that the independent Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal will inquire into recognition for Defence Force personnel who served as peacekeepers since 1947. 

?I am pleased that the Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal will inquire into recognition for peacekeeping service. This inquiry is another in a series of reviews into long-standing Defence honours and awards issues identified by the Australian Government in late 2007,? Dr Kelly said. 

A call for submissions will be released shortly in the national press.  Submissions to the inquiry close on Monday, 21 December 2009.

?Many people have raised with the Government the issue of separate additional recognition for Australian Defence Force peacekeeping service and I would encourage them to now take advantage of this opportunity to make a submission,? Dr Kelly said.

The Tribunal can be contacted at:

Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal
Locked Bag 7765
CANBERRA BUSINESS CENTRE   ACT   2610

or via email to DHA.Tribunal@defence.gov.au

The terms of reference for the inquiry and guidance on how to make a submission can be obtained at: www.defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au

[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Friday, 20 November 2009
091120

SECURITY CHALLENGES IN THE SOUTH ASIAN CRESENT AFGHANISTAN, PAKISTAN AND IRAQ


Senator John Faulkner, Minister for Defence 19 November 2009

Check against delivery

Ladies and gentlemen, of all the responsibilities of a national government, none are greater than that the nation be safe, and the community feel safe.

Force of arms alone cannot discharge this responsibility. We must confront and confound a far more varied range of threats, and balance a far more complex range of priorities, than purely military ones.

Our world has changed, and is continuing to change at an ever more rapid rate.  Traditional distinctions between foreign and domestic, national and international have been blurred by the increasing complexity and increasing interconnectedness of a world where populations are more mobile than ever in history. Individuals can cross the world in a day. Ideas can do so in a second.

Military conflict between nation states is no longer the only, or even the greatest, security challenge we face.  And the expectation of victory in a conventional war is no longer sufficient to give our citizens confidence in their safety or the safety of the nations interests and assets.

In a world both shrunk by technology and warmed by climate change, we must respond to, indeed we must anticipate and try to prevent, the threats posed not only by rogue states or terrorist groups, but by more severe and more frequent extreme weather events, pandemic disease, resource shortages, large numbers of people forced from their homes by violence or disaster, cybercrime and cyber terrorism.

These are global problems.

Problems that have global causes  like climate change.

Problems that have global reach  like failed states becoming training grounds and staging posts for terrorist organisations.

They are not problems any nation can find security from in isolation.
They are not problems any one nation can address alone.

Our economies, our climate, our safety, and our citizens are connected to each other in so many complex ways that insecurity and instability in one region, failures of governance in one nation, recklessness or indifference on the part of one government, can affect us all.

No national government, working to safeguard national security, can afford to be short-sighted about international security.

And as we all must look beyond our borders to anticipate, prevent and respond to security challenges, we must also recognise that in a world of multi-dimensional dangers on a global scale, no response can be effective if pursued in isolation from friends and allies. The security of any nation and the safety of all our citizens now must depend on intelligence and diplomacy, on military power and moral suasion, on international co-operation and multinational coalitions.

But even the most prosperous and powerful nations face choices about finite resources. Even the most prosperous and powerful nations must set priorities.  

As Minister for Defence, I have the responsibility to make sure the Australian Defence Organisation and the Australian Defence Force has what it needs to undertake the tasks the government and the community expect from them.

In the 2009 Defence White Paper the government has made it clear that while the principal task for the ADF is to deter and defeat armed attacks on Australia, the ADF must also be ready and able to contribute to stability and security in the South Pacific and East Timor, to military contingencies in the Asia-Pacific region and more broadly, in support of efforts by the international community to uphold global security and a rules-based international order.

Our military commitment to the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan is consistent with these aims.

Australia, the United States, and 41 other partners from the international community are in Afghanistan, as a NATO mission with a UN mandate, to assist the Afghan people in making sure Afghanistan does not again become an operating base and a training ground for terrorists, as it was under the Taliban dictatorship.  

Ladies and gentlemen, the last few months have been difficult for the people of Afghanistan and the ISAF partners.

As General McChrystal has noted, the situation in Afghanistan is serious; neither success nor failure can be taken for granted.

There are real concerns that the insurgency is growing, that our momentum is slowing, and that the Taliban are gaining the upper hand.

The people of Afghanistan have endured decades of civil conflict.  In a country where life expectancy is forty four, the majority of the population has been born and raised in a climate of fear.  Coming from a western democracy, this is hard to comprehend.  

Without confidence in the commitment of the international coalition to counter the Taliban, they have a very real fear that the Taliban will once again take control in local communities and that retribution will follow.

We must give them that confidence.

But they must have confidence not only in us. They need confidence in their own institutions of government and in their own security forces.

The international military presence cannot be a permanent one.  And that is not just a consequence of the military capacity and priorities of the countries participating in ISAF.  It is also, quite simply, the right of the Afghan people themselves to be responsible for security, stability and governance in their own land.  

A key challenge in Afghanistan is building the capacity of the Afghan government so that transfer of responsibility can happen.

This cannot happen without a credible Afghan Government that is able to unify the Afghan people and win their trust.  

On this day of the inauguration of President Karzai, the Australian Government, along with many countries around the world, now expects the Karzai Administration to provide a credible and viable Government.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me be frank.  The new government will need to make substantive and early progress, particularly in fighting corruption and narco-trafficking, improving governance, strengthening Afghan security forces and delivering basic services.

These challenges are immense.

They will not be easily or quickly solved, but they must be confronted without delay.

The first major task is to counter corruption.  Afghanistan has been found to be the second most corrupt country in the world by Transparency International.

It is imperative that President Karzai follow through on his commitment to crack down on corruption. It is only when solid progress has been made that the process of regaining the confidence and trust of the Afghan people and the international community will begin.

I hope the recent commitment by the Afghan Government to set up anti-corruption mechanisms will begin the process of regaining confidence and trust.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is now obviously a priority for the US and NATO to determine the way forward in response to General McChrystal?s Assessment.

President Obama is expected to announce the US response in the coming weeks.  NATO is also focusing on how it can contribute to the revised strategy.  NATO Secretary General Rasmussen has indicated that he is expecting a substantial commitment from NATO for more forces in Afghanistan.

But we must also remember, ladies and gentlemen, that Afghanistans problems cannot be solved through military means alone.  The civilian effort is critical as well.

The recent and tragic attack on the UN residence in Kabul was a reminder of the dangers facing the many civilians working in Afghanistan to help bring security and stability to the country, build the institutions of governance and the infrastructure of civil life.  

We welcome the pledge by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon that the attack will not deter the UN from its mission to help the Afghan people build a better future.  The coordination of civilian and military efforts in Afghanistan is critical if progress is going to be made.

Ladies and gentlemen, Afghanistan remains a critically important priority for our Government.

We have recently increased Australia?s commitment and troop levels in Afghanistan by 40 per cent; an increase that is very much focused on the training and development of the Afghan National Army 4th Brigade in Oruzgan Province.

Australia has committed around 1550 troops. This includes a Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force and the Special Operations Task Group.

The Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) is currently deployed to Oruzgan, conducting operations against Taliban insurgents.  The Task Group works with the Dutch led Task-Force Oruzgan and helps provide a level of enhanced force protection to MRTF activities in the province.

We saw their work pay off just two weeks ago with a complex and highly successful operation against a known insurgent stronghold responsible for distributing Taliban arms, ammunition, equipment and fighters across Oruzgan.  The operation is expected to have a direct and significant impact on the security of the civilian population, of the Afghan National Security Forces, as well as the coalition forces across southern Afghanistan.



The MRTF is focused on developing the capability of the 4th Brigade to the point where it can take over responsibility for the security of the province. We are committed to that task, and we believe that our commitment is appropriate, effective, and at about the right level.

I took advantage of recent ministerial meetings at NATO in Bratislava to discuss the work in Oruzgan with my Dutch counterpart, Defence Minister Middelkoop.  

I took the opportunity, as I do now, to acknowledge our Dutch partners in Oruzgan Province ? their leadership, their efforts, have delivered lasting improvements and real progress.  It goes without saying that Australia?s own efforts have been heavily dependent on the very valuable support provided by our Dutch partners. The Dutch bring much to the mission, including an extensive understanding of the tribal and local governance dynamics of the region. The knowledge and skills they bring to our joint efforts would be difficult to replace.

As you know, the Dutch commitment to the lead role they play in Oruzgan extends only to August next year.  A final decision on what, if any, commitment they intend to maintain after that time is yet to be made.

Australia would prefer to see the Dutch continue to work side by side with us in Oruzgan, a point I made strongly in Bratislava. Prime Minister Rudd also recently expressed similar views to his Dutch counterpart.

The decision about the Dutch contingent is, of course, in the end a matter for the Netherlands Government.

If the Dutch contingent ? or elements of it ? do withdraw, their replacement will be a matter for decision by NATO. I continue to urge my NATO and US counterparts to deal with this issue as a matter of urgency.

Ladies and gentlemen, earlier this month I made my first official visit to Washington as Defence Minister.  I had very positive meetings with the Secretary for Defense, Bob Gates, with the National Security Adviser General Jim Jones, and with Senator John McCain, General Petraeus, and Senator Carl Levin, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee, among others.

While I do not intend to canvass the detail of those discussions, I can say that the major focus of these meetings was the situation in Afghanistan, including the implications of General McChrystal's Assessment and the US review of strategy, as well as the training of the Afghan National Army and the consequences of any possible Dutch drawdown of its commitment.

Ladies and gentlemen, the ISAF troops in Afghanistan are doing a difficult, a dangerous, sometimes a deadly job. But it is vital.

The return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan would have the most serious implications for the fight against organised terrorism and the global criminal networks that fund and support terrorist organisations.

But the consequences go further.

Ladies and gentlemen, during the troubled years of Afghanistans history prior to the overthrow of the Taliban, Afghan refugees were the largest refugee population in the world.  At its peak, around seven and a half million had sought refuge in Afghanistan?s neighbours, Pakistan and Iran.



Since 2002, significant numbers have returned to Afghanistan.  However, of the tens of millions of displaced people worldwide today, nearly 2 million are Afghan refugees in Pakistan and around a million are Afghan refugees in Iran.

Mass movements of populations are a problem for many countries, but few have been confronted with such an immense challenge as Pakistan. There, the problem is compounded by large numbers of Pakistans own citizens, internally displaced by recent conflict.

There is no doubt misery and insecurity make people more vulnerable to radicalisation.

In the struggle against terrorist networks, the denial of safe-havens is crucial ? and not only in the South Asian Crescent.  Countries where governance is weak are less able to disrupt terrorist organisations and activities within their borders.  This has consequences for the international community as a whole.

And good governance can only flourish in a secure environment. This is an ongoing problem in Pakistan, as well as Afghanistan.

We have seen, in recent months, a string of very serious attacks in Pakistan, attacks that are clearly meant to intimidate the government and the people of Pakistan, who reject the agenda of these extremists, and to disrupt operations against Taliban insurgents as well as international aid efforts.  

While historically, Pakistan has seen its national security very much through the lens of its relations with India, recent events, especially the Taliban attacks in Buner, a province just 100 kilometres from Islamabad, have made it clear that the extremist threats that have originated in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas are a threat to Pakistan?s very existence.  

Australia, and the rest of the world, is paying very close attention to the current Pakistan Army operations.  Such action is critical to our efforts to deal with extremists in Afghanistan.

Cross-border extremist networks have helped fuel the insurgency in Afghanistan, and they take an increasingly heavy toll on the people of Pakistan, as we are reminded with every new report of a suicide bombing.  And they also threaten broader stability in the South Asian region  think of the terrorist attacks in Mumbai.

We are under no illusions as to the difficulty the Pakistan Government faces in disabling these networks and disrupting their activities.  

In recognition of the importance of the struggle against the extremist insurgency in Pakistan, Australia is increasing defence training to 140 places making us Pakistans second largest overseas trainer, and a significant provider of expertise on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency.  We are also establishing defence post graduate scholarships.

This will complement the large aid and military assistance packages being provided by the United States, which will help assist development in that country.

Ladies and gentlemen, in line with the need for multidimensional approaches to multidimensional problems, Australia also plans to establish a new Australia-Pakistan Development partnership, focusing on health reform, reconstruction of the Malakand region, democratic governance and economic reform, as well as providing 100 agricultural scholarships.  We will also invigorate the Australia-Pakistan Joint Trade Committee, underlining our commitment to assist on security, economic and social fronts, and we are doubling development assistance to $120 million over the next two years.

We are also closely monitoring the humanitarian situation.  Australia has contributed $23 million to Pakistan in humanitarian assistance since August 2008.

It is in Australias interest, in our regions interest, and in the international communitys interest, for all of us to give Pakistan as much support as we can.  The implications of instability and an extremist insurgency are serious.  Pakistans nuclear status makes these implications all the more troubling.

Ladies and gentlemen, historically concerns about nuclear weapons have centred on the possibility of their use by states.

Australia has a strong commitment to strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime and achieving progress towards the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. We have been very active and committed participants in international efforts to work towards this end.  

It is now impossible to disregard the concern that nuclear weapons might fall into the hands of terrorists.  This not only underlines the importance of working towards a world without such weapons, but it also underlines the need to secure currently existing weapons of mass destruction and the materials used to produce them.

The Pakistan Government understands the danger of extremists acquiring nuclear weapons and has dedicated forces protecting their facilities. Pakistan is a member of the global initiative to combat nuclear terrorism.

We encourage Pakistan to continue efforts to strengthen the protection and control of weapons of mass destruction and sensitive materials and technology.

Also in the South Asian Crescent, Australia remains deeply concerned about the nature and intent of Irans nuclear program, and of course we are not the only member of the international community to have such concerns.

Reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA, have consistently shown that Iran has not taken the actions required to assure the international community that its nuclear activities are for exclusively peaceful purposes.

Iran has not suspended all uranium enrichment and related activities as required by the UN Security Council or cooperated with the IAEA to resolve serious concerns about possible military dimensions to its nuclear activities.

We believe that Iran should immediately suspend all nuclear enrichment activities, as required by four UN Security Council resolutions, and it should co-operate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

I understand there are reports today that Iran has rejected the proposal to send low-enriched uranium abroad for further processing and then use in  the Tehran Research reactor. The Australian Government strongly encourages Iran to reconsider its position and accept the proposal brokered by IAEA Director General El Baradei and already agreed to by the United States, Russia and France. We agree with the Director General?s assessment that this represents a unique opportunity for Iran to reverse course from confrontation to cooperation.

Ladies and gentlemen, the security challenges of the South Asian Crescent are unquestionably complex. Many aspects cross borders, even extend far beyond the region. There is no single, simple approach or solution.

Many members of the international community work with each other, and with the people and the governments of the region, in the struggle to address those challenges.  Together, we make up a diverse and multinational group, but our interests align, despite sometimes differing approaches or ideas.  

We are there, ultimately, because our governments share with each other the responsibility to protect our nations people, assets and interests.

And because our citizens share with each other, and with the people of the region, the simple and common hope to live in peace and safety; and to see a world in which our children can do the same.

When H.V. Doc Evatt, Australian Foreign Minister and President of the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, wrote the words peace is not divisible in the margin of a draft speech in 1950, he was making a moral argument.

Today, we know all too keenly that it is also a statement of cold, hard fact.

[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 19 November 2009

SPEECH FOR THE LAUNCH OF THE CDF ACTION PLAN FOR THE RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF WOMEN

Senate Courtyard 28k
New Parliament House
Canberra

Check against delivery

Thank you for coming along today.

Women have been serving in Australias military forces since before Federation. From the courage and compassion of nursing and a tireless contribution to the war efforts at home and overseas, through to their contemporary positions serving on all current ADF deployments in each of our services, Australian women have proven their strength, intelligence, commitment and capability in serving their nation.

Over the past three decades, we have seen a tremendous expansion in the roles that women play in the Defence Force. Today women are able to participate in 92 percent of employment categories and 81 per cent of positions across the Defence Force.  There are currently over 180 women deployed on overseas operations in various combat and combat-related roles.

We are now examining the further extension of womens roles in the Defence Force, through the research being conducted at Wollongong University into the Physical Employment Standards.

As a Labor Government that places great emphasis on equity in the workplace, we are fully committed to ensuring that women can have access to all possible employment opportunities.  

Today we are launching the CDF Action Plan for the Recruitment and Retention of Women.

This is a very significant initiative that gives a sharper focus to the vital contribution that women make in the ADF.

The Government wants to ensure that workplace arrangements help women operate to perform to the best of their ability.

I am always appalled when I hear allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the ADF, and I will reiterate today that the Services and the Government have a policy of zero tolerance in this regard.

The cultural change program in this Action Plan that we are launching will target everyone in Defence, particularly Commanding Officers and senior non-commissioned officer ranks. It is they who will drive this change from the ground up.

The simple fact is that we need to overcome the systemic, cultural, attitudinal and behavioural obstacles within the ADF that directly and indirectly affect the ability of women to enjoy constructive and rewarding careers.  

We cannot allow such features of the workplace to limit the participation of women in the ADF.

To this end a gender diversity and leadership program will be developed for key senior and middle managers so they champion a more gender-balanced workforce.

The fundamental principles underlying the action plan are those of flexibility, choice and innovation:  
* flexibility and choice in workplace policies, systems and conditions; and
* innovation in terms of management approaches and information sharing.

We need to act now.

With women making up only 13.4 per cent of our ADF, it is evident that there is work to be done here.

Increasing the number of women enlisting and staying in the ADF is the top priority of this action plan. While Defence is implementing a range of initiatives on this front, the action plan will drive a much more detailed analysis of the reasons for low female recruitment and retention rates.  

I am confident that this plan is the beginning of a strong drive for change. We can engage women in our workforce.  We can give them choice.  And we can afford them every opportunity to have a rewarding career.  In fact, this is how it has to be if we are to have an effective 21st century ADF.

At the heart of this plan is the clear recognition that the ability to have and raise their families is a key consideration for women in the ADF.  It is also a key consideration for men in the ADF.  This is where choice and flexibility is so important

We need to recognise that the ADF is not the most family friendly profession.  We must appreciate that family life demands stability, and our posting cycles and employment conditions need to recognise that critical fact.

The action plan will better align conditions of service with those already available to the Australian Public Service. ADF members will be able to purchase up to four weeks additional annual leave each year and have the right to work part-time after maternity or adoption leave.

The action plan will also review child care options, particularly out of hours and off-base support, and short term loan assistance for childcare fee bonds. It will also improve flexible leave arrangements and increase opportunities for job-sharing in ADF positions.

All of these initiatives are vital if we are to increase the participation of women in the ADF. This action plan is a commitment to the women of the ADF.

There were a number of people who contributed to the development of this plan.  First, I would like to acknowledge my parliamentary colleague Warren Snowdon for his hard work in this portfolio.  He initiated and participated in the many open and frank discussions with women in the ADF that informed this Action Plan. Thank you.

To the members of CDF?s Reference Group on Women, thank you.  Your contribution has been essential, and we are grateful that you agreed to give up so much of your time to be a part of this process.

Thank you to the Service Chiefs for your commitment to and support for this plan.  Its delivery will depend on your efforts and those of your subordinate Commanding Officers.

And finally to the Chief of the Defence Force, thank you for your commitment to creating tangible change for women in the ADF. This plan marks the beginning of substantial improvement in the character and capacity of the ADF.

I would like to conclude with a simple but very powerful quote from Major General Liz Cosson, our MC this afternoon.  Liz said ?you can not ignore 50% of Australias population.  

I know that the CDF is not ignoring them, that he is listening to them, and that he is driving change to ensure that women will achieve greater participation and success in the Australian Defence Force.

It now gives me great pleasure to officially launch the CDF Action Plan for the Recruitment and Retention of Women.

[Keith]

MSPA 399/09

Thursday, 19 November 2009

KANIMBLA RETURNS FROM HUMANITARIAN MISSION

Six weeks after sailing for the earthquake affected region of Padang, Indonesia, Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Kanimbla has returned to her home port of Garden Island, Sydney.

From Padang, Kanimbla transported 446 ADF personnel back to Australia and arrived in Sydney with 256 aboard, having disembarked some personnel in Darwin and Townsville. Many of the families of those still aboard were dockside for reunions with their loved ones.  

Kanimbla deployed as part of the Australian Governments response to the earthquake, transporting two Sea King helicopters, nearly 145 Army Engineers and construction personnel, equipment and 15 pallets of reconstruction stores.

While in Padang, the combined ships company and embarked force of around 350 ADF personnel completed a number of remediation tasks.

The engineers embarked in Kanimbla undertook a range of tasks which enhanced safety and helped the community re-establish itself, said Commanding Officer HMAS Kanimbla, Commander Timothy Byles.

Tasks included clearing debris and making safe two local schools, repairing a bridge to allow safe passage through town and access to the local market, diverting water back into the rice field irrigation system and building a temporary road to facilitate safe access through landslide affected areas.

The ships company were proud to work alongside our Indonesian counterparts and to make a difference to the Padang community in their time of need, Commander Byles said.

[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Defence base probe to include public consultation
Posted Wed Nov 18, 2009

Defence Minister John Faulkner says communities will be extensively consulted before any Defence bases are closed.

An audit has recommended closing some smaller bases and consolidating them into "superbases".

Mr Faulkner says a review of Defence bases was too limited to allow him to make any decisions about whether any should be closed.

The Federal Government has asked for a further review of the issue, but the Opposition says it is an attempt to delay any decision until after the next election.

Senator Faulkner says communities will be consulted before any decisions are made.

"Defence property consolidation has to get the balance right - the right balance in all issues involved strategic economic and the social impact on service families and communities," he said.

"I can guarantee that a substantial public consultation will be undertaken by the commission before reporting back to Government.

"These decisions, if they're made, do affect communities, but they also of course affect - as you would be aware - our strategic outlook."

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 396/09 Wednesday, 18 November 2009

JOHN SCHUMANN TO TOUR EAST TIMOR TO PERFORM FOR OUR TROOPS

John Schumann, the singer-songwriter famously known for his Vietnam veterans anthem I was only 19, will be touring to East Timor next month to entertain our Australian service men and women, performing the hit track after it was first recorded over 25 years ago.

A lifetime honorary member of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Schumann will travel to East Timor with his band The Vagabond Crew to meet with and play for the troops based within the Dili surrounds.

It has been a long time coming. Weve had so many requests from serving men and women of the Australian Defence Force that its nice to be able to finally go. We are all really looking forward to the tour and we hope to bring a bit of home to our troops in East Timor who will no doubt be missing their families over the Christmas period, Mr Schumann said.

We have heard a lot of artists who have been on these tours have played our songs for the troops, in particular I was only 19, so it will be fantastic to be able to perform these tracks myself. All the preparation leading up to the tour has been great and we cant wait to board the flight.

John Schumann holds a distinguished place in the Australian music industry and first came to national attention in 1980 as the lead singer-songwriter legendary for folk-rock band Redgum.  

The Vagabond Crew made up of Schumann, Redgum band mate Hugh McDonald, Kat Kraus, Mick Morena, Alexander Stuart Black and Sam Willoughby, will perform old Redgum songs, and classic Australian songs from the solo albums Lawson and Behind the Lines.

The Forces Entertainment tours travel to East Timor, the Middle East and the Solomon Islands to provide entertainment to our serving forces and to improve morale by bringing a little piece of Australia to far-flung places.

[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 7:39 AM
Subject: The Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal


 
From: John&Claudia
To: Undisclosed-Recipient:;
Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 7:22 AM
Subject: The Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal


Passed on by the 'Info Post'
 

The Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal In November 2008, the Australian Government formally accepted an offer from the President of East Timor, His Excellency Jos? Ramos-Horta for Australian Defence Force personnel to formally accept and wear the TimorLeste Solidarity Medal. The medal was established to recognise those men and women who provided service in stability and peace operations in East Timor from 1 May 2006. 'Our hope is that this medal will be worn proudly by soldiers ?to the farthest reaches of the globe? as an enduring symbol of strengthening ties between Timor- Leste and our many friends?.it also recognises the sacrifice of these men and women ?who have been separated far from loved ones and put their safety at risk in service to their country and the Timorese people'. President of East Timor HE Jos? Ramos-Horta Am I eligible? The commencement date for the medal is 1 May 2006. The qualifying criteria are:

 

1. Having served a minimum of 180 days continuous or accrued service in East Timor from 1 May 2006; or

 

2. Nominations will be considered for personnel that have served a minimum of 120 days from 1 May 2006; or

 

3. Nominations will be considered for personnel who served with a start date in May or June 2006 for a period at least 90 days; or

 

4. The President of East Timor may consider extraordinary cases outside the above time periods. Applications for extraordinary cases must be endorsed and submitted through the Directorate of Honours and Awards (DH&A), to be considered and approved by the President.

 

However, service may still only count from 1 May 2006. The qualifying period is not required in the event of death in service in East Timor.

 

Where is it up to? DH&A has compiled an initial list of eligible current and former serving members, which amounts to approximately 7 000 names. This list has been forwarded to the East Timorese Government for final approval by the President. Unfortunately DH&A are unable to advise of the process once the East Timorese Government receives the list. A timeframe for completion or dispatch cannot be given. If you wish to confirm that your name is on the list, please contact our Customer Response Team on 1800 111 321. Members who are not included on the list and who were force assigned to OPERATION ASTUTE from 1 May 2006, can submit the Application to Accept and Wear Foreign Awards (AD111), which is available at www. defence.gov.au/medals. If found to be eligible, your name will be submitted to the Timor-Leste Government on additional lists that are sent on a monthly basis. Once the list is returned to DH&A, the necessary steps will be taken to have the medal approved for wear by the Governor-General. Medals will be dispatched to serving personnel according to the unit address on PMKeyS.

 

Former serving members will have their medal dispatched to their home address as listed on our database. Former serving members are advised to contact our Customer Response Team on 1800 111 321, if they wish to update their postal address.

[Keith]

Budget puts off buy-up of F-35 jets http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/budget-fear-puts-off-buy-up-of-f-35-jets/story-e6frgczf-1225796727927


Patrick Walters, National security editor THE RAAF's plan to acquire up to 100 F-35 joint strike fighters faces a further delay until next year as budget pressures continue to bear down on the Rudd government.

Faulkner cans idea of military super bases

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/faulknercans-ideaof-militarysuper-bases/story-e6frg6nf-1225799066184

Patrick Walters, National Security Editor THE Rudd government has rejected a key recommendation from a major Defence audit report that argues that Defence could eventually save up to a billion dollars by closing military bases across the country.

Old soldiers, reservists step up to fill frontline gaps http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/old-soldiers-reservists-step-up-to-fill-frontline-gaps/story-e6frg6nf-1225799066118

Sean Parnell THE Australian Defence Force is struggling to meet its own ambitious recruitment targets and is becoming more reliant on former personnel and reservists to fill holes in the front line.

Diggers' Afghan strength disputed http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/diggers-afghan-strength-disputed/story-e6frg6nf-1225798395104

Mark Dodd SENIOR Defence sources believe Australia's troop numbers in Afghanistan are well below 1400, despite the Australian government's commitment to have 1550 troops in the country.

 
 

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[Keith]

Australian Defence Force invites widows to coming-home ceremony
Mark Dunn
From: Herald Sun
November 17, 2009
 
 
Pvt. Jake Kovco Source: Herald Sun

THE Australian Defence Force has made an embarrassing about-face, issuing belated invitations to the widows of the two Diggers killed in the Iraq campaign to attend a coming-home ceremony in Canberra.

The widows of Pte Jake Kovco and Warrant Officer David Nary, the only two soldiers killed in Iraq on Operation Catalyst, failed to make the guest list for Saturday's welcome home parade.

Shelley Kovco was furious when she rang the ADF on Friday after finding out about the ceremony and said she believed she and Naomi Nary would be officially invited this week but would pay their own fares if they wanted to attend.

But Ms Nary said the Herald Sun call was the first she knew about the event

 "The Government is pretty good at forgetting people who have fallen in the past," she said, adding she would have liked to have seen her husband recognised in the ceremony and would have appreciated an invitation, although getting one now would probably be too late for her to arrange travel from Perth.



"Just being acknowledged would be something at least," she said.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, Defence Minister John Faulkner, senior rank holders and other VIPs have been invited to join more than 300 present and ex-military Operation Catalyst personnel.

Ms Kovco said many personnel who had served in Iraq had not been told of the ceremony.

"It's not just about me, it's about all the guys and for what they did over there," she said. "To me it is very disrespectful. They only lost two guys on the whole Operation Catalyst and they don't have the decency to let us know about it."

SAS Warrant Officer Nary was killed in a training exercise in Kuwait in 2005 and Pte Kovco died in a shooting incident in Baghdad in 2006.
 
 

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[Keith]

Budget puts off buy-up of F-35 jets

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/politics/budget-fear-puts-off-buy-up-of-f-35-jets/story-e6frgczf-1225796727927

Patrick Walters, National security editor THE RAAF's plan to acquire up to 100 F-35 joint strike fighters faces a further delay until next year as budget pressures continue to bear down on the Rudd government.

Rudd's subs may never float http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/opinion/rudds-subs-may-never-float/story-e6frg6zo-1225797354056


National security editor Patrick Walters The vision of a powerful new submarine fleet is receiving little open support in Defence

THE AUSTRALIAN

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 390/09

Friday, 13 November 2009

DEFENCE SUPPORT TO FAMILIES

Recent media reporting that Defence will cut 74 jobs from the Defence Community Organisation (DCO), reducing the services provided to Defence families is inaccurate.  

In the current high tempo environment, DCO and the support it provides to Defence families are of the highest priority to the Chief of the Defence Force and the Service Chiefs.

For this reason, the Defence White Paper has actually provided DCO with additional staff and resources, meaning more ?front line? capacity.  

Head of Defence Support Operations, Major General Elizabeth Cosson, said that a workforce review is being conducted to ensure that DCO positions its workforce in the right places to provide the best support to ADF personnel and their families.  

The options under consideration in the workforce review are designed to enhance the support provided to Defence families in a balanced and sustainable way, Major General Cosson said.

Major General Cosson also said the review remained underway and no final decisions had been made.  

DCO is the lead agency within Defence for the provision of support services to families. The services provided include crisis and bereavement support, through to access to childcare, education assistance and community support.

[Keith]

Let's get closer, says Rudd
Matthew Franklin in New Delhi

From: The Australian

November 13, 2009

KEVIN Rudd has outlined plans to deepen military links with India, noting its increasing naval strength and economic power will give it greater power to influence global security.

In a major foreign policy speech in New Delhi last night, the Prime Minister said Australia wanted to use its status as a middle power to help ensure the emerging economic giant would be properly integrated into the global community through closer links between them.

But Mr Rudd moderated his pitch for greater contact with a flat refusal to reconsider his opposition to sell uranium to India unless it signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

He also expressed abhorrence for violence against Indian students studying in Australia, describing the attacks that have strained relations between the two countries as disgusting and intolerable. "They have been criminal attacks targeting Indian students for the little money they earn to support their studies," Mr Rudd said. "These attacks will not be tolerated. They will be dealt with by the full force of the Australian law enforcement and criminal justice systems."

The comments came last night in a speech to the Indian Council of World Affairs, in which Mr Rudd said the relationship between the two nations had waxed and waned for decades and now needed to be developed in their mutual economic, political and security interests.

The Prime Minister said India was emerging as a dominant economic and political force of the 21st century and was also gaining military influence, considerably expanding its naval footprint over the Indian Ocean and engaging with the US.

He said India was at the forefront of the shift in economic power from the West to the East that would dominate coming decades and could open the door to instability and conflict if not properly managed. It was vital that India's growing influence be integrated with established larger powers such as the US, China and Russia, using relationships with nations such as Australia and membership of regional and global co-operation groups.

Mr Rudd said Australia strongly supported India's push for acceptance by the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation group as part of the process.

"Nobody wants a strategic fault line through Asia," the Prime Minister said. "Nor should anybody see such a fault line as inevitable.

"This is why we so strongly support Indian participation in all the key regional forums. And that is why we support India's membership of APEC."

However, Mr Rudd was unmoved on his refusal to allow sales of its uranium to nations which, like India, were not parties to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, a position he said had been clear under different Australian governments since 1978.

Earlier in the day, Mr Rudd toured The Energy and Resources Institute, where he was hailed as an environmental champion by Nobel laureate and TERI chief executive Rajendra Pachauri. Dr Pachauri, who shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with former US vice-president Al Gore and heads the UN's intergovernmental panel on climate change, said Mr Rudd was a "wonderful champion and visionary who has really made a difference to the international scene as far as action on climate change is concerned".

Mr Rudd used his visit to announce a further $50 million for the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (Australia's largest bilateral research fund), $20m for research into dryland farming in India and a $1m to support a joint Australia India solar cooling research program.

Additional reporting: Amanda Hodge

Budget fear puts off buy-up of F-35 jets

Patrick Walters, National security editor

From: The Australian
November 12, 2009
 
THE RAAF's plan to acquire up to 100 F-35 joint strike fighters faces a further delay until next year as budget pressures continue to bear down on the Rudd government.

In a long-awaited decision, cabinet's national security committee was due to sign off on the $16 billion purchase before Christmas.

But defence budget pressures and Defence Department concerns about Australia becoming the lead foreign customer for the initial production models of the F-35 fighter are expected to force a postponement until the new year of a government green light for the acquisition.

The expected delay in the NSC's consideration of the joint strike fighter purchase comes as an annual review undertaken by Pentagon analysts found the F-35 program could cost an additional $16bn and face a two-year slippage unless remedial action was taken.

The F-35 joint strike fighter is a "fifth-generation fighter" earmarked to replace the RAAF's F-111 bombers and the FA 18 fighters from later next decade in what will be Australia's largest defence buy.

Already, the planned acquisition has slipped by at least two years, with the air force not due to get its first operational squadron until 2018-19 at the earliest.

The initial squadron could be trimmed to as few as 14 aircraft as Defence planners struggle to find further savings in the $27bn defence budget.

The current plan is for four operational squadrons each consisting of 24 aircraft.

Further delays in the acquisition will mean the RAAF will extend the planned in-service life of its new FA 18 super hornet fighters well into the 2020s.

The RAAF is still planning to buy two F-35s for test and evaluation purposes about 2014 but this timetable could also slip depending on the government's willingness to commit to the joint strike fighter program next year.

So far, only Britain and The Netherlands have agreed to buy test and evaluation aircraft, but none of the US's key JSF partners has signed up to production aircraft.

In an interview with US defence weekly, DefenseNews, the Pentagon's undersecretary of defence for acquisition, Ashton Carter, said earlier this week the findings of a "joint estimate team" showed some costs increases and schedule slips "which we should do everything we can to avoid."

"Those are forecasts which say what will happen if we don't change what we are doing.

"And we should change what we are doing so that those predictions don't come fully to pass," he said.

Mr Carter said he would convene a major meeting on the F-35 program on November 21-22 with one option likely to involve shortening the planned flight test program for the aircraft.

Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet remains convinced the F-35 is the best choice for the RAAF's next-generation fighter.

On a visit to Washington last month, Mr Combet came away impressed with the Pentagon's commitment to the multi-billion-dollar F-35 program.

"Tens of billions have already been committed to the program, and the US is determined that it will succeed," Mr Combet said.

Handler never gave up on lost army dog

By Brendan Trembath for PM

 

ABC NEWS


Keeping the faith: "He wasn't going to let go of Sabi. He thought that might one day arrive"

Video: ADF dog returns after Afghan sabbatical (ABC News)
Audio: Long lost bomb sniffer dog reunited with unit (PM)
The handler of an army-trained labrador that went missing for more than a year says he never gave up hope for the lost dog.

The black Labrador called Sabi went missing in action in southern Afghanistan, during the battle in which the SAS trooper Mark Donaldson won the Victoria Cross.

Now Sabi has been reunited with her Australian unit. The Australian Defence Force says an American soldier spotted the dog last week.

The 10-year-old female was trained to detect explosives like the roadside bombs used extensively by insurgents in Iraq and Afghanistan. This was the dog's second tour of duty.

George Hulse, a retired Lieutenant Colonel and the president of the Australian Defence Force Trackers and War Dogs Association, says he and many others gave up hope when the dog went missing.

But he says this was not the case with the dog's handler, Corporal David Simpson.

"He wasn't going to let go of Sabi. He thought that might one day arrive," he said.

"I on the other hand had abandoned any hope of that and I was trying to console him. But he wasn't having any of that, so deep down I think he burned a candle for that dog and he feels very happy about her recovery now for sure.

"[Sabi] has done two deployments to Afghanistan. She's an exceptionally good worker, very gritty dog and has found improvised explosive devices and she's saved quite a few lives in her work."


Soldier spots dog

He says the dog was recovered by a US soldier who can only be identified as John. The soldier was aware the Australians were missing an explosive detector dog.

He says the soldier reportedly gave it some commands it understood.

"When she did come back we were all overjoyed with what happened," he said.

"I received a telephone call from a person who's in the Australian Defence Force and we sort of chewed the fat over it and then I phone Corporal David Simpson, her handler and found that to his profound relief that the dog had been recovered."

The battle in which the black labrador went missing took place in September last year in Oruzgan Province in the desolate south of Afghanistan.

A coalition convoy was ambushed by insurgents with machine guns and rocket propelled grenades. Nine Australian soldiers were wounded.

The Special Air Service Trooper Mark Donaldson was commended for deliberately exposing himself to enemy fire to draw attention to himself and away from the wounded.

In the heat of the battle the explosive detection dog Sabi disappeared.


Quarantine worry

The dog's return to its unit more than a year later has impressed Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

"Things like that, they may seem quite small, but in fact the symbolism is quite strong, and the symbolism of it is us out there doing a job," Mr Rudd said.

"We haven't awarded any Australian a Victoria Cross for 40 years. Trooper Donaldson stands out there as an Australian hero, and now his dog Sabi back is home in one piece and a genuinely nice pooch as well."

The dog will be brought back to Australia as long as he meets the strict requirements of Australia's Quarantine and Inspection Service.

"I'll now be working with AQIS and others to ensure Sabi's eventual return to Australia," Mr Rudd said.

"I fear AQIS may be the greatest challenge."

Explosive detection dogs are in demand wherever security is tight.

Martin Dominick is a Queensland-based trainer who has an explosive detection dog - a black labrador, just like Sabi.

He is not so surprised by her survival in the wilderness.

"They are so outgoing and social and they have this real character about them, just because of the fact that they want to go and chase things and have a fantastic character," he said.

"That would have endeared her to the person that was looking after her or the family or the village.

"I'd imagine that the fact that she is alive now means that she has been looked after and her character would have carried her through that."

 
 

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[Keith]

 

MSPA 386/09 Thursday, 12 November 2009

AUSTRALIAN DOG RETURNS HOME AFTER A YEAR IN THE AFGHAN WILDERNESS

An Australian Special Forces Explosive Detection Dog has been found alive and well almost fourteen months after going missing in action (MIA) in Afghanistan. Sabi was recovered by a US Soldier at an isolated patrol base in north-eastern Oruzgan last week.

The black Labrador was trained to counter the threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Oruzgan province.

Sabi was declared MIA in September 2008 during the same battle with the Taliban in which SAS Trooper Mark Donaldson won his Victoria Cross.  Sabi was present with her handler when their combined Australian, US and Afghan National Army convoy was ambushed by a numerically superior, well-sited and prepared insurgent force. Nine Australian soldiers, including Sabis handler, were wounded during the engagement.

The US soldier who recovered her and who can be identified only by his first name, John, was aware his Australian Special Forces mates were missing one of their explosive detection dogs.

He said it was immediately obvious that Sabi was no ordinary canine.  ?I took the dog and gave it some commands it understood.

John thanked the man who was with Sabi and shook his hand.

Sabi spent more than a year in the desolate south of Afghanistan.  Repeated attempts were made by the Special Operations Task Group to discover Sabis fate. Sabi was flown to Tarin Kowt to be reunited with one of her Australian Special Forces trainers.

The Australian trainer knew instantly it was Sabi.

I nudged a tennis ball to her with my foot and she took it straight away.  Its a game we used to play over and over during her training,? the trainer said. Its amazing, just incredible, to have her back.

Currently in the United Kingdom after meeting Her Majesty the Queen, Trooper Mark Donaldson said Sabis return closed a chapter of their shared history.

Shes the last piece of the puzzle, Trooper Donaldson said. Having Sabi back gives some closure for the handler and the rest of us that served with her in 2008. Its a fantastic morale booster for the guys.

At the time of her disappearance Sabi was coming to the end of her second tour of duty in Afghanistan, having previously deployed to Oruzgan in 2007.

Sabi had also deployed with the Incident Response Regiment during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006.

Sabi will now undergo a period of quarantine before a decision can be made about the timing of her return to Australia. A veterinary assessment of Sabis exposure to diseases has yet to be completed. It is hoped the tests will prove negative and Sabi can return to Australia.  

Media note:

Imagery is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1112/index.htm

Vision of Sabi will be fed to networks at Parliament House at 8:45.

[Keith]

Report exposes army's deep flaws
By Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
November 11, 2009 
 
EVERY so often a government agency presents a public report that is startling in its frankness.

Last week defence boss Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston released such a document, by retired Vice-Admiral Chris Ritchie, into the death in Afghanistan of Lieutenant Michael Fussell.

Fussell died when he stepped on an improvised explosive device during a foot patrol in November 2008. The Ritchie report found that "deficient training, assessment, certification and consequently leadership of the force element . . . operated to increase the risk that such a casualty might occur".

As a result the company commander, a major, has been stood down and his army career is over.

Special forces troops are shouldering a huge burden in Afghanistan and this report exposes an organisation under great stress.

It also raises fundamental questions about the management of the Special Operations Task Group, run by a lieutenant colonel, and of the army's powerful Special Operations Command under the leadership of Major-General Tim McOwan, regarded by many troops as a first class leader and even a possible future chief of the army.

In early 2008 McOwan decided that the No. 1 Commando Regiment was capable of deploying for the winter shift in Afghanistan.

Ritchie notes McOwan was "conscious of the difficulties imposed by the selection of a company from 1 Commando" but planned a "rigorous and thorough program of training and preparation" to compensate.

 

Evidence presented to the inquiry by the stood-down major and several other senior soldiers stated that the "expected increased level of support did not eventuate".

The inquiry was also told of serious concerns about the major's capacity to lead on operations prior to the company being deployed to Afghanistan. The officer, known as Major 1 in the report, testified that his unit felt it was playing "second fiddle" to others as far as equipment and training were concerned.

In an even more damning finding, Admiral Ritchie reported that, in stark contrast to earlier deployed units, "too much responsibility for the planning and conduct of mission rehearsal exercises . . . was left with the fore element command team".

In other words, an inexperienced and unsuited officer was allowed to conduct flawed training routines that led to Fussell's death.

While it might have been a lack of "track discipline" that caused Fussell's death, Ritchie makes it clear that the systemic failure of higher command to identify and remedy shortcomings were major factors. Yet, according to the report, McOwan's only defence was the startling admission that the methodology used for mission rehearsals was an "emerging process".

The fact a major has been made to carry the can for a leadership debacle is a disgrace. Had higher commanders been doing their job the unit would not have been deployed, certainly not with Major 1 in command.

 
 

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[Keith]

Defence consultancy fees out $5.8m
Tom Dusevic, National chief reporter
From: The Australian
November 10, 2009
 
THE Defence Department has declared an extra $5.8 million in consultancy spending, launched a review of its disclosure systems and vowed to re-train officials after being alerted to reporting errors by The Australian.

In its recently tabled annual report for 2008-09, the department said it had spent $72.8m on consultants, a 7 per cent rise on the $68m it reported for the previous year. Defence now concedes the total figure should be at least $78.6m, a 16 per cent jump at a time when the Rudd government is trying to rein in military spending.

Last financial year, the department initiated a series of major policy projects and audits as part of the white paper review. It engaged dozens of academic and private-sector experts to map out a long-term future for the Australian Defence Force and to identify areas where officials could trim costs.

In the detailed listing of about 800 new Defence consultancies for 2008-09, The Australian discovered omissions last Wednesday and alerted the office of Defence Minister John Faulkner.

For instance, three McKinsey Pacific Rim Inc contracts -- $3.8m for a defence budget audit, $1.65m for the white paper companion review and another contract for $118,800 -- were not included. As well, two contracts worth $288,000 for the defence budget audit for consultant George Pappas, a founding partner of the firm that is now the local offshoot of multinational Boston Consulting Group, were also not on the list.

It is a reporting requirement in the federal sphere that all government contracts "let" in excess of $10,000 must be declared on the AusTender website and properly identified; new consultancies must be listed in annual reports or in electronic formats that accompany the reports. According to a Defence Department spokesperson, the consultancies identified by The Australian "were incorrectly coded as contractor expense in Defence's Financial Management Information System". "Under the Whole of Government definitions these contracts should more correctly have been classified as consultancies," the spokesperson said in a written response. "As a result the amounts identified in the Defence Annual Report understated the value of consultancies by approximately $5.8m.

"Defence is ensuring that AusTender and the Defence Web site includes reference to the missing consultancy contracts.

"In response to the issue raised, an immediate review of purchase orders was undertaken by the department. Based on a check of a purchase order sample, no further miscodes were identified."

The department conducted further reviews over several days and as of yesterday it had not identified any further errors.

"For ongoing assurance purposes, Defence will implement centralised controls designed to assure the accuracy of contractor and consulting coding," the spokesman said.

"This will include providing additional guidance for staff entering data into the financial system."

Opposition spokesman on affairs of state Michael Ronaldson said yesterday it was "absolutely astounding that a blunder of almost $6m could be made by this government".

"Annual reports are the most important single document that a department produces in any given year," Senator Ronaldson said. "If you cannot get a simple accounting job right in an annual report, how can taxpayers have any assurance about the government's management of multi-billion-dollar projects?"

In its initial report for 2008-09, Defence said it entered into 817 new consultancy contracts involving actual expenditure of $41.1m. In addition, there were 508 ongoing consultancy contracts worth a total of $31.7m. By yesterday, the error had still not been corrected in the annual report.

 
 

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[Keith]

Heavy packs scrapped for diggers on the battlefield
By Ian McPhedran, Defence Writer
From: The Daily Telegraph
November 09, 2009
 
 
Australian Operational Mentor and Liaison Team (OMLT) and their Afghan National Army comrades patrolling through the valley on foot and in Bushmaster and Australian Light Armoured Vehicles. Pic: Gary Ramage. Source: The Daily Telegraph

HUNDREDS of thousands of dollars worth of new army packs and webbing were junked after the equipment failed during pre-deployment training.

 
One field pack was so heavy and cumbersome that soldiers could not even put it down during battle, potentially placing Diggers lives in danger.

The heavy pack and the extreme weight of an old model of body armour made it almost impossible for soldiers to move quickly during a firefight.

Despite arduous field testing before the gear was bought, once it was issued to troops for so-called mission rehearsal training it failed miserably.

According to documents obtained by The Daily Telegraph, one unit called Combat Team Spear from the 2nd Battalion's Charlie Company registered 187 complaints about the equipment, known as the individual combat load carrying equipment, during their training session.

The complaints focused on the weight of the field pack, faulty clips and pouches that did not fit the required number of ammunition magazines.

Such was the extent of the problem that commanders allowed soldiers to purchase their own load-carrying equipment and 90 per cent took up the offer and dispensed with their army issued gear.

Soldiers have spent hundreds of dollars on their own webbing and were angered recently when the brass issued a directive banning certain non-issued ammunition pouches that hundreds of soldiers had purchased.

The heavy field pack was dropped altogether and the unit deployed with a lighter pack that could not carry as much gear.

"This approach allowed the combat team to conduct dismounted operations unsupported in the green zone for up to 72 hours and keep fatigue to a controllable level," a report said.

The army had boasted the integrated system "employs signature management technology, making it significantly more difficult to see through night vision equipment". Given the Taliban do not use night vision gear, Diggers would have preferred a webbing system that worked.

After numerous complaints from soldiers the military is also replacing heavy combat body armour with a lighter version at a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Faulkner urges Karzai to tackle corruption http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/faulkner-urges-karzai-to-act-quickly-to-stamp-out-corruption/story-e6frg8yo-1225794995271
 
Brad Norington, Washington correspondent THE Rudd Government has issued a blunt warning to Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai that quick progress is expected from his re-elected government to strengthen local security forces.

Get real on nuclear power: Cosgrove http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/get-real-on-nuclear-power-general-peter-cosgrove/story-e6frg6nf-1225795202512

Patrick Walters, National security editor AUSTRALIA must face up to higher levels of defence spending, move to establish a nuclear power industry, and forge permanent strategic partnerships with Indonesia and the smaller South Pacific nations.

How we could have won in Vietnam http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/how-australia-could-have-won-the-vietnam-war/story-e6frg6z6-1225795166348

IN his opening Boyer Lecture, Peter Cosgrove considers what should determine our national security.


Aussie firms sign on for F-35 action http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/aviation/aussie-firms-sign-on-for-f-35-action/story-e6frg95x-1225794817015

Patrick Walters, National security editor LOCKHEED Martin is increasingly confident of deeper Australian industry participation in the F-35 joint strike fighter program.

Last serviced F-111 repairs to base http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/aviation/last-serviced-f-111-repairs-to-base/story-e6frg95x-1225794813593

Steve Creedy THE final curtain has fallen on another era in defence maintenance after Boeing delivered its last F-111 to the RAAF this week.

 
 

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[Keith]

FROM COLLINS TO FORCE 2030: THE CHALLENGE OF THE FUTURE SUBMARINE

SPEECH TO THE SYDNEY INSTITUTE

Wednesday 4 November 2009

CHECK-AGAINST-DELIVERY


Director of the Institute, Mr Gerard Henderson, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I would like to talk to you tonight on the topic of From Collins to Force 2030 the Challenge of the Future Submarine? in order to highlight the importance of this project and deal with some of my roles and responsibilities as the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science.  

Submarines represent incredibly challenging demands in the combined fields of personnel, acquisition and procurement, and science.  

The future submarine project is itself perhaps at the margins of Australia?s present scientific and technological capacity.  We should not ignore the demanding nature of this project, which will require every bit of scientific, technological and industrial capacity that Australia can muster.  And we will inevitably require assistance from our allies to succeed.

For this reason, I thought that you might be interested to know how we envisage setting about this challenging task.

But firstly some Australian submarine history.

Submarines in Australian Defence

Just on 100 years ago, Andrew Fisher, Australia?s second Labor Prime Minister, introduced legislation to create the national defence capabilities that would be tested a mere five years later.  

Only two years before, Alfred Deakin against the advice of his Commander of Commonwealth Naval Forces, Captain William Creswell had decided that Australia would purchase a force of nine submarines.

As costs escalated, nine quickly shrank to two, and on Sunday 24 May 1914 the submarines AE1 and AE2 completed their record-breaking journey from Portsmouth to Sydney.  

Following the loss of AE1 on 14 September 1914, AE2 was dispatched to Suez late in 1914, and then assigned to the Dardanelles campaign.  On 25 April 1915, as Australian and New Zealand forces were preparing their assault on the beaches of Gallipoli, AE2 slipped through the Dardanelles and into the Sea of Marmora where, a couple of days later, she was scuttled having ?run amok? to the consternation of the Turks, but inflicting little damage.

Thus ended Australias first experiment with submarines, an experiment that would take some five decades to repeat.

World War Two saw submarines come into their own.  With John Curtin as Prime Minister, Fremantle, with 170 submarines home-ported there, became the second largest operating base for the US, UK and Dutch forces fighting in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Following the war, the Royal Navy continued to maintain a submarine squadron in Australia.  

Advances in submarine technology, together with dramatic changes in the operating complexity of surface fleets, led to the recognition in Australia that submarines would be a significant strategic asset.  

Accordingly, in 1963 the Naval Board decided to re-establish the Australian submarine service with the purchase of four, later six, Oberon class submarines.  These highly effective vessels laid the foundation for the submarine force we have today.

In 1985, the Defence Minister Kim Beazley commissioned a major review of Australia?s defence needs, and in 1986 the Hawke Government initiated the Collins project to deliver six state-of-the-art submarines based on the successful Kockums design for the Swedish navy.  

The technological and industrial achievement of the Collins project was immense.  It is a matter of very considerable regret that public confidence in the Collins class was undermined in the late 1990s, just as the submarine was proving its formidable war fighting abilities in international combined exercises coordinated by the US.

Given the fundamental importance of our submarine force this has been very damaging.

The Strategic Argument for our Future Submarine

In May this year, the Rudd Government released the 2009 White Paper.  This outlined a force structure Force 2030 that will enable Australia to meet the strategic challenges of a rapidly changing region.  

The White Paper reaffirms the long-held view that the primary task of the ADF is to deter and defeat armed attacks against Australia.

To this end, the White Paper recognises that the aim of establishing sea and air control in our primary operating environment does not entail a purely defensive or reactive approach.  Rather, we must be able to conduct proactive combat operations at a distance from our shores.  

This demands a mix of intelligence, defensive and strike assets to ensure both deterrence and, if that were to fail, an ability to impose unacceptably high costs on any potential adversary.  Put simply, we need to be able to take warfare to an adversary?s front door.

The White Paper identified the need for Australia to develop and maintain a force that has a capability advantage and can provide protection against strategic uncertainty.

Submarines are able to stop an adversary from deploying its? fleet by maintaining sea denial. By imposing disproportionate costs on an adversary, submarines represent an asymmetric threat well suited to Australia?s defence.

The Rudd Government has announced its decision to acquire 12 next generation submarines. The future submarine builds on our experience with the Collins class, aims to offer greater range, endurance and payload.

As I noted earlier, this is an extraordinarily complex task, imposing ground-breaking demands on both science and industry.  But the Rudd government is confident that Australian industry can again rise to the occasion, as it did with the Collins Project 25 years ago.

But it is important to recognise that the future submarine?s development and delivery is intimately dependent on our continuing ability to manage, crew and operate the Collins class.  

As they approach middle age, the Collins submarines are throwing up a series of engineering and operational problems that impose real demands on the Navy, the DMO and the ASC.  The Government is working together with each of these to address these problems.

The Navy is currently examining ways of building up the submarine personnel force in order to ensure that the future submarine is properly crewed. The DMO is looking to the improvement of its contract management to ensure that the technical problems that Collins confronts from time to time can be managed quickly and well, and the ASC is about to take on a new CEO.

So, within all of that context, I now want to highlight some of the challenges we face in the future submarine project, in the areas of my own responsibility including industry, acquisition, personnel and science.

The Industrial Challenge

Without a doubt, the key challenge for the future submarines will be the industrial challenge, which also presents the greatest opportunity of the program.

The challenge to industry covers facets of the design, construction and eventual maintenance of our future submarine.

The Government is carefully considering the issues that are raised under each of these phases in order to inform the acquisition strategy to be utilised for this program.

The Design Challenge

Firstly, on the design stage of the project.

A constant criticism of the Collins experience was the decision to design a submarine around an evolved Kockums platform rather than simply purchase an existing ?Off the Shelf? submarine.

It is worth asking the question would Australia be in a better situation if it had simply built one of the existing designs offered in the tender competition for Collins or invited someone else to build it for us?

The available evidence says no; the lead boat of the Dutch submarine design, Walrus, was delayed 3 years due to a fire. The British Type 2400, the initial favourite for the tender, suffered a three year delay due to construction faults and safety concerns. The first Thyssen TR 1700 to be built in Argentina was only 52 per cent complete before it was abandoned. The two HDW submarines built in India were delivered 5 and 6 years later respectively.

It should also be noted that none of these submarines matched the Collins in terms of performance, then or now.

In planning for the future submarine, we need to consider a range of engineering and production solutions, ranging from the acquisition of a Military Off The Shelf (MOTS) design, options consistent with the Kinnaird/Mortimer reforms, to a developmental solution designed indigenously.

Another issue for the Collins was the failure to adequately consider through life support issues in concept, design and construction phases.

I recently visited the US Navys Centre of Excellence for Ships and Ship Systems at Carderock and Electric Boat.  A key lesson reinforced during these visits was that design development must be very mature before construction commences.

Electric Boat have a rule known as the ?law of 1:3:8?, that is, a task that takes an hour in module construction takes 3 hours when the hull has been assembled and 8 hours when the submarine is in the water. In other words, make sure the design is mature before you start cutting steel.

The Construction Challenge

Which brings me to the construction of the future submarine.

The design and construction of a fleet of 12 new advance submarines will be without doubt the largest defence acquisition this country has ever engaged in. I would go as far as to say that it is possibly the most complex and sophisticated industrial project ever pursued in this country.

Some commentators have begun to estimate costs in excess of $30 billion for the project. It is too early for this. However these estimates give some idea of the potential scale of the project depending on what choices are made.

To put this in perspective, the entire Snowy Mountains Scheme cost around $7 billion in today?s dollars. This project will be among the largest industrial project ever contemplated in Australia. If managed properly, in addition to providing the Navy with 12 highly capable submarines, it will contribute to the modernisation of the Australian manufacturing industry.

Submarines are extraordinarily complex systems. For example, each Collins Class Submarine has over 3,800,000 parts, 75 kilometres of cable, 200,000 on-board connections, 23.5 kilometres of pipe, 14,000 pipe welds and 34.5 kilometres of pipe welding. This complexity is akin to building a space shuttle.

The construction of the Collins Class submarines in Australia provided the catalyst for the rapid modernisation of significant sections of our manufacturing industry.

When the Collins project began, there were only 35 Australian companies certified to the quality levels required for defence work. By 1998 there were 1500.

The Collins construction involved 70 major subcontractors in Australia and overseas. It created over 2,000 jobs and more importantly the project drove more than 100 Australian companies to achieve the ISO 9000 quality assurance standard.

The Hawke-Keating Governments sought a minimum local content target of 70 per cent for the platform. This was a very ambitious target compared to the 30 per cent participation that was the defence project average at the time. That this was eventually exceeded is a tribute to all participants. Of the $5.1 billion cost of the original Collins project, $4 billion was spent in Australia.

However, we have found it difficult to maintain the industrial capacity built around this level of local content. Some of the ongoing maintenance problems of the Collins are driven by this issue. Accordingly, we are giving serious thought to what industrial capabilities must be supported within country to sustain this project.

The Sustainment Challenge

Finally, we should also consider the issues that we will face in maintaining our future submarine fleet.

Sustainment of submarines is always a challenge given the complexity of each boat.

However, on this front, Australia has come a long way over the last 25 years.

For the Oberon class submarines the Navy was dependent on overseas suppliers for some 85 to 90 per cent of the support and the refit of the first Oberon class submarine cost 76 per cent of its purchase price.

The maintenance of the Collins Class, while not perfect, has obviously improved on that. But significant challenges remain.

Quite simply, we must lift the availability of our current submarines.

It is one of my top priorities and is at the top of the project of concerns reports that I oversee each month.

Acquisition Strategy

Our ability to get on top of the design, construction and maintenance phases will largely determine our acquisition strategy for the future submarine.

Studies have shown that 90 per cent of the discretionary decisions that affect the outcome of a project are made in the first 7 to 12 per cent of the project?s life.

There are three things that we must get right:

* We must adequately define the operating concepts and requirements for the future submarine. The consideration of this must involve a full understanding of the trade offs between different aspects of capability.

* We must develop a sophisticated acquisition strategy that has the flexibility to solve any problems, but maintains focus on delivering the agreed outcome. The contracting strategy is a very important element of this.

* Finally, we must understand the interaction between capability and the acquisition strategy. It is often the interaction between these two processes that leads to trouble.

One of the matters that we will need to tackle early in the project is the need to invest in and develop a sustainable industrial base that is capable of designing, constructing and maintaining 12 large submarines.  

On this subject, some commentators have recently canvassed the concept of rolling production.  Although it is far too early for the Government to consider a detailed acquisition strategy, two contrasting models would appear to provide the boundaries within which an acquisition strategy could be designed.

In many instances building 12 identical submarines may be the cheapest way to build the future submarine. If you can ensure that you can acquire all the sub-systems for each boat, building 12 submarines on the same design allows the boat builder to make huge savings on the learning by doing curve.

However, there are good capability and industrial reasons why that strategy may be questioned. For instance, it is almost certain the 12th submarine to be delivered will be at least 15 years behind the latest technology. From a technological currency point of view, there may be certain advantages to building batches of submarines.

For example, designing and building in batches has been found elsewhere to support a more sustainable industrial design, skills and maintenance base ? leading in turn to a greater capacity to develop a subsequent project and/or to deliver upgrade programs.

Moreover, to sustain the necessary design and engineering skills, it is critical that we factor in an appropriate throughput.  However, let me repeat that no decision has been made, but building 12 identical submarines or a few batches or blocks is one of the key choices that Government will need to consider.

Selecting the right contracting model will be an essential part of a successful acquisition strategy. The Collins submarines were built using a fixed priced contract. A rigid, inflexible commitment to the terms and conditions of the contract set in train many of the subsequent problems. An adversarial relationship between customer and builder was enshrined from the start.

This is not to say that we should choose a cost plus contract. I was interested to learn in my recent trip to the United States that even the Pentagon is moving away from cost plus contracts to more fixed priced contracting when the acquisition is in a mature stage.

Nevertheless, we must be imaginative when looking at contracting options.

One of the lessons from the Collins build was that there must be very close cooperation between the navy, the project manager, the combat systems integrator and platform builder. I am closely following the Alliance structure that is central to the Air Warfare Destroyer acquisition.

The People Challenge

Of course, we cannot discuss the future submarine force without also focusing on the workforce that is needed to support it.

Demographic trends indicate that Australia's population is getting older. Accordingly, Defence will face increasing competition for our young recruits, particularly those in high-skilled and technical occupations. Therefore, we need to focus on retaining our good people, while at the same time, continuing to attract quality candidates across all three Services.

The submarine force is one area where significant improvements are needed.

Navy continues to experience shortfalls in qualified submariners.  This is a significant vulnerability as Navy transitions from the Collins Class submarines to the new submarine.

To assist in addressing these shortfalls, the Government has budgeted for additional positions to support the future maritime force.

I would like to touch on some of the reasons for these shortfalls and how we intend to resolve them.  
 
While the life of a submariner can be one of excitement and professional satisfaction, it is not without its challenges. Recent reviews undertaken by Navy confirm some systemic problems within the submarine workforce that have impacted on morale and job satisfaction, and consequently, on retention.

They include insufficient support to families, a lack of posting stability, high stress, extreme fatigue and widespread concerns about the sustainability of the current submarine force. There has also been difficulty in finding the right balance between the need to conduct effective training at sea and the need for respite while on-shore.

We also should not underestimate anecdotal community perceptions that a career at sea is unappealing.  Unfortunately, some young people may be quickly discouraged from a life in the Navy by the prospect of what they see as long periods away from family, friends and broader social networks.

Navy is committed to developing a positive cultural shift and enhanced employment conditions that will help stabilise the submarine workforce.

Our key competitive advantage is the unique nature of military work which comes with a comprehensive package of pay, conditions and services. In short, the ADF is a rewarding profession in every sense.

Through sensible recruitment and retention measures, we can build a framework for a more sustainable workforce culture.  

The Science Challenge

Another challenge for the future submarine will be to lock in the scientific support that will be critical to the long-term sustainability of the future submarine.

If Force 2030 is to have a capability edge over other forces, we must have submarines with advanced technology and systems.

This capability edge will be science driven. To this end, we are very fortunate to have the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO).

The DSTO provided research in all phases of the Collins Submarine build. It played a vital role in the development of a new high-strength, low-alloy steel. The consistency offered by this steel and the ability to weld it was an essential element in the successful construction of the Collins.

Just as significant was DSTOs development of advanced anechoic tiles that render the submarine invisible to enemy sonars and are at the leading edge of stealth.

The DSTO also made an invaluable contribution to the development of the active sonar for the Collins.  

The DSTO was instrumental in identifying the propeller and water flow around the hull as key drivers of the noise problems that affected HMAS Collins after launch.

The US Navys Centre of Excellence for Ships and Ship Systems at Carderock also provided invaluable support. We will be highly dependent on the US to provide science and technology support for the future submarine.

We need to start early on developing the science to underpin the future submarine. We have already begun investing in these efforts.

For example, the Government has invested $1 million in a new underwater test facility that will be used for experiments to control underwater noise.

The DSTO has also partnered with the Australian Maritime College to develop world class hydrodynamic facilities.

The DSTO is also looking at a range of additional technologies that will be key drivers of future submarine operation; these include energy storage, payload deployment, communications, autonomous systems, Air Independent Propulsion and submarine habitability.

The Management Challenge

The final challenge we face is the management challenge.

Project management performance during the design and construction of the Collins class was variable. The project management unit was split between Canberra and Adelaide with the prime contractor located in Adelaide. This led to poor communication at times with issues taking longer than they should to resolve.

Its also fair to say that there was poor risk mitigation and inadequate contingency allocated. There was also insufficient recognition of the Parent Navy challenge and an underestimation of through life support costs. Moreover, the through life support contract was not in place early enough.

A further issue that the Government is mindful of is the need to ensure, in light of the Collins experience, that there is clarity over the ownership and use of intellectual property.

One of the things that the Government will need to consider is a dedicated policy cell located in Canberra that could translate the strategic guidance into the actual detailed requirements of the future submarine. This will involve a deep understanding of the various tradeoffs between desired capabilities and the impact on cost, schedule and risk.

Additionally, consideration will need to be given to an appropriately resourced design and project management cell located in Adelaide. This cell must be located in Adelaide close to the builder. We have seen the benefits of this approach with the AWD project.

The ongoing upgrade of the Collins Class submarines will also be crucial to the successful management of the future submarine. Managing these upgrades well potentially provides a development path to the future submarine.

Conclusion

The future submarine project is evidently ambitious.  

In the view of the Rudd Government, it is also achievable.  

The combination of Australian scientific, technological and industrial know-how, potential technical support from Allies, sound project design and robust contract management should deliver an unparalleled strategic asset.

In this enterprise, we will strengthen our ties with the US, which places great value on the role that the RANs submarine force is able to play in combined operations.  The ability of Australia and the US to operate our submarines together is critical to our combined success.

Australias ability to conduct successful defence operations in theatres distant from our shores will be enormously strengthened by the surveillance, intelligence and strike capabilities of a long-range submarine.  

That is what we plan to deliver.

ends...

Taxpayers shell out $2m on offshore sub-escape training
Cameron Stewart | November 05, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

FORTY-EIGHT Royal Australian Navy submariners will fly to Canada next week at taxpayers's expense to conduct escape training, after the navy failed to fix their local training facility in Perth.

The trip means that 167 submariners will have been flown to Canada for submarine-escape training this year at a cost of more than $2 million, despite the navy having a six-storey training tank in Perth, which it describes as "the most advanced of its kind in the world today".

The $25m facility for escape training at HMAS Stirling has been unable to be used for pressurised escape training since May last year following a tender dispute between the navy and the Australian Submarine Corporation.

In June this year, the navy was further embarrassed when a faulty pipe caused 300,000 litres of water to leak out of the building - equivalent to flushing a toilet 38,000 times or a person taking 6000 showers.

In July, the navy finally issued a new $4.32m contract to run the training facility but a safety inspection of the building in August revealed impurities in the air system, requiring a complete overhaul.

The navy now says the facility will not be certified for use until at least early next year, meaning it has no choice but to send its submariners offshore to receive pressurised escape training on how to exit a stricken submarine at depths of up to 180m.

The pressurised escape training is mandatory for new submariners and qualified submariners must take a refresher course every three years.

The navy has been forced to send its submariners to the Institut Maritime Du Quebec in Quebec for training at a cost of $12,400 a sailor.

"To meet operational training requirements, an additional 48 personnel are programmed to undertake Canadian training in November 2009," a Defence spokesman told The Australian.

He said further groups may be sent over in the future "pending certification" of the training facility in HMAS Stirling.

The training setback is the latest in a series of problems for the navy's submarine arm, which is suffering from an acute shortage of crews as well as severe technical issues that have limited the availability of the six-boat fleet.

Defence Minister John Faulkner has ordered a review of the operational availability of the RAN's submarines, conceding that technical problems had become a major concern for the government.

"Submarine platform availability remains a major concern," Mr Faulkner told a Senate committee last month.

"Submarines are a critical component of the ADF's force structure, and they perform a wide range of tasks. The government places a very high priority on ensuring this capability is effective."

Acting Defence Minister Greg Combet this week announced that an independent study, by the RAND Corporation, would determine whether a new fleet

of submarines can be designed locally.

The government wants to build up to 12 new submarines, to replace the Collins-class fleet from about 2025.

Although the government wants as much Australian input as possible into the design, building and maintenance of the next-generation submarines, experts are concerned about the ability of Australian defence companies to pull off such a major project.

The $6 billion project to build six Collins-class submarines in Australia was plagued with teething problems.

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute said last week that the Future Submarines project could cost taxpayers as much as $36bn.

 
 

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MSPA 373/09 Wednesday, 4 November 2009

GENERAL DAVID PETRAEUS APPOINTED
HONORARY OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, congratulated General David Petraeus after he was appointed as an Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia in an investiture ceremony in Washington DC today.

General Petraeus was nominated for the award by Air Chief Marshal Houston in recognition of his distinguished service to the International Coalition Against Terrorism as Commanding General, Multi-National Force Iraq.  

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, representing the Governor-General, presented the insignia to General Petraeus in the presence of Air Chief Marshal Houston and Secretary of Defence, Dr Ian Watt.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said that General Petraeus appointment to the Order of Australia recognised his outstanding contribution to the increased safety and security of Australian forces in Iraq during 2007 and 2008.

General Petraeus stoic determination, impeccible integrity and realist command approach was instrumental in the production of a safer environment for Australian forces in Iraq, Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

During his time as Commanding General, Multi-National Force Iraq, General Petraeus led Coalition Forces in an exceedingly complex operational environment to great effect. Under General Petraeus guidance the Coalition gained tactical momentum by conducting successful counter insurgency and offensive operations to clear and hold significant areas of Iraq. This directly led to strengthened reconciliation efforts and a renewed focus on political reform, subsequently resulting in a reduction in violence, lessening of casualties and a decrease in security incidents.

I greatly valued General Petraeus leadership and determination in ensuring that young men and women of the ADF were operating within a coalition effort that was coordinated and effective. This award is the highest honour in our system and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition than General Petraeus.

General Petraeus of the United States Army is currently Commander, United States Central Command. He served as Commanding General, Multi-National Force Iraq from 26 January 2007 until 30 October 2008. In this position he was charged with command of all Coalition forces in Iraq, including members of the ADF. Prior to this he was the first commander of the Multi-National Security Transition Command Iraq where he was responsible for training Iraqs Army, Police and other security forces.

Copy of citation: http://www.gg.gov.au/res/File/PDFs/honours/2009S172_Oct%2009.pdf

[Keith]

Pay hike hits army reserve training
Mark Dodd | November 04, 2009

Article from:  The Australian


BUDGET cuts ordered by the Rudd government to offset defence pay hikes this year have slashed by up to a half the army reserve's training program.

Army reserve officers have been warned total training days next year could be cut from as many as 48 to 24, which would severely reduce operational readiness and probably result in mass resignations from the ranks.

Allegations of deficient training in the reserves came to prominence on Monday with the release of two damning reports into the death last year of Michael Fussell in Afghanistan, killed in action, while serving with a reserve Commando Company.

Asked to respond to the allegations, Defence confirmed yesterday that a salary blowout this year had forced reductions in training days.

"The financial management of army reserve training salaries is now more sharply focused and reflective of a need for enhanced budget discipline in order to manage bids for the use of reserves," the Defence Department said.

"This discipline may lead to decisions to reduce training days."

The decision has been met with dismay by serving army reservists. One veteran officer with more than two decades of service in the reserves said he felt betrayed.

"Next year, the talk is we'll be limited to 24 training days for the whole year," he told The Australian. "We won't be able to operate -- our effectiveness will dwindle.

"The young blokes will drift off to sporting teams and other activities on Tuesday nights and we're just going to become non-effective.

"It's a real shame because morale, sense of purpose, sense of everything is rapidly being lost."

He said many of the men in his unit used their monthly reserve pay packets as a "mini-stimulus package".

"A lot of the guys use their payment because it come in a monthly tax-free allotment -- to buy new tyres, Christmas presents or money for holidays," he said.

The officer requested his name and rank be suppressed fearing disciplinary action for going public with his concerns.

Of the three services, the army has the biggest number of reservists with more than 15,000 soldiers, many deployed on operations to Afghanistan, Solomon Islands and East Timor.

As reported in the The Australian in May, army reserve numbers have fallen this year, casting doubt on Defence white paper plans to better integrate part-timers into the army's full-time ranks.

Total posted strength of the army reserve last June was 15,400 or 71 per cent of its authorised maximum strength.

A second army reservist, writing to this newspaper, said the latest cuts targeted uniformed soldiers but not defence bureaucrats.

"Most reserve units are parading 3-4 days a month and yet are supposed to supply soldiers to the Reserve Response Force and the High Readiness Reserves to support operations.

"It seems Army Reserve is being set up to fail and forced into downsizing its numbers through the withdrawal of the ARTS, with defence knowing that people will walk away," the reservist said.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has pledged to make the reserve force even "more relevant".

"That means integrating them more into the whole of the ADF (Australian Defence Force). And we're doing that now," he said in May last year.

 
 

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ABC NEWS
 
Poor leadership linked to soldier's death
 
Two inquiries have found Lieutenant Fussell died instantly when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (Department of Defence)

Related Story: Defence to probe Afghanistan death inquiry http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/05/13/2569594.htm

Related Story: Australia's role in Afghanistan http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/06/03/2588164.htm

Related Link: Australians killed in Afghanistan http://www.abc.net.au/news/events/afghanistan/casualties.htm

Deficiencies in training, leadership and deployment readiness may have contributed to the death of Lieutenant Michael Fussell in Afghanistan last year, a Defence inquiry has found.

The Major in charge of the operation in which Lieutenant Fussell died on November 27 has now been stood down from his command.

Lieutenant Fussell, 25, of the 4th battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment died instantly after he stepped on an improvised explosive device during a night patrol in central Uruzgan during which he was searching for insurgent leaders.

Two reports into the circumstances surrounding his death were released by Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston today.

They have found that shortcomings in track discipline during the operation, training and certification of the Force Element for deployment may have contributed to his death.

The second report by Vice Admiral Christopher Ritchie was ordered by Air Chief Houston after the initial report found that there were several concerns over leadership of the Force Element.

"The initial inquiry into the death of Lieutenant Fussell found that track discipline by the patrol in the minutes prior to his death was inadequate and that a number of the patrol members may have been in a position to stop an unsafe practice," Air Chief Houston said.

But he also noted that there was no evidence to suggest Lieutenant Fussell did not adhere to track discipline during the operation.

Air Chief Marshal Houston says he has accepted all the recommendations of the report by Vice Admiral Ritchie and the initial report.

"What is clear from Vice Admiral Ritchie's report is that the risk of a casualty occurring in Afghanistan was increased in the deficiencies in training, assessment, certification and leadership identified by Vice Admiral Ritchie," he said.

"It is these deficiencies and the resulting increased risk that concern me.

"I accept Vice Admiral Ritchie's finding that the risk of a casualty occurring in Afghanistan was increased by the deficiencies in training assessment, certification and leadership."

However he also noted that several of the training deficiencies in the Force Element were identified once it arrived in Afghanistan.

Air Chief Marshal Houston says the Major who was leading the operation is still in the Army, but has paid a high price.

"The worst thing that can happen to you in the military is to be removed from command," he said.

"All of us aspire to command and to be removed is indeed a drastic action, and it's a very difficult set of circumstances for the individual concerned."

There will be no formal commission of inquiry after a thorough audit of troop preparations ahead of deployment.

Eleven Australian soldiers have died in Afghanistan.

 
 

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[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Major relieved of command after soldier's death
 
Two inquiries have found Lieutenant Fussell died instantly when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (Department of Defence)

Related Story: Defence to probe Afghanistan death inquiry
Related Story: Deaths of Australian soldiers in Afghanistan
It has been revealed that a senior Australian army officer was removed from his command after the death of Lieutenant Michael Fussell in Afghanistan last year.

Two reports into the incident found Lieutenant Fussell died instantly after he stepped on an improvised explosive device during a night time patrol, searching for insurgent leaders in Uruzgan Province.

Chief of the Defence Force Angus Houston says the inquiries found deficiencies in the preparations ahead of the deployment and poor leadership during the operation may have contributed to the death.

Air Chief Marshall Houston says the Major who was leading the operation is still in the army, but has paid a high price.

"The worst thing that can happen to you in the military is to be removed from command," he said.

"All of us aspire to command and to be removed is indeed a drastic action, and it's a very difficult set of circumstances for the individual concerned."

There will be no formal commission of inquiry after a thorough audit of troop preparations ahead of deployment.

 
 

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[Keith]

Bill for new submarines tops $36 billion
By Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
October 30, 2009
 
TAXPAYERS will be faced with a massive $36 billion bill to provide the Royal Australian Navy with a fleet of 12 next-generation submarines.

That is more than the annual $35 billion Federal education budget, just shy of the $42 billion of the Government's stimulus package to ward off the global financial crisis and more than a third of the $100 billion the nation spends on health each year.

A report out today warns the Government that trying to build the complex 4000-tonne submarines in Australia would be fraught with risk.

It says a smaller "off-the-shelf" overseas sub should not be ruled out.

The report from the Government-funded Australian Strategic Policy Institute predicts the Australian-made and world's biggest conventional-powered subs would cost $3 billion each, three times the price of the RAN's Collins class boats.

The six Collins subs, costing about $1 billion each, have been burdened by serious problems including noise, engine and computer breakdowns since their launch in the early 1990s.

When fit for sea they are among the most effective conventional submarines in the world.

However, just one or two boats are currently available for operations and crew shortages mean no more than three can be operated at a time.

The Government's Defence White Paper had the new submarines on its wish list but no plans for recruiting the hundreds of sailors to crew them.

The subs will be a third bigger and require an extra 20 crew per vessel to operate than the Collins boats.

The wish list said the boats would have greater range, be able to remain under water for much longer and be capable of a variety of missions ranging from land strike using cruise missiles to electronic spying.

The ASPI report, by former submariner Sean Costello and strategic analyst Andrew Davies, paints a gloomy picture of a high risk, costly venture and warns the Government not to rule out an overseas solution.

The new vessels would need to be in the water by 2022 and fully operational when the Collins boats leave service in 2025.

The Government has already said it wants them built in South Australia.

Junior defence minister Greg Combet said the ability to build the subs in Australia was a matter of "national strategic importance".

 
 

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[Keith]

 
LEADER NEWSPAPER STORY on Australian documentary film TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
 
http://leader.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx
 
Page 7.
 
Regards
Sasha Uzunov
Director/Producer: TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
mob 0419 635 808
 
---------------------------------------
 
Stonnington Leader (News Limited) newspaper, Melbourne
 


27 Oct 2009
Stonnington Leader
by Amber Stannard
Kelly tells Timor story
Heart problem does not deter documentary narrator from sharing Tour of Duty
HUGO Kellys heart is in the right place in fact, two places at once.
 
 The Malvern writer made his international debut narrating the documentary Timor:TourofDuty at its New York International Independent Film and Video Festival screening on Sunday.
 
Kelly (pictured) was so passionate to tell the untold story of Australian troops in East Timor during 1999-2003 that even heart surgery could not stop him working on the film.
 
He underwent surgery at the Alfred hospital to correct arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) earlier this year. Timor: Tour of Duty director Sasha Uzunov, from Reservoir, said Kelly was a real professional who didnt reveal his health condition while doing the narration.
 
Indonesian troops marched into East Timor, about 650km northwest of Darwin, in 1975.
 

The countrys struggle for independence made headlines with 1991s Dili massacre, in which more than 200 people were shot while attending the funeral of a man killed by Indonesian soldiers. International peacekeepers arrived in 1999.
 
Two former Australian soldiers, attacked by militia on the border in 2001, tell their story in Timor: Tour of Duty.
 
Kelly said a secret war between Australian peacekeepers and Indonesian Special Forces troops masquerading as militia was suggested.
 
Its a compelling story and a privilege to narrate because it tells the untold tale of Australia?s well-publicised and successful mission in Timor, Kelly said.
 
It brings home clearly the reality of war. These are real shots from real guns. People get hurt physically and psychologically.
 
A first-time film-maker, Uzunov served with the Royal Australian Regiment?s 4th Battalion in Timor.
 
(end)
 

[Keith]

MEDIA RELEASE: 

Subject: Australian-made Timor film receives US commendation award -

An explosive Australian documentary film TEAM TOUR OF DUTY, which reveals the Indonesian military's secret war against Australian troops and international peacekeepers in East Timor, has received a special commendation award (out of competition) from the 2009 Nevada Film Festival (USA).. ..A Platinum Reel Award.

TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY MADE ITS AMERICAN AND INTERNATIONAL SCREEN DEBUT AT THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL INDEPENDENT FILM AND VIDEO FESTIVAL (NYIIFVF) on Sunday 25 October 2009. (Monday Melbourne Time).
 
"In my film TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY I reveal that the United States was the good guy in averting genocide in the tiny south-east Asian land of East Timor," Sasha Uzunov, the Director/Producer, said.
 
The Australian film maker believes that former US President Bill Clinton should have been awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in East Timor.
 
"Al Gore and Barack Obama have a Nobel Peace Prize but Clinton should have one as well," he said. "The kudos for East Timor belongs to Clinton, and not ex-Australian Prime Minister John Howard and his then Foreign Minister Alexander Downer."
 
"To paraphrase that famous quote about Monica Lewinsky, you could say: Clinton had good diplomatic realtions with that nation--East Timor!"
 
Uzunov has praised the narrator of TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY, well known Australian freelance writer Hugo Kelly, formerly with The Age newspaper.
 
"Hugo has an incredible voice," Sasha said. "He manages to pull off a number of styles from old style news reel narration to even an American accent in one segment.
 
"Hugo was suffering from life threatening heart problems and like a real pro kept it to himself during the making of the film and was later forced to have surgery to correct an irregular heart beat."
 
"I also take this opporunity to thank the two ex-soldiers Scott Sherwin and "Pete" for telling me their story about the shoot out in East Timor. It is a pity that their patrol commander Kevin Campbell has missed out on an Australian Army bravery medal because of politics," Uzunov said.
 
Prominent Australian academic Dr Damien Kingsbury of Deakin University, a leading expert and author on East Timor, has praised the film:
 
"Timor Tour of Duty' is as close to what it was like, without actually being there, for Australian soldiers in the troubled border region of East Timor between 1999 and 2003."

contacts:

Sasha Uzunov
Director/Producer: TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
tel +61 419 635 808 (0419 635 808 - local)
Melbourne, Australia
 
Hugo Kelly
Narrator: TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
tel: +61 417 290 467  (0417 290 467 - local)
Melbourne, Australia
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEWSPAPER CLIPPING - AUSTRALIA
 







Corporal Kevin Campbell of Australian Army unit Alpha Company,4RAR,with a local Timorese girl, East Timor, 2001


www.edenmagnet.com.au/news/local/news/general/silent-hero-to-feature-in-ny-film-premiere/1651274.aspx
 
Eden Magnet, New South Wales, Australia (Fairfax newspapers)

Silent hero to feature in NY film premiere
BY DENISE DION

16/10/2009

 

Eden ex-soldier, Kevin Campbell features in a documentary that will premiere at the New York International Film Festival from October 22 to 29.   

 

The film, 'Timor Tour of Duty' made by Australian film-maker and former Australian soldier, Sasha Uzunov, is an independent documentary about the East Timor conflict.   

 

Although Mr Campbell isn't in the film, the role he played in a shoot-out that occurred between Australian soldiers from unit Alpha Company, 4RAR, and militia on June 14, 2001 is discussed.

 

Deliberately shot in hand-held camcorder home video style and interwoven with soldier's actual footage, the documentary focuses on the experiences of two Australian soldiers, Scott Sherwin and 'Pete' who discuss the brave actions of their patrol commander at the time, Corporal Kevin Campbell.

 

The shoot-out was controversial because the official role of Australian and American forces was one of peacekeeping but when the group came under fire and grenade attack close to the border, there were political ramifications.

 

There were also suspicions that the attack was carried out by the Indonesian Army's (TNI) Special Forces, Kopassus, dressed up as militia.

 

Mr Uzunov said: "A United Nations investigation was launched and the members of One-Two-Alpha were forbidden to talk about the incident but were later cleared of any wrongdoing. Mr Campbell was given a UN Commander's Commendation certificate but missed out on an Australian Army bravery medal."

 

Mr Campbell finds it difficult to talk about his experiences but supported Mr Uzunov's decision to make the film.

 

"I didn't want to bring up the past, but my two young blokes, my diggers, needed that opportunity to get a few things off their chest, express their feelings and so forth," Mr Campbell said.

 

"When [the shoot-out] occurred, it was just training and instinct that kicked in for me and my diggers, you just go into this automatic mode."

 

Mr Campbell is choosing not to view the film.

 

"Just because, that's a time in my life that I'm letting go," he said.

 

The fighting left its mark on all three men and in the film, 'Pete' talks about his battle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the side effects of taking an anti-malaria drug whilst in East Timor.
 
-------------------------------------------------------------

Australian war documentary film, Timor Tour of Duty, to have international premiere screening at New York International Independent Film and Video Festival (NYIIFVF) on Sunday 25 October 2009...
 
see link for details:
 
http://nyfilmvideo.info/2009-new-york-october-film-schedule-tickets/sunday-october-25th-film-schedule-tickets-scree-2.htm
 
Trailer / Preview:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2xXh76i99M
 
official film website and preview:
 http://timortourofduty.blogspot.com/

EXPERT HAILS TIMOR TOUR OF DUTY
- 'Timor Tour of Duty' is as close to what it was like, without actually being there, for Australian soldiers in the troubled border region of East Timor between 1999 and 2003.

 

- Dr Damien Kingsbury, East Timor Expert

 


 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:42:50 -0700
Subject: Platinum Reel Award Winners Announced
To:


Dear Filmmakers and Screenwriters,


First off, if you are receiving this email, congratulations are in order because your film or screenplay has been chosen as a Platinum Reel Award Winner at the 2009 Nevada Film Festival.  Only a maximum of 10 films in each competitive category were chosen to be honored with this prestigious recognition.


This first year of our festival, we will be screening 20+ films at the event.
 
Unfortunately, it is just not possible to showcase all of the excellent films we received that are worthy of recognition.


Although your film is not an Official Selection and will not be screened publicly at the festival, our judges felt that your film demonstrated standout filmmaking and is deserving of special recognition.
 
Below is a complete list of this year's winners.


Congratulations again on your outstanding work and we hope to see you at the 2009 Nevada Film Festival!


Best,


Nevada Film Festival


Below is a complete list of the Platinum Reel Award Winners for 2009:


Actor?s Showcase
Clown's Lament
Scene from "Tootsie"


Documentary Film Competition
Hey Dillon
EUROPA, STORIA DI UN SUCCESSO
Folsom Prison Blues
Autism: Made in the USA
Contrary Warrior: The Life and Times of Adam Fortunate Eagle
Borrowing Time
'Certain Adverse Events'
Vancouver Vagabond
Timor Tour of Duty
Sounds Good To Me
Official Rejection


Feature Film Competition
Sin Social
VICTOR GREY WOLF ONE MAN SHOW
The Perfect Woman
Yeardley
Fuel
The Coffee Break
The Anniversary
Moonlight Sonata
Still the Drums
Come Together


Nevada Film Competition
Joe Goes to Vegas


Screenplay Competition
A Priori
Con Man
God I Wish You Were Here
At the Starlight
The Ruins of Oz
Headhunter
Jesus is Back
Guardian Heart
ESPERANCIA0809
Embracing John Grey


Short Film Competition
Kings Corner
Dunkball
Embalming
DINNER WITH RAPHAEL
Dada
Twin Thing
Caught in Paint
Rosebud
SINDOOR
Genesis: Prelude to SYXX


Television Pilot Competition
Con Hemp Playtion
 

 

[Keith]

Terrorists' 20-minute mission to kill soldiers at Sydney's Holsworthy Army Base

By Elissa Hunt
From: Herald Sun
October 27, 2009 12:00AM


Fatwa ... An undated court-supplied photo of one of the four men held over the alleged terrorist plot on Holsworthy Army Base. Source: The Daily Telegraph

TERRORISTS plotted a 20-minute suicide mission to wipe out Australian soldiers in a hail of bullets, a court has heard.

One of the men accused of trying to attack Holsworthy Army Base in Sydney allegedly made a chilling pledge to take out as many victims as possible.

Four of five men charged yesterday pleaded not guilty over the alleged terror plot at Melbourne Magistrates' Court.

Transcripts made public for the first time allegedly reveal one of the men, Saney Edow Aweys, outlining the plan for "operation martyrdom".

"They want to enter into (where) the military are stationed, the barracks. Their desire is to fan out as much as they could until they would be hit," he said in a conversation recorded on July 10.

"So they are saying that they can have the chance of guns that can take up to 60 bullets ... and 20 minutes would be enough for us to take out five, six, 10 and eight, whatever Allah knows, but who are the armed forces.


"Six of them once they enter inside the place for 10 minutes, the specified place, for about 20 minutes to 30 minutes until they will use up their weapons. What they can get!"

Aweys, 26, is alleged to have asked a foreign sheik for permission to launch the attack.

He said one of his colleagues would "do anything possible no matter what the consequences".

Aweys was recorded as saying they had the guns or could get them. He later told police that religion was his life but he had nothing against Australia.

In transcripts he allegedly chats about the "filthy people" of the West and thanked Allah for the bushfires, the drought and the global financial crisis.

Another man, Wissam Fattal, was allegedly seen on CCTV footage getting off a train outside the barracks in Sydney and walking around outside and near the entrance on March 28.

He was later recorded allegedly talking about the visit in code and how easy it was to get inside.

Aweys, Fattal, 33, Yacqub Khayre, 22, and Abdirahman Ahmed, 25, are charged with conspiring in preparation for a terrorist attack. El Sayed, 25, did not enter a plea on the same charge and was remanded in custody to face a preliminary hearing in May next year.

 

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Acting Minister for Defence

Monday, 26 October 2009 088/2009

HMAS STUART FAREWELLED

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, has today farewelled Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigate, HMAS Stuart, from her homeport of Garden Island in Sydney, as she departs for a six-month deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations.

Stuarts Ships Company of 185 men and women were farewelled in traditional ceremony by the Minister and the Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Steve Gilmore, AM, CSC, RAN, alongside family and friends.

Stuart will be stationed in the Gulf as part of Operation Slipper the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to international campaigns against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and aiding maritime security.

This is the third time that Stuart has been deployed to the Gulf, with the frigates departure marking the Navys 22nd rotation since September 2001.  HMAS Stuart will replace HMAS Toowoomba.

Mr Combet congratulated Commanding Officer HMAS Stuart, Commander Andrew Masters, for the ships lengthy and rigorous training program in preparation for the task.

?Stuart is well prepared and ready for the important job before them.  I congratulate the Ships Company for their commitment in building upon the outstanding reputation of the Australian Defence Force in the Middle East, Mr Combet said.

I thank the families and friends of the personnel deploying to the Middle East for their ongoing support and wish those deployed on Operation Slipper continued success and ongoing safety.

Media Note:
Imagery of the departure will be available after 3pm today at www.defence.gov.au/media/download.

[Keith]

Crunch time for fighters
Patrick Walters | October 24, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

KEVIN Rudd is poised to sign off on Australia's biggest military buy -- up to 100 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for the RAAF.

The sign off is happening as pressures continue to bear down on defence spending in the face of the global financial crisis.


Federal cabinet's national security committee is set to approve the $16 billion F-35 acquisition in late November but the number of aircraft in the RAAF's initial squadron could be cut from 24 to as few as 14.

On present planning the air force will get its first operational squadron by 2018 with two F-35s to be handed to the RAAF for test and evaluation purposes earlier in the decade.

Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet is convinced that the JSF is the best choice for the RAAF's next generation air combat capability.

Combet, who recently toured the F-35 plant at Fort Worth, Texas, and held high-level talks in Washington, says the Obama administration's clear preference for the JSF, ahead of any other advanced fighter, is an important sign. "My trip to the US reinforced my confidence that this is the right aircraft for the ADF," Combet told The Australian's Defence report this week.

"On all relevant issues -- that is, the capability of the JSF, its cost and the schedule for delivery, and Australian industry participation -- I came away with greater confidence."

Combet says the extent of Washington's commitment to the new fighter is extremely significant for the Rudd government as it seeks to curb spending in the wake of the financial crisis and still find the money to fund the multi-billion dollar weapons systems called for in this year's defence white paper.

"The US is looking to purchase almost 3000 aircraft and it is the largest defence acquisition the Pentagon has undertaken. Tens of billions have already been committed to the program and the US is determined that it will succeed," Combet says. "From the most senior levels in the Pentagon this message was emphasised to me. So that's very important in the government's consideration."

Combet is adamant the government still intends to buy 100 F-35s, or four operational squadrons. But the procurement is likely to come in batches, with the F-18 Super Hornet likely to remain in service at least until 2025 to accommodate a later delivery schedule for the F-35. Combet says no consideration is being given to acquiring a second squadron of Super Hornets to fill any gap in the RAAF's frontline combat force should the JSF be delayed.

As the new minister responsible for the Defence Materiel Organisation and its $100bn capital budget, Combet brings a sharp intellect and acute political instincts to the most complex and trouble-prone areas of government procurement.

Four months into the job he is coming to grips with a wide range of equipment challenges, ranging from the troubled performance of the $4bn Project Wedgetail airborne early warning system to hard thinking about an acquisition strategy for Australia's next generation submarine.

While the prime contractor, Boeing, is due to deliver the first two Wedgetails next month (more than three years behind schedule), on the Australian side there are still serious concerns about the aircraft's radar performance.

"The meetings I had in the US confirmed that this radar has great potential. We have still got a way to go with this program. All of the intensive effort over the last 12-18 months means that we are now seeing a significant improvement in this program."

Combet's message to Boeing and sub-contractor and radar supplier Northrop Grumman is that the Australian government still wants to see the radar and the aircraft perform to contract specification.

"We are urging them to commit the resources to bring that about. It is still short of where we expected the capability to be in terms of the radar performance. There's a bit of work to go."

The RAN's present and future submarine requirements are a huge concern for Combet, with the operational capability of the Collins boats still vitally affected by crew shortages and a range of mechanical problems. The range of maintenance issues affecting the Collins class are of such a magnitude that it is officially a "project of concern" for the DMO.

At present the RAN is getting marginally less than two Collins boats available for full operational service, a shortfall Combet is determined to rectify. At the same time he is deeply involved in discussions about the design and build options for the planned 12 next-generation boats, which would enter service from the mid-2020's.

Combet intends to spend much of his time in the run-up to the next election focusing on this critical area of maritime capability, including taking a close look at the present and future role of government-owned submarine builder ASC. ASC is due to get a new chief executive by early next year who will be expected to manage the Collins remediation program as well as position the company for a lead role in the design and construction of the new generation boats.

At present Combet says there are no plans to resuscitate the Howard government's plan to privatise the company, a move advocated by many leading defence industry players. Any decision in that regard will await the next term of the Rudd government, beyond 2010.

On the Collins problems, which include the performance of the diesel engines and the electric motors, Combet stresses that he wants to see "continuous improvement" in ASC's performance of the maintenance contract.

"The sustainment of the Collins is a critical component of our national security. I have made it clear to the ASC board and it's an issue I will be continuing in partnership with the DMO," Combet says.

He agrees the next generation submarine will present a key technological challenge for Australia. Close support from the US government and the US Navy will be fundamental, but no consideration is being given to a nuclear-powered option.

"We don't have a nuclear industry to support that (concept) but, more importantly, the government doesn't support nuclear as an option. So there's not even been a debate."

Combet sees no reason a design competition cannot be held for the new submarine. He also gives no guarantee that ASC will be the builder. "The government's policy is that the next generation will be built in Adelaide. That's not a guarantee that ASC will do the work.

"ASC obviously has a tremendously strong position to make a bid for the build. But we are not about to announce that we are sole-sourcing to ASC. We will ascertain what other options there may be for the ship build. The modularisaion of shipbuilding means that you might have a number of players involved."

As well as focusing on immediate projects of concern, Combet's other key priority is to accelerate the reform of the DMO's commercial practices in line with the recommendations contained in the Mortimer review. The Defence Department's $20bn internal savings drive, known as the strategic reform program is also bearing down on the DMO.

"What is happening at the moment is a scoping period. You can't say there is much progress to date in terms of cost savings," says Combet pointing to the requirement for commercially oriented contract reforms.

He also wants the DMO to take responsibility for devising strategies to analyse risk when it comes to the development of new capabilities for the ADF. But there is no plan to reinstate Defence's force development and analysis division, abolished in the 1990s. "This means (Defence's) Capability Development Group focuses on the capability requirements and the DMO focuses on commercial and acquisition strategy while the Defence Science and Technology Organisation focuses on technical risk.

"Out of that process we are expecting and anticipating a better result from our procurement processes: better stress testing on risk and better stress testing of capability definition and more realistic assessments of acquisition strategy."

DMO chief Stephen Gumley says he's pleased with savings achieved in the area of equipment maintenance and sustainment during the past 12 months. DMO met its target of 5 per cent savings or about $230million in a sustainment budget worth nearly $5bn.

"I am very pleased with the co-operation from industry. We have got to do at least the same again. I am confident that provided we work with industry carefully we are going to find ways to achieve SRP savings in both the smart maintenance and the inventory areas," he says.

"It's going to require a combination of productivity in the DMO, productivity in the suppliers and in demand management from the services. These three things will make the SRP happen."

When it comes to the issue of the performance of the Collins-class submarines and ASC, Gumley, a former ASC chief executive, is blunt.

"We are concerned with the amount of availability of the boats, the cost of doing the maintenance, and some of the technical outcomes being achieved," he says.

Gumley hopes to have a new through-life support contract for the Collins in place by July next year.

There are three key performance indicators: submarine safety; improved availability; and reduced cost of ownership.

"Like any complex asset there is a series of technical challenges. We are working with ASC and external consultants to evaluate some of the challenges that we have," he says of the Collins boats.


 
 

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SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Sunday, 25 October 2009
 039/2009

MINISTER FOR DEFENCE MEETS WITH NATO DEFENCE HEADS IN SLOVAKIA

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, met with his NATO and non-NATO counterparts in Bratislava, Slovakia, on Friday to discuss the international communitys efforts in Afghanistan.

Defence Ministers from the 43 International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) nations discussed NATO?s strategic planning framework for Afghanistan for the coming year.  

Central to these discussions was Commander ISAF General Stanley McChrystals Assessment of the campaign; the need to support the ongoing growth and development of the Afghan National Security Forces; and the importance of complementing our military efforts with civil assistance and governance improvements at all levels.

Senator Faulkner said, ?This meeting provided me with an a
Senator Faulkner expressed his appreciation for the valuable leadership and enabling role played by the Dutch in Oruzgan and urged NATO to speedily resolve the issue of replacing the Dutch combat and support elements in the province following their planned withdrawal in August next year.

Following the ISAF meeting, Senator Faulkner chaired a meeting of Regional Command (South) Ministers to discuss issues of particular relevance to RC (South).  Participants included US Secretary for Defense Dr Robert Gates, UK Secretary of State for Defence, Robert Ainsworth, General McChrystal and NATO Assistant Secretary General Martin Howard.

Senator Faulkner also had separate bilateral meetings with key counterparts, including Dr Gates; Secretary Ainsworth; NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen; the Netherlands Minister for Defence, Eimert van Middelkoop; the Afghan Minister for Defence, General Abdul Rahim Wardak; the Canadian Minister of National Defence, Peter MacKay and the New Zealand Minister of Defence, Dr Wayne Mapp.  

[Keith]

Plea to end live ammo exercises
BRENDAN NICHOLSON
October 24, 2009
 
THE AGE

THE parents of a young soldier who killed himself after a fatal ''live fire'' shooting exercise, have called on the Australian Defence Force to stop using live ammunition in this form of training.

Private Nicholas Shiels fired the shot that killed his close friend Private Adrian Cave on May 26, 1992, at the army's training ground at Cultana, South Australia.

Unable to cope with the tragedy, and, in the view of specialists, clearly suffering post-traumatic stress, he killed himself in December 1996.

This week, a Sydney man, Lance Corporal Mason Edwards was shot in the head during a similar exercise.

Private Shiels' parents, former navy officer Paul Shiels and his wife Toni, yesterday called on the army to ensure the soldiers involved in the latest death got proper care and treatment.

''The recent fatality at Cultana during a 'live fire' exercise is incredibly sad,'' writes Lieutenant-Commander Shiels. ''It leaves me with a feeling of deja vu and incredulity that such close-quarter exercises are still carried out.'' He says that with all the technology available, scientists must surely be able to come up with something to create the noise and effects associated with battle without the risk of loss of life.

After the latest tragedy, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) rushed a trauma team to Lance Corporal Edwards' commando unit to help the soldiers cope.

A lot has changed since Private Cave's death. On that occasion Private Shiels was sent on another live firing exercise just two days after his friend's death.

His parents, said their son was already deeply traumatised and the second confrontation with live ammunition made matters much worse.

A top neurologist told them the accidental shooting had caused their son to develop severe depression and anxiety.

Private Shiels and Private Cave were close friends and had proudly worn paratrooper shoulder flashes as members of an elite Australian Army battalion. Private Shiels remained deeply distressed after the death and told his parents memories of it stopped him sleeping.

After this week's accident, army chief Lieutenant-General Ken Gillespie said counsellors were being sent immediately to help the men of Lance Corporal Edwards' unit.

An ADF spokeswoman said last night live fire range practices that involved the movement of troops were to prepare soldiers for combat.

For help or information visit www.beyondblue.org.au, call Suicide Helpline Victoria on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131 114.

 
 

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[Keith]

Business, defence leaders join forces over budget
Patrick Walters, National security editor | October 24, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THREE of the nation's top public servants will join senior business and defence leaders in a new advisory board to scrutinise the $27 billion defence budget.

The Rudd government hopes the Defence Strategic Advisory Board will help the Defence Department realise the crucial goal of finding $20bn worth of defence budget savings over the next 10 years.

The $20bn strategic reform program (SRP), together with a further shake-up of Defence's internal management, will be essential if the government is to fund its ambitious defence white paper released earlier this year.

Kevin Rudd and senior ministers want to see tougher external scrutiny of defence spending and management processes as the pressure mounts to cut government outlays over the next four years. The new top-level board will report quarterly to Defence Minister John Faulkner, who is charged with providing cabinet's national security committee with progress in reform of the Defence organisation.

Senator Faulkner has appointed management consultant George Pappas, who chaired this year's audit of the defence budget, to chair the new Defence Strategic Advisory Board.

He will be joined by five other leading business figures including former Brambles and Coles Myer chief John Fletcher, ex-Australia Post chairwoman and current chairman of Healthscope Linda Nicholls. Paul Rizzo, a former executive with Telstra and the Commonwealth Bank, and Australia Post and Leighton Holdings chairman David Mortimer will join the board, together with company director and former investment banker Jennifer Clark.

The private sector members will be complemented by Prime Minister and Cabinet boss, Terry Moran, Treasury secretary Ken Henry and Finance Department head David Tune, together with the three top Defence Department leaders - Chief of the Defence Force Angus Houston, secretary Ian Watt and Defence Materiel Organisation head Stephen Gumley.

Senator Faulkner wants the new board to advise the government on the implementation of the SRP as well as scrutinising the Defence Materiel Organisation's $100bn forward capital equipment program.

He told The Weekend Australian that the $20bn defence savings goal had to be met if the defence force was to acquire the range of new equipment including new combat aircraft, submarines and surface warships outlined in the new white paper.

"The government does not want to engage in quick fix. Quick fixes on this scale inevitably lead to mistakes and more costs. Everyone knows that what is needed is genuine reform."

Senator Faulkner said Defence was working on a detailed implementation plan to be completed early next year which would determine how the $20bn of planned savings would be achieved.

The SRP would also require careful external scrutiny and regular, detailed performance reporting - a role that would be performed by the new board.

"Defence governance is part of the fundamental underpinnings of the Australia's security and the government is committed to getting it right."

 
 

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Military opts for US chopper
Patrick Walters, National security editor | October 23, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

AUSTRALIA'S military chiefs favour the US over Europe in a planned $4 billion naval combat helicopter buy that is generating high-level concern among senior government ministers and local defence industry leaders.

In a classified submission sent to defence ministers John Faulkner and Greg Combet, the military chiefs have opted for the US Navy's MH-60R Seahawk as the best choice for the Royal Australian Navy's new rotary wing anti-submarine warfare platform.

The military chiefs favour an early decision on the Sikorsky MH-60R, arguing that it represents a cheaper, risk-free solution for Australia compared with its competitor, the European NH90 naval frigate helicopter.

The NH90 is a maritime version of the MRH90 now entering service with the Australian army. Its maker, European defence giant EADS, has established a strong industry presence locally with a workforce of 1000.

The clear military preference for a US solution troubles ministers, given the multi-billion-dollar investment in European combat helicopters by the Australian Defence Force in recent years.

Another concern is that selecting a new US helicopter will fly in the face of Defence's goal of reducing the types of helicopters flown by the ADF.

Senior Defence figures are querying the wisdom of a "sole source" decision in favour of the US in what will be the biggest defence purchase in the Rudd government's new defence capability plan, which details the main equipment proposals to be finalised over the next four years.

Mr Combet, the Defence Materiel Minister, said last night that the government would consider both options for the navy's new combat helicopters.

"This is an extremely important acquisition, one of the most significant in the DCP.

"The government would be concerned to approach such an acquisition after very carefully looking at the options which, at least, include both a US and a European capability."

At a media briefing yesterday Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin officials stressed their belief that the MH-60R represented the lowest possible risk as well as lowest cost solution for the RAN's naval helicopter arm.

They have also promised $1bn of investment in local industry if the deal goes through. Australian Aerospace, the local subsidiary of EADS which also supplies the army's Tiger helicopters, argues that big cost savings will be realised by a common baseline for the ADF's rotary wing, removing the need for multiple training and logistics systems.

Stung by the $1.4bn Seasprite helicopter procurement debacle, Defence chiefs want an accelerated purchase of the Sikorsky MH-60R in a foreign military sale purchase via the US Navy.

They believe there are clear advantages in buying proven American technology, including better interoperability between the two navies.

Sikorsky says it could deliver the first MH-60R to the RAN by late 2011 and points to four fleet squadrons already operating with the US Navy.

Cabinet's national security committee is expected to consider the Defence Department submission before Christmas as concerns mount in the navy about the run-down of the RAN's anti-submarine capability.

Not only did the RAN not get its now-junked Seasprite helicopters but the 16 elderly S-70B machines in service are not delivering the vital operational availability the navy needs.

The RAN wants to buy 24 helicopters that would enter operational service by 2014. They will be equipped with missiles and torpedoes, and perform both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare roles.

More help for kin of Diggers killed
Mark Dodd | October 23, 2009

Article from:  The Australian
 
FAMILIES of soldiers killed in action will receive superannuation payouts of up to $100,000 more as a result of changes announced by the Rudd government.

Backdated from July 1, the improvements to the Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme are based on age and rank and calculated to take into account changes to the compulsory retirement age for members of the Australian Defence Force, said Defence, Personnel, Materiel and Science Minister Greg Combet.

In a hypothetical case, a 30-year-old sergeant's widow with two children would stand to receive an extra $92,000 lump sum, or a total of $672,000.

If the same person opted for a lifetime pension, it would mean an extra $11,400 annually or about $400 per fortnight.

The same benefits would apply if the sergeant was so severely injured in training that he was forced to retire from the defence forces.

The changes mean the partner of Lance Corporal Mason Edwards, accidentally killed on Tuesday during a live-fire exercise in Cultana, would be a beneficiary of the more generous financial arrangements.

The announcement follows changes to military retirement regulations by the former Howard government. The compulsory retirement age for the majority of ADF personnel was raised from 55 to 60 years from July 1, 2007.

"For those eligible, this decision will result in an average increase in death or invalid payments for eligible persons of approximately 20 per cent, depending on their circumstances," Mr Combet said.

"Benefit payments paid after July 1, 2007, that may have eligibility will be reviewed as a matter of priority and, where necessary, adjustments will be made.

"Affected parties will be advised of any change in benefits as soon as the review has been completed and any increased benefit amount will be paid with interest," Mr Combet said.

News of an increase to benefits follows an outcry over the plight of Breeanna Till, the widow of Sergeant Brett Till, following reports suggesting she was struggling financially and faced having to leave her Defence home.

Additional reporting: AAP

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Acting Minister for Defence

Thursday, 22 October 2009
087/2009

IMPROVED DEATH AND INVALIDITY BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY SUPERANNUATION AND BENEFITS SCHEME

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, announced today that the Rudd Government will improve death and invalidity benefits for members of the Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS).

Mr Combet announced that the Rudd Government has decided that, backdated from 1 July 2007, benefits for death and invalidity payments will be calculated in line with recent changes to the compulsory retirement age for ADF members.

For those eligible, this decision will result in an average increase in death or invalidity payments for eligible persons of approximately 20 per cent, depending on their circumstances,? Mr Combet said.

The previous Government changed the compulsory retirement age for the majority of ADF members from age 55 to age 60 from 1 July 2007.  That change was not intended to impact on the Superannuation benefits of ADF members and no funding for any such changes was provided at that time.

The policy decision taken by the Rudd Government makes this intention clear and funds this decision.  

Benefit payments paid after 1 July 2007 that may have eligibility will be reviewed as a matter of priority and, where necessary, adjustments will be made, Mr Combet said.  

Affected parties will be advised of any change in benefits as soon as the review has been completed and any increased benefit amount will be paid with interest.

I am also pleased that increasing prospective service to calculate death or invalidity benefits for the Military Superannuation Benefits scheme results in a positive outcome for ADF members and their families, especially in their time of need, Mr Combet said.

Mr Combet said that death and invalidity benefits for members of the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits Scheme are not affected because benefits in this scheme are based on a percentage of salary and not linked to age.

[Keith]

MSPA 360/09 Thursday, 22 October 2009

A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM THE FAMILY OF LANCE CORPORAL MASON EDWARDS

Defence is releasing the following statement on behalf of the family of Lance Corporal Mason Edwards, who was tragically killed in a training accident on Tuesday:

As a beloved son, brother, uncle, and partner, Mason meant the world to us.  He was so strong, and yet the most gentle, caring, and loving man you would ever meet.  He made us laugh every time we were together and his easygoing attitude was infectious.

Our hearts ache for Mason, and there arent enough words to describe him as a person, and how we felt about him.  To Mason:  We will always remember the way you showered us all in love and affection, and we will forever miss you.  You will be in our hearts forever.

?Mason is survived by his parents Julie and Kerrin; his siblings Katie, Remie and Jared; his nephew Henry; and his beloved partner Cassie.?

Biography:

Born in Birmingham, England on the 20th of February 1979, Mason spent most of his life in Queensland.  A student of Kelvin Grove State High School, he went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Queensland, St Lucia, before enlisting in the Australian Army.

Lance Corporal (LCPL) Mason Kerrin Edwards enlisted into the Australian Army in January 2004 as one of the first members of the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme.  After recruit and initial employment training, he successfully completed the Commando Selection and Training Course and the ensuing Commando Reinforcement Training Continuum.  He was posted to the then 4th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (Commando), now the 2nd Commando Regiment on the 16th of May 2005.  During his service within the Commando Regiment, he underwent further intensive training and specialized in Special Forces Demolitions, Mortars and Direct Fire Support Weapons, and Heavy Weapons.

In August 2006 he deployed to East Timor with Alpha Commando Company.  In May 2007 he deployed on his first tour of duty in Afghanistan with the Special Forces Task Group.  He returned to Afghanistan in June 2008.

Throughout his short but extremely busy career, LCPL Edwards proved himself to be a consummate professional.  During his tours to Afghanistan he demonstrated considerable mental toughness and physical endurance whilst deployed on combat operations.  When receiving both direct and indirect fires, LCPL Edwards displayed a cool disposition and attended to his duties without hesitation.  His confident demeanour and professional approach under fire provided junior members of the section with an excellent role model on which to base their own reactions to difficult circumstances.  In recognition of his strength of character, integrity and uncompromising work ethic, he was held in the highest regard by both commanders and peers alike.

Testament to his ability, having displayed immense leadership potential whilst in combat, LCPL Edwards completed the first of his promotion courses in much the same manner that he completed all tasks assigned to him.  He was awarded Student of Merit and the Best Instructor Award, a rare feat.  He was promoted to Lance Corporal on the 14th of August, 2009.

LCPL Edwards was an extremely fit, strong and determined soldier with an affable character that endeared him to all he met.  He had the ability to converse at all levels, had a great sense of humour and impeccable timing.

An insight into his dedication, selflessness and loyalty can be no better expressed than in his own words:

I want everyone to know that I love this line of work, the unit and the guys I work alongside.  We do what we do for many reasons.  I need little more reason than this  anyone of us could have been born in this country (Afghanistan), but we are the lucky few who enjoy a lifestyle unsurpassed by anyone in the greatest country on Earth (Australia).  As a final note, I tell my family, friends and my one and only Cassie that I loved them all until the day I died.  I will stay young forever, and I will love them forever.

The 2nd Commando Regiment family mourns the passing of a fine Australian.


Note:  Masons family asks that their privacy continue to be respected.  There will be no media interviews at this time.

Images of Mason Edwards are available at www.defence.gov.au/media/download.

[Keith]

MSPA 354/09

Wednesday, 21 October 2009

SOLDIER KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED IN
TRAINING ACCIDENT

The Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie, early this morning announced that, tragically, an Australian soldier was killed and another seriously injured last night in a training accident at Cultana, South Australia.

At approximately 9:30pm (Australian Central Standard Time), Special Forces soldiers were conducting a night training activity with live ammunition.  The activity was associated with mission specific training for an upcoming Afghanistan deployment.

One soldier, from Armys 2nd Commando Regiment was seriously injured and later pronounced dead at the scene by civilian medical personnel.

Another soldier, from the Incident Response Regiment, was injured and taken to Port Augusta for treatment. His condition is serious. Both soldiers belong to Army?s Special Operations Command and their units are Sydney based.

Lieutenant General Gillespie expressed his deepest condolences to the families, friends and unit colleagues of the soldiers involved in this tragic accident.  Army and the wider Defence community is doing everything we can to assist and support them through this very difficult time,? he said.

The events of last evening will be the subject of full civil and military investigations.  The South Australian police will lead the investigation supported by the ADF Investigative Service.  It is too early to make further comment with regards to the cause of this accident.  Hopefully we can make further comment later today.

The families of the soldiers have been advised of this tragedy.  For privacy reasons, personal details of the deceased soldier and his injured colleague are not being released at this time.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999, Fax: 02 62656946

Media Releases are available via e-mail if you register at www.defence.gov.au/media

Engine problems cripple subs http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,26239359-601,00.html

EXCLUSIVE: Patrick Walters, National security editor THE navy's $6bn Collins-class submarines face serious operational restrictions after being hit by crippling mechanical problems.

COVER-UP: Army chopper short cuts http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,26239408-31477,00.html
 
 

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[Keith]

Elite servicemen were never paid promised $20,000
Mark Dodd | October 20, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

ANOTHER special forces pay dispute has erupted for the Rudd government involving an elite unit of air force forward air controllers owed $20,000 in unpaid allowances.

The salary bungle affects at least 10 members of the Royal Australian Air Force 4 Squadron, who are deployed alongside SAS and other special forces in Afghanistan to co-ordinate air strikes.

Defence confirmed last night there were problems with the payment of the Special Forces Disability Allowance, affecting less than 20 people.

"The administration of the SFDA is a complex issue. A recent review of SFDA entitlements has indicated there are some aspects of individual employment circumstances that need clarification," a spokeswoman said.

"Air force took action to suspend payment of SFDA for 4 Squadron personnel before any payments were made while the exact entitlements are confirmed.

"Air force would rather a delay in payment of allowances than an overpayment requiring members to repay money."

The crack unit was formed in July and a directive from the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, authorised upgraded allowances consistent with those being paid to special forces personnel.

But although they were told they would receive increased allowances nothing extra appeared on their pay slips.

The Australian was shown a copy of one 4 SQN pay slip which was marked $20,000 owing. Dated October 15, the pay slip indicated the money would be paid but apparently two days later that advice was rescinded.

Personnel who have completed their training are supposed to receive an extra $20,000 a year under a Tier 3 allowance which increases to $25,000 (Tier 2) on deployment.

At least 10 members of 4 SQN have not been paid and the number will increase as more troops complete their training.

The government appeared to have learnt nothing from last year's SAS pay debacle despite promising to modernise the payroll system, said opposition spokesman for defence, science and personnel, Bob Baldwin.

"We've had (former defence minister Joel) Fitzgibbon blaming computer systems, in fact blaming everybody except himself, and remember it was Fitzgibbon who stood up at the time and gave his own personal guarantee - I think it was the 20th of October (2008) and by the 20th of February nothing had been done. Well, how long is it going to take for these people to get $20,000 in back pay? I just hope this is not part of the budget cuts."

Last October, the then defence minister ordered the army to stop docking soldiers' pay following payroll problems blamed on antiquated administrative procedures and incompatible payroll computers.

Up to 49 soldiers serving with the elite Special Air Service Regiment had been forced to repay as much as $50,000 in some cases, after being told they did not have the formal trade qualifications to justify being paid the additional allowances.

The issue hurt SAS morale and marked the first big credibility blow against Mr Fitzgibbon.

While back pay is owed to at least 10 personnel, at least four soldiers have since been deployed on hazardous special forces operations without receiving the promised allowance.

The work of the RAAF personnel who operate alongside members of the Special Operations Task Group involves co-ordinating precision air strikes on suspected Taliban positions.

While 4 SQN was officially reformed in July, the back pay covers a period of between 12 and 24 months, depending on when training was completed.

Defence inquiry to probe suicide of RAAF corporal
Natasha Robinson | October 20, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

A DEFENCE force inquiry began hearings yesterday in an attempt to discover what led to the suicide of a 27-year-old aircraft technician.

Jordan Talay, a corporal and eight-year veteran of the Royal Australian Air Force, died by hanging at his home early last year, eight years after joining the force.

The father of one had a history of depression and prior to his death had been receiving psychiatric and psychological treatment, the inquiry heard.

The hearing was told Corporal Talay, who joined the RAAF in 2000, was posted at Williamtown RAAF base, near Newcastle in the NSW Hunter Valley.

He was found dead in his Raymond Terrace home on January 15, 2008. At autopsy, the cause of death was determined as hanging and there were no suspicious circumstances.

The commission of inquiry, ordered by Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, began in Sydney on Monday to determine the facts surrounding the death.

Corporal Talay left behind a wife, Suzanne, who attended the hearing on Monday, and a one-year-old son, Jed.

In his opening address, counsel assisting the inquiry, Lieutenant Colonel Craig McConaghy, said evidence would probe whether the RAAF corporal's death was directly linked to his military service.

Colonel McConaghy said the inquiry would also attempt to determine why Corporal Talay died, and whether the Australian Defence Force could take steps to prevent a similar occurrence.

The hearing was told Corporal Talay had suffered long-term depression. He received treatment mostly at the Williamtown RAAF base, the inquiry heard.

Witness David Early, a flight lieutenant, said Corporal Talay enlisted with the RAAF in January 2000 and qualified as an aircraft technician in 2003. During his service, he completed a number of courses, applied to study for a psychology degree and was promoted to corporal in 2006, Lieutenant Early said.

He also received an Australian Defence Medal.

The inquiry, before Peter Newman QC, was adjourned to October 27. About 30 witnesses are expected to give evidence, including superior officers, colleagues and doctors.

Additional reporting: AAP

 

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[Keith]

From: Bill and Margaret Krause
Sent: Friday, October 16, 2009 5:07 PM
Subject: Fw: open day


 
Royal Australian Navy

Navy Open Day Garden Island Sydney 2009

Date
Sunday 25 October 2009

Time
10:00am - 4:00pm

Where

Garden Island, Sydney

Address
Main Gate, corner of Cowper Wharf Road and Wylde Street, Potts Point, Sydney
 
 
HMAS Kuttabul

will be hosting the Sydney area Navy Open Day on Sunday 25 October from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

The following ships will be open for public tours:

Guided Missile Frigate HMAS Melbourne
Guided Missile Frigate HMAS Newcastle
Landing Platform Amphibious Class HMAS Manoora

There will be helicopter winching displays on Sydney Harbour by the Navy's Squirrel and Seahawk helicopters at 12:00 midday and 2:00pm.

The Navy Band will perform and Navy's Clearance Divers will give a demonstration.

The Navy Heritage Centre will be open, where visitors can view the conning tower of a Japanese submarine that attacked Sydney in 1942, see rock

 carvings etched by the First Fleet sailors in 1788 and spy on Sydney Harbour through an attack submarine periscope.

Getting There

Public transport is recommended for the Open Day

Bus 311 from Central Station
Circular Quay Ferries from Circular Quay Wharf 4 to Garden Island Ferry Wharf
Train to Kings Cross Station
Parking is available at the Domain and the Red Sydney and Blue Bondi Explorer Hop On Hop Off bus tour has also included Garden Island in their schedule for the day.

For more information on public transport call 131 500 or visit www.131500.com.au

Retrieved from "http://www.navy.gov.au/Navy_Open_Day_Garden_Island_Sydney_2009"
 

[Keith]

Australian and Chinese military chiefs admit to 'issues'
Mark Dodd | October 16, 2009

Article from:  The Australian
 
TOP Chinese and Australian military commanders have acknowledged "a few difficulties" in the bilateral relationship during annual talks involving the visiting head of the three-million strong People's Liberation Army.

The Chief of General Staff of the world's largest military force, General Chen Bingde, is in Canberra for high-level bilateral defence talks, part of the annual Australia-China Strategic Dialogue. At the head of a 16-strong Chinese military delegation, General Chen met his Australian equivalent, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, Defence department secretary Ian Watt and top departmental officials.

He also had a meeting with Defence Minister John Faulkner.

General Chen was briefed on Australia's new defence white paper, which raised concerns about the broad direction of China's rapid military modernisation program.

Kevin Rudd has also expressed worries about China's military expenditure, calling for greater transparency from Beijing.

Yesterday's encounter was the 12th defence dialogue held between China and Australia, and the second involving defence chiefs on either side.

Dr Watt said the dialogue was an opportunity to exchange views on emerging strategic trends and establish a new series of initiatives in education and areas of shared interest such as disaster relief and maritime security.

"I am pleased to welcome General Chen to Australia and look forward to us consolidating and building our bilateral defence relationship," Dr Watt said in a statement yesterday.

"Our discussions today have been frank and productive, and reaffirm that we both view our defence engagement as an important part of the broader bilateral relationship."

Air Chief Marshal Houston noted that the strategic dialogue enabled the senior leadership of the Australian and Chinese defence organisations to hold regular discussions on common security challenges as well as advancing bilateral defence co-operation.

"This type of dialogue is a major strategic asset for both countries. Our discussions today and those at the working level reflect a mutual commitment to addressing challenges that face our region. You only have to look to multi-lateral counter-piracy efforts off the Horn of Africa, to which both China and Australia contribute, to see the value of solid defence engagement and dialogue."

Canberra has not been alone in expressing concern about China's burgeoning military modernisation. Similar worries have been echoed in South Korea, Japan and the US.

"Both sides acknowledged a few difficulties in the bilateral relationship over the last few months, but have reflected the fact of vigour and depth in the working relationship," said one senior defence official, who asked not to be named.

Last month, the Prime Minister said he supported joint military exercises involving the Australian Defence Force and the forces of the US and China.

General Chen, a former head of China's space program, is in charge of the PLA's modernisation.

The ADF conducted joint naval exercises with PLA forces and New Zealand in 2007 and upgraded bilateral military dialogue last year.

General Chen will spend one week in Australia.

 
 

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[Keith]

Stephen Smith aims for India war game
Amanda Hodge, South Asia correspondent | October 15, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Rudd government is pushing to rebuild its defence ties with India, risking the potential ire of China by formally requesting Australia be allowed to participate in the annual India-US joint naval exercise Malabar.

Visiting Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said yesterday he had discussed the possibility of Australia rejoining the massive war games exercise during his meeting with his Indian counterpart, S.M. Krishna, this week.

He also invited India to participate in multilateral Australian Defence Force-hosted exercises Kakadu and Pitch Black.

"I said it would be a good thing if we joined that, just as we host a couple of multilateral exercises in Australia - Kakadu and Pitch Black. He said he would get back to us on that," Mr Smith told The Australian in New Delhi yesterday.

"We would like to see a memorandum of understanding to institutionalise the defence contact we have."

Mr Smith said that while Australia enjoyed a good defence, security and counter-terrorism relationship with India, the Rudd government was keen to enhance that. The Royal Australian Navy did send several frigates to the Malabar 2007 exercises, which that year also involved Singapore and Japan.

But analysts say the Australian government was concerned its participation in an exercise obviously intended by the US to be a foil to China's strategic military might could offend one of our largest trading partners.

The push to rejoin the Malabar exercises comes in the wake of the Rudd government's controversial defence white paper, which called for a build-up of naval capacity and appeared to suggest Australian defence strategy in coming decades would be shaped by China's military expansion.

Australian Strategic Policy Institute defence analyst Raspal Khosa said while rejoining Malabar was a sensitive issue, "we also want to develop and expand our military relationship with the Indians".

However "the sticking point from the Indian perspective will be uranium".

"They look to us to provide them with commodities and energy and uranium is really at the front of their minds when they do engage with Australia," Mr Khosa said.

"They want an assured supply and they will use that certainly as leverage on things like allowing us to participate in the Malabar exercise."

Australia's defence relationship with India suffered after India's 1998 nuclear weapons tests, which drew loud criticism from the Howard government.

Australia withdrew its defence attaches from both Pakistan and India.

The relationship was also damaged by an incident in the Indian Ocean in which an Australian Orion aircraft in 1997 buzzed INS Delhi, the pride of India's naval fleet, as it headed into Southeast Asian waters.


The push to mend defence fences with India comes as the federal government also attempts to repair damage to the Indian-Australian relationship caused by a series of attacks on Indian students in Australia.

Mr Smith said yesterday that while the attacks had not hurt the bilateral relationship, Australia's reputation had been damaged among sections of the Indian public and the government was looking at ways to repair that damage.

Australia had neglected its relationship with India in the past, treating it as a "Twenty20 game, not a Test match", but it could no longer afford to be complacent.

"There have been bursts of enthusiasm when what has been required is ongoing engagement, persistence and perseverance," Mr Smith said.

"The Prime Minister and I have said repeatedly that we see this very much as the century where economic and political and strategic influences are moving to the Asia-Pacific.

"Everyone sees the rise of China but not enough people have seen the rise of India", which was about to take a role of global prominence.

 
 

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Tuesday, 13 October 2009
 085/2009

UPDATE ON AIR WARFARE DESTROYER PROJECT

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, announced today that Australia?s $8 billion Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) project was progressing well and would commence hull construction in the next few months.

During a visit to Adelaide to inspect the progress of the project, Mr Combet said that work had now begun on fabricating what is known as a pilot block at ASCs shipyard in Adelaide. This followed the successful testing of the steel plate cutting capabilities of the South Australian company Ferrocut.

The AWDs are being constructed using the block method, with 30 per cent of the blocks being made at ASC in Adelaide and 70 per cent at BAE Systems in Victoria and at Forgacs in NSW.

Similar fabrication of blocks will commence in November at BAEs facilities in Williamstown, Victoria and December at the Forgac?s facilities in Newcastle, NSW.

Successful completion of pilot blocks is a key step in the move to full-scale production of the three AWDs and demonstrates that the project is successfully moving from the design to construction phase, Mr Combet said.  

Mr Combet also said today Australian companies were continuing to demonstrate their ability to win work on the AWD project.

The AWD Alliance has recently signed six contracts worth approximately $18 million with Australian companies for the supply of a wide range of services and equipment for the three Air Warfare Destroyers.

?Scientific Management Associates has won a contract initially worth $13 million to supply a range of integrated logistic support services to the project. This is crucial work which will ensure the highly sophisticated AWDs are well supported to meet the Navys operational requirements.

Mr Combet said five South Australian companies had also recently won work on the AWD project.

Ottoway Engineering, based in Adelaide, has won a contract potentially worth up to $3.7 million and United Fasteners, Priority Engineering Services, Century Products and Whyalla Fabrications have also won work on the AWD project to provide a range of materials and services, he said.

The AWD Alliance has also signed a $12 million contract with Eurotorp for the provision of the torpedo launch system for the three ships.

The AWD Alliance is made up of the DMO, ASC as the shipbuilder and Raytheon Australia as the Combat System Systems Engineer. The first ship is scheduled for delivery in 2014.
 

[Keith]

Tuesday, 13 October 2009
084/2009

DSTO HELPS DELIVER ENHANCED SATELLITE CAPABILTY

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) has helped deliver enhanced capability and extra capacity for Australias satellite defence communications system, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet said today.

Mr Combet was briefed on the new military satellite communications capability (MILSATCOM) during a visit to DSTOs Edinburgh laboratories in South Australia.  

DTSO plays an essential role within our capability acquisition process. This includes providing expert advice on the scientific and technical risks and aspects of projects, said Mr Combet.

For this project, the United States was seeking to jointly acquire with the ADF an additional satellite in the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) constellation. The scientific support provided by DSTO in acquiring this capability helped inform the ADFs participation in this project.

The DSTO study, conducted as part of the acquisition process, was pivotal in adding scientific rigour to ADF negotiations for the acquisition of this new capability.

The DSTO Study helped us achieve an ability to scale up our bandwidth requirements in coming years, an extra two years of capability life and extra satellite capacity. All of these improvements have also meant that there is potential for Defence to make significant savings.

The new satellite capability will have benefits for the ADF for the next twenty to thirty years with access to the WGS network.

DSTOs involvement in the acquisition of this satellite capability demonstrates the invaluable work they do in ensuring that the ADF receives the very best capability, at the best price and lowest risk, Mr Combet said.

Mr Combet also received briefings on a range of other DSTO research programs supporting the ADF, including future submarine technologies.

[Keith]

Boer War remembered 110 years on
ABC NEWS
 
 
110th anniversary: Men from the 2nd South Australian (Mounted Rifles) Contingent, who fought in the Boer War. Third from left is Trooper Harry 'The Breaker' Morant (Australian War Memorial)

Today marks the 110th anniversary of the start of the Boer War in South Africa.

About 16,000 Australians fought in the war and over 600 of them were killed - Australia's third largest loss in conflict.

Australian War Memorial historian Peter Burness says people tend to overlook the point that more Australians were killed in the Boer War than in the conflict in Vietnam.

"The Boer has probably been lost in the midst of history but it was a very important war, it was a large war, and one in which Australia was heavily involved," he said.

"The troops we sent there were mainly mounted men, a lot of them from the country districts - they usually fought on horseback over long distances, almost riding those poor horses to death, and fighting a very nasty guerrilla war.

"We lost more killed in the Boer War in the period of two-and-a-half years than we did in 10 years in Vietnam."

Half of those deaths were in battle, the rest due to accidents and disease.

 
 

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[Keith]

MSPA 333/09 Friday, 09 October 2009

HMAS BALLARAT WELCOMED HOME FROM SIX MONTH INTERNATIONAL DEPLOYMENT - NORTHERN TRIDENT 09

Senator Michael Forshaw, Senator for New South Wales, representing both the Prime Minister, the Hon. Kevin Rudd MP, and the Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today joined family and friends to welcome home the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Ballarat to her home port of Garden Island, Sydney, following a six-month international deployment that took her ships company to 15 ports across the globe.

Senator Forshaw congratulated the crew of HMAS Ballarat on a successful deployment which saw the ship undertake a range of tasks in support of Australias diplomatic, international security and defence industry interests in Western Europe, North America and North Asia.

The Northern Trident 09 deployment has provided the crews of HMA Ships Ballarat and Sydney with extensive training and professional development while the ships provided an excellent platform to promote Australian products and export trade internationally,? Senator Forshaw said.

In the final leg of the deployment, Ballarat visited Japan and participated in exercises with Japans Maritime Self Defence Force while Sydney went directly to her home port of Sydney.

?These exercises are a strong reflection of the maturing defence relationship between Australia and Japan,? Senator Forshaw said.

The Commanding Officer of Ballarat, Commander Kevin Turner, praised the dedication and professionalism of the ships company and described the sixmonth world deployment as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  

While there was a lot of hard work involved with benchmarking our skills against foreign navies, there were also some amazing highlights such as sailing past the Statue of Liberty and berthing in the middle of the New York,

Another memorable moment for Ballarat?s crew was deterring pirate attacks upon merchant vessels while transiting the Gulf of Aden, a testament to the training and capability of all of Ballarat?s Officers and Sailors. Commander Turner said.

[Keith]

TEAM UZUNOV

 
http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/2009/10/army-barracks-vandalised.html

Thursday, October 08, 2009
ARMY BARRACKS VANDALISED

 Victoria Barracks, Melbourne, vandalised with anti-Afghan War slogans.
 Photos copyright Sasha Uzunov 2009.


TEAM UZUNOV EXCLUSIVE


PROTESTORS VANDALISE VICTORIA BARRACKS, ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA.


Photos taken Thursday, 8 October 2009 at 4pm.


In eerie overtones of the controversial Vietnam War (1962-72) where opponents targeted war memorials and military installations, anti-Afghan War graffiti was daubed all over the front wall of the historic Victoria Army Barracks in the heart of Melbourne, Australia


The slogans in white paint read: WHITE WASH, 8 YEARS TO(O) LONG, TROOPS OUT.


A small protest was held outside the gates of Victoria Barracks with no more than 5 or so people.


Victorian State Police were seen confiscating blue buckets with white paint. It is not known if any arrests were made or who had vandalised the historic bluestone walls of Victoria Barracks, which contains no combat troops.


Three protestors, two dressed in white jump suits and a beared gentleman held a media conference at the front gate. The bearded man said that "Afghan was becoming another Vietnam."


PHOTOS COPYRIGHT SASHA UZUNOV 2009.

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Tuesday 6 October 2009


COMBET VISITS US SUBMARINE INDUSTRY

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today finalised discussions with US industry on Australias Future Submarine project that will replace the Collins class submarines.

The United States is a leader in the design and development of submarine technology, and I expect that Australia will look to learn from companies like General Dynamics Electric Boat and Lockheed Martin in designing and developing the Collins class replacement, Mr Combet said.

The Future Submarine will be Australias largest ever Defence acquisition and the Rudd Government is committed to ensuring that Australia obtains a world leading submarine capability. US technology is likely to be an important facilitator of this capability.

Electric Boat designs and shares the build of the Virginia class submarines for the US Navy and has been instrumental in driving down production costs to enable the US to increase the production rate of these submarines.

Lockheed Martin is a major supplier in the US Navy submarine combat system, the Collins Replacement Combat System supplies submarine combat systems or components to Spain and the United Kingdom.

I welcome the interest from US industry in supporting the Future Submarine project.

Any US involvement in the Future Submarine would build on the relationships developed with Electric Boat and other US companies in support of the Collins class.

Mr Combet also discussed the ongoing arrangements between ASC and Electric Boat in support of the Collins class.

[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Sunken Navy ship will create diving wonderland
 
Scuttled today: HMAS Canberra with decommissioning pennant flying (Defence)

Map: Ocean Grove 3226 http://www.abc.net.au/news/maps/map.htm?lat=-38.2686&long=144.5252&caption=Ocean Grove 3226
 
Today's scuttling of former HMAS Canberra, off Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula, is expected to create a unique diving experience and a wonderland for fish.

The ship is due to be sunk off Ocean Grove about 11:00am (AEDT) with a lot of its equipment in place.

Victorian Artificial Reef Society president John Lawler says an artificial reef will form quickly once the Canberra settles, attracting divers from around the world.

"Almost within days, fish come to investigate and decide to live and breed there and it's nothing to see shoals of pike and whiting, and the snapper will come by," he said.

"All sorts of cold water fish will come to live and grow and breed in the Canberra, and it's just a great marine wonderland for fish."

Mr Lawler says 17 devices will be used to sink the ship.

"When they're detonated they cut through the hull of the ship, through the four inch steel, and because they're below the waterline, the water then forces these big cutting holes in, and thousands upon thousands of litres of water pour into the vessel," he said.

"Probably within about four minutes, she's at rest at the bottom of the ocean in 30 metres of water."

He says the fact that a lot of equipment is being left on the ship will make it more attractive.

"The safe equipment and the clean equipment is all left there, and that just makes it so exciting for divers to go down and say look at all those holes where the screen were, and parts of the engine are still there," he said.

"It's an amazing amount of stuff to see for divers that weren't on other wrecks."

 
 

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[Keith]

Diggers join with Jakarta on Sumatra relief
 
Patrick Walters | October 03, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Australian Defence Force has mounted a major relief operation to West Sumatra in the wake of Wednesday's devastating earthquake, establishing a joint taskforce to work alongside Indonesian government officials on the rescue effort.

Dozens of Australian defence personnel were due to arrive in Padang early today as two RAAF transport aircraft flew medical, engineering and urban search specialists to Sumatra.

A C-130 Hercules flew from Darwin via Jakarta carrying supplies as well as a 10-man army engineer reconnaissance team and air force health assessment personnel.

The Hercules was followed by a C-17 Globemaster from Amberley airbase, carrying a 36-strong civilian volunteer search and rescue team from Brisbane, together with about 50 defence medical specialists, including a surgical team with rescue equipment and medical supplies.

Defence chief Angus Houston said yesterday the ADF-led operation would work at the direction of the Indonesian government. The amphibious ship HMAS Kanimbla is expected to sail for Indonesia later, loaded with heavy lifting equipment as well as a Sea King helicopter capable of delivering aid to more remote areas.

The Kanimbla, which has a fully equipped hospital on board, will pick up additional supplies in Darwin and is expected off the coast of Sumatra within 10 days.

The Kanimbla played a prominent role in helping Indonesia cope with the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and its aftermath, including the subsequent earthquake that hit the island of Nias. In that operation, one of the ship's two Sea King helicopters crashed on the island, killing nine Australian defence personnel.

Operation Padang Assist will involve not just the ADF but Australian civil agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and AusAid, as part of the joint taskforce that will work alongside rescue teams from around the world.

With the Padang earthquake coming directly after the Samoan tsunami, the defence force's disaster relief assets are being fully tested, with the main focus now switching to Indonesia.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the ADF was well placed to handle simultaneous operations in Indonesia and the South Pacific. The defence chief said Australia was seeking to work closely with New Zealand, French and US colleagues to co-ordinate the most effective response in Samoa and Tonga.

The RAAF has flown three relief missions to Apia, carrying medical teams as well as supplies, with two C-130 Hercules being diverted from a defence exercise in New Zealand.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the ADF was also helping to carry out relief operations in Tonga, which was badly hit by the tsunami.

The defence chief said disaster relief was now part of core business for the ADF.

"I consider the ADF's ability to rapidly deploy personnel and equipment to aid disaster-struck nations as one of our defining features," Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

"Over the past few years we have done an awful lot of this.

"It is absolutely tragic that we should have two of these situations concurrently.

"This is part of the business of the defence force.

"We are obviously first-responders. We are not there to do the long-term reconstruction.

"There are other civilian agencies that are very well equipped to do that sort of work."

 
 

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[Keith]

Local defence contractor unveils new protection from IEDs
 
Christian Kerr | October 01, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

DEFENCE contractor Thales believes it has the solution to the changing nature of land-based warfare -- embodied by improvised explosive devices -- that has inflicted so many casualties on convoys of allied troops in Afghanistan.

It is an Australian designed and developed armoured vehicle able to carry six troops at more than 110km/h with a range of about 1000km, unveiled in Canberra.

Thales calls it the Hawkei, after the largest Australian snake in the death adder family.

"The Hawkei offers the ADF an Australian solution specifically tailored to unique Australian needs," Thales Australia managing director Chris Jenkins said.

But Thales hopes the Hawkei will appeal to Australia's allies around the world, including the Dutch, the British and the US marines.

Thales has already enjoyed significant success with its 15-tonne Bushmaster armoured vehicle, manufactured in Bendigo and used by Australian and Dutch troops in Afghanistan.

The seven-tonne Hawkei can be carried beneath a CH47 Chinook helicopter.

Thales says it offers unparalleled levels of protection, survivability, mobility and payload, plus all the extras an environmentally friendly military needs, like an ability to be fitted with a hybrid drive. But it also comes with adaptable armour that can be easily removed for air transportation and then refitted by a two-person crew in less than 30 minutes without using specialised equipment.

The design means the Hawkei can be reconfigured and and upgraded for specific missions.

And its modular construction allows for easy upgrades that Thales says will lower maintenance costs while allowing the vehicles to operate for up to 30 years.

Mr Jenkins says that scarcely a week passes without a report of attacks on Australian troops in Afghanistan from IEDs, mines or small arms -- or all three.

Thales is offering the vehicle to the ADF under a project to replace about 1300 Land Rovers with far more advanced vehicles that offer higher performance and protection.

But the company hopes other armies will see the Hawkei's potential to protect their troops.

"There are over 50,000 Land Rover-types vehicles unprotected or struggling to be protected around the world," Mr Jenkins said.

"The tragic outcomes for coalition forces when attacks have been made on inadequately protected vehicles have been all too clear and unfortunately, too frequent reminders of this need for greater protection."

 
 

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[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 30 September 2009

073/2009

EXPANSION OF THE ADF FAMILY HEALTH TRIAL

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, said about one quarter of Defence dependants were now eligible to register for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Family Health Trial.  

Mr Combet said that the expansion of the ADF Family Health Trial will see approximately 13,300 additional Defence dependants able to register for free basic healthcare.

Stage 2 of the trial includes Defence families residing in Townsville and Tully in Queensland, Puckapunyal in Victoria, Darwin, Nhulunbuy and Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, and Broome and Kununurra in Western Australia, Mr Combet said.  

Under the trial, dependants visiting these doctors will be bulk billed for eligible medical treatments such as general practice consultations, diabetes, asthma and mental health care, health assessments and both cervical smear testing and obstetric care to name a few.  

Doctors have been very supportive across the Stage 2 regions with just under 100 registered to date.

Under the Governments ADF Family Health Care trial, registered dependants are also able to claim $300 each calendar year for all non-cosmetic dental treatment.

With a large number of dental practices now utilising electronic claims processing, the ADF Family Health Card will enable most claims to be completed at the time of service, reducing the amount of out-of-pocket expenses.

Dentists are not required to register for the trial, and the benefits associated with the trial can be accessed at any dentist in Australia.

The ADF Family Health Trial is one way we can support Defence families as they support our Defence men and women, Mr Combet said.  

More information is available from www.defence.gov.au/health/

[Keith]

THE HON. DR MIKE KELLY MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support

Tuesday, 29 September 2009 064/2008

DEFENCE UXO INFORMATION AND ADVICE VIA THE INTERNET

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, today announced enhancements to the Defence Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) information and advice internet site at: www.defence.gov.au/uxo.

The enhancements to the UXO website are designed to provide a one-stop shop for those members of the public wanting information or advice on UXO in Australia, Dr Kelly said.

UXO is explosive ordnance (ammunition) which has malfunctioned and is potentially dangerous.

UXO is never too old to be dangerous, as such any item found that is suspected of being a UXO must not be disturbed; simply leave it alone and report it to local police who will arrange for Defence experts to attend and deal with it.  This is a free service provided by Defence, Dr Kelly said.

Public safety is of paramount importance to Defence and all reasonable measures are taken to prevent unauthorised access to land which Defence controls and which it knows or suspects to be contaminated with UXO.

Where UXO is found on land that the Australian Government has never owned or no longer owns, Defence undertakes consultation with the appropriate controlling authority regarding remediation.

Defence provides advice to land management authorities and landowners on the management of UXO sites and makes available specialist Defence personnel to render safe any items of UXO as they are discovered and notified to Defence.

Defence conducts an ongoing public information campaign, including the annual distribution of over 380,000 notices directed at the public, and in particular, child safety.

[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2009 9:41 AM
Subject: RAAF base secure


article: THE GIPPSLAND TIMES
http://sale.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/raaf-base-secure/1634972.aspx?storypage=0


RAAF base secure
JESSICA BENNETT
29/09/2009 4:00:00 AM


SPECULATION RAAF Base East Sale could close to save the Defence Department millions of dollars has been rejected by local leaders.
The claims come after the recent release of the Defence Budget Audit, which claimed closing and consolidating defence estates into `super bases' would improve efficiency and save money.

Last week metropolitan media outlets reported RAAF Base East Sale was one of three defence bases at the top of the list for closure if the government was to rationalise facilities.

However Wellington Shire mayor Darren McCubbin has rejected the speculation, claiming East Sale was part of the future of Australia's defence needs.

Cr McCubbin said the recent relocation of the Officer Training School to East Sale and the push for the Basic Flying Training School to also relocate showed East Sale was more likely to be targeted as a possible super base, rather than for closure.

"Council supports the concept of super bases,'' he said.

"That's one of the reasons why the OTS was relocated to Sale and why we're trying to establish the Basic Flying Training School here.

"Rather than East Sale being on the government's `hit list', I think it's quite the reverse.

"Sale could possibly be targeted as a super base over the next few years.''

The audit also suggested defence should attempt to locate possible super bases in areas that provided better employment, medical and educational opportunities for defence families.

However Cr McCubbin said Sale was well-equipped to accommodate expanding defence facilities.

"Sale is an area that has been supportive of the RAAF for many years,'' he said.

"We certainly need to continue building residential developments for defence housing and continue investing in cultural and sporting facilities to keep East Sale an attractive option.

"We're not taking (the base) for granted, we've been working hard to put this on the board ... to make East Sale a hub for defence training.''

Gippsland MHR Darren Chester has also rejected the possibility of East Sale closing.


"I think this idea has come as part of a general and inevitable discussion of defence rationalising its facilities,'' Mr Chester said.

"East Sale is fundamental to the future of our community as well as Australia's defence needs, and I'm confident it will continue on into the future.''

Mr Chester said if the base was to close, it would have a disastrous effect on Sale and surrounds.

"There would be riots on the streets of Sale if East Sale was closed,'' he said.

"We need to be continually providing improved health and education services to be an attractive option for a range of services, and defence is no different.''

Mr Chester agreed major investment at East Sale in recent years, including the OTS, was "a good indication of where Defence sees its opportunities in the future''.

"The future holds the prospect of major expansion at East Sale, rather than closure,'' he said.

"But we need to keep promoting its competitive advantages.

"It's well recognised in defence circles that East Sale offers attractive options (for the BFTS), in terms of airspace available and opportunities to expand infrastructure on the ground. I don't accept that there's any likelihood the base will close.''

******************

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Tuesday, 29 September 2009 071/2009

COMBET REVIEWS PROGRESS OF JSF

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today visited Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, to view progress on the US-led Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Program.

Mr Combet toured the JSF production line and discussed the JSF?s progress with senior Lockheed Martin officials.

The visit has reinforced my confidence that the JSF is the right aircraft to meet Australias future air combat needs and represents value for money for the Australian taxpayer, Mr Combet said.

In the 15 months since my last visit to the US to review progress on the JSF, it is clear that the US Government continues to provide strong support for the Program and Lockheed Martin continues to make good technical progress.

As a large and complex project many challenges remain, but what I?ve seen today convinces me that Lockheed Martin and its industry partners including Australian companies are up to dealing with those challenges.

While the 2009 Defence White Paper confirmed that Australia will acquire around 100 JSFs, Mr Combet reiterated that the Government will not formally commit to buying JSF until it has confidence that the JSF Program is meeting cost, schedule and capability goals.

The JSF acquisition will be the largest single defence acquisition in Australias history to-date.  The final timing of Australias JSF acquisition and the delivery schedule will be decided by the Government in late 2009, Mr Combet said.

In his discussions at Lockheed Martin, Mr Combet reiterated that confidence in securing a good outcome for Australian industry in both JSF production and sustainment is also a key consideration for the Government in its final decision.

With the JSF Program now ramping up to production rates, larger opportunities are opening up in the JSFs production and subsequent sustainment phases over the life of the JSF Program, Mr Combet said.

Several major opportunities are currently being negotiated with Australian companies and I encouraged Lockheed Martin to continue working closely with the companies involved to ensure the work comes to Australia.

[Keith]

Forgotten war widow broke
Nick Leys
From: Herald Sun
September 27, 2009

JUST six months after her husband was killed in Afghanistan, Breeanna Till is broke -- let down by the government which promised solemnly to look after her.

Heavily pregnant with the child Sgt Brett Till will never know, the Sydney widow fears becoming a "single mum on the dole" when she gives birth in a few weeks.

The $905-a-week pay packet her husband earned lasted just two weeks after he died in a roadside bomb explosion.

In its place, the military gave Mrs Till a compensation payment of $305 a week.

Sgt Till, 31, was a highly respected Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician from the Incident Response Regiment stationed at Sydney's Holsworthy Barracks.

On March 19 he was with a group of soldiers conducting "route clearance" work in southern Afghanistan.

An improvised explosive device was located and in the course of disposing of the bomb, it exploded and killed him instantly.


Mrs Till, who looks after Sgt Till's two children from a previous marriage, Jacob, 10 and Taleah, 7, has made ends meet with part-time work, but will soon have to give that up because of the baby.

Last Thursday she broke down in tears as she told a Department of Veterans Affairs review panel of her plight at a public meeting in western Sydney.

She said most Australians would be outraged to learn how little financial support was afforded the families of servicemen killed fighting for the country.

In a week which saw politicians and heads of government agencies awarded a pay rise, Mrs Till revealed she was receiving the same amount of financial support as a single mother on welfare payments.

"What the DVA are offering the family of a man who died in the service of his country is the same as if I was on the dole as a single mum. It's disappointing," she said.

"The public opinion is if a guy is killed overseas, his family will be looked after.

"Obviously I have had to deal with Brett's death itself.

"But when he died, we got the rest of the fortnight's pay, one extra fortnight's payment, then it stopped."

The Department of Veterans Affairs had also given her a choice of whether to receive a pension or a lump sum.

"It's like having to choose whether to house the family or feed them," she said.

"The lump sum won't pay for a house, the pension won't pay the rent and bills."

The Rudd Government is reviewing the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act after a series of complaints by former servicemen.

Mrs Till's treatment flies in the face of the solemn public promises and expressions of sympathy made by officials immediately after her husband's death. Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston described Sgt Till as "highly skilled and very courageous".

Mrs Till spoke of conversations with other serving members of her husband's regiment about their expectations of compensation should they get killed or injured on the frontline.

"The boys say before they go overseas they want to do their service but also set up their families," she said.

"They are under the impression that if something happens to them, their families will be supported.

"But when I've spoken to other guys in Brett's troop, there is a difference to what they think they are entitled to against what happens."

**********************
Defence's shameful legacy
From: The Sunday Telegraph
September 26, 2009 
 
WIDOWS of federal parliamentarians get lifetime pensions and free air travel. Politicians have just taken a 3 per cent pay rise. The Government has splashed $95 billion this year on stimulating the economy with $900 cheques for almost all, new gyms for private schools and rebates for pink-batt insulation and solar panels.

But Breeanna Till, the pregnant widow of an Australian soldier killed on duty in Afghanistan, is struggling to survive on $305 a week - the paltry pension offered by the Australian Defence Force to "compensate" Mrs Till for the death of her brave, beloved husband.

The front page of our newspaper today should make Kevin Rudd and his government embarrassed and ashamed.

So, too, the previous Howard government, which first committed us to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

But it is Mr Rudd now who is ultimately responsible for the neglect of Mrs Till - a situation which rips aside the pious solemnity with which Mr Rudd has made statements of eternal gratitude to the men killed in this war.

His fine words, delivered with all the gravitas that the PM can muster and echoed by Defence chief Angus Houston and then-minister Joel Fitzgibbon, have been exposed as nothing but hypocrisy and disingenuousness.

Air Chief Marshal Houston even offered a personal guarantee to Mrs Till that he would ensure her family was looked after. He has failed completely.

Sergeant Brett Till, an ordinance disposal expert, was killed instantly in Afghanistan in March this year as he tried to dismantle a roadside bomb that threatened the safety of his comrades and Afghan civilians.

Sgt Till did not get the chance to send a last message to his wife, children and unborn baby. He had no opportunity to rewrite his will or contact the pay office to ensure his financial affairs were settled. He didn't even have a moment to say goodbye to his mates; he just walked into an extraordinarily dangerous situation and calmly did his duty - duty which killed him on the spot.

We don't know what Sgt Till's last thoughts were; but, as a member of the Australian Defence Force, one of the world's most modern and well-funded military operations, he could have confidently assumed that at least one thing was certain: if he died on duty, his family would be looked after.

He was wrong.

Mrs Till, who is seven months' pregnant with her late husband's baby and the full-time carer of his two older children, is trying to get by on barely one-third of the $905 weekly salary that Sgt Till was bringing home. She must use that money to pay for food, clothing, transport, education and all the other necessities of life.

From March, when her Defence-provided housing arrangement ends, Mrs Till will also have to pay market rent. Shockingly, she is also still waiting for Defence to reimburse her for "specialist equipment" that Sgt Till had to buy, before deploying - extra tools he needed, just to do his job.

But Mrs Till is not complaining nor making a deliberate fuss. She raised her concerns at a public meeting held by the Department of Veterans' Affairs, which is reviewing military rehabilitation and compensation arrangements.

Indeed, Mrs Till has avoided seeking media attention for her case because she wants the issue of bereavement care to be sorted out for all widows - not just her.

She wants to go through the official channels to have this problem sorted, rather than getting a quick-fix from an embarrassed minister or Defence chief.

But, if Mr Rudd has a shred of integrity, he will be deeply embarrassed at this situation and he will fix it, now - not just for Mrs Till, but for all the families of Australian servicemen and women.
 

No Australian taxpayer would begrudge any payment to these families, who have given so much for the rest of us. We owe them respect, gratitude and the dignity of financial security.

 
 

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83 Diggers 83 injured in Afghanistan became invisible
 
INSIDE STORY: Paul Toohey | September 26, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

IN hospitals around Australia, soldiers who have been seriously wounded in Afghanistan are checked in under false names in order to protect them from the public eye.

One Afghanistan veteran, in his early 20s, is in a private hospital in NSW. He has lost both his legs. The doctors and nurses treating him are sworn to secrecy. Were someone to ring the hospital's reception, asking for him by his real name, he would not exist.

As far as the public knows, his terrible injuries never happened. There was no media release from the Defence Department giving even cursory details of this man's suffering. While the dead - there have been 11 Australians killed in Afghanistan - are seen coming home in coffins, in tragic airfield ramp ceremonies, discussion about the badly wounded, who come home in secret, is off limits.

Silence is now official policy. Defence told The Weekend Australian: "In order to protect the privacy of wounded personnel and to aid convalescence, Defence does not publicly release details of the repatriation of wounded personnel. Tragically, some of these have been seriously wounded. However, the figures also include those with minor wounds who recover quickly and continue to serve in theatre."

Australia knows almost nothing about its wounded soldiers. Defence revealed, in response to questions from The Weekend Australian, that 83 soldiers had suffered various forms of wounds in Afghanistan since late 2005, when Australians re-engaged in the war. It says the soldiers have a range of damage, from severe bruising, concussion and fractures, to gunshot and shrapnel wounds and significant blast trauma. Any further breakdown of those figures is not available.

statistic in a Defence media release. Or he may not. Since late 2005, Defence has issued 22 media releases relating to only 52 of the 83 wounded ADF personnel.
Veterans, old and young, believe Australia is not even getting half the picture of what's happening to ADF personnel in the deteriorating Afghanistan war.

They fear for the long-term mental cost on soldiers who are asked to fight a hidden war. They worry the public has little understanding of what they're going through, and have little appreciation of the soldiers' sacrifice.

Although Defence seems willing, in some cases, to disclose that unnamed soldiers have been wounded by improvised explosive devices, or roadside bombs, they close ranks at any mention of soldiers being shot in battle. Unless, that is, they are forced to discuss it.

When nine members of the Special Operations Task Group were hit by heavy rocket and machinegun fire in an attack on the Taliban in September last year, Defence had no intention of releasing any details about the battle after the casualties were brought in.

In a briefing two months later, special operations commander Major General Tim McOwan complained that news of the battle "was leaked and found its way into the Australian media".

Because of the leak, Defence was forced to confirm the incident, in which Trooper Mark Donaldson became the first Australian to win a Victoria Cross in 40 years. McOwan said the Taliban exploited the news on local radio stations the same day.

"In essence," he said, "an information release by us afforded them a propaganda opportunity."

It appears, however, that some serving troops in Afghanistan felt their fellow Australians deserved to know that members of the SOTG - made up of SAS, the 4th Battalion, and commandos - had just faced the bloodiest combat seen by Diggers since Vietnam. That is why they "leaked" it. For many soldiers, the age-old war veteran mindset of keeping your war stories bottled up means many recently returned vets do not feel comfortable discussing their recovery, even if Defence were to give them the all-clear to do so.

But the blackout on information may also mean wounded soldiers receive no acknowledgement in society.

Australian Special Air Service Association national president Dave Lewis says: "I'm sure Australia has no idea how some of these guys have suffered the most horrendous injuries. I know one who was shot six times in the chest and stomach and no one has a clue about him. That's a bit sad, for me.

"I'd like to see some of their stories told. Some of them have very serious stories to tell. In 15 years' time, no one will be interested."

It would be ghoulish and unwarranted to demand that wounded soldiers display their wounds. It is up to the soldier to decide whether or not to discuss the worst moment of his life.

Lewis says wounded Afghanistan vets don't want to talk. "They're all cranky and they claim they haven't been treated well," he says. "Their expectations were that if they were shot, then people (within Defence) would fall over backwards to help them. It hasn't come to reality.

"I've tried to persuade them to talk, tell them that people need to know, but it's their choice. They think they'll be punished, that their entitlements will be affected. If it was an injured footballer, he'd be in the news for the next six months."

The personal silence is understandable. But is the official silence from Defence on our wounded soldiers, whose injuries will most likely be accompanied by degrees of psychological injury, based on what is best for the soldier? Or what is best for the morale of the Australian public?

Simon Lee, a Darwin barrister who has worked as a military legal officer and represented returned soldiers in compensation claims, says Defence is motivated by two factors.

"I suppose both the Rudd and Howard governments don't want to unnecessarily scare the Australian public," Lee says. "When it comes to wounded and injured soldiers, they want to both protect their privacy and not alarm people."

Another barrister with close military connections says: "The casualties are very serious. They're amputees and things like that. With any war we're in, public support is very important."

The US military routinely issues statements about soldiers wounded in service, detailing the nature of the wounds inflicted. Recently returned vets appear proud to display themselves on sites such as Canines for Combat Veterans, in which dogs are provided to maimed or blinded vets to assist them.

US veterans have little fear in speaking out about healthcare issues or offering their views on the war itself.

Only one wounded Australian soldier from Afghanistan has been officially paraded before the public. That was Sergeant Michael Lyddiard, who lost an eye and an arm while trying to defuse an IED in 2007. He spoke publicly, earlier this year, after being nominated for a medal.

Lyddiard was clearly an unembittered man, someone Defence could trust to say the right things. He spoke warmly of his 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment as a "second family" which had helped him find a positive outlook on life, and of the importance of the ADF's work in Afghanistan.

Peter Cosgrove, the former chief of the defence force, says that when his son Philip was slightly wounded by a car bomb in Baghdad in 2005, he didn't want to see his son's name flashed around.

"The only reaction that I had in particular was I didn't want him to be known to be there (in Iraq) because I thought that would put pressure on him, and his colleagues," Cosgrove says. "And I was quite anxious that wasn't to happen."

Cosgrove says that during his time as chief of the defence force there was no policy "one way or the other about access by the media to wounded servicemen or women".

"I don't see any problem in talking about the wounded," he says. "I mean, I guess there's a family consideration and a privacy consideration. If the wounded soldiers and their families want to be in the public eye for any reason, I wouldn't have thought there would be any difficulty with that."

This year, there is a difficulty. The chief of the defence force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, declined to be interviewed for this story.

But Defence told The Weekend Australian: "The ADF publicly reports incidents in which personnel are wounded as a result of enemy action. However, the timing may be delayed if reporting of the incident has the potential to compromise ongoing operations."

It would appear the delayed reporting on the wounded may run into months, or even years.

Clearly, the question of identifying wounded soldiers is a nuanced and delicate one. Military sources have revealed that one recently returned wounded soldier is under 24/7 protective guard after "elements" that are against the war in Afghanistan made phone contact in order to torment him. But across the veteran world there is a deep concern that Afghanistan is becoming a war that is best not mentioned.

They fear the military hierarchy has become too political and claim Australian operational commanders in Afghanistan answer not to their own military bosses but to "embedded bureaucrats" from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister's Department, who are on location and make the final call on whether or not to attack a specific target.

Veterans from Vietnam, Cambodia, the Sinai, Western Sahara, Rwanda, East Timor, Somalia and Iraq are watching closely what's happening to Afghanistan vets. They are not against the war itself; they are against the damage that silence carries with it.

For now, some of them fear that by speaking out they will be ostracised by a paranoid and potentially vindictive hierarchy, which will make it hard for them to access and help those who most need it - the crop of young returning veterans.

In January 2002, Defence issued a media release about a soldier who was possibly the first Australian to be injured in Afghanistan. It stated the man had two toes amputated after a landmine incident, and that he sustained multiple fractures of the foot and right ankle, and superficial lacerations.

Nowadays, such level of detail would be unthinkable. The release is more likely to be about a vague incident in which no one was wounded.

One veteran says: "It's offensive not to talk about this. Governments commit people to these conflicts in the name of Australia, and if soldiers are wounded or killed, we have a right to know that these people are stepping up to the plate."

David Christie, the head of the NSW branch of the Australian SAS Association, deals with injured soldiers returning from Afghanistan and believes the anonymity policy is best, at least in the early stages of a soldier's recovery.

"Having experienced working with guys in that situation, it's beneficial from the individual's point of view," Christie says.

"It's protecting an individual going though a pretty critical time in his life. He's given that anonymity while his mates are still overseas. It gives him quiet time with family and a limited number of people who know about the injury.

"It may be a mental health injury and we don't want to expose kids to additional stuff that will irritate the mental health situation."

Few would disagree. But Defence has more work to do to find a compromise that better lets the Australian public in on Afghanistan. The names and the faces of the wounded are not necessarily needed. But significantly better public disclosure is.

Defence told The Weekend Australian: "It is Air Chief Marshal Houston's intention to be as open and transparent with the Australian public and the media as is possible, without compromising the security of our troops and our operations."

WWI and WWII veterans did not tell their tales. They did not want to be seen as whingers and, besides, they were so horrified and damaged, they simply did not know how to talk about it and suffered in silence.

It suited the politicians of the day. It suits the politicians of today.

In this information vacuum, is the policy forcing our service people to carry a secret burden for the rest of their lives?

Christie pauses for a long time. "I'm not sure," he says.

tooheyp@theaustralian.com.au

**********

AUSSIE DIGGER COMMENT
 
We have been demanding the correct terminology be used for ten years for War Veterans.Footy players and car accident victims are injured. War Veterans who confront an enemy and who are shot or blasted are Wounded in Action against the enemy. Footy players and car accident victims who are killed are,well,to put it bluntly, killed. Australian Defence Force members who face a well armed and killer enemy machine and who are shot or blasted to death are Killed in Action against the enemy.
 
To change the terms is to socially engineer the citizens of this country into thinking Soldiering in its many forms across all three Services is nothing out of the ordinary, is just like a 9-5 job and that fighting a War is just like playing a video game. It is NOT.
 
The use of terms injured,ill and other euphemisms is part of a an ongoing campaign, begun in the 80's and 90's, to indoctrinate the public into thinking that War is just another daily occupation and is just like driving down the road and running into another car or having a game of footy and getting hit in a hard tackle.
 
Soldiering in War is unique and there is no other "occupation" like it. The media and politicians will not have the respect of the War Veteran community as long as they continue to diminish the Service of those of us who have seen the bastardry and filth of War.

Veterans slam military for brushing over the horrors of war
 
Paul Toohey | September 26, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

MILITARY veterans claim politicians and the Defence Department hierarchy are using weasel words to soften the public impact of the deaths and serious wounds being suffered by Australian troops fighting in Afghanistan.

In July, the Chief of Defence, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, described an Australian soldier who had been wounded by an anti-personnel mine in Afghanistan as "seriously ill".

At the same news conference, Defence Minister John Faulkner described the man as "injured".

Brigadier Phil Davies said the once-common use of the terms killed in action (KIA), wounded in action (WIA) and died of wounds (DOW) had slipped from the Australian military vernacular.

"Defence has dropped their use," Brigadier Davies said.

"You have the CDF (Houston) getting up and saying a man was 'tragically killed'. Every death istragic. We hear someone is 'seriously ill from a roadside bomb'. This degrades the whole military aspect and the commitment these soldiers have."

Brigadier Davies said the use of euphemisms was part of a worrying trend to avoid talking about the sacrifice made by Australians at war.

"I think we should be talking about the wounded more," he said.

"It is of concern to the veteran population that we're using a language that is not different to what we talk about in ordinary society (when someone falls sick)."

John Vincent, Victorian president of the Totally and Permanently Disabled Soldiers Association, said the Australian Defence Force should reinstate the terms KIA, WIA and DOW to Australia's current forces.

"A bloke getting blown up is an ugly thing but it's a fact of life," Mr Vincent said. "You need to confront these issues. They were killed by enemy action -- they just didn't curl up and die. Houston stands up with his AC (Companion of the Order of Australia) after his name, saying a soldier is injured or has died in Afghanistan. That is an insult to the veteran community. Yes, he died, but he was killed in action.

"The people who served in Vietnam are KIA or WIA. There are many people writing (to the Defence Department) about this issue."

In fact, Air Chief Marshal Houston does refer to soldiers being "wounded" as well as "ill", although he does not use the terms KIA or WIA.

The former chief of the defence forces, Peter Cosgrove, said: "I'm not aware of any policy about euphemistic references to people who are wounded or seriously wounded or maimed. I'm absolutely clear that if people succumb to an illness, that's the case. People who are seriously wounded, or die of their wounds, there's no skating around that."

 
 

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Defence bases to house illegal immigrants
EXCLUSIVE by Steve lewis and Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
September 25, 2009
 
SECRET plans are being drawn up to use Defence bases to house an expected surge in illegal immigrants.

The Rudd Government has formed a high-level task force as it braces for an expected influx of boat people.

Government planners expect detention facilities on Christmas Island to be filled in coming months.

The explosive revelations will reinforce community fears that Labor's border protection policies are a magnet for people smugglers.

More than 30 boats have arrived in Australian waters since new immigration laws were introduced just over a year ago.

More than 1600 asylum seekers, many fleeing the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, have been processed since August last year.

Seizing on the controversial plan, Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull called for an "urgent independent inquiry" into the Government's immigration laws.

"Labor has opened the door to people smugglers, so it should be no surprise (there is) a surge in the arrival of boats," Mr Turnbull said.

' The Defence Department confirmed it had been approached to draw up plans to house refugees. It has vacant facilities available across Australia and could, if required, house thousands of illegal arrivals.

"The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) has engaged with Defence and other agencies on contingency plans for the accommodation of irregular maritime arrivals," a Defence spokesman said.

The most likely locations for detention would be the old HMAS Coonawarra Navy base at Berrimah in Darwin and the empty Curtin RAAF base in Western Australia.

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Thursday 24 September 2009
 069/2009

AMPHIBIOUS SHIPS OFFICIAL KEEL LAYING CEREMONY

Greg Combet Minister for Defence Personnel Materiel and Science today announced that the official keel laying of Australias first Amphibious Ship (LHD 01) took place overnight at Navantia?s shipbuilding yard in Ferrol, Spain.

Under Project JP2048 Phase 4A/B the Commonwealth is acquiring two new Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) amphibious ships to provide sustainment support for our deployed forces, said Mr Combet.

BAE Systems Australia Defence is the prime contractor for this $3.3 billion project. The Spanish shipbuilder Navantia is subcontracted to BAE as the design authority and is required to construct and fit out the hulls of two large Amphibious Ships for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The project is on schedule with the ceremony for the keel laying of the hull for LHD 01 occurring exactly one year to the day from first steel being cut. I am also advised that the whole of ship design reviews are nearing completion, said Mr Combet.  

After completion of the hulls for the Amphibious Ships they will be transported to Australia. The superstructures will then be constructed, fitted out and integrated with the hulls at BAE Systems Williamstown dockyard.

The combat system is to be provided by Saab Systems Australia, which will also integrate the combat management system; and the communications system will be supplied by L-3 Communications.

The next milestone will be the launch of LHD 01 in Spain in March 2011 and then the arrival of it at Williamstown dockyard in 2012 with LHD 02 arriving in 2014.

As outlined in the Governments White Paper, these ships will be able to carry a substantial quantity of equipment, stores and personnel. In terms of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, they will most likely be the best means available to provide assistance in our region, said Mr Combet.

[Keith]

ABC NEWS

'Bite bullet' and shut defence bases
By Emma Griffiths for PM


Defence manages about 400 properties across 3 million hectares of land. (Department of Defence)

Audio: Audit recommends merging defence properties (PM)
Related Story: Defence plans to build super bases
Related Story: No need to close any Defence bases: Opposition
The Australia Defence Association has backed a proposal that would see hundreds of Defence properties scattered around the country merged to form super bases.

An independent budget audit of Defence has recommended shutting down and consolidating the land holdings to save as much as $1 billion.

Defence Minister John Faulkner has released part of the audit but the Opposition has demanded he make public the entire report to give some certainty to Defence personnel and the local towns that rely on them.

Defence is the largest land holder in the country. It manages about 400 properties across 3 million hectares of land.

And its estate is fragmented; some are tiny pockets nestled next to small towns while others are sprawling properties that are towns in their own right.

The land holdings cost money and an independent budget audit has identified them as an area ripe for cutbacks.

The audit has called for Defence to close some properties and consolidate them into so-called "super bases".

The Defence budget audit, led by the consultant George Pappas, has not been released but Senator Faulkner has revealed some of the detail.

"In relation to the proposal by Mr Pappas that Defence should establish a super base model, savings would arise from such a super base model in the order of some $700 million to $1 billion over a very long period of time, in fact by the year 2035," Senator Faulkner said.

Senator Faulkner says the Federal Government has no plans to close bases.

But the Defence Association's Neil James says it is a good idea.

"There are some limits to how much you can consolidate because the Navy need to be near the sea and the Air Force need to be near somewhere that's nice and flat where you can have a long air strip and not too much air traffic," he said.

"But there can be some major savings. Bases like Woodside in the Adelaide Hills, the Air Force base at Richmond in west of Sydney and Cabarlah on the Darling Downs are three bases that historically in operational terms aren't required any more.

"If you can make quite significant financial savings and it's more operationally and strategically efficient to close those bases and move the units elsewhere, then we should do so."

Mr James says the biggest single factor will be politics played by the local MPs who do not want to see a base closed on their watch.

"Unfortunately a lot of these bases are in reasonably marginal electorates, which makes it difficult," he said.

"But people have really got to rise up above this and look at the national interest.

"And the national interest in many cases is to shut some of the smaller bases to not only save money but also for operational, strategic efficiency. And people have just got to bite the bullet and do it."


Location details

The Opposition says the speculation is only causing uncertainty within Defence and in the local areas that rely on the bases.

Liberal frontbencher Bob Baldwin wants the Government to make public the entire budget audit.

"If you were a small- to medium-sized business operator and you had invested on support services for a certain base or indeed you were in the community that relied on the income that came from the wages circulating throughout the community of that base, then you would have concerns, particularly when some of those bases keep appearing in the media as possible sites for closure," he said.

A freedom of information request from Fairfax Newspapers has won the release of the report's executive summary. Over eight pages it lists broad measures to shave billions off the Defence budget.

Among its other recommendations it calls for tighter management processes, centralising support services like human resources and importing uniforms from low-cost countries.

The minister is actively considering laying bare the detail of the audit, which could reveal exactly which Defence properties are in line for closure.

For now, Senator Faulkner will only refer to the guiding principles outlined earlier this year in the Defence White Paper.

"We say that basing location should be aligned with national and defence strategic requirements; that Defence should consider consolidating units into fewer, larger and more sustainable multi-user bases over time," he said.

"Bases should be located in family friendly areas; base locations should enable the continued provision of reserve capability for the future; and where it's possible that bases should be clustered near strategic infrastructure and with industry to promote knowledge sharing and innovation."

***************
ABC NEWS
 
Defence plans to build super bases

John Faulkner says no decisions have been made about where the super bases would be created. (AAP: James Alcock)

Audio: Plans for defence super bases (The World Today)
Related Story: No need to close any Defence bases: Opposition
The Defence Minister, John Faulkner, has outlined a proposal for the Defence Force to build "super bases" for Australia's armed services.

The Opposition has been calling on the Government to release a Defence report which identifies potential budget savings that could be made by closing redundant military bases.

The Government says it could save about $1 billion over 26 years by selling off some Defence bases, but no decisions have been made.

The Defence Department has released the executive summary of the report under freedom of information laws, but not the details of which bases it recommended could be upgraded or closed.

But while the Government says it will be keeping the report secret, Senator Faulkner did reveal some of the report's details.

"Basically it says ... that Defence should establish a super-base model," he said.

"[Independent consultant George] Pappas has said in his executive summary that estimated yearly savings from a super-base model would increase over time and could reach a total of some $700 million to $1.05 billion, that's in total, by the year 2035.

"So that's the part of the Pappas report that the FOI decision-maker decided to delete but ... I've made a decision to make that public."

Senator Faulkner says Mr Pappas has not identified where such super bases could be created or which other bases could be closed in order to create them.

"The Defence White Paper, of course, talks about strategic basing principles and talks about the sorts of principles that would guide the management of the Defence estate over time," Senator Faulkner said.

"There are a range of principles that are important and the Government is very clear about these things.

"We say that basing locations should be aligned with national and defence strategic requirements, that Defence should consider consolidating units to fewer, larger and more sustainable multi-user bases over time.

"Bases should be located in family-friendly areas, base locations should enable the continued provision of reserve capability for Defence into the future.

"And where it's possible, that bases should be clustered near strategic infrastructure and with industry to promote knowledge sharing and innovation."

Senator Faulkner stressed that no decisions have been made.

"Just so we're absolutely clear about this, no decisions have been made at all about how the Defence White Paper commitment would be addressed," he said.

"No decisions have been made about the closure of any bases. And I stress with you, of course this is a long-term commitment and it is a long-term issue."

 
 

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[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 12:54 AM
Subject: JAPAN-Defense pact with Australia


source: THE JAPAN TIMES
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20090921a1.html


Defense pact with Australia eyed

Accord would cover logistic support but opposition expected from coalition member SDP

Kyodo News

Monday, Sept. 21, 2009
2009-09-21


Japan is considering signing a defense supply agreement with Australia that would enable the two countries to share food, fuel and other material and services, government sources said Sunday.

Tokyo currently only has this type of pact, called an acquisition and cross-servicing agreement, with the United States. A similar agreement with Canberra would help the Self-Defense Forces expand their scope of international cooperation but could face resistance from the Social Democratic Party, a member of the ruling coalition

The SDP, a junior partner of the Democratic Party of Japan and a champion of the war-renouncing Constitution, has been critical of sending the SDF on overseas missions.

Under the supply agreement between Japan and the U.S., which took effect in 1996, the SDF and the U.S. military have been building a framework for sharing supplies and services necessary for joint drills, U.N. peacekeeping operations and international disaster relief activities.

Revisions in 1999 and 2004 have expanded the sphere of logistic cooperation to include security-threatening situations near Japan and armed attacks on Japan.

An agreement with Australia could allow the two countries to share transport of supplies as well as repair and other services for joint drills, U.N. peacekeeping operations and international humanitarian operations, according to the sources.

The SDF cooperated with the Australian military in 2005 for postwar reconstruction efforts in southern Iraq as well as rescue operations in the wake of the catastrophic 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia.

Japan and Australia held defense ministerial talks last December and signed a memorandum of understanding calling for enhanced cooperation between the SDF and the Australian military in international peace efforts and antiterrorism activities.

The two countries have also been stepping up mutual visits of top uniformed defense officials. The Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Australian Navy conducted a joint drill for the first time Thursday off the coast of Japan.

[Keith]

ABC NEWS
 
Australia marks 10 years in East Timor
 


Australia led the multi-national peacekeeping force. (Department of Defence)

Today marks the 10th anniversary of Australia's involvement in East Timor's multi-national peacekeeping force.

In 1999, East Timor was rebuilding after the violence which followed its overwhelming vote for independence from Indonesia in a UN-sponsored referendum.

On September 20, the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET) arrived in Dilli, led by Australian General Peter Cosgrove.

Australia contributed 5,700 troops to INTERFET.

Twenty-one other nations also contributed - including the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealand, Britain, the United States, and Canada.

Historian Steve Bullard says a commemorative address will be held today at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to remember Australia's contribution.

"INTERFET in particular is important because it is the largest peacekeeping mission that Australia ever embarked on, and it was also the first time we had been the lead nation and also supplied the commander for that force," he said.

"It was the largest force we had sent over sea of any kind since the Vietnam War, and so marking 10 years is certainly a significant anniversary."

 
 

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Sailors washed off submarine as rescue kept quiet
 
Cameron Stewart | September 19, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

A COVERT intelligence-gathering mission by a navy submarine almost ended in disaster when a giant wave washed five of its crew into the ocean in the middle of the night.

The accident, which was kept quiet by the navy for two years, took place during a deployment to Asia by HMAS Farncomb in March 2007.

However, tragedy was averted when three sailors risked their lives by diving into the swirling ocean to rescue their crewmates in a 90-minute life-and-death struggle against the elements.

Now the navy has announced three of Farncomb's crew will receive bravery awards for their actions -- the first such awards given to submariners in 27 years.

The rogue wave swept the five men off the top of the surfaced submarine as they tried to clear fishing lines from its propeller. In rough seas and worsening weather, they could not make it back to the submarine, so the captain asked for volunteers to rescue them.

Sonar operator Greg Langshaw, engineer Rohan Pugh and cook Steven Rowell put up their hands and, assisted by crewmates, they worked together to drag the five men back to the boat.

The rough seas caused the submarine to heave violently, breaking one of Petty Officer Langshaw's ribs and causing severe bruising to others as the men were hauled back on to the vessel.

Navy chief Vice-Admiral Russ Crane said: "All of Farncomb's personnel who were involved showed significant fortitude, teamwork and courage to ensure that all sailors were returned to the submarine without major injuries and (with) no loss of life."

The accident occurred during a five-month deployment through Southeast Asia and the western Pacific, during which Farncomb gathered intelligence by sailing close to foreign coastlines, listening to communications.

Defence will not say where Farncomb was or what its activities were at the time of the accident.

The story of the Farncomb could easily have been a naval tragedy or even a diplomatic incident. Instead, it is a tale of courage and heroism from a group of sailors who risked their own lives to save their mates from death.

The navy was uncertain about how best to recognise the bravery of the crew. For more than two years it kept quiet, but last month Chief Petty Officer Pugh, Petty Officer Langshaw and Leading Seaman Rowell were told they would be offered bravery awards.

The navy says the delay was because "due process" needed to be followed. However, The Weekend Australian understands it only nominated the men for the awards this year.

On Thursday, Governor-General Quentin Bryce announced awards for the three men, while several other crew members were awarded commendations from Vice-Admiral Crane.

Chief Petty Officer Pugh says the award, which will be presented next March, was the last thing he expected. "I thought it was great to be recognised for it,' he said. "I think anyone would have done it."

Submariners are rarely given public medals because, like the SAS, much of what they do cannot be revealed.

The navy says the last bravery medals awarded to submariners were in 1982, when two crew aboard HMAS Onslow were decorated for their actions when their submarine filled with toxic fumes.

The Farncomb incident occurred 20 years after two sailors were lost while on an exercise off Sydney Harbour.

They were swept overboard when the Oberon-class submarine HMAS Otama dived while they were still in the conning tower.

 

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Friday, 18 September 2009 
060/2009


PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER NEW FACILITIES UNDER ENHANCED LAND FORCE STAGE 2 FOR QLD, NSW, VIC, SA AND THE ACT

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, today announced that the $1.4 billion Enhanced Land Force (ELF) Stage 2 infrastructure project has been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works for consideration.

The project will give the Australian Defence Force modern, purpose-built facilities as part of the Enhanced Land Force Initiative Dr Kelly said.

This initiative will increase the capacity of the land force by raising two additional infantry battle groups.

The ELF Stage 2 project includes refurbished facilities, construction and infrastructure upgrades at Defence sites across QLD, NSW, VIC, SA and the ACT.

Apart from meeting Defence capability and infrastructure needs, this project will directly contribute to job creation around Australia

Subject to Parliamentary clearance, the project is scheduled to commence in mid 2010 and be completed by late 2014.

Major project elements propose the following:

 Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, Queensland: Around $820 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include training and accommodation facilities and upgrades to base infrastructure.
 Townsville Field Training Area, Townsville, Queensland: Around $7 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include new training facilities and additional training ranges.
 Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, Queensland: Around $70 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include new training facilities, additional training ranges, and an additional Minor Retail Facility for the Defence Explosive Ordnance Service.

 Wide Bay Training Area near Gympie, Queensland: Around $75 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include new training facilities and upgrades to base infrastructure.

 Greenbank Training Area, Brisbane, Queensland: Around $100 million will be invested in facilities.  Greenbank Training Area is located 54 kilometres from the centre of Brisbane City and 40 minutes drive from both Gallipoli Barracks and RAAF Base Amberley. 

 RAAF Base Amberley, Ipswich, Queensland: Around $7 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include new training facilities and working accommodation.

 Kokoda Barracks, Canungra, Queensland: Around $72 million will be invested in facilities.  The proposed works include new training and living in accommodation facilities.

 Lone Pine Barracks, Singleton, New South Wales: Around $145 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works involve provision of facilities to support the School of Infantry including upgrading the training area and engineering services.

 Garden Island, Sydney, New South Wales: Around $1 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works at Garden Island include construction of working accommodation and a central dispensing facility.

 HMAS Penguin, Sydney, New South Wales: Around $3 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works at HMAS Penguin will provide working accommodation and training facilities.

 Royal Military College, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Around $37 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include new accommodation and upgrades to training facilities at the Majura Training Area.

 Puckapunyal Military Area, Victoria. Around $13 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed work will provide a facility for the Defence Explosive Ordnance Service.

 Simpson Barracks, Watsonia, Victoria: Around $19 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works involves the provision of training facilities, and associated infrastructure.

 RAAF Base Edinburgh, Adelaide, South Australia. Around $33 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works will provide training facilities at the Land Warfare Centre?s Warrant Officer and Non-Commissioned Officer Academy.

 Cultana Training Area, South Australia. Around $55 million will be invested in facilities. The proposed works include improvements to training facilities, camp accommodation and environmental sustainability works.

Further Information: 

Further details of the proposed works under the ELF program can be obtained from the Public Works Committee web site at:

http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/pwc/enhancedlandforce/

[Keith]

 

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 17 September 2009
 065/2009

SUPPORTING AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE INDUSTRY TO ENTER GLOBAL MARKETS

The Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet, today welcomed the establishment of Raytheon Australias Industry Development Unit (IDU).  

Raytheons IDU will implement the Australian Industry Capability (AIC) Deed that was signed between Defence and the company on 1 July 2009, said Mr Combet.

 This new unit will facilitate opportunities for Australian industry to become part of Raytheon?s global supply chain.

The AIC Deed with Raytheon Australia is an important step forward for Australian defence industry, especially small and medium sized enterprises.

The Governments global supply chain initiative under the AIC Program uses the leverage of our major equipment acquisitions to extend the opportunities for Australian companies to access the international market place, Mr Combet said.  

Working through the international primes such as Raytheon to set up units to actively promote Australian companies will expand the capacity of Australian industry to support the Australian Defence Force.  It will also benefit the international companies we deal with by improving their competitiveness.

?Raytheon internationally is a leading high technology company with markets world wide, and the potential benefits for competitive Australian companies to become part of its global supply chain are enormous Mr Combet said.

Defence and Raytheon Australia will brief Australian industry on the initiative later this year.

[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2009 9:37 AM
Subject: Lack of planes to fly brings RAAF top guns down to earth

source: THE CANBERRA TIMES


Lack of planes to fly brings RAAF top guns down to earth


BY PHILIP DORLING NATIONAL AFFAIRS CORRESPONDENT
17/09/2009 7:55:00 AM


Their motto is ''Seek the Heights," but the latest crop of graduates from the Royal Australian Air Force's elite flying training school are earthbound because the RAAF doesn't have enough planes for them.


The Department of Defence yesterday confirmed that 36 RAAF graduates of No2 Flying Training School at Pearce Air Force base in Western Australia would be sitting behind desks because the RAAF lacks aircraft for them to undertake conversion to operational flying.


The earthbound pilots constitute nearly one in four of recent graduates from the expensive advanced flying training program.


RAAF sources said some of the pilots could wait more than a year and as long as two years before they would be able to undertake their allocated conversion to operational flying.


Opposition Defence spokesman David Johnston expressed concern about the RAAF's management of the pilot training program.
***********

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 16 September 2009
 064/2009

STATEMENT ON CHANDLER MACLEOD AND DEFENCE FORCE RECRUITING CONTRACT

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, noted today?s ASX announcement by Chandler MacLeod Group that it intends to terminate its recruiting services contract with Defence.

Chandler Macleod Group (CMG) has announced it will seek, for commercial reasons, to terminate its contract with Defence for the provision of Australian Defence Force (ADF) recruiting services, said Mr Combet.

Defence will, subject to a number of conditions being satisfied, agree to the termination of its contract with CMG.  Such conditions are, among other things, to ensure the continuity of ADF recruiting services.

I can assure all current applicants for enlistment and appointment that their applications will continue to be processed and that this current situation will not affect them joining the Navy, Army or Air Force.

Any potential applicants can continue to apply during this period. Defence is not turning anyone away from joining up whilst this transition takes place.

Defence will be in contact with all staff today about the announcement. Work will continue as usual for all Defence Force Recruiting Staff during this period.

The terms of the exit agreement remain commercial-in-confidence.

Defence has a robust plan in place to continue recruitment services and will now work with CMG to maintain ADF recruiting operations until other arrangements are finalised.

CMG will carry on until a new arrangement is in place ? the aim being to conclude this by early 2010.

 I note the statement from CMG in their announcement that they are committed to working with DOD on a smooth transition process to ensure there is no impact on the achievement of recruitment targets?

CMG was awarded the recruiting services contract in July 2008 following an extensive and competitive open tender process conducted in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines.  

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Tuesday, 15 September 2009
 062/2009

GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR DEPLOYED FORCES


Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the awarding of a defence contract that will lead to improved global communications for our deployed forces.

The contract, awarded to BAE systems, is for the construction of three new Satellite Communications Earth Terminals at the Australian Defence Satellite and Communications Station near Geraldton in Western Australia, said Mr Combet.

The contract also includes five years of support for the new terminals and an enhanced network management system to enable the terminals to be controlled remotely from HMAS HARMAN in Canberra.

The completion of the new capability in 2013 will significantly enhance the wideband strategic communications support available to Australian forces overseas. This includes those forces on distant deployments in the Middle East and also on operations closer to home in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Mr Combet said.

This facility will dramatically increase the amount of data that will be able to be provided over the Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) System that Australia accesses, through a partnership with the United States Department of Defence.

The value of the contract is $94 million.

[Keith]

Military to lose airspace in $300m savings push
EXCLUSIVE: Cameron Stewart and Steve Creedy | September 15, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Rudd government is seeking to save more than $300 million by merging the nation's civil and military air traffic control systems.

The move would create a unified national air traffic control system for the first time, ending the wasteful separation of the systems and providing the government with a much-needed revenue boost.

The Finance Department has recently been briefed by a joint working group about the possible cost savings of a merged air traffic control system, with a final decision expected to be made early next year.

Transport Minister Anthony Albanese last night confirmed that plans for a merged system were "progressing", but declined to provide details.

A special working group comprising Defence and the government air traffic control manager, Airservices Australia, is working on proposals to unify the two systems.

Attempts to merge the systems in previous years have stalled because Defence feared it would lose tactical and strategic control of its aircraft in times of crisis.

News of the unification came as Virgin Blue signalled it would complain to the federal government about air traffic control delays that forced it to cancel flights and accommodate people in hotels on Sunday after three controllers called in sick.

The unification would remove the historical distinction that has air force air traffic controllers directing military aircraft and civilian controllers directing commercial jets, sometimes from the same airport.

Australia developed separate civil and military air traffic management systems because it was considered necessary to meet the separate specific requirements of civil and military flying.

Defence now has an ageing air traffic system that will soon need replacing at substantial cost, opening the way for cost efficiencies if it adopts the civil system used by Airservices.

Defence has also struggled to retain its air traffic controllers, and last year the government announced a $6m emergency package to prevent RAAF air traffic controllers from being poached by the private sector. In 2005, the RAAF and Airservices set up a program called Genesis to integrate military air traffic control into the civil system, but the plan stalled because of Defence's reservations.

However, in 2002 a Defence document signed by current Australian Defence Force chief Angus Houston stated: "Australia simply cannot justify, sustain or afford to continue operating two almost identical air traffic management systems."

Civil and military systems are merged in many countries, including Britain and Germany.

Virgin Blue is planning to complain to the federal government about air traffic control delays that forced it to cancel flights and accommodate people in hotels on the weekend.

It took airlines until yesterday to get back on schedule as they grappled with the flow-on from delays caused when three air traffic controllers called in sick on Sunday afternoon.

Virgin, which is already seeking $500,000 in compensation for air traffic-related delays suffered during shortages and an industrial dispute last year, last night could not say how much the delays had cost but said it would raise the issue with the government.

"We are still assessing costs relating to the full impact on our operations on Sunday, which include delays causing extra fuel burn, cancellations both in Sydney and other ports due to flow-on effects, and overnight hotel accommodation for stranded guests as well as crews," it said.

"It is certainly disappointing to have this happen yet again when we believed that such issues had been addressed and we were past them."

The loss of the three approach air traffic controllers forced Airservices to more than halve the number of aircraft movements at Sydney from 50 to 22.

Air traffic controllers have warned that the continuing shortage of staff means the problems that caused the delays could happen again.

Civil Air executive secretary Peter McGuane said the number of air traffic controllers retiring and moving overseas meant there was still a shortage of controllers.

"This shortage has plagued air traffic control for some time, and we've got to accept that until that situation is resolved, this will occasionally occur," he said.

Airservices Australia said the breakdown was an anomaly, and denied the organisation was still understaffed. Spokesman Rob Walker said the air navigation provider had an operational requirement for 889 staff and had 908 currently available and 960 on the books. It also had 33 trainees in the final stages of training.

Mr Walker said Airservices had been unable to find other controllers who could cover for the sick staff. He said there were generally six people working on approach control, and to have three sick at once was unusual.
************
Coalition backs military justice reform
ABC NEWS

Measures to ensure the future of Australia's military justice system have been passed by the House of Representatives.

The system was thrown into chaos last month when the High Court ruled the Australian Military Court, established by the Howard government was invalid.

The bill passed by the House today is an interim measure.

But the Opposition spokesman on Defence Science and Personnel, Bob Baldwin says the Coalition is ready to support the Government to establish a new military justice system.

"What is needed now is the concerted effort by the Defence Minister in resolving this crisis of military justice reform, the issues confronting the Defence Minister are daunting and the complexities of this constitutional legal mater should not be understated," he said.

"In this circumstance expediency is not the key priority, the priority must be to ensure the Australian Defence Force has the military justice system that is constitutional."

Minister for Defence Senator John Faulkner said the legislation ensures Australia has functioning military justice system.

"It is critical that the ADF has a functioning military discipline system," he said.

"This interim system provides that, by reintroducing the former system of trials by court martial and Defence Force magistrates."

Senator Faulkner said the Government is now preparing a permanent solution to deal with military offences.

"The move to a Chapter III court will be considered in close consultation with the Attorney-General," he said.

 
 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website
 
http://www.anzmi.net/  Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Sunday, 13 September 2009
 
60/2009

UPDATE ON CADMIUM IN COLLINS CLASS SUBMARINES

Greg Combet Minister for Defence Personnel Materiel and Science today provided an update on the situation regarding cadmium in the Collins Class Submarines.

From the time that this issue arose the Rudd Government acted immediately with Defence and the Navy to identify the source and extent of any hazard, and to ensure the safety and well being of the maintenance workers and submariners who have been working on the Collins Class Submarines Mr Combet said.

The Government has been concerned to maintain confidence in the operation of the Collins Class Submarines and the safety of Navy personnel.

As has been publicly reported, staff of ASC, the prime contractor for maintenance of Collins Class Submarines, raised concerns about cadmium contamination while undertaking maintenance of submarines.

To allay staff concerns, ASC stood production staff down on Friday, 28 August 2009 and undertook initial testing on those submarines which were in deeper maintenance in South Australia. The Government then immediately ordered the testing of cadmium levels on all submarines, including operational boats.

Cadmium has always been used in Collins Class Submarine electrical components to minimise corrosion and is a well documented hazardous material.

The main risk to personnel is through inhalation of cadmium dust or vapour through airborne contamination. The risk to personnel is mitigated through use in areas of infrequent access, warning signs and good hygiene practices.

All six of the Collins Class submarines have now been tested for airborne contamination. This testing revealed that airborne cadmium levels within the Collins Class Submarines are well below the Australian Standard.

All submarines have also been tested for surface contamination. Testing has revealed that cadmium surface contamination does exist in proximity to some cadmium components on the submarines. I have been advised that the cadmium surface contamination poses little threat and the necessary hygiene and safety procedures have been reinforced.

However, to ensure the safety of both submariners and maintenance workers the Government is well advanced in the cleaning of all submarines.

The Governments primary concern throughout has been to protect the health of our sailors and maintenance workforce.

Consistent with that objective, upon notification of this issue I instructed Defence to conduct medical screening on Navy and maintenance personnel who may have been exposed to cadmium.

I am advised that representative sample testing of Navy personnel who may have been exposed on submarines to cadmium is scheduled to begin later this month. This will determine what further screening may be needed.

Testing of a sample of ASC maintenance workers who were working on the submarines has now also been conducted. ASC has tested 52 personnel. Results received thus far are all below the Australian defined limits.

ASC has sent letters to all ASC subcontractors notifying them of the issue and providing a contact for any concerns they may have.

Further to this action, Defence is currently undertaking a program of baseline occupational hygiene surveys including the Collins Class Submarines.

The surveys involve an occupational hygienist completing a comprehensive assessment of the presence of any hazardous substances. This will provide a baseline to mitigate risks associated with these substances.

On the issue of operational availability of the submarines, while the Government does not comment for national security reasons on the availability of the fleet, I can assure the Australian public that our operational submarines are ready and able to be deployed if needed.

Mr Combet also commented on allegations made by the Opposition.

The Opposition has alleged a failure to follow safety procedures and place warning signs on the submarines after cadmium was identified in some components 12 months ago. This allegation is unfounded.

Cadmium has been present in components on the Collins Class submarines since their inception, and Defence safe handling procedures have been in place throughout.

In August 2008, following a system upgrade, an additional part in the new Replacement Combat System was identified as containing cadmium. Appropriate hygiene and safety procedures were already in place, including a commitment to place an additional warning label in the submarines as they individually undertook scheduled maintenance.

It should be noted that all other components in the Replacement Combat System, which had been previously identified as containing cadmium during the design phase, already had approved warning labels included as part of the installation package.

[Keith]

 
From: Lee O'Neill
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Sunday, September 13, 2009 2:07 PM
Subject: Re: WOMEN IN COMBAT


The Brits have women as combat medics (they carry a weapon for protection too) and they go out with the males on operations. It seems VERY successful from what I read about the Brits in Helmand. The article is an extremely good read complete with photos.
 
http://www.michaelyon-online.com/precision-voting.htm

Lee


From: Ron King
Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:18 AM
Subject: women in combat.


Well women in combat.
 
The task force commander from Townsville who has said women should be allowed the join the fighting or combat troops is way out of his depth in that he will be in a 11x11 tent some where directing these troops in battle.
 
 
The real problem is the troops on the ground who will have to carry the extra equipment into battle because the woman cannot carry the extra equipment required, having to climb through barbed wire obstacles and having to fight their way through as well and having all the extra ammunition required to be carried for the section weapons, claymores etc , and  lets not forget that the ladies are built a little different to the blokes and to throw themselves onto a barbedwire fence for the troops to step over could end up with some injuries to the top end.
 
 
There is also the other problem of not leaving your mates behind if ordered. The section commander does not need the extra pressure of  members of the section /platoon not pulling out because they don't want to leave a girl behind. It's a well know fact that the enemies who we will fight against like a little white woman. It should be remembered that a soldier serving overseas has enough pressure at home without his family having to worry about a female or two in the section. The wives of course will be thinking of this. Hormones are rampant in both females and males and of course the old jealousy of the section would also play a part in the command structure of the section.
 
 
The girls on a pee stop have a privacy issue and not only that will the soldiers have to dig their latrines and provide the old privacy issues such as Hessian over night etc. Woman do have a place in the services but not on the front line. We have put up with this rot from the females in the military long enough and now for a commander of the Townsville forces to agree, wake up man as you will not be the commander on the ground. Maybe you need to place yourself on the ground and have to put up with every day issues. Anyway the girls who do want this are living in a world of la la .
 

[Keith]

AUSSIE DIGGER COMMENT

In our opinion the primary consideration is not whether women may be physically strong enough and fit enough to serve in Combat, as important as this is. The primary consideration in our opinion is the practicality of having women in combat in relation to privacy, women's special needs, sexual and emotional interplays which would evolve and thus discipline and morale. Let those who claim there is a place for women in combat encourage their female relatives to enlist and volunteer for combat should that become legal. Let those who agitate for what is clearly impractical reveal their experiences of combat and Military Service.
 
There has been much shouting from the rooftops by people who have no idea what Military and combat service entails. It's sheer loony left ratbaggery of the do-gooder, trendy leftie, political correct brigade which tries to enforce this impost on the Military.
 
An enemy is availed of intelligence before it attacks. If women are to be placed in combat rolls in the front line they must be able to withstand fierce and vicious enemy attack and not present a weak spot in our defences. On and on the practical considerations unwind.
 
Please read on. And no I am not a misogynist. I have advocated the rights of women for many years.
 
From: Lindsay, Peter (MP)
To: Keith Tennent
Sent: Sunday, September 13, 2009 12:10 PM
Subject: WOMEN IN COMBAT


Keith

This opinion piece by Coalition Member for Fadden (and former LTCOL) Stuart Robert may be of interest to your network.

Peter


"Everyone fights, no one quits". That famous line from Starship Troopers paints a picture of men and women together on the front line. Whilst it is pure Hollywood, the line is reflective of the modern Australian Military. Women are right now serving this nation on the front line in theatres like Afghanistan. And everyone on the front line is trained, prepared and capable of fighting. Be they medics, cooks, signalers or drivers, everyone on the frontline is armed and ready to defend their colleagues or those they are entrusted over. In Afghanistan, all Australian military personnel, men and women, are ready to fight if need be, and I guarantee, that in the true spirit of ANZAC warriors, none of them will let us down and none will quit.

Whilst everyone on the frontline has the capacity to fight, this is fundamentally different to combat manoeuvre units whose sole purpose, to quote the role of the Infantry, is "to seek out and close with the enemy to kill or capture, to seize and hold ground and repel attack, by day or night regardless of season, weather or terrain". At present women are not able to serve in combat manoeuvre units, based fundamentally on a rationale of operational requirements for physical strength and power, load carrying stamina and endurance.

The Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Greg Combet MP believes that women should be able to fight in all combat areas including the SAS, Commandos, Infantry Units and Navy Clearance Diving teams. Minister Combet claims that:

"It is perfectly valid to argue that all categories should be open to women. The only exceptions should be where the physical demands cannot be met, regardless of gender, according to criteria that are determined on the basis of scientific analysis rather than cultural assumptions."

By way of history the first women in the Army was in the Army Nursing Service in 1899. We were the second nation in the world to allow women to serve on submarines and we have one of the highest percentages of women in any defence force in the world. Notwithstanding that Women now make up almost 13% of the ADF (including 17.5% of the reserves) and they serve in 92% of ADF jobs, the Government is looking at ways to increase female participation:

"The development of these new standards will also help inform the government on the appropriateness of a possible expansion of the roles that women can play in the ADF. A priority of the government is to improve the recruitment and retention of women in the ADF."

The real question is whether opening up direct combat manoeuvre units to women will assist with recruitment and retention? I'll assume the Minister is not walking down a politically correct path.

Following the Minister's premise, the first action that the military will have to take is to consider standardising physical tests. The Basic Fitness Assessment is currently different for men and women. Whilst there are different assessment levels for different ages, Men must run further and do more exercise repetitions than women. For combat units there are further combat fitness assessments that women will have to meet. Raising these standards for women to the men's level may have the adverse impact of stifling recruitment. This is something the Government must carefully consider.

It is also important to understand the physical exertions required in serving in combat manoeuvre units. Considering a 155mm Howitzer shell weighs 43kg, women in artillery will have to lift and carry these rounds during sustained fire missions where the rate of fire is fundamental. Anecdotal evidence from Canada where women can serve in self propelled artillery units indicates that some women are not physically able to keep up with the men in loading the artillery pieces, causing resentment and extra work for the male team members.

Women in the Infantry will have to carry packs up to and over 50kg across distances up to 50km in difficult terrain with little sleep, only to dig a fighting pit in rocky ground at the end of the march. Acceptance into the SAS and Commandos will require not only surviving but excelling in the Special Forces selection course that up to 80% of males who attempt, fail to complete.

All of this is required even though women have 50% less upper body strength, 30% less aerobic capacity which is essential for endurance and up to 40% less muscle mass.

Combat is not for the faint hearted considering the eternal consequences. All agree that it is far tougher than footy, yet no one is asking for females in the Wallabies or in the Collingwood Football Team. No one is asking for females to be allowed in boxing or weight lifting to compete against other men. Subsequently in the arduous nature of combat operations, this call for women in combat seems so out of place.

This is not an issue of gender. It is an issue of robustness of Defence capability to ensure a powerful and effective Australian warfare machine capable of sustained combat manoeuvre operations wherever is needed. Any move to reduce, however unintentionally this is sustained, enduring and powerful capability is a retrograde step, more so if it is based on a recruitment drive or rank political opportunism.

 

 

From: Keith Tennent
Sent: Sunday, 13 September 2009 12:00 PM
To: Veterans List; ESO List
Cc: Federal Parliamentary List
Subject: WOMEN IN COMBAT

 

From: Ron King

Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:18 AM

Subject: women in combat.

 

Well women in combat.

 

The task force commander from Townsville who has said women should be allowed the join the fighting or combat troops is way out of his depth in that he will be in a 11x11 tent some where directing these troops in battle.

 

 

The real problem is the troops on the ground who will have to carry the extra equipment into battle because the woman cannot carry the extra equipment required, having to climb through barbed wire obstacles and having to fight their way through as well and having all the extra ammunition required to be carried for the section weapons, claymores etc , and  lets not forget that the ladies are built a little different to the blokes and to throw themselves onto a barbedwire fence for the troops to step over could end up with some injuries to the top end.

 

 

There is also the other problem of not leaving your mates behind if ordered. The section commander does not need the extra pressure of  members of the section /platoon not pulling out because they don't want to leave a girl behind. It's a well know fact that the enemies who we will fight against like a little white woman. It should be remembered that a soldier serving overseas has enough pressure at home without his family having to worry about a female or two in the section. The wives of course will be thinking of this. Hormones are rampant in both females and males and of course the old jealousy of the section would also play a part in the command structure of the section.

 

 

The girls on a pee stop have a privacy issue and not only that will the soldiers have to dig their latrines and provide the old privacy issues such as Hessian over night etc. Woman do have a place in the services but not on the front line. We have put up with this rot from the females in the military long enough and now for a commander of the Townsville forces to agree, wake up man as you will not be the commander on the ground. Maybe you need to place yourself on the ground and have to put up with every day issues. Anyway the girls who do want this are living in a world of la la .

[Charlie]

Something I received via email. Some of the points are just as Ron says.

Please note, these are not my words, it's just as I received it.

Women in Battle! The discussion of women in the front line began last century ? and this was my (tongue-in-cheek) response then ? maybe it?s a bit dated!!


When the girls go into battle

And the bullets whiz them by,

Will the blokes turn all protective

When the lasses start to cry?

Will the danger then be doubled

For the male in combat zones?

Will it block out all instructions

When he hears her wounded moans?

And if hes in a foxhole,

As Bruce Ruxton pointed out,

And she bats her baby blue eyes

And her lips form in a pout,

Will he risk the chance of losing

His head or chance to sire

If he leans across to kiss her

And the enemy opens fire?

And men at sea will suffer

In the confines of their ships,

Imagine all that crumpet

And theyre eating fish and chips?!!

For the aisles in ships are narrow

And the tars turn sides to pass,

So how will blokes endure it

When they meet a buxom lass?

And what about the girls at home

Whore left to tend the hearth?

Who'll blame them if they?re jealous

And unleash on him their wrath

When he comes home smiling brightly

After weeks and weeks at sea

And switches on the telly

Saying, All I wants a cuppa tea.

[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2009 7:18 AM
Subject: women in combat.


Well women in combat.
 
The task force commander from Townsville who has said women should be allowed the join the fighting or combat troops is way out of his depth in that he will be in a 11x11 tent some where directing these troops in battle.
 
 
The real problem is the troops on the ground who will have to carry the extra equipment into battle because the woman cannot carry the extra equipment required, having to climb through barbed wire obstacles and having to fight their way through as well and having all the extra ammunition required to be carried for the section weapons, claymores etc , and  lets not forget that the ladies are built a little different to the blokes and to throw themselves onto a barbedwire fence for the troops to step over could end up with some injuries to the top end.
 
 
There is also the other problem of not leaving your mates behind if ordered. The section commander does not need the extra pressure of  members of the section /platoon not pulling out because they don't want to leave a girl behind. It's a well know fact that the enemies who we will fight against like a little white woman. It should be remembered that a soldier serving overseas has enough pressure at home without his family having to worry about a female or two in the section. The wives of course will be thinking of this. Hormones are rampant in both females and males and of course the old jealousy of the section would also play a part in the command structure of the section.
 
 
The girls on a pee stop have a privacy issue and not only that will the soldiers have to dig their latrines and provide the old privacy issues such as Hessian over night etc. Woman do have a place in the services but not on the front line. We have put up with this rot from the females in the military long enough and now for a commander of the Townsville forces to agree, wake up man as you will not be the commander on the ground. Maybe you need to place yourself on the ground and have to put up with every day issues. Anyway the girls who do want this are living in a world of la la .
 

[Keith]

http://teamuzunovmedia.blogspot.com/
Friday, September 11, 2009
 
FEMALES AT THE FRONT--women at war?
By Sasha Uzunov
 
The Rudd federal government is pushing for women to be allowed to serve on the frontlines of war in infantry, armoured or combat engineers within the Australian Army.
 
The Minister for Defence Personnel Greg Combet, who has never served in uniform, is an enthusiastic backer of the scheme. There are those who strongly oppose it. Both sides present strong arguments. Women in combat will probably become a reality more by default than by a political commitment to equal opportunity or grandstanding.
 
The fact that recruitment numbers are down, that is not enough men volunteer to fight, will cause any future government to open the gates to women in combat. Minister Combet himself has admitted in an article by Christian Kerr of The Australian newspaper, September 09, 2009 that it will not happen overnight and probably not during his watch.
 
As a clever politician, Combet has commissioned the Defence Science and Technology Organization (DSTO), the military boffins, to test whether women are strong enough for direct combat roles. And who knows how long that will take?
 
Australian society has been able in a reasoned manner to discuss and debate sensitive issues such as drug abuse, homosexuality, immigration, and so on but for reasons unknown asking why some people volunteer or do not volunteer for military service remains the last taboo.
 
As a freelance photo journalist and former Australian soldier who in 2003 began to examine why some of those who play an influential role in shaping defence policy or sending others into combat but do not volunteer to fight in uniform, I met fierce resistance.
 
In August 2008, the Sunday Age?s self-appointed defence expert Tom Hyland called this a curious crusade. Why this is a curious crusade beats me? The media is now talking about the possibility of women in direct combat roles.
 
Questioning the credentials of ?defence experts? is a very tough business.
 
The irony of it all is the reason why we are now debating the issue of women in combat roles is the shortage of manpower, pardon the pun. The chickens have come home to roost.
 
When young Australian men see defence experts who do not serve in uniform it turns them off joining the Australian Defence Force (ADF). But the media will not go there because it is a curious crusade and the issue gets silenced.
 
Dr Anthony Bergin, member of the think-tank Australian Strategic Policy Institute, joined a call in 2007 with Hugh White, former Fairfax journalist turned defence expert, for Pacific Islander immigrants to be given Australian citizenship in return for military service.
www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,21209445-31477,00.html

In theory all of this sounds good but in reality one of the major reasons why young Australians do not volunteer for military service is quite obvious, when they see experts such as White, who have never served in uniform, lecturing from their pulpit, they simply turn off. Then having to drag poor migrants in to do the fighting just adds insult to injury. It is the age old lesson of practice what you preach.
 
Australia is a democracy where we encourage everyone, including defence theorists to have a voice. But it seems that certain sections of the Australian media have been reluctant to scrutinise these defence theorists.

For reasons unknown the so-called hard-hitting ABC TV Lateline program has been afraid to examine this touchy subject.

Lateline has only ever had one journalist with an actual military background on the program. It was the legendary Gerald Stone, founding producer of the Nine Networks 60 Minutes and a former US Army officer (1954-56) who has appeared a few times. You would think with Stone?s credentials he would be a regular?
 
Moreover, ABC TV reporter Mark Corcoran served in the Royal Australian Navy and with the super secret Defence Signals Directorate (DSD). Corcoran is the ABCs only badge-qualified defence expert but for reasons unknown has never been called to provide expert comments.

I asked why Lateline was so afraid of opening up the defence debate.

The then Executive Producer Peter Charley, whose wages were paid by the taxpayer to safeguard our freedom of speech, issued this statement to me on Friday 13 January 2006:

It is neither wise nor clever to suggest that "little ol' Lateline is "afraid" to have anyone on the program?

Why is it neither wise nor clever? Charley is now the Executive Producer of SBS TVs Dateline program
 
In 2004 Lateline host Tony Jones played hardball with Liberal political head kicker Tony Abbott over his alleged secret meeting with Catholic Cardinal George Pell to discuss government policy. There were overtones of a dark conspiracy between the Abbott and the Catholic Priest! It was actually more high farce on Jones part. Perhaps he is a fan of Dan Browns Da Vinci Code?

But when it comes to defence experts, Jones blowtorch is nowhere to be seen. Perhaps Jones is saving himself for a sequel to his Da Vinci Code episode, Angels and Demons, where he questions Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for allegedly getting political advice from the martyred German theologian Dietrich Bornhoffer through visions and dreams!

Perhaps a voice, either an angel or a demon, depending where you stand on women in combat roles, is telling the Prime Minister to send women into combat!

 
(end)
 


TEAM UZUNOV blog
 
Sasha Uzunov is a freelance photo journalist, blogger, and budding film maker whose mission is to return Australia's national defence/ security debate to its rightful owner, the taxpayer. He also likes paparazzi photography! He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 1991. He served as a professional soldier in the Australian Army from 1995 to 2002, and completed 2 tours of duty in East Timor. As a journalist he has worked in the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. 

[Keith]

Cabbies threat to military security
EXCLUSIVE by Steve Lewis and Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
September 11, 2009

MILITARY bases and navy ships will be turned into virtual fortresses under plans to beef-up security in the wake of a major terrorist plot.

Taxi drivers and other members of the public will be banned from entering military bases without getting high-level clearance after an urgent review found Australia's frontline defence facilities were among the least protected in the world.

The top-secret review also found Australia's top defence brass would be vulnerable to a terrorist strike and recommended their leafy military showpiece, at Duntroon in Canberra, be turned into a secure compound.

Among sweeping reforms, the review calls for bases to be made more secure in the wake of an attempted terror plot by Islamic extremists.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced the review on August 5 after police arrested four men loyal to the Somalia-based terrorist movement al-Shabaab during raids in Melbourne.

Security agencies allege the terror suspects planned to attack Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney's southwest and had been seen acting suspiciously around military facilities in Victoria.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal that Cabinet's national security committee considered a series of recommendations on August 18 - although a final brief was still being considered by the Government.

Under the planned overhaul, military base entrances would be re-built to prevent unauthorised vehicles - including taxis - gaining access.

It is understood the review highlighted the ethnic background of some taxi drivers in Australia's big cities. These were identified as a potential security risk, although the Government would be extremely sensitive to any suggestions of racial or religious stereotyping.

Delivery truck drivers will require a high-level security clearance and in some cases defence "escorts" will accompany vehicles onto bases.

The review has also called for navy bases, such as Garden Island on Sydney Harbour, where warships are exposed to passing marine traffic to also have increased security.

The review has made a raft of recommendations and, if fully implemented, would cost tens of millions of dollars. It also found that Australia had the most exposed military facilities in the world.

"This is the only defence force in the world where anyone can get right to the front door," a source close to the review said.
**************
Combat 'no place' for Australian Defence Force women
Article from: COURIER MAIL
Stefanie Balogh

September 11, 2009

THE Coalition has moved to clarify its position on female soldiers, saying it supports gender equality in Australia's armed forces but is maintaining the frontline is no place for women.

Opposition defence personnel spokesman Bob Baldwin said the Coalition believed in "equality of opportunity for women in the defence force".

"The Coalition, however, doesn't agree with the placement of women into forces such as the SAS, clearance divers, commandos or frontline combat engineers," he said.

The Australian Defence Force has set up a Centre of Expertise to develop objective and scientific physical employment tests to ensure all soldiers are in the right roles - regardless of rank, age or gender.

The tests could allow women to serve in dangerous combat roles on the frontline if they meet the benchmarks.

They involve four trials measuring strength, aerobic capacity, endurance, power and speed, and they include carrying weights and body armour over distances.

Brisbane Labor MP Kerry Rea, who represents Bonner, said the views of Queensland Coalition backbenchers Stuart Robert and Bruce Scott, who said there was no place for women on the frontline, were outdated and patronising.

She said everyone had the right not to be discriminated against because of their gender.

"I think they need to open their eyes and actually have a look around at the sorts of employment options that women are looking at, and indeed the defence force should be no different if women can demonstrate they have the requisite skills and pass the appropriate criteria," Ms Rea said.

Mr Robert and Mr Scott this week attacked moves to open up combat roles to women.

Mr Scott, the Member for Maranoa, said the "presence of women on the frontline would threaten the rational thought process and performance of male soldiers".

Women make up 13 per cent of the nation's armed forces. They are eligible to serve in 92 per cent of the employment categories and 81 per cent of ADF positions.

They cannot serve in roles that could see them engage directly in combat, including combat engineer squadrons and infantry and armoured employment categories. But they can work in headquarters and logistics roles, and in artillery units.
**************
Women: RAAF wants you for its top guns
 
Mark Dodd | September 11, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE chief of the Royal Australian Air Force yesterday appealed for more women to try out for elite fast jet pilot selection, saying he hoped to soon see the country's first graduate female fighter pilot.

While the army is considering expanding its job listings for women recruits to include possible combat roles, the RAAF's doors have been open since the early 1990s and aspiring female pilots should feel encouraged to try out for the demanding selection program, Air Marshal Mark Binskin said.

That need has acquired a growing urgency with the anticpated arrival next year of the first batch of 24 new state-of-the-art F/A-18F Super Hornets.

An order for 100 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) is expected to be approved by the Rudd government by the end of the year to replace the aging F-111 strike aircraft, to be retired next year.

While the RAAF's overall recruitment figures are encouraging, Air Marshal Binskin said he had hoped the service would have graduated its first female fast jet pilot by now.

"I would love to have some female fast jet pilots," he said.

"If there is anyone out there that wants to do it, start applying now.

"The common feedback we're getting is most people don't think it's available for females but it is - it's been open for women since the early 90s.

"When I was commanding officer of a squadron in the mid-90s, I always thought as a commanding officer I would end up with female fighter pilots and then when I was commander of Air Combat Group, I thought it was going to happen but it still hasn't happened."

Qualified female fast jet pilots are serving in the air forces of the US, Canada, Britain and The Netherlands.

The job is a big step and requires a "highly demanding" skills set, but the reward is having "the best job in the world", said Air Marshal Binskin.

The biggest challenge facing the RAAF over the next decade is the transition of its workforce to managing the acquisition of new aircraft ranging from the ultra-stealthy F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to the new Wedgetail surveillance fleet of aircraft.

"What we're trying to do is in some way free up a bit of the workforce that we have that we can re-skill and roll into the next capability," Air Marshal Binskin said.

The RAAF had rightfully gained a reputation as the world's "best small air force", he said.

"If I look at where we're going to go in the future, and you look at the new acquisitions, you can see there is a lot of emphasis on us being a balanced force.

"Because we know we have to cover off from humanitarian assistance at one end right across to the high-end war fighting skills."

Numbering over 16,000 full and part-time personnel, the RAAF possesses the most capable air force in the Southeast Asian region, operating a range of combat, maritime patrol, transport and training aircraft. But many aircraft are approaching the end of their service life.

 
 

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[Keith]

Brigadier backs women in combat
 
Mark Dodd | September 10, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE head of the army's rapid reaction force yesterday backed women joining frontline combat units as long as they could meet the physical demands.

As a furore erupted over a push to remove gender barriers, Michael Krause said women would be welcome to join his Darwin-based 1st Brigade and face the same risks as their male colleagues.

Brigadier Krause, whose male and female soldiers are already serving in Afghanistan, would have no difficulty with an expanded combat role for women.

While women were banned from "forward platoons", they shared the same risks in Afghanistan, where traditional battlefield terminology such as "frontline" and "flanks" were virtually meaningless.

"We're not going to change our standards in the defence force, and we're still not going to change the requirements of the job," he told ABC radio.

"If you need to carry an 80kg pack, you'll still have to be able to do that. These are the requirements of the job."

Defence Science and Personnel Minister Greg Combet said on Tuesday the Defence Science and Technology Organisation and Wollongong University in NSW would develop a set of "physical employment standards" and evaluate the inventory of jobs in all defence arms.

But Mr Combet said yesterday a decision on allowing women entry into the Special Air Service and commando units would take several years.

Women are already able to access 92 per cent of defence jobs, including flying fighter jets, serving in submarines and in army intelligence and signal corps, but it is understood the ADF is keen to further boost female enlistment numbers. The army would be the first service to be assessed.

"What it will enable is the evaluation on the basis of an objective set of physical criteria, people's capacity to undertake particular occupational roles and positions," Mr Combet said.

Australia Defence Association executive director Neil James warned that putting women into combat units would probably result in high female casualties.

"I don't think the people of Australia would like to see their daughters, sisters, wives or female friends killed in disproportionate numbers to male service personnel," Mr James said. "It's a simple physicality thing. On the battlefield, academic gender equity theory doesn't apply.

"The laws of physics and biomechanics apply."

The Combet plan unfairly raised the hopes of women wanting to join the elite units of the ADF, said opposition defence, science and personnel spokesman Bob Baldwin.

"I urge the minister to not only investigate the physical requirements necessary to work in frontline units, but also ensure that the psychological impact of having women on the frontline is properly assessed," he said.

Australia lags behind New Zealand, Canada and Israel, where there are no restrictions on any defence job category, including forward combat units.

Malcolm Turnbull said decisions regarding a combat role for women were best left to the defence leadership.
*************


Women combat troops still years away, says Greg Combet
Christian Kerr | September 09, 2009
Article from:  The Australian

IT will be several years before any women serve in frontline defence roles, Minister for Defence Personnel Greg Combet said today.
 

The Australian today reported http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,26047312-601,00.html women may be able to serve in all frontline combat units of the Australian Defence Force, including the SAS and commando units, under a controversial plan that could avert a looming recruitment crisis.

Mr Combet is leading a push to remove gender as a criterion for selection for specialised categories of military service.

The Minister said today the Defence Science and Technology Organisation had commenced the development of a set of physical employment standards that will be evaluated across the forces, with Army roles examined first.

?It?s a very large piece of work that?s going to take a considerable times,? Mr Combet warned. ?It is very important work because what it will enable is the evaluation on an objective set of physical criteria of people?s capacity to undertake particular occupation roles and positions in the defence force.?

Mr Combet paid tribute to the ?significant number of very important roles? already being played by women in the ADF and their ?inevitable march.?

?About 92 per cent of the occupational categories within the Australian Defence Force are available to women and women are participating in some very important roles,? he said.

?A woman has served in a command position in a particular part of the operations in Afghanistan.?

A cautious Mr Combet said he was ?not reflecting? on the range of public views on women in combat.

?One of the arguments that has been put forward in the past is that perhaps women don?t have the physical capability to fulfil all of the roles within the ADF.

?Well, rather than do that on the basis of assertion and assumption what the government is doing through DTSO is developing a set of objective criteria.?

Opposition leader Malcolm Turnbull told the ABC the issue was a matter for defence force leaders.
?The primary objective has to be the safety and the effectiveness of our armed forces,? he said.

?I?m sure we will have an informed discussion, but it should be led by those with real knowledge, real front line experience in the field.?
*************
ABC NEWS
 
Defence scientists putting women to the test
By Samantha Hawley for PM
 

Related Story: Combet savaged over combat women http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/09/09/2680516.htm

Australia's top Defence scientist says his organisation will fully test the strength, endurance and power of women soldiers to measure whether they can serve effectively in frontline combat.

The Federal Government has ordered the scientific study to end sex discrimination in the army by allowing women to serve in front-line infantry and direct combat roles.

The RSL is strongly opposed to the move and one former SAS commander says morale and mateship would be destroyed if women were allowed to serve in that capacity.

But New South Wales MP and former soldier Lynda Voltz says if women are physically up to the task there should be no barriers.

Ms Voltz was one of the first women to train alongside men in the Australian army in the late 1980s and early 90s and she says she would have liked the opportunity to serve on the front line.

"Certainly I would have looked at it. You need to look at someone's physical capabilities and match them to the job," she said.

Women currently make up 13 per cent of the Defence Force and they are able to participate in about 97 per cent of roles including flying jet bombers.

But they cannot serve as frontline infantry or in the Special Air Services.

Now Australia's chief defence scientist Robert Clark has been ordered by the Government to consider what frontline roles women are capable of doing.

Defence scientists will test the strength, endurance, power, speed and aerobic capability of female soldiers.

"The whole point about this is that it is not based on gender or age," he said.

"The sort of thing that's being tested there is lifting a 25 kilogram weight in a box over a 1.5-metre vertical distance, marching with a full 25 kilogram fighting load over a five-kilometre distance in 55 minutes."

It is exactly the type of endurance that former infantry officer and now Federal Opposition backbencher Stuart Robert thinks women do not have.

"For Mr Combet to stand there and say his personal opinion is that women should be on the front line and serving in all units when he's never served there ... is simply outrageous," Mr Robert said.

"He's never parachuted at night in the rain, he's never carried a mortar-based plate for 50 kilometres in a route march, he's never spent nights and nights without sleep.

"For him to stand there and give his opinion and to push the Government into something is simply outrageous."

A strong advocate for breaking down the gender barriers, former chief of the Defence Force Chris Barrie says that is a nonsense argument.

"Many, many years ago of course, people said women couldn't possibly do this job because they've got to lug 50 kilos of machinery around; this was in the Navy context," he said.

"But when you actually ask the question, 'well how often do we have to lug 50 kilos of machine around?' Well, not very often.

"And then the next question, 'Well aren't we supposed to be really good at using locks and tackles and methods for doing all of this?' and after all a lot of the men that we have in our outfit couldn't do those tasks either.

"So you know there was a sort of ridiculousness about that sort of argument."


'It's about team cohesion'

Former SAS commander Jim Wallace is adamant that women should be kept out of direct combat roles.

"It's about morale, it's about team cohesion and in the Australian case, our army has always distinguished itself mainly because at the very core of each team, there's a strong mateship," he said.

"Now introducing women into that team very much complicates that very important bond."

"On long military operations ... having a women in the team and with all the natural attraction we have between the sexes would invariably lead to attractions and to implications that you don't have with an all-male team," he said.

Head of the RSL Bill Crews agrees that women should not be on the front line, but for a very different reason.

"It could be that women of child-bearing age may be susceptible to things that perhaps men at the same age are not, and some of the conditions still precluded to women do have hazards that might inflict such damage," he said.

He says that women could be left infertile because of injuries and "Defence has a duty of care to ensure that all of our service men and women are protected to the maximum extent".

Ms Voltz says that is ridiculous.

"If they're physically capable of doing it, why not?" she asked.

"If what you've got is a physical criteria and this is what people have to meet, and they can meet that physical criteria, why shouldn't they do it?"

 
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Wednesday, 9 September 2009 026/2009

HIGH COURT CHALLENGE TO THE AUSTRALIAN MILITARY COURT ? IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERIM ARRANGEMENTS

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today introduced legislation to put in place an interim military justice system, after the Australian Military Court (AMC) was invalidated by the High Court last month.

In Lane v Morrison on 26 August 2009, the High Court ruled on a challenge to the constitutional validity of the AMC and the Director of Military Prosecutions.

The High Court declared that the provisions of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 creating the AMC were invalid.  The AMC was found to be exercising the judicial power of the Commonwealth but did not meet the requirements of Chapter III of the Constitution, Senator Faulkner said.

As an interim measure, the Government is reintroducing the former system of trials by court martial and Defence Force magistrates.  This system has a number of safeguards within it to ensure that ADF members are treated fairly.

The interim legislation will also give effect to punishments (other than imprisonment) and orders that were imposed by the former Australian Military Court.

Beyond the interim measures introduced by this legislation, the Government remains committed to resolving the future of the military justice system with certainty.

Defence will be working closely with the Attorney-Generals Department to develop, as a matter of priority, a model for ensuring these matters are heard by a court constituted under Chapter III of the Constitution.

Establishing a Chapter III process presents a range of challenges which need to be fully addressed before moving to a new system, Senator Faulkner said.

The interim legislation, introduced today, will retain improvements to the military discipline system made by amendments in 2008 to the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982.

[Bob S]

Methinks they are running out of male volunteers for the Army   

I wonder if any of the current pollies, who advocate this stupidity, have any daughters in the Army ?
oh and are there any of the "Allies" who have women in front line roles?
And how come larger nations are not supplying more troops?
Haven't we Aussies learnt our lessons from Vietnam?
Can we win this War?
Do the people of Afghanistan really give a stuff about Democracy?

Off to the Psychiatrist appointment in half an hour.
Bob 

[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
 
Sent: Wednesday, September 09, 2009 8:17 AM
Subject: PUSH FOR WOMEN ON THE FRONT LINE


PUSH FOR WOMEN ON THE FRONT LINE


sourced: THE AUSTRALIAN
September 09, 2009


Patrick Walters,
National security editor


WOMEN should be able to serve in all frontline combat units of the Australian Defence Force, including the SAS and commando units, under a controversial plan that could avert a looming recruitment crisis.

The push by Defence Personnel and Science Minister Greg Combet would remove gender as a criterion for selection for specialised categories of military service.

The Rudd government wants to lift the proportion of women serving in the defence force from the current level of 13 per cent, as demographic pressures bear down on defence force recruitment over the next decade.

Removing any gender discrimination for serving in combat roles would put Australia in front of its key allies, including the US and Britain, which continue to carefully restrict where women can serve in the front line.

Mr Combet, a former ACTU national secretary, told parliament yesterday the Defence Science and Technology Organisation would develop a new set of physical employment standards for the army that would accurately measure a person's ability to perform the broad variety of jobs in the modern defence force. "A priority of the government is to improve the recruitment and retention of women in the ADF," he said. "My own view is that all categories should be open to women. The only exceptions should be where the physical demands cannot be met according to criteria that are determined on the basis of scientific analysis, rather than assumptions about gender."

Mr Combet said DSTO, in collaboration with the University of Wollongong, had established a Centre of Expertise in Physical Employment Standards, which would develop benchmarks for physical employment assessments for the ADF, beginning with the army.

"By defining a set of physical employment standards that represent the real demands of military tasks, Defence can ensure that all personnel have the appropriate physical capacity to safely and effectively carry out those tasks," he said. "The development of these new standards will also help inform the government on the appropriateness of a possible expansion of the roles that women can play in the ADF," Mr Combet said. He said the government would consider the results of the study, expected later next year.

Women are now able to serve in 92 per cent of employment categories and 81 per cent of positions across the ADF, including flying fast jets in the RAAF. In the army, women cannot join the special forces and some restrictions still apply in combat engineer squadrons and armoured units. Earlier this year, the army opened the employment category of ground-based air defence to women.

In the navy, the only restrictions are in the categories of clearance diver and mine clearance diver officer, while the RAAF continues to bar women from serving as airfield defence guards and ground defence officers.

Women can serve in combat zones in headquarters units and logistics roles within infantry and armoured units, and can also now join artillery units.

Mr Combet told parliament that adoption of new employment standards would also help guide recruits to occupations for which they were most physically suited and could also potentially facilitate access to occupations traditionally closed to particular groups on the basis of "task physical readiness".

***************
ABC NEWS
 
Combet savaged over women on the front line
By Simon Lauder and Emma Rodgers

Defence Personnel Minister Greg Combet has been savaged by a Liberal backbencher and former Australian Army officer over a new drive which could see women serving in frontline combat missions in countries like Afghanistan.

Mr Combet wants to attract more women to the Australian Defence Force by removing blanket restrictions on women acting as divers in the Navy, ground defence officers in the Royal Australian Air Force, and combat fighters in some Army units.

He says the Federal Government wants to break down gender barriers in the ADF by reviewing who does what based on physical capabilities, rather than gender.

But Liberal backbencher and former infantry officer Stuart Robert has branded Mr Combet's push to have women on the frontline as "outrageous", saying he needs to "think before he opens his mouth".

The Member for Fadden had a 12-year career in the military and served in a peacekeeping force in Bougainville after its civil war.

He has urged the Government to think "long and hard" before it allows women on the frontline.

"My concern is that really only Israel and a handful of countries whose very existence is threatened have gone down this path - the rest of the Western world hasn't," he said.

"[Mr Combet] has never parachuted at night in the rain, he's never carried a mortar baseplate for 50 kilometres in a route march.

"For him to stand there and give his opinion and push the Government into something is simply outrageous."

The long-standing logic in the ADF is that men are stronger than women, so women cannot do everything men can.

"It is perfectly valid to argue that all categories should be open to women, the only exceptions should be where the physical demands cannot be met regardless of gender according to criteria that are determined on the basis of scientific analysis rather than cultural assumptions," Mr Combet said.

Mr Combet has told Parliament that the Defence Science and Technology Organisation will develop a new set of physical employment standards, which will determine who is fit to do what.

"The development of these new standards will also help inform the Government on the appropriateness of the possible expansion of the roles that women can play in the ADF," he said.

"A priority of the Government is to improve the recruitment and retention of women in the ADF."

But the executive director of the Australia Defence Association, Neil James, has serious doubts about the minister's plan.

"Physical employment standards are already the prime criteria, you'd have to wonder who's been briefing him," he said.

"Some of his reported comments just don't seem correct - they don't reflect what reality is.

"The whole idea that the current policy is discriminatory [is false], I mean it's not discriminatory in a gender-equity sense at all."


'Laws of physics''

Mr James says the ban on women performing certain roles in the military is for good reasons.

"I don't think the people of Australia would like to see their daughters, sisters, wives or female friends killed in disproportionate numbers to male service personnel," he said.

"It's a simple physicality thing. On the battlefield, academic gender equity theory doesn't apply. The laws of physics and biomechanics apply."

Mr James says there is also evidence that male soldiers are overly protective of women in the battlefield, which is a distraction from the task.

Eva Cox from the Women's Electoral Lobby says that is an outdated argument.

"Grow up, I mean get over it, because that's something that comes out of some very ancient views about women and chivalry," she said.

"I don't think most men, most young men these days, are particularly aware of it.

"Modern younger men don't share those sorts of views and I think they'll learn how to take care of their companions regardless of whether they're male or female in a way that's most appropriate.

"Being told that you can't do something, that you're not allowed to do something, that you're inadequate in some way to do it, or that you're going to be just so distracting that nobody else is going to be able to do their job properly, I think it undermines the whole way that the culture or organisations work."

 
 

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[Keith]

From: Terry Davies
Sent: Tuesday, September 08, 2009 8:24 AM
Subject: Australian commando's joint military exercises; Philippines

source: THE PHILIPPINE STAR


http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=503260&publicationSubCategoryId=67

RP-Australian forces start joint military exercises

By James Mananghaya (The Philippine Star) Updated September 08, 2009 12:00 AM

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija , Philippines  Filipino and Australian troops started yesterday their three-week small-scale joint military training in bid to enhance the skills of both forces in the conduct of special operations.

The exercise, dubbed Dawn Caracha ?09, would focus on training both forces on waterborne operations, said Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner.

He said 14 highly trained members of the Royal Australian Regiment Commando would cross-train with 71 members of the Armys elite Special Forces, with observers from the Navys Special Operations Group, the Air Forces Special Operations Wing and the Marines.

The exercises, according to Brawner, are being conducted by virtue of a memorandum of agreement between the Philippines and Australia on Cooperative Defense Activities, which was forged in 1995.

The Philippines has yet to ratify the Status of Forces Agreement with Australia.

The SOFA between the two countries was signed by then defense secretary Hermogenes Ebdane and his Australian counterpart Brendan Nelson on May 31, 2007 in Canberra, which was witnessed by President Arroyo and Australian Prime Minister John Howard.

The agreement sets the guidelines for the conduct of joint military exercises between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Australian Defense Forces.

Aside from enhancing the inter-operability of the two militaries in counter-terrorism operations, it would also involve humanitarian and disaster relief assistance.

Talks for the signing of the SOFA began during the tenure of then defense secretary Avelino Cruz.

The Philippines is also party to the Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States and has been conducting large-scale bilateral military exercises in the country.

The VFA came under fire following allegations that US troops have been maintaining their presence in the country, particularly in Mindanao.

[Keith]

Australian Collins class submarine in cadmium scare
Article from: AAP
 
September 02, 2009

MAINTENANCE on Australia's submarine fleet has been suspended following reports they have an unsafe level of cadmium, a cancer-causing metal.

Workers from Australian defence maintenance firm ASC raised concerns about the levels of cadmium, a substance used to coat electrical components to minimise corrosion.

Four of Australia's six Collins class submarines are being tested, with results being assessed on HMAS Dechaineux, Collins, Rankin and Sheean.

The two remaining submarines will be tested later.

Defence says ASC production staff have been redeployed until tests results are known.

"The fleet has not been recalled to harbour," it said in a statement.

"However, precautions are been taken in accordance with existing Defence policy and procedures for the control and management of cadmium."

 
 

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[Keith]

 
From: Terry Davies
Sent: Tuesday, September 01, 2009 8:19 AM
Subject: RI to buy new submarines 2011

Article:  ANTARA NEWS

http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/1251733332/ri-navy-to-buy-two-submarines-in-2011-or-2012

RI Navy to buy two submarines in 2011 or 2012

Monday, August 31, 2009 22:42

Surabaya (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian Navy intends to procure two submarines in 2011 or 2012 at a total cost of about US$700 million, its chief, Admiral Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno, said here Monday. 

"The procurement plan for execution in 2011 or 2012 is currently being worked out by the defense ministry," Parijanto told the press after installing a new chief for the Indonesian navy`s Eastern Fleet Command.

"We still have to decide from which country we will buy the submarines and also have yet to determine their specifications. We may buy them from Korea, France or Russia," he said.

At present, the Indonesian navy had two German-made submarines but they were of very old vintage, he said, adding one of them some time ago underwent an overhaul, and the other now would follow suit soon. 

The navy had yet to determine the specifications of the two yet-to-be-purchased submarines but it was clear that they must have capabilities on a par with or , if possible exceeding, those of submarines owned by neighboring countries, he said. 

It was hoped the additional submarines would enable the navy to guard Indonesia`s vast maritime territory in a more effective way, the navy chief said. 

Meanwhile, the post of chief of the navy`s Eastern Fleet Command based in Surabaya was transferred from Rear Admiral Lili Supramono to Commodore Ignatius Dadiek Surarto who was previously commander of the main naval base in Makassar, South Sulawesi. 

Rear Admiral Lili Supramono was to be reassigned as a special assistant to the navy chief of staff at the navy`s headquarters.
******************
From: Terry Davies
 
Sent: Tuesday, September 01, 2009 8:28 AM
Subject: Indonesian Navy intensifying security of outermost islands

article:  ANTARANEWS
http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/1251733941/indonesian-navy-intensifying-security-of-outermost-islands


Indonesian Navy intensifying security of outermost islands
Monday, August 31, 2009 22:52
Surabaya (ANTARA News)


The Indonesian navy continued intensifying operations to secure the country`s outermost islands in anticipation of possible occupation by foreign countries.

Navy chief of staff Admiral Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno told newsmen here on Monday he had already prepared special forces to secure the islands.

"So far we have not received reports about disputes over the islands but we keep securing them," he said at the handing over of the post of commander of the Eastern Fleet Command from Rear Admiral Lili Supramono to Commodore Ignatius Dadiek Surarto.

He said that although with limited personnel and equipment, the navy remained committed to seriously carrying out its duty to secure the regions.

The navy`s warships in their operations to secure the islands are also assisted by ships from the police and other institutions.

"For the security in Ambalat six warships remained in place to anticipate possible infiltration by ships from Malaysia. Naval personnel are ready to intercept in case a foreign ship is infiltrating," he said.

Tension was rising in the region when Malaysian ships conducted manouvering and infiltrating the waters some time ago.

In connection with reports about the sale of a number of isles in several regions Admiral Tedjo said it was impossible to happen because they were not for sale.

"What I know is that no isle has been sold but probably they are just leased to investors. It is a mere misperception which must be straightened out," he said.

The new Eastern Fleet Command chief, Commodore Dadiek Surarto, used to be the chief of staff of the Military Seaborn Command and the VIth Navy Main Base in Makassar.


Rear Admiral Lili Supramono has been assigned as a special staff to the navy`s chief.

[Keith]

Vow to fix military courts
Patrick Walters, National security editor | August 28, 2009
Article from:  The Australian

AUSTRALIA'S future military justice system will most likely be set up as a unit of the Federal Court to ensure its constitutionality after this week's High Court ruling declared the two-year-old Australian Military Court invalid.

While the Rudd government would legislate next month to reinstate the pre-2007 system of trials by courts-martial for serious offences as a stop-gap measure, Defence Minister John Faulkner said yesterday the new court system would accord with Chapter III of the Constitution.

Under this chapter, which concerns the exercise of the commonwealth's judicial power, the attorney-general would have oversight of the new military court but it would have its own special panel of judges with a special set of conditions relating to their appointment and tenure in office.

The defence force has resisted the setting up of a Chapter III military court arguing it imposed restraints on the exercise of military justice.

The ADF has argued that military judges must be militarily prepared for operational deployments and able to sit in war theatres - conditions markedly different to those experienced in ordinary civil society.

Senator Faulkner said yesterday the government would try to validate the 171 cases heard by the now defunct AMC with special legislation to be introduced next month.

He hoped the temporary reinstatement of the former military justice system would soon be replaced by either the existing Federal Court "in its general jurisdiction or a new military division of the Federal Court". Senator Faulkner stressed that most of the (96 per cent) military discipline offences were summarily dealt with by the defence force at the unit level without reference to military courts.

Opposition legal affairs spokesman George Brandis yesterday backed the plan to make any new body part of the Federal Court system.

He said a 2005 report by the Senate's defence and foreign affairs committee had proposed such a course and had warned of the issues of not setting up the AMC as a Chapter III court.

"But the views of Defence that there wasn't a problem prevailed and we can now see that the Senate was right and the Defence Department was wrong," Senator Brandis said.

 

George Brandis blames Robert Hill for military court bungle
Christian Kerr | August 27, 2009
Article from:  The Australian

THE Howard government bungled military justice reforms, a senior Liberal frontbencher admitted today.

Shadow Attorney-General George Brandis said his friend and factional colleague Robert Hill erred in establishing a permanent military court.

The High Court yesterday ruled the Australian Military Court was unconstitutional, throwing its more than 170 decisions into doubt.

The Howard government moved to establish the court after the existing system of courts martial and military magistrates was slammed by a Senate committee.

But Senator Brandis said then defence minister Robert Hill acted ?against the recommendation of a Senate committee report into the military justice system?.

The 2005 Senate committee report had recommended that the military judicial system had to be based on courts established under Chapter III of the Constitution.

Chief Justice Robert French and Justice Bill Gummow said yesterday ?there was an attempt by the Parliament to borrow for the AMC the reputation of the judicial branch of government for impartiality and non-partisanship ... and to thereby apply `the neutral colours of judicial action' to the work of the AMC.?

If the Government wanted to establish such a court, it had to use Chapter III of the Constitution - in which the power to create the federal judiciary is contained - not the defence power contained in section 51 (6).

Defence Minister John Faulkner said today he was considering a system where military offences would be tried by either the Federal Court, a military division of the Federal Court or a new court established specifically to deal with defence force misconduct.

The Government had to ensure there was no question about the military court's constitutionality.

- with AAP
***************

[Keith]

Holsworthy guards' fake references

By Larissa Cummings

From: The Daily Telegraph

August 28, 2009 12:00AM
 

Large deposits ... Ahmed Mossani, head of the Roger Training Academy, arriving at ICAC. Source: The Daily Telegraph

HOLSWORTHY Barracks is being guarded by security staff who trained at a school accused of corruptly awarding credentials for cash, a corruption inquiry heard yesterday.

Four security guards stationed at Sydney's largest military base, who attended the Roger Training Academy in 2008, are expected to give evidence at an ICAC inquiry into the security industry today.

The ICAC yesterday heard Security International Services, a company providing security guards to "high profile" sites in Sydney, sent about 80 staff to the Roger Training Academy.

They were meant to be learning skills like "managing conflict through negotiation" to meet higher standards under new legislation.

But at the Roger Training Academy, if their money was paid, students weren't strictly required to show up, ICAC was told.

SIS national administration manager Vivek Raghavan said 40-50 per cent of his staff were based at high profile sites, including Holdsworthy.

Mr Raghavan said he knew the school was handing answer books to students and admitted contributing to the alleged corruption by writing eight fake references for under-experienced security guards at the school's request, pocketing $100 for each.

"To be honest, I was stupid," he said.

Roger Training Academy principal Ahmed Moosani earlier conceded that rushing foreign students through courses in a single day was "all about the money".

The inquiry heard students with poor English skills paid extra to pass courses and receive qualifications in providing security, first aid and responsible service of alcohol.

Student Nick Bosnyak told the inquiry through an interpreter he paid for his security certificate with a $4000 opal.

Mr Moosani, who draws a salary of $75,000, has deposited $1.3 million into his personal account since 2008, the commission was told.

He said the majority of the funds came from cash payments made by students.

"You didn't care how the trainers carried out the training, provided the money came in," counsel assisting the commission Carolyn Davenport said.

"Yes," he replied.

Mr Moosani said providing answers and certificates to students who paid $300 to $500 cash, even if they didn't personally attend the courses, was a form of "support".

"Some of the students are working and can't attend the course and we give support to the students. We help them," he said.

The inquiry continues.
**************
 

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Friday, 28 August 2009 050/2009

COMBET INSPECTS NEW DEFENCE HOUSING IN TOWNSVILLE

The Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, the Hon Greg Combet MP, today visited a Defence housing construction site in Townsville, as part of the Nation Building-Economic Stimulus Plan.

These new homes are just some of the 118 Defence houses being built in Townsville over the next two years by Defence Housing Australia (DHA), as part of the Stimulus Plan, Mr Combet said.

The constructions are injecting over $31.8m into Townsville businesses and the local construction industry. It is also directly creating over 85 local jobs and indirectly benefitting many more.

Prospero Homes and local builders Darryl Boggotto Constructions, Ron Jones The Builder and Peter Breen Constructions are building these Defence houses.

These companies pride themselves on using local sub-contractors and materials when possible.  They are generating and maintaining local jobs by employing local people, who are then giving back to the community, Mr Combet said.

There are 26 houses already completed in Townsville and handed over to DHA.  These houses will be provided to Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families, who are posted to the Townsville area.

DHA has created an Apprenticeship Support Scheme to complement the extra construction generated by the Rudd Governments Nation Building and Economic Stimulus Plan.

Four apprentices are employed as part of the scheme in Townsville.  They have been working on Defence houses since July and DHA is providing half of their wage for the full four years of their apprenticeship.

DHA supplies housing and related services to Australian Defence Force members and their families in line with Defence operational requirements.  DHA currently manages 17,300 properties across Australia, worth about $7.6 billion.

[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 27 Aug 2009 049/2009

IMPROVING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF ADF MEMBERS IN NORTH QUEENSLAND

The Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, the Hon Greg Combet AM MP, today announced the relocation of psychological services and resources for ADF members to Lavarack Barracks, as part of a broader strategy to improve mental health services for ADF personnel in North Queensland.

The Psychology Support Section North Queensland (PSS-NQ) will now be located at Lavarack Barracks which will mean that ADF members at Lavarack will have greater access to mental health professionals.

The move will provide better access for ADF members to other health and support personnel including nurses, doctors, social workers, and chaplains, Mr Combet said.

This is the first step in a series of events that will unfold in Townsville over the next
12 months as a result of Professor David Dunts review of ADF mental health care.

The move announced today is a significant step towards the implementation of a Primary Mental Health Care Multidisciplinary Team at the Barracks giving ADF members quick access to care when they need it, and at their workplace.

In addition to the new Primary Mental Health Care Multidisciplinary Team, a new Regional Mental Health Team will be established at Lavarack Barracks within the next 12 months.

The Regional Mental Health Team will provide secondary level mental health services including outpatient treatment programs, supervision of more complex cases, and the delivery and coordination of mental health training for ADF personnel.

The Regional Mental Health Team will be created with a Coordinator and a minimum of three other professionals, including a clinical psychologist, Mr Combet said.

The Rudd Government has allocated $83 million over the next four years to start a major program of reform across Defence in the area of mental health which will include the provision of improved mental health governance and policy, enhancing the mental health workforce, improving training for ADF personnel and providers, and enhancing prevention strategies.

[Keith]

AUSSIE DIGGER COMMENT

The former Government was advised that part of the AMC is unconstitutional before it was introduced in 2006. The question begs why didn't the former Government heed the advice? If the Government of the day with access to vast reserves of financial and legal support can't get a Law valid then what hope do we have. The ADF has reverted to the former Military Law until this matter is resolved. This begs the question " why was the code changed into something totally antithetical to the old Military Law Manual".It's plain stupid to model Military Law on civilian Law. Never the twain shall meet. Naturally Military Law must embrace all the fundamentals of our historical Legal process. As young aspiring Soldiers we were regularly made aware we were subject to two Laws and not excluded from civilian Law.
 
 
New military justice 'must be like civilian courts'

By Samantha Hawley for PM

A military law expert says the Federal Government will have to set up a new military court that is more like civilian courts.

Yesterday, the High Court found the Military Court is unconstitutional because of the appointment and tenure of its judges.

That has thrown the Defence Force's justice system into doubt and the Government is scrambling to put interim measures into place until it can set up a new court.

The ruling casts doubt over the convictions and sentences handed down by the military court over the last two years.

Professor Stuart Kaye from the Asia Pacific Centre for Military Law says any new military court will have to follow the same constitutional requirements as other courts.

"Judges would have to be appointed and only be able to be dismissed by parliament and be compelled to retire at age 70, in the same manner that judges of the Federal Court or the High Court or the Family Court are at the present point in time," he said.

"If a military court is to function, it will have to meet those criteria."

Already, one defence force member has had to be released from detention.

Professor Kaye expects the Government to move quickly to fix the situation, but says there could be more problems.

"Individuals could seek redress to the courts and seek to have convictions overturned," he said.

But military compensation lawyer Ben Mason says there is no easy fix for the Government.

"Whatever patchwork remedy is put in place may well be subject to judicial scrutiny itself," he said.

The Government is looking at passing retrospective laws to validate the court's rulings.


Established 'in good faith'

Former prime minister John Howard says the court was established by his government in good faith.

"We had advice and the advice was that it was a perfectly sound proposal," he said.

"But that's what you have a High Court for.

"We all live under the law and the law's now been decided and once judges decide things, well that's the law."

 
 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website
 
http://www.anzmi.net/  Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence


Tuesday, 25 August 2009
 022/2009

NEW ADF PILOT TRAINING SYSTEM

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced that the Government has given first pass approval for a major project to provide the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with a new Pilot Training System.

The new Pilot Training System will enhance the ADFs ability to train highly qualified and skilled pilots to operate its next generation of airborne capabilities, Senator Faulkner said.

Over the coming decade, the ADF plans to replace almost all of its airborne assets with the latest generation aircraft which will require a greater number of pilots with more advanced skill-sets.

That replacement program will include fixed-wing new air combat aircraft to be flown by Air Force pilots and new naval aviation and troop-lift helicopters to be flown by Navy and Army pilots.

Senator Faulkner said that the Defence Capability Plan 2009, which was released on 1 July 2009, includes the replacement of the existing ADF pilot training system with a more efficient and modern one. The system will be procured using a performance based contract for construction and delivery of pilot training.

The project, known as AIR 5428 Phase 1, will provide student pilots with the necessary training and qualifications, including theory and flight experience, to enable them to become pilots in the Navy, Army and Air Force. Through flight screening and basic and advanced training, the new Pilot Training System will prepare Air Force pilots for operational conversion and Army and Navy pilots for transfer to advanced helicopter training.

The Government will make a final decision about the new Pilot Training System model in the period 2012-13 to 2014-15, Senator Faulkner said. The new system will enter service in the 2015 to 2017 timeframe.

Importantly, Australian industry will have the opportunity to support the delivery of this new capability.

[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Sunday, August 23, 2009 8:18 AM
Subject: women in front line.

                        Women in front line.

This goes against the grain of the aussie male and the way he was brought up. Before we even look at the military implications , most aussie males have been brought up to protect the women and also the children of the nation and this includes war situations. Now some coward wants to place these women on the front line with a rifle full combat equipment and to kill the enemy. This is a daunting task for a male let alone for Females.I have no doubts they could kill and destroy the enemy but there would be a few points that should be made.
 
A.  The order is given to withdraw and one of the girls is to be left. Will the males follow this order as they are not bought up that way.
 
B.   The disruption of the section with females in a male dominated section. All do have hormones.
 
C.    The girls receiving favours over the blokes such as digging latrines and shell scrapes etc.
 
 D.   The girls not doing the same PT as the blokes. This is how the current problem has arisen with how the test for PT is done. Females could not do chin ups because of their build. So some soldiers complained that they should be exempt also. Sit ups the same and of course the INSTEP where given a miss because of the same problem .
 
E. people join the forces and this is for many reasons lets forget the loyalty etc. They join for a job and the life style and if they have to do certain exercises to satisfy that PULLHEM s for that job so be it get out if you cannot.
 
F. You cannot expect a female to carry her kit if she cannot do push ups or chin ups and that is using her own body weight with no combat equipment. On goes the saga.
 
There are plenty of jobs in the military without females in the front line adding more responsibility on the command structure , at section and pl level, not mentioning the tension in the soldiers household of being over seas with ladies in the section. Its called jealousy.
 
RW   KING
 
From: Keith Tennent
To: Veterans List ; ESO List
Sent: Saturday, August 22, 2009 5:59 AM
Subject: Australian women moving closer to front-line action


Australian women moving closer to front-line action

Article from: HERALD SUN

Michael Harvey

August 22, 2009

AUSTRALIAN women are moving closer to fighting alongside men on the deadly front line.

Physical strength - not gender - could determine who does what in the military.

A new scientific study will work out precisely the physical requirements needed to be "fighting fit" for all defence jobs, irrespective of gender.

The work will help ensure overweight and unfit military personnel are kept out of jobs for which they lack necessary strength and endurance.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Should women take on more front-line combat roles? Have your say in the comments below

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eventually, it could set the scene for a more momentous decision - whether to lift gender-based restrictions on the most dangerous close-range combat roles.

Defence Personnel Minister Greg Combet announced a new $2.5 million Centre of Expertise, involving the Defence Science and Technology Organisation and the University of Wollongong.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Interactive special: Aussies in Afghanistan
Diggers: Death threat all in a day's work
Afghan election: Poll overcomes fear

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In its first 3 1/2 years, it will assess physical requirements of army service and then move on to the navy and air force.

"This work being undertaken will help further inform the ADF about the suitability of all people, regardless of gender, age or rank, to serve in positions throughout the ADF," Mr Combet said.

"It is about better understanding what physical ability is required for these positions.

"The Government will consider the results upon completion."

Mr Combet hopes benefits will include lower health care and compensation costs, as a result of fewer work-related injuries.

Women comprise about 13 per cent of the Australian Defence Force, with some already in combat roles where they can "kill at a distance".

Women are eligible to serve in 92 per cent of defence employment categories, but are still excluded from army roles where mortal combat could be expected daily, such as infantry, artillery and combat engineers.

Australian Defence Association executive director Neil James said women were already on the front line where, occasionally, they could be required to kill enemy soldiers.

"But the reason why they are restricted from certain combat roles is because it would result in a disproportionate number of female casualties," he said.

 
 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

Australian women moving closer to front-line action

Article from: HERALD SUN

Michael Harvey

August 22, 2009

AUSTRALIAN women are moving closer to fighting alongside men on the deadly front line.

Physical strength - not gender - could determine who does what in the military.

A new scientific study will work out precisely the physical requirements needed to be "fighting fit" for all defence jobs, irrespective of gender.

The work will help ensure overweight and unfit military personnel are kept out of jobs for which they lack necessary strength and endurance.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Should women take on more front-line combat roles? Have your say in the comments below

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eventually, it could set the scene for a more momentous decision - whether to lift gender-based restrictions on the most dangerous close-range combat roles.

Defence Personnel Minister Greg Combet announced a new $2.5 million Centre of Expertise, involving the Defence Science and Technology Organisation and the University of Wollongong.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Interactive special: Aussies in Afghanistan http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/indepth/section/0,,5017957,00.html

Diggers: Death threat all in a day's work http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25962778-662,00.html

Afghan election: Poll overcomes fear http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25962794-5012747,00.html

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In its first 3 1/2 years, it will assess physical requirements of army service and then move on to the navy and air force.

"This work being undertaken will help further inform the ADF about the suitability of all people, regardless of gender, age or rank, to serve in positions throughout the ADF," Mr Combet said.

"It is about better understanding what physical ability is required for these positions.

"The Government will consider the results upon completion."

Mr Combet hopes benefits will include lower health care and compensation costs, as a result of fewer work-related injuries.

Women comprise about 13 per cent of the Australian Defence Force, with some already in combat roles where they can "kill at a distance".

Women are eligible to serve in 92 per cent of defence employment categories, but are still excluded from army roles where mortal combat could be expected daily, such as infantry, artillery and combat engineers.

Australian Defence Association executive director Neil James said women were already on the front line where, occasionally, they could be required to kill enemy soldiers.

"But the reason why they are restricted from certain combat roles is because it would result in a disproportionate number of female casualties," he said.
************


MSPA 278/09 Friday, 21 August 2009

REGIONAL DVD LAUNCH GOING SOLO  DEALING WITH ABSENCE IN DEFENCE FAMILIES

In a special ceremony in Brisbane today the Commander of 1st Division, Major General Mick Slater, hosted the regional launch of a new resource for Australian Defence Force (ADF) families.

The DVD Going Solo Dealing with Absence in Defence Families is the latest initiative in Defences ongoing work to help Australian Defence Force (ADF) families manage the challenges of a family members absence from home.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston officially launched the DVD in Canberra on 6 August 2009. The regional launch is being staged specifically for regionally based families who will directly benefit from the DVD.

Members of all three Services are often required to be away from home, not just on operational service, but also for training, and exercises. This DVD will help equip families for the members absence, Major General Slater said.  

The Going Solo DVD includes the perspectives of a number of ADF families who have experienced the absence of one parent and who have generously shared their experiences and ideas of how to manage and remain connected during the absence of a parent.  The DVD may also be used as a conversation starting point as the family begin discussions about the way they as a family might prepare for the member?s absence.  

Defence is most appreciative of those families who appeared in the DVD to share their experiences. Defence families are a living store of knowledge on how to cope with the stressors that Defence places on its people and their loved ones. So our best success comes from being able to share this knowledge and let all families benefit from it, Major General Slater said.

In the current operational climate, there is a high demand on ADF personnel. Any resources that help Defence families manage the challenges of service absence are especially valuable.


MSPA 277/09 Friday, 21 August 2009


PUBLIC CONSULTATION - SUPER HORNET OPERATIONS AT RAAF AMBERLEY


The people of Ipswich are being encouraged to participate in community information sessions prior to the arrival at RAAF Base Amberley next year of the next generation of air combat aircraft, the much anticipated F/A-18F Super Hornet.

In preparation for arrival of the new aircraft, Air Force is completing a Public Environment Report on Super Hornet operations at Amberley. The draft report was publicly released today and the community is invited to comment.

The Super Hornet will fly differently to the F-111 and people in communities around Amberley may notice a change in the pattern of aircraft noise in certain areas, Deputy Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Geoff Brown said.

RAAF Base Amberley enjoys a strong relationship with communities in the Ipswich region and I encourage community members who are interested to view the report and attend an information session, AVM Brown said.

Air Force is committed to providing as much information as possible to the public, and welcomes input from the community on how they feel the change from F111 to Super Hornet flying operations might affect them and the environment around the Base,? AVM Brown said.

Air Force is providing the Ipswich community with detailed information about potential environmental impacts of Super Hornet operations, including changes to aircraft noise patterns in the Ipswich area.  

People will see we have already made significant changes to the proposed Super Hornet operational profiles to minimise noise impacts on communities near Amberley,? Air Vice-Marshal Brown added.

The differences in flying operations between F-111 and Super Hornet will be explained in detail in the draft Public Environment Report and during community information sessions.

The public consultation period will run from 21 August until 2 October 2009. Air Force will conduct five community information sessions around the Ipswich area in August and September. Details of the information sessions will be advertised in local, state and national newspapers. For those who cannot attend one of these sessions, the Public Environment Report will be available for download on a dedicated web site at www.superhornet.com.au.  People will also be able to find out more information by calling the free 1800 451 766 phone number.

The draft Public Environment Report is being completed in accordance with Commonwealth environmental legislation using formal guidelines set by the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. Air Force will incorporate community feedback into a final report for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, the Hon Peter Garrett AM MP.

Air Force will begin a phased introduction of its 24 F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft at RAAF Base Amberley from March/April 2010.

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Friday, 21 August 2009
043/2009

PHYSICAL STANDARDS FOR MILITARY SERVICE TO BE BENCHMARKED

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the establishment of a Centre of Expertise to accurately evaluate the physical requirements of service in military occupations.

The Centre of Expertise will assist the Australian Defence Force to develop objective
benchmarks for physical employment assessments to ensure soldiers have physical capacity commensurate with the performance of critical tasks, regardless of trade classifications, rank, age, or gender, Mr Combet said.

The Centre will develop physical employment standards for Army, with a view to later assessing requirements for Air Force and Navy and will ensure that fitness-for-duty tests adequately represent the physical requirements of todays military services.

Physical Employment Standards allow soldiers physical capabilities to be assessed against the occupational requirements of their job, using a standardised set of test procedures.

Adoption of Employment Standards will help guide recruits to occupations for which they are most physically suited and could also potentially facilitate access to occupations traditionally closed to particular groups on the basis of task physical readiness.

They could also potentially contribute to significant savings for Defence as a result of lower health care and compensation costs by reducing trade-related injuries.

The Centre of Expertise in Physical Employment Standards (PES) is a partnership between the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the University of Wollongong.

The University of Wollongong will conduct fundamental enabling research projects, provide senior academic input, and specialist equipment and infrastructure support to DSTO?s dedicated research team on physical employment standards.

It has been allocated funding of $2.5 million over 3.5 years through the Hardened and Networked Army Initiative.

[Keith]

MSPA 276/09

Friday, 21 August 2009

DEFENCE RESPONSE TO REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REVIEW ON THE HEALTH OF THE REFORMED MILITARY JUSTICE SYSTEM

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, today released Defences response to the Report of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System.

The Report made 49 recommendations aimed at consolidating the last decade of reform and ensuring the ADF military justice system is properly positioned for the organisational challenges that lie ahead. The Chief of the Defence Force publicly released the Report in March.

I can announce today that 45 of the recommendations have been unanimously agreed in whole, in part or in principle.  Many are already in the process of being implemented, Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

The findings of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System reinforce Defences commitment to delivering impartial, rigorous and fair military justice outcomes.

Four recommendations were not agreed for the following reasons:

Recommendation 4.  This recommendation proposed the establishment of a senior position to oversee the ADF Investigative Service (ADFIS) project implementation.  This recommendation has been overtaken by the establishment of the ADFIS Governance Board and changed command arrangements for ADFIS.  Consequently, this recommendation is not agreed.

Recommendation 20.  This recommendation proposes that the Director of Military Prosecutions (DMP) would discontinue the practice of personally undertaking prosecutions.  The DMP has the same statutory right of appearance under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 as civilian State and Territory Director of Public Prosecutions counterparts. This recommendation was not agreed as it was considered that to not allow the DMP to appear in matters before the Australian Military Court would undermine the role of the DMP.  

Recommendation 26.  This recommendation proposed an amendment to the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 so that a stay of execution of punishments affecting personal liberty imposed by a summary authority would not be automatic upon notification of an appeal, which is the current situation.  Stakeholders considered there was no evidence at this time that vexatious appeals were being lodged to avoid the automatic imposition of a stay of execution of punishment. Therefore, implementation of this recommendation was considered premature. It is intended to revisit this recommendation after the amended summary discipline system has been in operation for at least twelve months.

Recommendation 43.  This recommendation contemplated the transfer of administrative support functions for the conduct of the CDF Commissions of Inquiries to the Inspector General ADF. This recommendation was not agreed as it was considered inappropriate for the Inspector General ADF, as the internal watchdog for military justice, to become responsible for the administration of Commissions of Inquiry.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said a comprehensive Implementation Plan had been devised, providing steps for progression for further military justice reforms over the next three years.  

The Implementation Plan contains the organisational priorities for military justice action and reform in the period leading up to the next independent external review within the next 3-5 years, Air Chief Marshal Houston said.  

The Implementation Plan continues Defences ongoing commitment to responsible maintenance of, and improvement to, the military justice system, and consolidates existing review proposals into a single clearly articulated reform agenda.

A great deal of work has been done over the last 4 years to improve the military justice system and a great deal of work remains to be done over the next 3 years.

Media Note: The Defence Response to the Report of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System can be found on at:
http://www.defence.gov.au/header/publications.htm#I

[Keith]

Budget pressure delays landing of new fighter
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | August 21, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE RAAF faces at least a two-year delay in acquiring its planned F-35 joint strike fighter force as the Rudd government moves to exert tighter control on the defence budget.

The pressure on defence spending, beginning next year, means the air force will not receive its initial squadron of F-35s until 2017, at the earliest.

The fighter will be Australia's biggest defence purchase and will only be exceeded by a $25billion-plus planned investment later next decade in 12 new-generation submarines.

With the retirement of the F-111 strike force next year, the air combat force will consist of 25-year-old upgraded F/A 18 Hornet fighters supplemented by a single squadron of 24 F/A 18 Super Hornets due to go into service from late next year.

The government has already delayed "second pass" approval for a final go-ahead for the $16bn F-35 purchase until the end of this year. Under the new funding schedule the RAAF will get two F-35 fighters for test and evaluation purposes from 2014.

[Keith]

 
ABC NEWS
 
Rudd, Key mull new Anzac force
 

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says he is considering the possibility of a joint contingent of Australian and New Zealand defence forces.

Mr Rudd met New Zealand Prime Minister John Key in Canberra this morning and Cabinet ministers from both countries will attend a joint meeting in Sydney tomorrow.

Mr Rudd has not released any details about the possible ANZAC contingent, but says there will be times when it would make sense for the forces to be jointly deployed.

"We believe, given the enormous bonds which already exist between our two armed forces, their common training doctrines and the compatibility of so much of their equipment, that this is actually a useful thing for us to do together," Mr Rudd said.

Mr Key says New Zealand is reassessing its defence arrangements and a joint contingent makes sense given the two countries already serve in many places together.

He says he does not know what capability would be required for a joint force or in what circumstances it would be deployed.

"It's a germ of an idea but it is something that the defence forces are interested in," Mr Keys said.

"The chief of defence forces on both sides of the Tasman will discuss [it] and we'll see how it goes."

 

www.theaussiedigger.com The Aussie Digger
 
http://theaussiedigger.com/TheAussieDiggerForum/  Forum
 
http://www.austvetmatters.net/ Fraud and Wannabe Website

[Keith]

 
From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
Sent: Thursday, August 20, 2009 12:14 PM
Subject: 20090812 HALE MP (Member for Solomon) Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program



Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program

Mr HALE (Solomon) (7.54 pm) I rise to inform the House of the recent Parliamentary Defence Force Program that I went on in the Kimberleys, having chosen to go with NORFORCE. I did a little bit of research on NORFORCE prior to going and found out that the North West Mobile Force, or NORFORCE, as it is known, was specifically raised to meet the requirements for surveillance and reconnaissance in the Northern Territory and the Kimberley region of north-western Australia.  This area of operations covers nearly one-quarter of Australia?s land mass, or 1.8 million square kilometres. Together with the other regional force surveillance units, NORFORCE provides the Australian Defence Force with an effective surveillance network in Northern Australia. I learned it is a unique organisation for many reasons. It has the largest area of operations of any military unit in the world today and is permanently assigned to a joint commander for ongoing surveillance operations in Northern Australia. The unit relies heavily on the commitment and local knowledge of the population of Northern Australia to fulfil its role. It has a high proportion of Aboriginal soldiers, whose talents are fully utilised. NORFORCE remains well equipped to undertake its tasks, which differ little whether the nation is at peace or at war. The regiment continues to develop in terms of the acquisition of new equipment and facilities and consequently is continually enhancing its capabilities. NORFORCE continues to enjoy great support from the local population, from which it draws its soldiers and which is its very reason for existing.

Major Dave McGarry coordinated the ADF program in 2009 and Warrant Officer Class 1 Jodie Stewart was the escort. After flying to Broome on Sunday afternoon and taking up camp on Monday morning we did the usual checks. A lot of what we do with NORFORCE and defence is based around safety, so there were the usual OH&S briefing issues to get us all up to speed with what was expected and to let us know that the defence program we were doing was dangerous. After having our briefings and packing up our jeeps, off we went. We first went to a rifle range where we did weapons testing. I would like to say that I was quite handy with a Steyr and did well enough to be an infantryman if required at some stage. We pushed on towards a place called Beagle Bay on the Tuesday. Beagle Bay is about an hour north-west of Broome. We spent the night at Beagle Bay, where we set up our Zodiacs ready to do our night patrols. We also went down to the beach and hooked a few mud crabs and had some salmon, which was a nice break from the ration packs that we had been living off the day before. That night we went and did some night driving with infrared goggles on through the bush, which was interesting. We sat around the fire and spoke about our troops that are in Afghanistan and Iraq and got a fairly good briefing on that. I was accompanied on the trip by Senator Steve Parry and Senator Simon Birmingham. We had a really good time. The next day we went out on the water and did some surveillance around the Western Australian coast. That night we pulled up at Middle Lagoon, which is a very popular tourist destination. We stayed there that night and did some surveillance with night-vision goggles. The program was a real eye-opener to the talent of our young men and women in this area. We were very well looked after. There were some full-time people there but there were reservists as well. They have a lot of talent indeed, and the job that they do is very important to this country. The program reiterated to me the importance of our defence services and the respect that I have for the men and women that wear our uniform, whether they are serving in NORFORCE or other parts of the world. I know that as a government, from the Prime Minister and the defence minister through to the other ministers as well as the parliamentary secretaries, we have an ongoing commitment to our Defence Force. It is a commitment that is shared by the opposition and I would like to put on the record my absolute appreciation of these people.


House adjourned at 8.00 pm


Brett Walker
Office of Damian Hale
Member for Solomon
(08)8981 3434 tel
(08)8981 8731 fax
0401 119 789 mbl
GPO Box 2163 Darwin NT 0801
brett.walker@aph.gov.au

www.DamianHale.com.au

[Keith]

From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Sent: Thursday, August 20, 2009 11:05 AM
Subject: 20090819 HALE - Veterans' Affairs and other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform) Bill 2009


Veterans? Affairs and other Legislation Amendment (Pension Reform) Bill 2009

Second Reading (19/08/2009)

Mr Hale (Solomon) (10.20AM) 

It is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise today to voice my support for the Veterans Affairs and Other Legislation Ammendment (Pension Reform) Bill 2009. This bill is yet another example of this governments commitment to both senior Australians and those who have served their country. The key elements of this bill will ensure our government delivers a sustainable and secure pension reform package for veterans and their dependants. The pension reform package addresses three key areas: it addresses the adequacy of income support pensions, it makes their operation simpler and more responsive to pensioners needs and it secures long-term sustainability. It prepares Australia to meet future challenges, including the ageing population, through changes to social security, family assistance, veterans affairs and aged-care legislation. The reforms will provide significant increases in pensions and result in a simpler, fairer and more flexible pension system. I know that that is something those I have spoken to in my electorate of Solomon look forward to.

We have a very vibrant veterans community in Darwin and Palmerston. In fact it would be remiss of me at this stage not to mention the very special day that we commemorated this week. Yesterday, on 18 August, Vietnam veterans and their families paid tribute to those who have served, suffered and died in and as a result of the Vietnam War at the annual Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day service at the Darwin cenotaph. Vietnam was Australia?s longest involvement in war, with around 60,000 personnel serving over 10 years from 1962 to 1972. Some 2,400 Australian service men and women were wounded in the conflict and 521 made the ultimate sacrifice.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the Vietnam Veterans Association Northern Territory branch for all their hard work in the community. Like so many community groups helping out those who need it most in the community, the great work the Vietnam Veterans Association does often goes unnoticed but I know the difference they make is significant. It was something that the very hardworking Minister for Veterans? Affairs talked to me about earlier this year when he was up in Darwin for the bombing of Darwin commemoration.

More than 320,000 veteran pensioners will benefit from these reforms, boosting their income by $1.1 billion over the next four years. The bill will see a number of changes. Single service pensioners and war widows and widowers with income support supplement will receive up to $65 extra a fortnight. All service pensioners and couples will receive a guaranteed increase of just over $20 a fortnight. These increases are in addition to the regular indexation due in September.

The pension system will be simplified by combining the value of the fortnightly and quarterly allowance payments into a single pensioner supplement to be paid fortnightly from September this year. The pensioner supplement will be made up from the quarterly payments of the utilities allowance and telephone allowance and the fortnightly GST supplement and pharmaceutical allowance. The telephone allowance component of this payment will now be paid to all those eligible at the higher internet rate, regardless of whether or not recipients have the phone or internet connected.

To ensure the reforms are more responsive to recipients? needs, from July next year pensioners will be able to elect to have some of their pension supplement paid quarterly instead of fortnightly. The pension reform package introduces a new pensioner and beneficiary living costs index. The new living costs index recognises that the cost of living for pensioners and beneficiaries may increase faster than the cost of living for the general community, as measured by the consumer price index.

From September this year the maximum base rate of income support pensions will be adjusted in line with either the consumer price index or the new pensioner and beneficiary living costs index, whichever is higher. Pension rates will also continue to be benchmarked to male average total weekly earnings. Lump sum advance payments are a popular mechanism to allow pensioners to budget for those unexpected one-off expenditures. The maximum advance will be increased to 1 times the fortnightly pension rate and the minimum advance will be set at half the fortnightly rate. A new work bonus will be introduced to provide an incentive to encourage those over the pension age who are able to continue in the workforce to do so. In fact only 50 per cent of the first $500 a fortnight of income will be counted in the income test.

This pension reform bill will improve the pension system and make it simpler and more sustainable into the future as the population ages. These changes have been a long time coming as part of the reforms. This bill delivers a stronger and fairer pension system that will serve both the recipients and Australia well into the future. These are people who have seen us through our darkest hours as a nation and we need to support them. Australia has a proud wartime history, and that has been part of the lives of so many Australians. The government remains committed to honouring those who have served and continue to serve, ensuring their legacy is remembered for generations to come.

I was very pleased when the Minister for Veterans Affairs announced funding for the Northern Territory branch of the Royal Australian Regiment Association for a reunion and a dinner to be held in Darwin commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Binh Ba. Commemorative activities in local communities play a major role in encouraging Australians, especially younger Australians, to learn about our wartime experiences and provide an opportunity for veterans to share their stories.

Through a whole-of-government approach the pension reform package prepares Australia to meet its future challenges, including the ageing population, through changes to various pieces of legislation, including veterans affairs, social security and aged-care legislation. This government is delivering on its core values to support those most in need in our society and to give all Australians the opportunity to lead a decent and fulfilling life. As the very hardworking Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs said last month at the centenary of the age pension commemoration.

Todays celebrations coincide with the Australian Governments recent landmark reforms of the pension system, delivering a simpler, fairer, and flexible safety net for millions of age and disability pensioners, carers and veterans

These long overdue reforms will provide greater certainty for pensioners, and meet the new challenges of an ageing population in the 21st century.

In conclusion, the veterans in my community of Darwin  and I have many, and we will have more veterans in the future because of our involvement in the coalition forces in the last eight or so years?are very happy. Pensioner entitlements was one of the things that veterans often bought up with me when I was doorknocking in my electorate during the election campaign. To be able to bring on an increase at a time of a fairly tough global financial environment is very important so that we can look after these people who have looked after us in the past.

There could be a certain element of criticism regarding spending, but the budget demonstrates the governments strong commitment to the veteran community and these increases show that. They provide certainty to the veteran community during these uncertain economic times. This spend, as I said, will be $1.9 billion over the period to 2012-13 this having been injected into the veterans affairs portfolio since the election of the Rudd government. It includes $1.1 billion, in response to the Harmer review, to some 320,000 veteran pensioners. So a large number of people will be directly assisted by the Rudd governments reforms in this area.

It is a tough area. I know that it would be easy to be critical of the former government; however, when it comes to our veterans and support for our people who are fighting overseas, defending our democracy and the rights that we hold dear, I think it is really important that this place is united in its support for those people. There is very strong support on the government benches. The member for O?Connor mentioned the past with regard to Vietnam. We do not look to change our past, but we certainly look to the future as a Labor government. I know that, on many issues to do with defence, we have the support of the opposition. There is very rarely a point of difference between our position and the position of the opposition when it comes to our Defence Force personnel, their safety and their deployment. As a member of this House I certainly take very seriously our role whenever any sort of legislation that affects our service men and women is before the House, whether it be increases to pension benefits for veterans or deploying our troops into a dangerous area. These are things that all members take very seriously.

I have 1st Brigade in my electorate, and I am very proud of the role that 1st Brigade play. On 8 August this year we had a welcome home parade in Darwin for some 1,200 personnel coming back from Afghanistan, Iraq and East Timor. I really enjoyed the feeling in the crowd. It was a day for our veterans and the people who have served. The crowds really turned out in Darwin to welcome back 1st Brigade. They are an institution in my electorate. They contribute fantastically well in fundraising for charity events?for example, when they push the gun through the city each year and collect money. They help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. They contribute in the sporting area very strongly. The Army, Navy and Air Force are involved in local sporting activities. They are a massive part of the fabric of the Northern Territory.

I think Darwin has probably more of an affinity with the Defence Force than other places?and I will probably have to take a bit of flak from colleagues on both sides of the House for saying that?through the bombing of Darwin and our close ties to the violence of war, experienced when it came to the shores of Darwin in 1942. Some 250 people lost their lives in those bombings. We have a very proud history of engagement in war on the shores of Darwin during the Japanese bombing raids at that time.

The community of Solomon fully support all endeavours to make things easier for those people who have come back. And it is probably about that, as much as anything. There are often financial constraints put on people who may be injured in war. Their ability to earn better incomes in the future is always jeopardised when they have been to war. There is obviously the physical damage that can occur but there is also the emotional trauma that many of our veterans have been through. The people of Darwin understand that and they turn out in great numbers whenever there is an opportunity to support the veterans, the returned service men and women and the people who have been in the services but who, in times of peace, have not been deployed. The fact that they were on standby, ready to go to defend Australia, means that we need to give them our utmost gratitude and respect. In Darwin we have a special relationship with our ADF. We have a booming ADF community. I am very proud to represent ADF personnel in this place. I am particularly proud to have 1st Brigade in our city. As I said, they do a wonderful job.

In speaking to veterans, I found that this pension increase and reform package has been very well received, including the fact that we have been able to put some of the bonuses into the fortnightly payments, that they are getting the utilities allowance to assist with power bills and the like, and that they are getting the internet. For some veterans who have disabilities the internet is their contact with the outside world. They can do all their shopping online. They can do all their banking online. They can talk online to friends through Facebook and those other mechanisms. So the internet is very important to them. I am proud, as a member of this government, that we have been able to assist in giving them a quality of life after they have served us.

I do not think you would not get too much dispute from anyone about this bill. I am glad to see that the opposition are supporting it. I did not doubt that they would support it, but it is good to see that they are supporting it. As I said halfway through my contribution today, I really believe our Defence Force goes above politics. Sure, we debate things in this place but, when it comes to an issue affecting the men and women of the services, that is an issue that is above politics. It is about supporting those people who look after our interests and let us enjoy the democracy that we live in. These reforms will deliver a stronger and fairer pension system to veterans and their dependants. I commend the bill to the House.

Brett Walker
Office of Damian Hale
Member for Solomon
(08)8981 3434 tel
(08)8981 8731 fax
0401 119 789 mbl
GPO Box 2163 Darwin NT 0801
brett.walker@aph.gov.au

www.DamianHale.com.au

[Keith]

From: Walker, Brett (D. Hale, MP)

Sent: Thursday, August 20, 2009 10:31 AM

Subject: 20090819- HALE - 60TH Anniversary of the Four Geneva Conventions of 1949


60TH Anniversary of the Four Geneva Conventions of 1949

Mr Hale (Solomon) (10.20AM)  

I rise in support of the Attorney-Generals motion in the House of Representatives on the 60th anniversary of the Geneva conventions on 12 August 2009. What the Attorney moved was:

That the House:

(1)     notes the sixtieth anniversary of the Four Geneva Conventions of 1949;

(2)     congratulates the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement for continuously fostering the principles of international humanitarian law to limit human suffering in times of armed conflict and to prevent atrocities, especially against civilian populations, the wounded, and prisoners of war;

(3)     recalls Australias ratification of the Conventions and of the two Additional Protocols of 1977

(4)     affirms all parliamentary measures taken in support of such ratification;

(5)     encourages the fullest implementation of the Conventions and Additional Protocols by the military forces and civilian organisations of all States;

(6)     encourages ratification by all nations of the Conventions and Additional Protocols; and

(7)     recognises the extraordinary contribution made by many individual Australians, including Australian Red Cross members, volunteers and staff, in carrying out the humanitarian ideals expressed in the Conventions and Additional Protocols.

Tragically, the world continues to experience armed conflict. As Dr Jakob Kellenberger, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, has said:

We sadly live in a world in which reports of direct attacks against civilians, of forced displacement, and of mistreatment of persons detained in relation to an armed conflict and the denial of their basic rights, judicial guarantees and procedural safeguards, are all too common.

By moving this motion, the Attorney-General is reminding all of us in this House, and Australians across the board, of our support for the Geneva conventions and our respect for the role that the Red Cross, the Red Crescent and now the Red Crystal organisations play in areas of conflict. I am very proud, as the member for Solomon, that I have the 1st Brigade in my electorate. I am very proud of the efforts that many of my soldiers?I call them my soldiers but they are really not my soldiers; Brigadier Michael Krause is the commanding officer?have put in Afghanistan, Iraq and Timor. We welcomed home 1,200 soldiers on 8 August. They are back safely in the electorate. I recognise the contribution they make.

We also have a lot of people playing peacekeeping roles in different areas of the world?in the Solomon Islands in particular and in Africa in roles with the Federal Police in some 14 different deployments. We have a lot of our Australian service men and women serving us overseas. This motion shows them that we are thinking of them. It shows that the Attorney-General and the rest of us in this place are very much behind and supportive of what the Geneva conventions bring and what they are designed to do in conflict. Unfortunately, wars will occur. We need to make sure that there are rules with regard to the treatment of prisoners of war, and certainly the use of the civilian population during war should be fought against.

I agree with the comments of earlier speakers with regard to war crimes tribunals and how governments need to be thorough and committed in their support, regardless of nationality, race or religion, when it comes to convicting war criminals. This really goes to the core of what war can do, when innocent civilians are used in a way that is against the rules of combat.

As a young guy growing up, I remember Mum talking about my Great-Uncle Con. Great-Uncle Con spent four years in Changi prison during the Second World War. He went away as a 100-kilo man mountain. In the five years he was there, they often had to eat grass to stay alive. He was subject to systematic sterilisation, so he and my Aunty May could never have children. My mothers father, who was Con?s brother, was able to put his hands around Con?s waist and touch them together when Uncle Con came back. That had a lasting effect on his direct family. When he returned some five years later he was nowhere near the person he was when he went away. That experience caused him great psychological damage.

In the past, wars were fought on a different type of battlefield. When you go to Anzac Day services, often you are consumed by your own thoughts. Although I may be in a crowd of 10,000 or 15,000 people, I feel very alone on Anzac Day and consumed by my own thoughts. We all have a vision of our Anzacs from the pictures that we have seen of them running up the beaches of Gallipoli. In those days wars were fought on fronts and there were stretcher bearers who would go out and retrieve the injured. Generally they were not shot at. My grandfather was a stretcher bearer in the Middle East. He stood on a landmine, which caused him some injuries. But in those days generally wars had fronts.

Now war has changed. Now the conventions have become increasingly difficult to police because of the desperation that war in the 21st century causes. It has taken a different turn. Every day our troops who are overseas are confronted by an enemy that is ruthless and that improvises. It is often very difficult for them to distinguish between the enemy and civilians. That puts an enormous amount of pressure on our service men and women when it comes to the treatment of civilians who have been caught in the crossfire of these conflicts. Conflicts are now more urban guerilla warfare than the war fronts of the past.

I fully support the motion moved by the Attorney-General. As I said, it drives home to us as a parliament the importance of the Geneva conventions and why they were put into place. But it also makes us remember not only those people who are overseas representing Australia and fighting with the coalition forces in Afghanistan and Iraq but also those people who are caught in the crossfire. It makes us remember how lucky we are. Often you will hear chanting and yelling out the front of Parliament House. The reason that we are able to protest, the reason that our newspapers are generally allowed to write what they like, is the wars that we fought in the past. We fought for the democracy that we enjoy living in today.

In conclusion, I remember having a talk to Brigadier Kraus one day. Some adverse comments had been made about the ADF by a former member of this place. We were all outraged, on both sides of parliament, with regard to those comments. I will not repeat them. However, Michael Kraus said to me, I was offended by the comments but I will defend his right to say them. That is what the ADF do. So I fully support the Attorney-General. I congratulate him on moving this motion. I congratulate the speakers from both sides of the House. It is something that is above political alliances. It is about our country. I am glad that, when it comes to our military, there is a bipartisan approach.


Brett Walker
Office of Damian Hale
Member for Solomon
(08)8981 3434 tel
(08)8981 8731 fax
0401 119 789 mbl
GPO Box 2163 Darwin NT 0801
brett.walker@aph.gov.au

www.DamianHale.com.au

[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


DEFENCE FORCE SEPARATION RATE LOWEST IN DECADE

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today announced that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is currently experiencing its lowest separation rate in the last decade, with the 12-month average separation rate falling to 9.4 per cent in July 2009.

?The Navy, Army, and Air Force have experienced significant decreases in separation rates with current figures of 10.8, 10.3 and 6.4 per cent respectively, down from 12.4, 11.9 and 9.0 per cent since July 2007, Mr Combet said.

The ADF is expecting further decreases in separation rates throughout the next quarter, followed by the rates stabilising in 2010.

Another pleasing aspect of this result is that more young people are getting first class training from the ADF at a time when Australia needs to build its workforce skills base.

Mr Combet said the decrease in separation rates, and associated increased retention of trained and skilled personnel with operational experience, will place Defence in a good position to achieve the growth and capability requirements outlined in the 2009 Defence White Paper, Force 2030.

ADF personnel strength is currently 56,522, representing is a growth of 1,919 permanent members over the last year and including 1,454 Reservists on full time service. This growth includes 259 more women than last year serving in a wide variety of roles. The ADF has also benefited greatly from the re-enlistment of personnel with prior military service.

Defence recognises the importance of harnessing the skills and experience of its qualified and professional men and women and is very much focused on enhancing its overall employment package to support retention, Mr Combet said.

[Keith]

 
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


NEW ADF OFFICER AVIATION REMUNERATION STRUCTURE

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today announced that the independent Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal had approved a new remuneration structure for Australian Defence Force officer aircrew and air traffic control officers.

Remuneration outcomes are an important component of the total employment package provided for the men and women of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who have chosen to serve their country, Mr Combet said.

The new Officer Aviation Remuneration Structure (OARS) introduces a flexible remuneration system that ensures this specialist military workforce of over 2,000 members receives comparable pay for comparable work against the aviation industry benchmark.

The ADF is currently facing the greatest capability acquisition program in its history and this leading-edge remuneration system for officer aircrew and air traffic control officers will go a long way to safeguard Defences substantial investment in this workforce.

Mr Combet said that the major capability growth within Defence is in the acquisition of new aircraft for the Navy, Army and Air Force. Successful introduction into service of these systems will result in unprecedented air power capability for the ADF.

Critical to the success of these acquisition programs is a dedicated and experienced workforce that can not only continue to deliver capability, but also manage and contribute to complex transition programs involving state-of-the art technologies."

The Government recognises the need for highly-skilled and experienced aircrew and air traffic control officers to ensure the successful introduction of these new capabilities, Mr Combet said.

Aircrew and air traffic control skills are only accumulated over years of training, at significant expense to Defence, and are highly sought by industry.

The new structure remunerates these aviation specialists appropriately and offers career and other incentives to encourage them to continue serving in the ADF.

Mr Combet said that the OARS was the final element of a major overhaul of the total ADF remuneration system that started in 2002.

The ADF now has a contemporary remuneration base on which to grow the ADF and help meet military capability needs."

Please note Defence Media has a new phone number: 02 6127 1999.
The existing number will be automatically diverted to the new number for three months.  The existing after-hours duty mobile 0408 498 664 will remain.

[Keith]

Defence and the constant battle to pass muster: it's matter of life and death

John Faulkner

August 15, 2009

The Defence Department has a budget of more than $25 billion a year; civilian staff of nearly 15,000, and uniformed personnel of more than 55,000; 76,000 if you include the reserves. Coping with its size and complexity is a challenge of governance, and real progress is being made.

Defence deals with long-term issues, which don't lend themselves readily to short-term solutions. In June last year, the secretary, Nick Warner, acknowledged long-standing problems which he referred to as the "broken backbone" of Defence, which would only be fixed by "deep and sustained reform".

The Government's vehicle for reform is the Strategic Reform Program. It has three key elements: improved accountability, improved planning and enhanced productivity.

Transparency is crucial to good governance and essential to accountability. I am going to be transparent about some of the challenges we face. What Defence does is inherently difficult, not just operations but cutting-edge science, complex systems, high technology engineering, intelligence analysis and strategic policy development. There are risks. There will be mistakes.

It is an open secret that Defence faces real problems with its own infrastructure. Some information and communication technology systems are antiquated and inadequate. Some are too cumbersome, fragile, and costly to operate effectively.

These factors cause major problems, perhaps the most recent high-profile example has been the problems with pay systems. These systems are out of date and under great stress. This partly reflects the complexity of the allowances paid to serving personnel, and the frequency with which those allowances vary.

The SAS pay issue is perhaps the most high profile, but the army's ongoing audit of pay has identified other issues. There are problems, for example, with the flying allowance, and with army reserve pay. Inevitably, there will be more problems to come before new systems are put in place.

We also face challenges with specific projects or capabilities. The acquisition of specialised military equipment can be complex and expensive. Defence has a sound practice of identifying any ''projects of concern'' that are more expensive than we expected, later than we'd like, and not working as well as we need. But it is important to remember that 83 per cent of more than 200 acquisition projects closed in the last 10 years have been on or below their approved budget.

Problems managing our submarine force, for example, have been widely reported on, while in 2003, the then government approved the project to provide electronic warfare protection to a range of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. While the infra-red and ballistic protection elements have been fitted to our Chinooks for operations in Afghanistan, and are being fitted to some of our Black Hawks, it is likely that the full scope of this project will never be delivered.

Trials and tests for the Black Hawk are still under way, but they will be replaced from 2012, which means we need to carefully consider any further work. At times, good governance will mean knowing when to terminate a project.

The problems Defence has encountered have a variety of causes. Cutting-edge technology is more sophisticated and more complex than ever, and the speed of change is accelerating. If the ADF is to maintain a war-fighting edge, it needs to take some risks, then manage those risks professionally and tightly.

But, while some of our problem areas can be attributed to technological complexity and external factors, others will be addressed through structural, cultural and governance reform.

In this, I think Defence has a developing "good news" story. External oversight is improving, as is its capability development and procurement processes. We now have a better alignment between government strategic planning and capability.

Successful governance, in any organisation, takes continual effort and great conscientiousness. The principles of good governance may be straightforward, but the practice can be difficult and complex. And, when it works, it's invisible. Failures of governance, in contrast, are highly visible. In the Defence portfolio, they can also be extremely expensive, not only in terms of millions or billions of dollars - but more importantly, in lives.

Senator John Faulkner is the Minister for Defence. This is an edited extract from a speech delivered on Thursday night.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald

 
 

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Exiting Defence boss a tip for ASIS
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | August 12, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Department of Defence is about to undergo another leadership shake-up, with the expected departure of Nick Warner from its top civilian post.

Mr Warner is tipped to leave Defence soon to become head of ASIS -- Australia's covert overseas intelligence agency.

The career diplomat is expected to take up his new job within weeks after serving nearly three years as secretary of Defence with responsibility for managing its $26billion budget.

At the top of the shortlist of candidates to succeed Mr Warner at the helm of Defence is Finance Department head Ian Watt, 58, one of Canberra's most experienced and well-regarded departmental secretaries.

The Rudd government wants a tough-minded bureaucrat to manage the department at a time when it has demanded billions of dollars of internal savings and promised a period of financial stringency for Defence over the next four years.

Mr Warner, 59, will leave the job just months after the publication of the Rudd government's new defence white paper and at the beginning of a 10-year, $20bn savings program.

Earlier this year the department became embroiled in political controversy over unfounded allegations that Defence officials spied on former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon.

Mr Warner directed an exhaustive internal investigation which found no substance to the claims, but his relationship with Mr Fitzgibbon came under severe strain.

Mr Warner's three-year contract as secretary of Defence is due to expire in December, but he could take up the

ASIS post before then, succeeding David Irvine, who left to become ASIO director-general in April.

Before taking up the Defence job, Mr Warner was the Department of Foreign Affairs' top diplomatic troubleshooter, and led the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands. He is also a former high commissioner to Papua New Guinea, ambassador for counter-terrorism and ambassador to Iran.

While the ASIS job is not at the top level of Canberra's bureaucratic pecking order, it has always been held by a senior diplomat. ASIS has trebled in size over the last decade and has enjoyed greatly increased budget funding since 2001 as counter-terrorism has become a top government priority. Mr Warner is seen inside the government as an excellent candidate for the job, which now has closer links with both the military and Australia's other intelligence agencies.

The candidates to succeed him include the department's chief audit executive, David Yarra, and Grant Hehir, head of the Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance.

 
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Monday, 3 August 2009
013/2009

ANZAC MISSILE DEFENCE PROJECT ON TRACK

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, and Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet, today formally announced the Governments commitment to ensuring that the Anzac class frigates are able to operate effectively for the remainder of their operational lives.

As indicated in the recently released Defence White Paper, the Government has agreed to put all of the Anzac ships through the anti-ship missile defence (ASMD) program, subject to the successful outcome of sea trials on the first ship.

The ASMD program involves a comprehensive upgrade of the Anzac frigates, including the addition of innovative phased array radar technology designed and built by an Australian company, CEA Technologies.

The Government is committed to completing the development and trials of this highly innovative Australian designed technology at a cost of $158 million.

This is the first lightweight application of such technology and, if successful, will deliver an enhanced search and track and target illumination capability in the maritime environment.

The ASMD program will ensure the Royal Australian Navys Anzac frigates have a far greater level of self-defence against modern anti-ship missiles. It will also improve the ability of the frigates to provide close-in protection to an amphibious maritime task group and support the Navy?s future air warfare destroyer capability, Senator Faulkner said.

In a very encouraging outcome for the development of this high-technology system, the prototype radar has performed beyond expectations throughout the testing and evaluation process.

Over the last 12 months, the practical demonstration of this phased array radar technology has provided the Government with confidence that the new acquisition strategy will maximise the integrity and maturity of the system before beginning the first ship installation in 2010, Mr Combet said.

This challenging project has experienced delays, so it is pleasing to see this level of technical maturity and managed risk being achieved. However, full integration of the radar into the Anzac frigates is yet to be completed, and the Government will continue to closely monitor the progress of this project.

The first Anzac ship to undergo the upgrade is HMAS Perth which is scheduled to complete sea trails in July 2011.

Flag lowered as last 12 Diggers leave Iraq

Mark Dodd | August 01, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE last 12 Australian troops serving with US units in Iraq have finished their mission and are heading home, formally ending Canberra's controversial six-year involvement in the bloody conflict.

Yesterday marked the historic fulfilment of a key election pledge by the Rudd government to withdraw all Australian combat forces from Iraq.

No Australian soldier was killed in action but one, Private Jake Kovko, died from a self-inflicted wound.

Although a member of the so-called coalition of the willing, with the exception of the Special Air Service Regiment, Australian troops serving in Iraq were kept out of combat operations which cost the lives of 4328 US servicemen and women and 179 British military personnel.

Estimates of the number of Iraqi civilian dead exceed 92,000.

Under an agreement between Canberra and the Iraqi government all Australian troops except those serving with an embassy-based security detachment had to be withdrawn by July 31.

Speaking on Melbourne radio, Kevin Rudd said he believed it would be appropriate for a formal acknowledgement of the Australian Defence Force contribution in Iraq.

"I think it's appropriate that we do, I really do," the Prime Minister said. "You see, we all know the history of Australia's engagement in the Iraq War.

"It was a matter of huge debate in the country and the two major parties in Australian politics took a different view."

Departing Australian troops were farewelled with flag-lowering ceremonies, with the honour of the last Australian soldier to leave Iraq going to Corporal Don Mander.

"Don was the last guy to step on to the ramp of the aircraft as we brought them out," said Major General Mark Kelly, the ADF's Middle East commander.

Defence Minister John Faulkner said the withdrawal of the last Australian troops marked an end to Operation Catalyst, which saw about 20,000 ADF personnel deployed to Iraq over the past six years.

"As the operation has now successfully concluded, Defence will consider suitable opportunities for public recognition which may included parades in appropriate locations," he said.

"It would be appropriate, now that the contribution to the Iraq effort has been concluded from Australia's perspective, that perhaps we look at some form of public recognition of the wonderful contribution of all of those who served in Iraq have made," RSL national president Major General Bill Crews said.

 
 

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Rudd promises to publicly honour Iraq troops

Jonathan Pearlman

August 1, 2009

PRIME Minister Kevin Rudd has pledged to publicly recognise Australian troops who served in Iraq and ensure they are spared any Vietnam-style fallout from the widespread opposition to the war.

Mr Rudd said yesterday that the troops ? whose mission formally ended yesterday ? had done a ??fantastic job?? in Iraq and deserved formal, official recognition.

About 20,000 veterans have served in Iraq since the US-led invasion in 2003. They are likely to be recognised by a series of parades. ??These are a fine body of soldiers and should be recognised,?? Mr Rudd told 3AW.

??The searing lesson from Vietnam: never put our troops in the middle of a political bunfight. They respond to the direction of the democratically elected government of the day. They did so in response to the direction of the then Howard government, and my experience, having visited them in the field in Iraq, and based on everything I?ve heard from the allies, is that they have done a fantastic job,?? he said.

Mr Rudd pledged to ensure the veterans? service was not tarnished by the political debates over the war.

??We all know the history of Australia?s engagement in the Iraq war,?? he said. ??It was a matter of huge debate in the country, and the two major parties in Australian politics took a different view.

??But what we said all the way through was that our men and women in uniform should never be the meat in the sandwich for that.??

The president of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Ron Coxon, said public recognition of the troops would be ??absolutely magnificent for their self-esteem??.

??We should welcome them home,?? he said. ??It is just great to be recognised.??

Defence Minister John Faulkner said the military was considering ways to recognise the veterans, including parades in various locations.

Source: The Age

 

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[Keith]

Air Force Plans for All-Drone Future

http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2009/07/air-force-plans-for-all-drone-future/
 
Is the day of the hot-shot fighter jock nearly done?

An Air Force study, released without much fanfare on Wednesday, suggests that tomorrow?s dogfighers might not have pilots in the cockpit. The Unmanned Aircraft System Flight Plan. which sketches out possible drone development through the year 2047, comes with plenty of qualifiers. But it envisions a radical future. In an acronym-dense 82 pages, the Air Force explains how ever-larger and more sophisticated flying robots could eventually replace every type of manned aircraft in its inventory ? everything from speedy, air-to-air fighters to lumbering bombers and tankers.

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET MP

Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Wednesday, 22 July 2009

025 /2009

FIRST RAAF SUPER HORNET FLIGHT

Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, has congratulated the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and Boeing following the first flight of Australia?s F/A-18F Super Hornet in the United States.

Mr Combet said the Super Hornet took off from Lambert International Airport in St. Louis and follows the recent unveiling of the aircraft on July 8 at the companys Integrated Defense Systems facility.

The first of 24 F/A-18Fs will arrive at RAAF base Amberley in March next year.

The remaining Super Hornets, each equipped with the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array AESA radar, will be progressively delivered to the RAAF throughout the remainder 2010 and 2011, he said.

Mr Combet said the flight lasted more than an hour and represented an excellent result for the DMO, the Royal Australian Air Force, United States Navy, The Boeing Company and its industry partners General Electric, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon.

The Government is pleased to see that the Super Hornet project is progressing well and remains on schedule and on budget Mr Combet said.

The FA18F Super Hornets will be based at RAAF Amberley and will aid the transition to a mature Joint Strike Fighter capability while allowing the Air Force to retire the F-111 fleet.

The total program investment is approximately $6 billion over 10 years, which includes acquisition and all support costs including facilities, training and personnel.?  

Images of the first flight are available at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2009/Jul/index.htm

[Keith]

MSPA 223/09 Sunday, 19 July 2009

PERSONAL DETAILS OF SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

Private Benjamin Ranaudo was killed by an anti-personnel explosive device in Afghanistan yesterday.

Private Ranaudo was a member of the Townsville based 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment. He was a member of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force in Afghanistan and was killed while on operations north of Tarin Kowt early Saturday morning, Afghanistan time.

Private Ranaudo was 22 years old and leaves behind a loving family who are currently receiving support from Defence representatives.

The family has requested their privacy be respected during this difficult time. They will not be conducting any media interviews.

Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, earlier today extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of Private Ranaudo.

Our hearts go out to Benjamins family during this very sad time. We will do everything we can to support them as they deal with their terrible loss.

Private Benjamin Ranaudo was a professional soldier who served enthusiastically and with distinction. His career record speaks to a young man, very well trained, with an extraordinary array of completed courses. Benjamin was clearly dedicated to his career as a soldier and committed to the profession of arms. He died ensuring that terrorist groups do not have Afghanistan as a base from which they can plan and mount attacks, said Air Chief Marshal Houston.

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie, extended his condolences to the family and friends of Private Ranaudo.

Our hearts go out to Benjamin?s family during this very sad time. I hope the knowledge that they are in the thoughts and prayers of so many Australians will be a source of comfort for them.

Private Ranaudo died while serving his nation and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.  This loss is felt heavily by the wider Defence Community, and particularly by members of the Australian Army,? said Lieutenant General Gillespie.

Media Note:
The family has requested their privacy be respected. They will not be conducting any media interviews.

[Keith]

MSPA 222/09 Sunday 19 July 2009

MENTORING AND RECONSTRUCTION TASK FORCE MEMBER KILLED ON OPERATIONS IN AFGHANISTAN

An Australian soldier serving with the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force in Afghanistan was killed while on operations north of Tarin Kowt yesterday morning, Saturday Afghanistan time.

The soldier was killed when an anti-personnel explosive device exploded.

A second Australian soldier was wounded.  Three Afghan civilians were also injured in the incident.

The Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, said the incident occurred during an operation against a compound of interest in the Baluchi Valley.

It appears that in the course of the cordon and search operation ? conducted with our Afghan National Army partners  an anti personnel explosive device has exploded, killing one Australian soldier and wounding another Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

Three Afghan civilians also received less serious injuries in the explosion.  One of the injured is believed to be an eight-year-old boy.

All those injured in the incident were provided immediate first aid and promptly evacuated by helicopter to the ISAF medical facility in Tarin Kowt Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

Air Chief Marshal Houston expressed his deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased soldier.

In this time of grief, the Australian Defence Force offers its full support and condolences to the family of this courageous fallen soldier.

Preparations are now underway to bring him home so his family can lay him to rest.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the wounded soldier had undergone surgery and was now in a serious but stable condition.

Our thoughts are also with his family at this difficult time.

This terrible incident is a sad reminder of the dangers faced by our soldiers in Afghanistan.

As operations are still ongoing no further information on this incident can be provided, in order to protect those still in the field.

This is the 11th Australian soldier to be killed on operations in Afghanistan.

[Keith]

 
SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Friday 17 July 2009
009/2009

MINISTER FOR DEFENCE FAREWELLS TROOPS DUE TO DEPLOY TO MIDDLE EAST


The Minister for Defence Senator John Faulkner today attended the ADF Force Support Unit 2 Farewell Parade at the 1st Royal Australian Regiment parade ground in Townsville. The role of the Force Support Unit is to provide logistics support to all operational nodes in the Middle East, with its main focus on supporting operations in Afghanistan.  Force Support Unit 2 will deploy later this month for an eight month rotation.

I have recently returned from a visit to Afghanistan and can personally vouch for the important role you will play in providing support throughout the Middle East. Our troops there are operating in arduous and dangerous conditions and the contribution you make to supporting and sustaining them is pivotal to our success Senator Faulkner said.

Accompanied by the Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant General Mark Evans Senator Faulkner visited the airmen and women of the Royal Australian Air Forces 38 Squadron and discussed the phase out of the squadrons Caribou work horse in December this year as well as meeting with the Armys aviators, engineers and support personnel of the 5th Aviation Regiment.

I continue to be impressed with the spirit and work ethic of the personnel of the Australian Defence Force. ADF units based in Townsville make a significant commitment to operations in Timor and the Middle East and our Defence personnel continue to apply themselves to the task and rise to the challenges that are presented to them Senator Faulkner said.

Further information regarding Defence facilities and units in Townville are available at:

http://www.airforce.gov.au/bases/townsville.aspx, and

http://www.defence.gov.au/Army/hq3bde/

Images will be available this afternoon on the Defence website at:

www.defence.gov.au

[Keith]

COURTESY THE AUSTRALIAN
 
McClelland's reference for sheik 'spy'  http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25794011-31477,00.html

EXCLUSIVE: Paul Maley and Drew Warne-Smith THE federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, supplied a glowing character reference for a Sydney sheik accused of spying for Iran.

VC hero 'one of the rarest of men' http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25794000-31477,00.html

Fewer bodies at Fromelles http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25793778-31477,00.html
 
 

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ABC NEWS
 
Troops 'unhappy with pay, life balance'
 
The survey found only about half of all Navy and Army members were satisfied with their work-life balance. (Department of Defence, file photo)

A survey of Australian Defence Force members has found most are dissatisfied with their salaries and many are unhappy with their work-life balance.

The study found that only about one third of sailors, soldiers and air force personnel were satisfied with their salary.

But Major General Craig Orme says pay levels are being reformed and both ADF members and departmental staff will have their wages increased later this year.

The survey also found only about half of all Navy and Army members were satisfied with their work-life balance.

Major General Orme says this is to be expected when so much of the Defence Force is engaged in overseas operations.

"We're really working hard to ensure when we deploy our people they get our full support, but when they get back they get a break," he said.

"We're at a very challenging time at the moment with a high operational tempo and we've got a significant number of our people deployed on operations.

"When they're not deployed they're preparing for operations or supporting those who are in operations and that is reflected sometimes in people's attitudes in getting the amount of work-life balance right."

But he says the ADF's involvement in several overseas operations has helped retention rates.
**************

ABC NEWS
 
Report card shows progress in Afghan training
By national security correspondent Matt Brown for AM

 

 

 
Lt Col Gabriel says the Afghan forces' development won't happen overnight. (Defence Force: Corporal Hamish Paterson )

The first Australian training team to be sent to Afghanistan has wrapped up its mission there and AM has been given the first progress report on the readiness of the Afghan troops.

They are still years away from being able to run complex operations on their own, but the man who led the mission says they have made significant progress.

After eight months in command of the Australian training team Lieutenant Colonel Shane Gabriel is in Canberra briefing his superiors on the progress of the Afghan soldier in what is officially known as the Second Battalion, 4th Brigade, 205 Hero Corp.

Lt Col Gabriel says the battalion has made significant progress.

"When we assumed that task back in October, the Second Battalion was at relatively early stages of its development and here we were at the end of an eight-month period conducting fairly complex mentored company-level operations [with] the Afghan battalion," he said.

"I think that's a good measure of success."

However there is still a long way to go.

The skills of Afghan troops are measured by what the military calls "capability milestones".

The Second Battalion started off down at capability milestone four.

It has progressed up to level three - which means that, while it is, "partially able to conduct primary missions" it is still "reliant on" outside help.

It has to make it all the way up to level one, when it will usually be able to work on its own, before the Australians can leave.

Lt Col Gabriel says this means there is a lot of work to do.

"It is a very large step, because what we're talking about here is now the overall objective which is having a fully independent Afghan national army," he said.

"That's also in the context of the fact we are in the middle of a very difficult fight with a very dangerous insurgency.

"So we're talking all of those factors together; that takes time."


'No timetable'

He says it is hard to say exactly how long the mission will take.

"I wouldn't like to put a timetable on it, I don't think it's reasonable to put a line in the sand. There's a lot of work to be done but it's very pleasing progress," he said.

"Think about it in our own context. It takes a long time to develop people within our own army, to develop specialist positions and leadership roles.

"So here we are with another country's army assisting them with that development.

"I think we need to be patient and understand that these things don't happen overnight."

A new mentoring team has been in Afghanistan for a few weeks now, continuing the work Lt Col Gabriel started.

The extra team announced by the Federal Government in April is about to go in to start training another Afghan battalion devoted to combat support, which involves skills like firing artillery.

But the overall enterprise is beset by manpower shortages and uncertainty.

The Dutch battle group which is in charge of the province is still planning to pull out next year.


Troop shortage

A third of the Afghan combat troops who were supposed to be deployed in Uruzgan province were sent into neighbouring Helmand province more than a year ago.

But they still have not been replaced by the Afghan Ministry of Defence.

Lt Col Gabriel says there is always a need for more soldiers.

'It's a fact of life I suppose, that in a counter insurgency the great mass you have means that you can help to dominate a greater area of the province," he said.

"So if you have more Afghan soldiers you can obviously do more."

Lt Col Gabriel says the troops he worked with were devastated by the loss of four Australian troops during his tour of duty.

But he says they can be proud they have continued on the commitment they made.

"The loss of any of our soldiers of course is a difficult thing to deal with at the time," he said.

"It's a tragedy of course for us but of course for the families.

"I remember particularly our loss of Corporal Matthew Hopkins from our battle group, which hit us all very hard, but importantly we went back out there and continued our mission in exactly the way that Corporal Hopkins would have expected his mates to do.

"I think that is the key of our commitment, is that we understand how important our role, our commitment is to this coalition in Afghanistan and we're going to make sure that we are successful."

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Tuesday, 14 July 2009
022/2009

2008 DEFENCE ATTITUDE SURVEY RESULTS

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel Materiel and Science today welcomed the release of the 2008 Defence Attitude Survey Summary of Results findings.

The Defence Attitude Survey gives Defence people an opportunity to comment openly on a range of employment related matters that include leadership employment package career management wellbeing and family issues Mr Combet said.

A key benefit of conducting staff surveys is to track and assess emerging trends in opinions from one year to the next as a way to help develop validate and refine Defence?s personnel programs and policies.

Mr Combet said that the 2008 Defence Attitude Survey findings are generally consistent with past results with some notable improvements.

It is heartening to note for example that there is a marked improvement in knowledge about mental health issues, but this remains a critical area of concern for the Government Mr Combet said.

To address this the Government has recently committed $83 million over four years to start a major program to reform mental health care support for Australian Defence Force ADF personnel. Over time, further improvements in mental health care and support are expected to be reflected in the survey findings.

Mr Combet said the survey also indicated that while satisfaction with salary remained lower for military personnel than Defence employees there were improvements across the ADF since 2006 particularly for Navy.

Nevertheless there remain concerns among ADF members with work life balance workload and service life impacts on families indicating that more work needs to be done in those areas.

The Defence White Paper stressed the need for Defence to offer a compelling and competitive career offer that also recognises the critical support that families provide Mr Combet said.

Through the White Paper and the Strategic Reform Program currently underway Defence will be able to respond to a fast-moving and changing labour market environment offering a competitive and flexible employment package that meets both the needs of its workforce and those of its people.

Results such as the ones we have seen through this survey will help inform this approach.

The 2008 Defence Attitude Summary of Results is available at

http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpe_site/publications/2008_Defence_
Attitude_Survey_Summary_of_Results.pdf


MSPA 211/09 Tuesday, 14 July 2009

DEFENCE ATTITUDE SURVEY FINDINGS

The Department of Defence today released a summary of the latest Defence Attitude Survey findings.

The 2008 Summary of Results reflects the views and opinions of respondents from a 30 percent sample of Australian Defence Force members (ADF) and Defence civilian employees surveyed late last year.

The voluntary survey gives Defence personnel an opportunity to comment candidly on a range of employment-related matters that include leadership, conditions of service and remuneration, career intentions, wellbeing and family issues.

A key factor in conducting the Defence Attitude Survey is to identify emerging trends in opinions from one year to the next. This trend data helps Defence to identify areas that may require further development, and evaluate personnel policies and programs.

Data from past surveys have been used in the development of ADF retention and recruitment initiatives announced by the Government as part of the 2008-09 Budget and the 2009 Defence White Paper. Past survey findings have also helped in the development of other programs such as childcare, spouse and partner employment remuneration arrangements and improvements to career management.

The 2008 survey findings are generally consistent with the 2007 results with some notable improvements.

Confidence in immediate supervisors remains very positive with around three-quarters of respondents agreeing with this item. Agreement that immediate supervisors set a high standard of ethical behaviour has also increased since 2006 Navy by ten percent Army by four percent Air Force by six percent and Defence civilians by four percent.

Members pride in the Service and family support for Service careers continues to remain strong.

Since 2007 there have been marked increases in the proportion of military respondents agreeing that they were adequately recognised and rewarded by verbal recognition Navy by 22 percent Army by 15 percent and Air Force by 18 percent. Similarly while satisfaction with current salary remains lower for military respondents than civilians increases in levels of satisfaction since 2006 continued for all three Services.

Defences recruitment and retention initiatives, and workforce reforms outlined in the recently released White Paper will positively impact on Defence?s strategic framework to attract develop engage retain and transition its people. These long term programs may take time before they are reflected positively in future survey findings.

The 2008 Defence Attitude Survey Summary of Results is available at
 
http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpe_site/publications/2008_
Defence_Attitude_Survey_Summary_of_Results.pdf

[Keith]

RAAF's early-warning radar aircraft back on track
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | July 14, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE RAAF is now on track to get the first of its long-awaited airborne early warning aircraft in November, but it may take at least another two years to develop a full operational capability for the $4billion project.

Already running more than three years late, Project Wedgetail is now entering its final phase after passing several critical milestones in recent weeks, including US Federal Aviation Administration certification and successful air-to-air refuelling trials.

The Wedgetail is now set to achieve "95 per cent" of its contracted specification, according to the senior Australian Defence official responsible for the procurement of the aircraft. All six Wedgetails are due to be delivered by the end of next year.

"We will end up with a system that will have operational potential and the ability to support training at initial delivery," Air Vice Marshal Chris Deeble told Australian journalists at a briefing in Seattle.

"But there's more work that we are going to have to do which may take us a couple of years to (get to) that final stage."

The performance of the Wedgetail's sophisticated phased array radar has been a major issue for the Defence Materiel Organisation and the subject of protracted negotiation with prime contractor Boeing and radar builder Northrop Grumman.

The Wedgetail fleet will form the mainstay of Australia's new generation of air defence systems, with its radar designed to track huge numbers of targets on air, sea and land simultaneously, including cruise missiles, at ranges of more than 400km.

"There are some aspects of the radar that we are going have to further develop," Air Vice Marshal Deeble said.

"We are going to try to work that with Northrop Grumman and Boeing in a collaborative program.

"But is also true to say that we are going to have to operate this aircraft to really understand the operational utility of the MESA (multi-role electronically scanned antenna) radar."

He said the RAAF hoped to achieve 95 per cent of the capability originally designated in the contract and in some cases exceed the performance specifications.

Some areas of the radar's performance involving side-facing waves needed refinement together with other systems to be fitted to the Wedgetail fleet, including the electronic support measures package that provides additional surveillance.

One problem has been the inability of the radar to distinguish genuine targets from clutter during flight trials.

Both Air Vice Marshal Deeble and Boeing's senior vice-president for the Wedgetail, Maureen Dougherty, confirmed the aircraft's radar had performed well in tests in the Northern Territory two months ago.

"The system behaved very well. It clearly demonstrated the operational potential," she said.

"We are definitely in the end game now. There's a light at the end of a tunnel. We will only achieve it if we can continue to work well with Boeing, Northrop Grumman and BAE," Air Vice Marshal Deeble said.

 
 

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HMAS WARRAMUNGA RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA AFTER SIX MONTHS IN THE MIDDLE EAST AREA OF OPERATIONS

Senator Mark Bishop representing the Minister for Defence Senator John Faulkner today joined family and friends in welcoming 183 personnel from HMAS Warramunga home to Perth following a six-month deployment to the Gulf.

HMAS Warramunga an ANZAC class frigate was stationed in the Middle East Area of Operations as part of Operation Slipper from January 2009 to July 2009.  Todays homecoming marks the end of the twentieth rotation of RAN ships to the Middle East since September 2001.

Senator Bishop praised the crew of HMAS Warramunga for their dedication to conducting maritime interception and surveillance operations within the Gulf.

The presence of HMAS Warramunga in the Gulf and the professionalism of her crew has greatly contributed to disrupting violent extremists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material Senator Bishop said.

HMAS Warramunga and her Ships Company are a capable and professional unit who trained extensively to ensure the success of this deployment.

I acknowledge their dedication and commitment to their vital role in contributing to Australian Defence Force operations.

I also acknowledge and value the support of the families and friends here today. Your ongoing support is vital to the success of this and all Australian Defence Force deployments.

Commanding Officer of HMAS Warramunga Commander Andrew Gordon RAN paid tribute to the dedication of his crew during the deployment.

HMAS Warramunga built a maritime security operation around the Gulf States by two means Commander Gordon said.

Firstly by working with regional navies to learn from each other and provide a safe place for all those who peacefully use the region. Secondly we conducted baseline operations ======== going out and patrolling in various areas of the Gulf getting information and dealing with various issues if and when they arose.

 Every day was a new day in the Gulf. We were not just centred on the Iraqi oil fields; we were going from the Straits of Hormuz to the north of the Gulf.  The family and friends of the crew can be justifiably proud of the job the crew has done in the Gulf.
 
Commander Gordon also paid tribute to the vital role that the crew?s family played in the deployment.

Our families are the true heroes. Their love support and sacrifice throughout our careers and especially during this operational deployment have made it all possible, and we are so happy to be reunited with them today.  Two members of ships company also became parents while the ship was away. Being away from home really makes you appreciate what a great country Australia is, and how much your family means to you. It puts everything in perspective.

During her time in the Gulf HMAS Warramunga conducted 18 replenishments at sea and vertical replenishments 70 aircraft sorties by its embarked Navy Seahawk helicopter and 629 investigative queries of merchant vessels.

HMAS Warramungas crew trained with Coalition forces including ships from Pakistan Kuwait Bahrain and United Arab Emirates and participated in the Pakistan Navys Exercise Aman 09 and other coalition training activities.  These exercises were primarily to train regional Navies in maritime surveillance operations.

[perthpaul]

We always had Rat Packs on exercise up north and when we did get Hot Box's there was never any guarantee that they would ever get to us hot anyway, so as for what was in them we did not care because at that point we were so sick of rat packs thinking of dietery requirements was never part of the equation.

Anyway the infantry section was always and will always be the last to receive hot boxs because everything has to go through B esh BHQ CHQ PHQ etc.

The below story about fatty feast sounds like what HQ units get more than what is in a Seppo menu than what Oz grunts get so someone has there wires crossed or is making assumptions based on what the Officers are fed.

[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Sunday, July 12, 2009 7:44 AM
Subject: Re: Soldiers fed a fatty feast


What a load of crap by these people . My experence in the military has been that in camp there was always three or four choices including a salad for all meals except breakfast. These menus look the same as what is availed to kids and the family homes.
 
Do you not stop and think that in the bush (exercise) that meals are hot boxed forward and all those choices cannot be made available to all the various companies etc. Now if we look at the dieticians and their food sources they always talk about energy foods carbo's etc and of course this is supplied and of course its wrong by the standard , of these dieticians. Even I can sit down and make a menu that would include all these so called diet foods and yes I remember when R&Q charges come in soldiers where asked seeing you are paying what would you like to see on the menu. as far as fruit goes there was always fruit to one side to eat if wanted not given out as a issue but to save wastage. We wont talk about that as some do gooder would want it collected and fed to the drunks on the river bank.    KINGIE

[Keith]

Soldiers fed a fatty feast

Article from: SUNDAY MAIL
 
Hannah Martin and Suellen Hinde

July 12, 2009

IF an army marches on its stomach, the 25,000 US and Australian troops taking part in war games north of Rockhampton this weekend should be just about able to walk home.

The soldiers are served a diet flooded with fat, sugar, salt and carbohydrates, but ironically skinny on fruit and vegetables.

Breakfast consists of bacon, eggs, french toast, pancakes, pasta, mushrooms, tomato, cereal, porridge, Milo or hot chocolate.

Lunch is burgers, tacos, chicken parmigiana and an Asian stir fry, while dinner is beef stroganoff or chicken in black bean sauce, followed by bread and butter pudding, chocolate mousse or cake.

And that's just for designated meal times ? the soldiers are also provided with treats such as cream buns to snack on.

A cream bun can be up to 500 calories, which would take 10 hours to walk off.

The Sunday Mail earlier this year exposed how one in seven Australian soldiers was classified as obese.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has confirmed to a Senate estimates hearing he was concerned about obesity in the armed forces.

"The fitness of our people is vitally important to me and to the service chiefs," Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

US Marine Corps captain Binford Strickland said some of the bigger guys regularly lined up for seconds at breakfast.

The Catering Corps also cooked fatty dinners such as Southern fried chicken and Sloppy Joes ? an American dish of ground beef, onions, sweetened tomato sauce and seasonings, served on a hamburger bun. Some cold meats and salads were available if the troops wanted to eat something healthier.

"They get one treat a day," Catering Corps Warrant Officer Brad Coleman said.

"We do have a lot of Milo or hot chocolate. We try to maintain nutritious standards. There aren't a lot of deep fried foods."

Dietitian Julie Gilbert said the diet was no good for "anyone's long term health".

"While these guys might be getting plenty of exercise to burn it off, it is not a nutritious diet because it lacks fruit and vegetables ? they are filling up on high fat, proteins and carbohydrates," she said.

Ms Gilbert said the soldiers would suffer serious sugar withdrawals on the diet.

"They might be buzzing for a while, but when the effects wear off they would suffer from headaches, lapses in concentration, feel tired and need to sleep," she said.

While the soldiers' health may be suffering, the local economy is reaping the benefits of the bi-annual Talisman Sabre operation.

Glenmore McDonalds franchisee Gary St George welcomed the extra business.

"It's been great having the guys in town. They've been courteous and great customers," he said.

Another to benefit is Bernie's Pie shop, which filled an order for 5000 cream buns last week.

"It was a huge order for us ? our biggest ever," said Carmel Clifton, who runs the family business with husband Bernie.

Local distributor Kele Brothers is supplying almost 10 tonnes of frozen and tinned foods to feed the forces.

Company owner John Kele said the Aussies were definitely healthier eaters.

 
 

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[Keith]

New-breed RAAF fighter may see Afghanistan action

Patrick Walters, St Louis | July 10, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE air force's new-generation Super Hornet fighters will be fully operational by the end of next year, prompting speculation whether they could be deployed to Afghanistan.

As the Dutch are due to withdraw their F-16 fighters from Oruzgan province later next year, the Rudd government is expected to examine the option of deploying combat air power to support coalition operations.

Air force chief Mark Binskin said yesterday that, although there was not a plan to deploy fast jets to Afghanistan, the RAAF could deploy either the new Super Hornet or the older generation F/A-18s, which will remain in service until the arrival of the F-35 joint strike fighter later next decade.

If a decision is made to send combat aircraft to Afghanistan, the Super Hornet is more likely to be deployed, given its advanced communication systems and seamless interface with US combat aircraft operating in the theatre.

The first of the RAAF's new F/A-18F Super Hornet fighters was rolled out three months ahead of schedule yesterday at Boeing's assembly line in St Louis in a formal ceremony attended by Air Marshal Binskin and senior US defence officials.

The two-seater, twin-engine fighters will form part of No 1 Squadron RAAF, the first Super Hornet unit based at Amberley, Queensland, with an initial batch of aircraft due to arrive by next March.

The air force will acquire 24 Super Hornets equipped with the new generation APG-79 radar and weapons systems at a cost of $6.3 billion. They will become the RAAF's front-line combat arm, pending the arrival of the F-35, and will replace the F-111 strike force, which will be be withdrawn from service by the end of next year.

Air Marshal Binskin said the Super Hornet was a great leap forward for Australia and the beginning of a new air combat capability for the RAAF. The air force will also get 12 of its 24 Super Hornets wired for conversion to electronic attack aircraft known as Growlers.

The air force chief said the acquisition of the F/A-18G Growler was a decision for government well into the future.

Air Marshal Binskin said he expected the Super Hornet would be in service for 10 to 15 years as a bridging fighter until the F-35s arrive. He played down suggestions that it could have a much longer in-service life.

The commanding officer of 1 Squadron, Wing Commander Glen Braz, said the Super Hornet was a multi-role fighter capable of undertaking air-to-air and air-to-ground missions as well as maritime strikes.

Wing Commander Braz, who has been training on the new fighter at Lemoore naval air station in California, said the all-round capability of the Super Hornet continued to amaze the Australians.

"It has proven itself to be absolutely the right choice for our bridging capability," he said.

Defence Minister John Faulkner said the Super Hornets' low radar signature and high technology targeting radar made the aircraft one of the world's most advanced fighters.

Patrick Walters travelled to St Louis as a guest of the Boeing Corporation

 
 

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[Keith]

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Thursday 9 July 2009
019/2009

FIRST RAAF SUPER HORNET ROLLS OUT

Senator John Faulkner Minister for Defence and the Hon Greg Combet Minister for Defence Personnel Materiel and Science today announced that Australias first Block II F/A-18F Super Hornet has rolled off the Boeing assembly line in St Louis USA.

Senator Faulkner said that Australias Super Hornets will significantly enhance the Royal Australian Air Force?s air combat capabilities.

The Super Hornet is a true multi-role fighter that spans the air combat spectrum including maritime strike which is so vital for Australia Senator Faulkner said.

The Super Hornet?s low radar signature and high technology targeting radar make this aircraft one of the world?s most advanced fighters that will maintain our air combat capability edge.

The Governments decision last year to pre-wire 12 of the planned 24 aircraft for potential conversion to an electronic attack variant will add extra sting and capability to our Super Hornets Senator Faulkner said.
 
Greg Combet Minister for Defence Personnel Materiel and Science said that Australias Super Hornet project is on schedule and on budget.

I would like to congratulate everyone involved for their hard work in bringing the project to this point Mr Combet said.

The performance of the project is due to the great team effort between the Defence Materiel Organisation the Royal Australian Air Force United States Navy The Boeing Company and its industry partners General Electric, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon.

The F/A-18F Super Hornets are being based at RAAF Amberley and will aid the transition to a mature Joint Strike Fighter capability while allowing the Air Force to retire the F-111 fleet.

The first formation of Super Hornets is expected to arrive at RAAF Amberley in March-April 2010.

The total program investment is approximately $6 billion over 10 years which includes acquisition and all support costs including facilities, training and personnel Mr Combet said. 

Media note:
Images from the Super Hornet roll out ceremony will be available at:  http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2009.htm

[Keith]

Navy fears sex probe may spread

Article from: HERALD SUN
 
Gerard McManus

July 06, 2009

TOP brass in the Royal Australian Navy fear an inquiry into sailors ticking up sex acts on HMAS Success could reveal the extent of illicit sex at sea.

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard said she wanted "The Ledger" sex competition, in which sailors tried to score with as many young female sailors as possible, to be fully investigated so young women would continue to consider navy careers.

But a senior RAN officer told the Herald Sun that sexual horseplay was "rampant", despite rules prohibiting on-board relationships.

The officer claims a proper inquiry would "put rugby league sex scandals to shame".

"Sex games are used to break up the monotony and tension, and any inquiry would find it more common than is being admitted to," the officer said.

Four sailors from the Success were ordered home from Singapore for allegedly organising a sexual conquests contest in May.

According to Channel 7, which first aired the claims, sailors awarded themselves bonus cash prizes for conquests of lesbians or officers during extended voyages at sea.

But navy chief Vice Admiral Russ Crane says the game surfaced during an audit of on-board behaviour while the Success was visiting Singapore.

"Navy is awaiting the results of the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service investigation," Vice Admiral Crane said.

He added: "It will act as quickly as possible to address appropriate findings and recommendations, particularly should disciplinary or administrative action be warranted."

Ms Gillard wants Defence to conduct a thorough inquiry.

"We don't want to see anything that precludes women from having a good career in our armed forces if that is what they choose to do with their lives," Ms Gillard said.

"Clearly, these allegations need to be fully investigated."

Feminist commentator Melinda Tankard-Reist told Sky News that "animal-type mob behaviour" was supposed to have been eradicated from the navy.

"Obviously it is not," she said.
**************

MSPA 202/09 Sunday 5 July 2009

STATEMENT REGARDING MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS ON BOARD HMAS SUCCESS


In May 2009, the Navy was made aware of allegations of misconduct by members of HMAS SUCCESS. These allegations were identified during the conduct of a proactive Navy equity and diversity health check program which had been initiated by the Commanding Officer of HMAS SUCCESS.

Four members of the ships company were returned to Australia from Singapore as a result of the allegations.

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Russ Crane said the alleged behaviours under investigation do not align to Navy values or the recently articulated signature behaviours developed by our Navy people and implemented through our New Generation Navy program.  Our Navy people will not tolerate this type of behaviour.

Once these allegations were made known Navy acted immediately by removing those sailors allegedly involved in the matter from the ship and referring the matter to the independent Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS) for action VADM Crane said.

Navy stands by its values and signature behaviours and will act swiftly and decisively to address allegations of unacceptable behaviour.

Navy has stringent policies and education programs in place to support Navy people who rightly demand and deserve a working environment free from unacceptable behaviour.

Navy is awaiting the results of the ADFIS investigation and will act as quickly as possible to address appropriate findings and recommendations  particularly should  disciplinary or administrative action be warranted.

Navy people are briefed regularly on their responsibility to treat others fairly and know that unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with. A regular Navy wide equity and diversity education program proactively reinforces these principles and immediate action is taken to address any concerns raised by individuals.

[Keith]

Gillard: ADF must investigate sex claims

Article from: AAP
 
July 05, 2009

AN alleged contest among sailors to have sex with as many female crewmates as possible needs to be fully investigated by the Australian Defence Force, Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard says.

Ms Gillard said nothing should preclude women from enjoying a full and rewarding career in the Australian Defence Force.

A group of sailors from HMAS Success was sent home and an inquiry launched after they allegedly organised a challenge to have sex with as many female crewmates as possible.

"Obviously this is a matter for our defence forces to deal with and to fully investigate," Ms Gillard told Network Ten.

She said both the government and the nation had been saying for a long time that women should be able to join the army, the navy or air force.

"We don't want to see anything that precludes women from having a good career in our armed forces if that is what they choose to do with their lives. Clearly these allegations need to be fully investigated," she said.

"In the first instance we need our defence hierarchy to get on with the job of investigating these claims and taking appropriate action."

The Seven Network reported that the sailors allegedly detailed their contest in a document called "The Ledger" where dollar values were placed on each woman's head, during an overseas deployment in May.

Larger amounts were offered if the sailors could sleep with a female officer or a lesbian and sailors challenged each other to have sex in various locations, including on top of a pool table, the report said.

The arrangement was discovered while HMAS Success was visiting Singapore.

The captain ordered the sailors to immediately return home to Australia after they were formally interviewed.

The Defence Department confirmed a formal inquiry was underway but said "the veracity of any allegations has yet to be confirmed".

"The individuals were removed from the ship after an equity and diversity health check, which led to a formal inquiry being initiated," a defence statement said.

"During the equity and diversity health check a number of concerns were raised by female crew members. These concerns are now subject to formal inquiry."

 
 

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[Keith]

White paper doesn't target any nation: Faulkner
 
July 03, 2009

Article from:  The Australian
DEFENCE Minister John Faulkner has defended the federal government's 2009 defence white paper, which former prime minister Paul Keating describes as "ambivalent".

In his John Curtin Prime Ministerial lecture, delivered in Perth on Thursday and published in Fairfax newspapers on Friday, Mr Keating said he found himself to be "at odds'' with some of the white paper.

"Recognising that China will be the strongest Asian military power, it discusses 'the remote but plausible potential of confrontation' between us and a major power adversary, not suggesting who that power might be,'' Mr Keating said.

"Obviously it will not be the US. You are then left with China, Japan, India or Indonesia.

"The paper struck an ambivalent tone about our likely new strategic circumstances and what we should do.''

Senator Faulkner said on Friday that the white paper was designed to prepare the nation for future challenges.

"It's not aimed at a specific threat or nation, I would say to you that the White Paper 2009 is a hard-headed and rigorous analysis of the strategic environment that Australia faces in the decades ahead,'' he told reporters in Sydney.

"In relation to Paul's comments about China, be assured ... that the Australian government is committed to and very supportive of a good relationship with China.''

AAP
**********************

MSPA 200/09

Friday, 2 July 2009

NEW AIR FORCE CAPABILITY AT WILLIAMTOWN

The Royal Australian Air Force today re-formed Number 4 Squadron, to enhance the ADFs Air/Land coordination capability. The new Squadron will train specialist personnel who can deploy to forward operational areas and coordinate the delivery of air weapons.

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin said the modern battlespace is very complex and there is an increasing need for specialised coordination between air and ground units to achieve effective air combat power.

No 4 Squadron has been re-formed at RAAF Williamtown to train specialists who can work on the ground alongside Army units or in the air to coordinate the delivery of air weapons.

The Air Force specialists are known as Forward Air Controllers FAC. They complete specialist training including the Joint Terminal Attack Controller course. FACs provide a vital link between the aircraft and the ground troops, providing up to date information on the battle space from a forward position either on the ground or airborne.

Although 4 Squadron was re-formed today, selected Air Force FACs were trained in special tactics throughout last year and have already deployed with Australian forces in Afghanistan.

Air Force has deployed Forward Air Controllers in operations dating back to Vietnam but the re-establishment of 4 Squadron and the enhancement of the specialist capability represents the next evolution in integrated air and land operations AIRMSHL Binskin said.

The re-formed 4 Squadron delivers highly skilled and deployable Air Force personnel who will have an essential role in the 21st Century battlespace.  

4 Squadron brings together the former Forward Air Control Development Unit (FACDU) and RAAFs Special Tactics Project. The new Squadron comprises about 60 personnel based at RAAF Williamtown and will operate 4 PC-9 aircraft.

4 Squadron has a proud history. It was originally formed during WWI and also served in WWII, operating Wirraways and Boomerang Fighters.
************
COURTESY ABC NEWS
 
Palestinian peacekeeping an option: Gillard
 


Israel has not ruled out using an international force to demilitarise the West Bank. (AFP: Hazem Bader)

Related Story: Gaza civilians 'mired in poverty' after war http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/06/29/2611015.htm

Related Story: Israel 'killed hundreds of civilians' in Gaza http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/07/02/2614769.htm

Related Link: Sunday Profile http://www.abc.net.au/sundayprofile/ website http://www.abc.net.au/sundayprofile

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard says the Government would consider contributing to an international peacekeeping force in the Palestinian territories.

Ms Gillard has recently returned from a parliamentary delegation to Israel where she had talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Israeli Government says the demilitarisation of the West Bank is a non-negotiable factor in peace negotiations and has not ruled out accepting an international force to do the job.

In an interview for this week's Sunday Profile http://www.abc.net.au/sundayprofile/ program on Radio National http://www.abc.net.au/rn/ Ms Gillard says the Government may be willing to be involved.

"We are always prepared to consider requests case by case," she said.

"We have continuously assisted in the Middle East. Obviously I can't answer a hypothetical question about what would happen if we had a request, but if we did get a request, obviously we would work our way through it and consider it on the merits."

Ms Gillard says the Government's insistence that Israel stop expanding its settlements in disputed territories has not damaged relations between the two nations.

Australia's position mirrors that of the US, while Israel says existing settlements should be allowed to grow naturally.

Ms Gillard told Sunday Profile all sides acknowledge it is a difficult problem.

"I don't think that they were surprised by Australia's position," she said.

"Our Foreign Minister Stephen Smith made it well known clearly for the Israeli Government and the Israeli community, this is a difficult issue."

Israel's Deputy foreign minister Danny Ayalon says his Government is willing to negotiate on the issue of settlements.

He has told Sunday Profile it will not be an issue that gets in the way of peace.

"We understand that even best friends may agree to disagree," he said.

"Another good friend of ours and our best ally, the United States, also disagrees with us on this issue of settlements.

"I believe it should not reflect on the totality on the really vast volume of relations that we have."



You can listen to the interview on ABC Radio's Sunday Profile at 9:05am tomorrow.

 
 

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[Keith]

Defencehttp://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/defence/

Noise a factor in Defence housing http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25725798-31477,00.html

Mark Dodd THE federal opposition has challenged the government to reveal more of its plans for Defence housing near Queensland's Amberley base.

AFP probe into 'leaks' http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25725799-31477,00.html

THE AUSTRALIAN
 
 

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[Keith]

COURTESY THE AGE
 
Soldiers to carry cash to compensate for casualties
Cynthia Banham

July 2, 2009

SOLDIERS in Afghanistan will carry cash to pay off civilians whose family members are killed or injured as a result of Australian Defence Force operations.

The "tactical payments scheme" came into effect yesterday. It means Defence will no longer have to go through the Department of Finance in Canberra - which can take days - before making reparations to civilians who get caught up in ADF battles overseas.

Senior officers of the rank of lieutenant colonel or higher will carry the cash, which will be most likely in US dollars, and they will be able to make payments on the spot. Defence would not say how much money officers would carry because of "safety issues". But individual payments can be for amounts up to $250,000.

Defence believes allowing tactical commanders the discretion to make on-the-spot payments will help it win the "hearts and minds battle".

But human rights lawyers have raised questions about whether the tactical payments - which also cover property - will lead to less accountability and silence victims.

A Defence spokeswoman said the scheme "was developed in response to lessons learned in ADF operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor" and would "provide a means for making no-liability payments to people adversely affected in the course of (ADF) activities abroad".

"The scheme is an acknowledgement that, in many areas in which the ADF operates the expectation of financial compensation for collateral damage to property, injury, or loss of life is often a common aspect of local cultures," she said. "Respect for and recognition of such customs is vital for building relationships with these communities, which in turn enhances the safety and security of our deployed ADF personnel."

Defence's annual report will set out the amount of payments made in a year, the total dollar amount of all the payments, and whether the payments were for casualties or property damage. But it will not list dates or specific incidents because this would make it too easy to identify individuals, according to a spokesman for Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel.

Dr Daniel Marston, a research fellow in the Australian National University's Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, said the new scheme was an important development in the Afghanistan campaign.

"The coalition has created enemies in the Pashtun belt since 2001 because tactical commanders have not had money to pay for civilian loss of life," he said. "The US army and US Marine Corps and the British army have rectified this problem and it's good to see that the Australian army has made progress in this area."

But Professor Hilary Charlesworth, director of the ANU's Centre for International Governance & Justice, said while it was important to be able to make immediate recompense to affected civilians, it was important the system was transparent.

 
 

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[Keith]

DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

MSPA 196/09 Tuesday 30 June 2009

FEDERAL COURT DECISION INTO THE DEATH OF NATHAN FRANCIS


Cadet Nathan Francis of Scotch College died on Friday 30 March 2007 from an anaphylactic reaction during an Army Cadet exercise in Daylesford, Victoria.

Comcare has conducted its investigation into alleged breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991  which resulted in the peanut allergy related death of Nathan Francis.

Defence cooperated fully during the investigation and accepts the decision handed down today by Justice North.

A comprehensive investigation into the provision of rations to cadets has been conducted by Defence. A number of improvements and enhancements to the prevention and management of allergies have been developed and implemented as a result of this investigation.

Defence deeply regrets Nathans death. Action has been taken to reduce the likelihood of this tragedy happening again. Defence is confident it is now well placed to manage any future risks relating to allergic conditions and the use of combat ration packs.

The safety and well-being of Defences civilian and service personnel remains one of our highest priorities. Defence will continue to cooperate closely with Comcare to achieve high standards of Occupational Health and Safety.

As this matter may subject to further legal proceedings it would be inappropriate to comment further.

[Keith]

Gillard to visit troops in Iraq

Jason Koutsoukis
THE AGE
 
June 27, 2009
 
Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard is about to embark on a surprise visit to the last Australian troops still stationed in Iraq.
Ms Gillard is currently spending the night in Kuwait City ahead of the visit.

Her senior staff confirmed the visit, but said they were unable to comment further for safety reasons.

In discussing the Iraq trip, Ms Gillard's deputy chief-of-staff Tom Bentley told The Age that "we are told not to confirm or comment before safety is guaranteed because it will put her in physical danger".

Ms Gillard will fly into the Iraqi capital of Baghdad later today where she is expected to meet with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and other senior ministers.

She will also meet with the last contingent of Australian troops still stationed in Iraq who are scheduled to withdraw at the end of July.

Their withdrawal will mark the end of the ADF's military commitment to Iraq, a mission that started on March 20, 2003.

There is also speculation that Ms Gillard will sign off on a major trade between Australia and Iraq.

The Australian ambassador to Iraq Bob Tyson met with Prime Minister Maliki last week.

Earlier this month, Iraq announced that it was buying 100,000 tonnes of Australian wheat for around $35 million.

Ms Gillard's stealth trip to Iraq comes at the end of a 10-day around-the-world tour which has included a visit to Washington, Israel and the West Bank.

In Washington she met with US Vice President Joe Biden; in Israel she met with Israeli President Shimon Peres, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Ehud Barak and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman.

 
 

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[Keith]

Silent and deadly
 
Geoffrey Luck | June 27, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

TWO generations afterwards, World WarII in New Guinea means simply Kokoda to most Australians. Perhaps also Milne Bay, where the Japanese were first defeated. But the memory tends to cloud at mention of Buna, Gona, the Markham Valley, Shaggy Ridge and Scarlet Beach, Finschhafen - all great Australian victories in impossible conditions - and Salamaua. Yet it was in Salamaua, in the early hours of June 29, 1942, that Australian commandos struck the first blow in the Pacific land war.

The raid has been acclaimed as a copybook action for its diligent scouting, meticulous planning and audacious, multi-pronged attack against an enemy force 10 times the attackers' strength. All without loss of life.

The Japanese, well fed and complacent, were surprised and humiliated by a puny Australian force that had struggled for days over the jungle ranges with weapons, ammunition and heavy packs, then camped and planned their raid under the noses of the enemy. The response, to reinforce the base, tied down thousands of troops that would otherwise have been thrown into the Kokoda and Milne Bay battles a few months later.

Today Salamaua is little more than a couple of native villages and some holiday shacks for expatriates and tourists. But in the 1930s it was the Australian administration's district headquarters and a thriving commercial centre. From its airstrip, the three-engined Junkers cargo planes flew huge gold dredges into the Bulolo valley, piece by piece. At the time, that was the biggest commercial airlift in the world. All ended with the Japanese landing on March 8, 1942, virtually unopposed, bringing the enemy one step closer in its plan to isolate and neutralise Australia.

When the Australians had to abandon Salamaua, a handful of pre-war residents - patrol officers, clerks, miners and traders - were hastily co-opted into the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles and went bush to keep an eye on the invaders. They became the scouts who lived in the hills overlooking the Salamaua isthmus, noting and recording the defences and habits of the enemy. They were so close they could hear the bell ringing to warn of an air raid. Damien Parer took his famous photograph of the isthmus from their observation post.

In mid-1942, the only fit, trained troops Australia had in the area were about 450 men of the 2/5th Independent (commando) Company. Too small a force to draw the Japanese into battle, their task was to harass the enemy at their bases of Lae and Salamaua.

The task of planning and leading the attack on Salamaua went to captain Norman Winning, a wiry red-headed Scot instantly nick-named "the Red Steer", a dynamic, inventive born leader. NGVR sergeant Jim McAdam, who I knew in his later life as director of forests in the PNG administration, led his scouts up to the houses where the Japanese were sleeping to assess the enemy strength. Then, as silently as they had slipped in, they returned to the Australian forward base, only 5km from Salamaua, to transfer their vital intelligence to a sand model of the Japanese base. With Winning, they planned the raid down to the last detail.

Starting at 2pm on June 28, seven sections moved out through thick bush, native gardens and pit swamp to get close to their targets: the airfield, wireless masts, a strategic bridge and troop billets. One team lugged a heavy 3-inch (7.6cm) mortar that would keep the Japanese on the isthmus pinned down. The rest were armed with Tommy guns, rifles and a few Bren guns. Every man had two grenades and a pistol and carried extra ammunition. But their most devastating weapon was their homemade "sticky bomb", an anti-tank grenade wrapped with packs of the explosive TNT.

The night was black. It rained heavily but at midnight the moon broke through. At 3.14am, one minute before zero hour, almost everyone was in position. A Japanese sentry walked out to relieve himself and found himself staring at a blackened-face commando. He screamed the alarm and was immediately cut down by a burst of machine-gun fire. The raid was on. Years later, the men of the 2/5th told their stories of that night in a series of laconic anecdotes for the unit's war history Commando Double Black.

Corporal Bernie Davis's account: "I raced up the steps of the building, tore it open and hurled my sticky bomb inside, yelling: 'Share that for breakfast, you bastards!' The bomb went off, blew the door off its hinges and sent me somersaulting into the garden. Some of the surviving Japanese were escaping through a trapdoor in the floor. Squatting on the ground was an enterprising Aussie. He was calmly killing the enemy one by one as they landed on the ground. He looked like he was stacking bags of wheat under the hut, until the supply of Japs ran out."

Don Suter, NGVR: "Our mortar unit fired 36 bombs. One of them fell directly on the most important target, a strongpoint at the neck of the isthmus. Fifteen Japanese were in this post."

Sergeant Mal Bishop was wounded as he threw his bomb into one of the old Chinese trade stores: "The next thing I knew was a severe blow on the right shoulder, which put me down on my knees. I scrambled to my feet when my bomb went off."

The blast blew him across the road into the sea: "The next recollection I had was of being picked up out of the water by one of the native helpers. He was pushing my Thompson sub-machine gun into my hands and yelling: 'Masta! Kill'em Japan!"'

After three-quarters of an hour of destruction, killing 120 of the enemy, two red flares signalled the withdrawal. Ken "Andy" Knox was covering the pullout with his Bren gun. His mate Cliff Biggs, refilling the magazines, complained: "You're firing a bit low, aren't you? My face is covered in mud. I reckon you're hitting the ground about a foot in front of the bloody gun." "Stop your bloody grizzling, Cliff, and say a bloody prayer," replied Knox. "That mud is from the Japanese bullets coming towards us."

The great prize of the operation was a bag of documents a Japanese pilot was trying to fly out when he was killed. They contained the plans of the landings at Buna and Milne Bay. Pre-war skiing champion Bill Harris ran back 50km over the mountains in two days to deliver them to Kanga Force HQ. The warning enabled Australian divisions to be recalled from leave and rushed to reinforce Milne Bay.

The commanding officer of Kanga Force, Lieutenant Colonel Fleay, who never left Wau, was awarded the DSO for personal gallantry. Not one of the men on the Salamaua operation, the first and most successful commando raid of the war, received a decoration. The surviving men of the 2/5th are still asking why.

Geoffrey Luck was a reporter in Papua New Guinea for seven years.

Submarine builder trims 80 staff
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 27, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

ADELAIDE-BASED submarine builder ASC has shed more than 80 permanent staff and contractors in a major restructuring aimed at boosting the efficiency of its submarine maintenance business.

ASC said yesterday that 65 white and blue collar staff associated with the Collins Class submarine through-life support program had had their employment terminated along with 21 contractors.

Another 35 staff now working on submarines are expected to transfer to ASC's shipbuilding business to work on the air-warfare destroyer (AWD) program.

The wholly government-owned ASC is in negotiations with the Defence Materiel Organisation over the terms of the $3billion long-term through-life support contract for the Collins submarines with the commonwealth keen to reduce its maintenance bill for the six vessels in service.

Acting managing director and chief executive officer Graeme Bulmer said the job cuts were regrettable.

"It is an unfortunate course of action to have to take and we are concerned for those affected and their families," he said.

"On behalf of the company I wish to thank those employees and contractors who have been directly affected by this restructure for their contribution."

Mr Bulmer said the company had provided generous redundancy packages and had tried to relocate staff to the AWD project.

The ASC submarine workforce has been reduced to 950.

ASC Shipbuilding, which is building the navy's new air warfare destroyer project workforce, will grow to around 500 personnel from its current 300-strong workforce over the next four years as construction work on the AWD accelerates.

Mr Bulmer said the reduction in employee and contractor numbers would in no way compromise the safety of the Collins Class submarines and those who served or worked on them.

ASC recently appointed retired navy admiral Chris Ritchie as its new chairman and is looking for a new CEO to replace Greg Tunny, who left the company two months ago.

 

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[Keith]

From: Ron King
Sent: Friday, June 26, 2009 12:23 PM
Subject:  FOR WIDEST DISSEMINATION PLEASE


 
From: John&Claudia
 
Sent: Friday, June 26, 2009 8:53 AM
Subject:  FOR WIDEST DISSEMINATION PLEASE


Passed on by the 'Info Post'


Please share this information around so that the word gets out to those concerned.

[Keith]

Friday, 26 June 2009
 009/2009

NEW DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY PROPOSALS

Greg Combet Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that new technology that promises to significantly reduce the risks for Navy divers is among seven technology proposals to be funded by Defence.

I congratulate the seven companies for their innovative proposals which will be developed under the Capability & Technology Demonstrator (CTD) Program managed by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation Mr Combet said.

These projects are a combination of brand-new technologies and novel applications for existing technologies. It is research like this that helps our ADF maintain their capability edge.

One of the proposed technologies from Sydney company Blue Glue, was demonstrated at the Sydney Aquarium with a wrist-mounted computer that monitors a divers vital signs from the surface to enhance safety during operations.

Other successful proposals include:
 Software to streamline information flow between old and new command and control systems Saab Systems
 Technology to improve Defence?s geospatial information storage capability SMS Defence Solutions
 Enhanced surveillance technology for unmanned aerial vehicles BAE Systems
 A high-power, low frequency underwater acoustic system for minesweeping Thales Australia
 A secure hard drive for protection and movement of classified data Secure Systems and
 A system to detect potential threats from moving and static ground vehicles Sentient Vision Systems

The selected proposals represent a wide variety of industry expertise from both small to medium sized enterprises and established Defence contractors Mr Combet said.

The CTD Program supports Australian industry to demonstrate new technologies that contribute to Defence capability. The projects announced today have been allocated funding of $13 million.

Further information on the seven new CTD projects is available at http://www.dsto.defence.gov.au/ctd13/

[Keith]

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Thursday, 26 June 2009
 009/2009

FUNDING ASSISTANCE FOR DEFENCE FAMILY SUPPORT INITIATIVES

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science announced today that Defence family community groups across Australia will receive over $900,000 in Family Support Funding grants over the 2009/10 financial year.

The Government recognises the important contribution and sacrifices made by families who support the men and women of the Australian Defence Force, Mr Combet said.

Those who have pursued a military career have chosen not only a job but also a special way of life. For their families, this can mean frequent postings around Australia and a significant amount of time away from their loved ones who are deployed on operations and exercises.

The Defence Family Support Funding Program was introduced to provide grants for Australian Defence Force (ADF) family groups to enable them to undertake family support projects that will connect the families with their local community, enhance the families self-reliance and improve their overall well-being.  

The Defence Family Support Funding Program grants provide money to develop programs and activities that best suit the needs of ADF families within their local communities.

47 Defence family support groups in all states and territories, as well as in Papua New Guinea and Malaysia, will benefit from over $900,000 in Defence grants this financial year.

The grants assist Defence family support groups to utilise neighbourhood houses and community centres as well as undertake programs and activities such as craft groups, playgroups, as well as assisting children with special needs and producing local newsletters, Mr Combet said.

These important projects will help Defence families stay connected with their local communities and assist them to better deal with the challenges of a highly mobile Defence lifestyle.

Families are resilient and support each other through the friendships that develop from these projects.  They share information and ideas that help them manage the uncertainty often associated with the demands of military service. Mr Combet said.
*************
New radar ready for rollout in Afghanistan
 
Mark Dodd | June 26, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

AN upgrade of army's weapon-locating radar systems could soon see their deployment to Afghanistan to provide an early-warning capability for Taliban-launched rockets of the type that killed Private Gregory Sher.

Defence Personnel Materiel and Science Minister Greg Combet said yesterday that, after the delivery of four of seven upgraded radar systems by prime contractor Raytheon, the radars had been cleared for deployment in the battlefield.

Defence sources told The Australian last night the radar systems that had been deployed with good effect in Iraq, before the upgrade, were now likely to be sent to Afghanistan on another life-saving mission.

"The Australian AN/TPQ-36 Weapon Locating Radar capability provides the Australian Defence Force with the ability to locate enemy mortars, guns and rockets, enabling early warning for ground forces," Mr Combet said.

The radar operates by identifying the firing paths of enemy shells and rockets and, from this data, determining the enemy firing points. Up to 10 locations are able to be determined simultaneously. Australia's casualty toll in Afghanistan stands at 10, including Sher from the Sydney-based Commando regiment, who was struck by an incoming Taliban missile lobbed into a forward operating base in the Chora Valley, north of Tarin Kowt.

Deployment of a weapon-locating radar could have provided early warning of the strike.

The Taliban's unguided rockets are typically Russian-made 122mm or 105mm munitions designed to be fired from a vehicle or trailer but adapted to be fired from makeshift cradles as simple as a forked tree branch stuck in the ground. It was one of these devices that killed Sher on January 4.

Mr Combet said the government's highest priority was the safety and protection of troops serving on overseas operations. "These radars form one part of our broad response to those threats and enforce force protection for our soldiers in the field," the minister said.

"Other measures include constant patrolling and surveillance, rocket and mortar early-warning systems, physically reinforcing the areas where our soldiers work and live, and ensuring all defence force members are issued with personal protective equipment."

The Australian Defence Force appears to be playing catch-up. Earlier this month, Singapore announced it would deploy a weapon-locating radar team to Tarin Kowt to enhance security for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) personnel deployed in the Dutch-run Camp Holland.

The high-security facility is also home to Australia's reconstruction and mentoring force and a 300-strong Special Forces Task Group.

The weapon-locating radar upgrade will extend the equipment's life to 2015.

 

Compo for RAAF's F-111 pick and patchers

Mark Dodd and Michael McKenna | June 26, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

MORE than 2000 RAAF veterans involved in maintenance work inside the fuel tanks of F-111 fighter bombers should be paid ex-gratia compensation for the illnesses they contracted.

The recommendation came from a federal inquiry that yesterday made 18 findings to fix shortcomings of a 2005 Howard government scheme that awarded compensation to some RAAF veterans while excluding 2000 forgotten F-111 defence personnel.

The inquiry's chairman, Labor MP Arch Bevis, a former opposition defence spokesman, said the 2000 workers were not part of the formal F-111 deseal/reseal compensation program but did the same "pick and patch" work, the name given for running repairs.

"The report makes recommendations for assistance to be provided to the long-suffering families of those affected, improved communications with the wider F-111 fuel tank repair community and improvements in the handling of occupational medicine and occupational health and safety issues within the wider Australian Defence Force," Mr Bevis said.

Twenty-year veteran Adrian Walsh is among the pick and patch crew who, for four years, spent hours at a time, wearing just shorts and singlets, inside the fighter bomber's fuel tanks.

For years he has suffered depression, anxiety and claustrophobia and last year the engine and airframe fitter was diagnosed with a rare cartilage cancer and had most of his pelvis removed.

In 2003, the defence force's original scientific study into the F-111 ground crews showed a range of illnesses, physical and mental, had afflicted those who had spent up to 11 hours at a time inside the fighter bomber's tanks.

The study's findings were shocking: "goop troop" workers, as they had then become known, had a 50 per cent higher incidence of cancer.

But because Mr Walsh, who was among the ground crew who took delivery of the F-111s from the US in 1973, was not a member of the official deseal/reseal unit, he has never been eligible for compensation, receiving only "gold card" medical coverage.

Healthy office workers from the deseal/reseal unit were given the ex-gratia payments, but Mr Walsh has been repeatedly denied the same assistance by the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Mr Walsh said he had never blamed the defence force, but ill-informed advisers to the Howard government refused to accept he and his colleagues did the same work as the deseal/reseal unit.

"We just wanted the scheme to be fair, and that crew working inside the tanks at one end of the base was doing the same as those working at the other end of the base," he told The Australian.

"I have this rare cancer, which my doctors say is linked to the F-111 work, and I get nothing and you have people sitting in an office who are healthy and getting the payments."

Mr Walsh's lawyer, John Cockburn, who has been fighting on behalf of the pick and patch veterans for more than a decade, said the Rudd government had an obligation to right the wrongs of the past. "They served their country and if they get sick by doing it, they should be looked after," he said.

Mr Bevis said the committee's report had been forwarded to the government and a decision was expected within four months.

Claimants would now be entitled to receive one-off payments ranging from $40,000 for personnel involved in 60 days' or more maintenance work to $10,000 for those who completed more than 20 but less than 59 days. All would be eligible for ongoing health support.

The maintenance program operated from 1973-2000 at RAAF Amberley base in Queensland. The inquiry identified numerous occupational health and safety shortcomings, including an absence of protective clothing for workers inside the confined spaces of the aircraft fuel tanks.

Inquiry findings that the Australian Defence Force employed only one full-time occupational medicine specialist were "beyond belief", Mr Bevis said.

 
 

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MSPA 192/09 Thursday, 25 June 2009

AUSTRALIANS JOIN HUMANITARIAN MISSION PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2009

Lending a helping hand to Australias neighbours is all part of the job for Australian Defence Force engineers and medical personnel joining the multinational PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2009 team in the South West Pacific from 30 June to 18 September 2009.

PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP is an annual U.S sponsored Humanitarian Civic Assistance mission aimed at strengthening international relationships and interoperability for disaster relief throughout Oceania and Southeast Asia.

The ADF is returning to PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP this year to help deliver much needed engineering, medical and dental aid in Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Kiribati and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

24 Australian Army engineers, one Navy Medical Officer, one Dental Hygienist, one Navy Civil Military Cooperation Officer and HMA Ships BETANO and WEWAK will work within the 100 plus multi-national and multi-skilled team to improve the lives of the people in the Pacific.

The participating ADF personnel are honoured to be part of a mission dedicated to working with, and supporting their regional neighbours said Australian Army Combat Engineer Lieutenant Mick Collaros.

It will be a great cultural experience ? mission partners will exchange expert knowledge and learn from each other, said Lieutenant Collaros.

The ADF will help renovate sites including schools and hospital and administer a wide variety of medical and dental programs.

US Navy ship USNS ROBERT E. BYRD is the enabling platform for PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2009, transporting equipment, supplies and the highly skilled and enthusiastic team of personnel.

PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP has been held annually by the US Pacific Fleet, evolving from the unprecedented international disaster response for countries devastated during the 2004 Asian tsunami.  The ADF has contributed to PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP missions since 2006. Last year PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP was held in South East Asia.
************
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 25 June 2009
005/2009

WEAPON LOCATING RADAR UPGRADE PROJECT ACHIEVES KEY MILESTONE

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that the project to upgrade Army?s Weapon Locating Radar has now achieved initial operational capability.

The Australian AN/TPQ-36 Weapon Locating Radar capability provides the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with the ability to locate enemy mortars, guns and rockets, enabling early warning for ground forces, said Mr Combet.

The radar operates by using technology to identify the firing paths of enemy shells and rockets and from this data determine the enemy firing points, with up to ten locations able to be determined simultaneously.

The AN/TPQ-36 has previously been operationally deployed by the ADF in Iraq.

With the delivery of four of the seven upgraded Weapon Locating Radars, from the prime contractor Raytheon, initial operational capability has now been achieved.

Initial operational capability is achieved when the first subset of a capability system is proven suitable and effective for operational employment.

I am pleased to see that this project is performing on schedule and on budget and is due to achieve its full operational capability by March 2010.

This capability is necessary to provide the ADF the support they need in detecting incoming enemy fire, said Mr Combet.

The achievement of the key operational capability milestone for the first four upgraded systems was marked by a ceremony today at 20th Surveillance and Target Acquisition Regiment at Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane.

The Weapon Locating Radars are being upgraded under Project Land 58 Phase 3 to extend their service life to 2015.
*************
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science


Thursday, 25 June 2009
 006/2009

ARRIVAL OF NEXT AIRBUS A330 IN BRISBANE FOR CONVERSION TO KC-30 TANKER

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that the next commercial Airbus A330-200 aircraft has arrived at Brisbane airport for its conversion into a multi role tanker transport (KC-30 Tanker) for use by the Royal Australian Air Force.

This aircraft is being acquired under Project Air 5402. Under this project five air to air refuelling aircraft are being purchased from Spanish company EADS CASA now known as Airbus Military. This involves the conversion of commercial A330-200 Airbus into military air to air refuellers (KC 30 Tankers). 
 
The aircraft which is known as Manufacturer?s Serial Number 969, is the third A330-200 to be delivered from Airbus for this project and will be the second aircraft to be converted to a KC-30 tanker by Qantas in Australia, said Mr Combet.

This is good news for Brisbane and Qantas. The project also demonstrates the ability of Australian defence industry to engage in complex military aviation projects.

The ability to refuel aircraft in the air provides the ADF with a stronger capability by allowing a fixed number of aircraft to remain airborne longer, carry more ordnance or fly further than would otherwise be the case. This will help augment our air combat capability by extending the range and endurance of our fighters, said Mr Combet. 

The KC 30 Tanker will also add to our air-lift capability with the capacity to carry 270 troops and significant quantities of stores over significant distances.

The first (prototype) aircraft, MSN747, has now successfully completed the second sub-phase of developmental flight testing which is devoted to boom free flight data gathering and validation of the KC-30 receiver and tanker flight control laws.

MSN747 has successfully performed dry contacts as a receiver with the EADS A310 Boom Demonstrator and a French Air Force C-135 tanker. It has completed its first dry contact using the new-generation Cobham 905E hose and drogue refuelling pods with a Spanish Air Force F/A-18 fighter on 28 May 2009.

The second aircraft, MSN 951, being the first to be converted to a KC-30 tanker by Qantas in Australia, is progressing well and is expected to return to Madrid, Spain later this year for completion of the extensive certification and qualification flight test program.

MSN 951 is currently expected to be the first aircraft to be accepted from Airbus Military, around mid-2010, for entry into RAAF service, as A39002.
*************
THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 25 June 2009
007/2009

IMPROVING HOUSING SUPPORT FOR ADF MEMBERS

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today welcomed the royal assent of the Defence Legislation Amendment Bill (No.1) 2009 and the amendments to the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme Act 2008.

The Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) was introduced by the Government in July 2008 to support home ownership among Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel by providing eligible members with a subsidy on their home loan interest payments said Mr Combet.

In its first year of operation, the DHOAS has assisted over 5,900 ADF personnel achieve home ownership, far exceeding initial estimates.

The DHOAS is also an attractive incentive for ADF personnel to remain serving by progressively offering higher levels of home loan subsidies for permanent force members who serve beyond the critical departure points of 4, 8 and 12 years, and for Reservists with service past 8, 12 and 16 years.

Mr Combet said that the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Act had been amended to ensure the equitable treatment of all members by providing the same treatment for members who rejoined the ADF before 1 July 2008, as for members who rejoined after that date.

These changes to eligibility and entitlement are not retrospective and ADF members who are currently in receipt of an entitlement based on the previous provisions will not suffer any detriment.

Minor amendments were also made to address some unintended outcomes that were not consistent with the original policy intent and improve the administration of the scheme.

Further information about the DHOAS is available at: www.dhoas.gov.au
*************
THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Thursday, 25 June 2009
008/2009


TACTICAL PAYMENTS SCHEME

Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, has welcomed the royal assent of the Defence Legislation Amendment Bill (No.1) 2009 that introduced a Tactical Payment Scheme. 

The Tactical Payment Scheme will provide a means for making no-liability payments to people adversely affected by Australian Defence Force activities abroad Mr Combet said.

The ability to make timely and responsive payments to persons adversely affected by Australian Defence Force activities is critical for maintaining local community support and thereby ensuring the safety of our troops overseas.

Mr Combet said that although payments of this nature could be made by the Government under the Act of Grace provisions in the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997, the administrative requirements in making such payments made this scheme unsuitable for use in operational environments.

The Tactical Payment Scheme will operate independently from the Act of Grace provisions and be managed by Defence. 
 
Like the Act of Grace provision, the Tactical Payment Scheme will be bound by strict transparency, accountability and reporting procedures. 

[Keith]

Palestinian Authority wants Diggers in Gaza
 
Greg Sheridan, Foreign editor, Ramallah | June 25, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Foreign Minister of the Palestinian Authority has called for Australian troops to be deployed to the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

Riad Malki told The Australian the Palestinian Authority was willing to "go the extra mile" in assuring Israel that

its security needs would be met, in the event of a peace agreement, or even substantial peace negotiations.

In this context, the Palestinian Authority would welcome Australian troops into Gaza and the West Bank.

The Palestinians' first preference is for Arab troops, but they would be happy to accept Western, specifically Australian, troops as peacekeepers and peace monitors.

"We have said repeatedly we are against all rockets launched (into Israel) from Gaza," Dr Malki said in his Ramallah office. "How will we solve this?

"We believe Arab forces, deployed by Egypt, should come into Gaza, and not allow any Israeli incursions into Gaza or any rockets to be fired from Gaza.

"Then the Palestinian security forces should be professionalised. We are willing to accept an international force."

Dr Malki said such a force could be sent by NATO, or consist of US or Australian soldiers.

At the moment there are no foreign forces, apart from Israelis, deployed on security tasks in the Palestinian territories.

Some US and other military personnel have been involved in aid projects in the Palestinian territories.

Australian military personnel in extremely small numbers have occasionally been involved in UN missions in Lebanon and elsewhere in the Middle East.

********************
Experts shoot holes in Kevin Rudd's defence white paper
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 25, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Rudd government's new defence white paper has been propped up by "unprecedented media spin" and contains an utter lack of transparency on how it will be funded, according to one of Australia's most respected defence analysts.

Former senior defence official and Australian National University professor Paul Dibb yesterday strongly criticised key elements of the white paper, released last month, saying it had failed to deliver real transparency when it came to either spending or defence industry plans.

Dr Dibb was joined in his critique of the white paper by his ANU colleague and author of the Howard government's 2000 white paper, Hugh White, who said the document had deferred hard decisions on how to respond to the strategic rise of China.

Dr Dibb told the National Press Club the new white paper had all the hallmarks of being a work-in-progress report rather than an unambiguous statement of policy.

"Nowhere in this white paper are we told how particular numbers of submarines, surface ships or fighter aircraft have been determined.

"This leaves us with a highly unsatisfactory picture about why we need to have what some are touting as the largest expansion of the ADF since World War II." He said the white paper proclaimed that Australia might have to contend with a major power adversary directly attacking the continent.

"There was only one such likely adversary -- China -- and it happened to be nuclear-armed.

"I find it remarkable that we are contemplating war with a major power.

"Do we actually think that if China attacked us and we defeated them that Beijing would let the matter rest at that?"

The white paper, despite its claim to be fully costed and affordable out to 2030, contained detailed funding only to 2013, Dr Dibb said. Professor White said the white paper reflected the strengths and weaknesses of Kevin Rudd's prime ministership.

"Its strength is the great capacity of Rudd to articulate big questions.

"The weakness is a reluctance to bring those questions to conclusions and action."

Professor White said the white paper had identified the biggest strategic challenge Australia had faced in generations -- the rise of China to become possibly the world's largest economy by 2020.

The key issue for defence planners was whether the US would retain strategic primacy in Asia over the coming decades. The white paper had been framed in the expectation that the US would remain the dominant regional power, but there were doubts over whether the US could continue to play the same stabilising role it had since World War II.

But if things changed, Australia's defence policy would have to be fundamentally reassessed.

A new era of strategic competition between China and the US would open up difficult choices for Australian policy-makers.

"Do we stay with the US as it becomes drawn deeper into a competitive relationship with China? I think the answer is quite probably not," Professor White said.

 
 

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German bidder holds fire on guns
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 24, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE army's $450 million plan to acquire new 155mm self-propelled guns faces a one-year delay because of the complexity of the Defence Materiel Organisation's tender process.

The revelation comes as one of the two contenders to supply the artillery declined to participate in the final tender negotiation with the DMO.

German firm Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, whose PzH 2000 gun was favoured to win the contest to supply up to 18 guns to the army, has declined to participate in the offer definition and refinement process with the organisation.

KMW is competing against Raytheon Australia, which is teamed with Korean manufacturer Samsung Techwin, which is offering the AS-9 gun.

Senior government sources told The Australian yesterday that neither tender had fully met the DMO's tough contractual requirements. Only the Raytheon consortium has chosen to continue negotiations with the DMO.

According to informed sources KMW has cited problems with intellectual property as well as a requirement for more equitable risk-sharing with the commonwealth in its decision not to participate in the offer definition and refinement process.

Raytheon is now pushing hard for an early decision but the KMW tender offer will remain on the table and valid until next April.

Last month DMO chief Stephen Gumley told a Senate estimates committee there were a number of "technical issues" that had to be resolved before a decision could be made on a preferred tenderer.

The German firm, which is partnered with BAE Systems Australia, has offered brand new surplus Dutch army guns as part of its tender in the Land 17 project.

The PzH 2000 gun is in service with the Dutch military in Oruzgan province in Afghanistan and has impressed the Australian army with its all-round capability.

A final decision on Land 17, the project that will have the army equipped with both self-propelled and towed artillery, was expected by mid-2009.

The Rudd government's defence white paper, published last month, called for the acquisition of two batteries of self-propelled guns (a total of 12 guns) and four batteries of towed guns.

The Defence Department hopes to wrap up a decision on the towed artillery later this year, with the M777 howitzer, built in the US by BAE Systems, expected to be chosen.

 
 

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Defence spending on non-Aussie staff revealed

Article from: DAILY TELEGRAPH
 
By Ian McPhedran

June 22, 2009

DEFENCE has spent $10.3 million in the past three years on hiring 555 foreign specialists including musicians, cooks, drivers, chaplains, pilots, engineers and technicians.

Data obtained by The Daily Telegraph shows jobs filled by overseas recruits included three musicians for navy bands, three chaplains for the RAAF and eight military police officers and a cook for the army.

The army also imported 11 medical staff, three nurses, eight educators, one paymaster and three intelligence officers. The navy brought in seven foreign supply officers, eight engineers, 15 marine technicians and 11 aviation technicians.

The air force's recruits included 25 administrators, 14 air defence guards, 11 airborne electronic analysts, four air traffic controllers and five special investigators.

Some 342 of the 555 new starters have gone to the army, 109 to the RAAF and 104 to the navy.

The bulk of recruits are from the UK, with 315 including 156 for the army, 92 for the navy and 67 joining the RAAF. The next biggest feeder country is South Africa with 35.

Others include Canada, New Zealand, Fiji, PNG, the Philippines, France and Bangladesh.

At $40,300 each the navy's recruits are the most costly followed by the army at $14,900.

The air force offers best value to taxpayers at $10,000 each.

Defence argues $18,500 for each foreign recruit was much cheaper than the $1.5 million it costs to train one navy warfare officer or $2 million to turn out an air force pilot.

 

"The cost of attracting individuals under this scheme is offset by the skills they bring with them," Defence told The Daily Telegraph.

 
 

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Mystery of the missing hell ship
 
Mark Day | June 20, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

WHEN Kim Beazley slipped his feet under the desk as Australia's defence minister in 1984, he took charge of a vast department with a multibillion-dollar budget and gained access to the nation's most valuable military secrets. But even from his position at the apex of Australia's military machine he was unable to find a definitive answer to one of his family's most enduring mysteries: what happened to Uncle Syd.

Now, a quarter of a century on, Beazley has put his influence behind a campaign to demand answers to questions surrounding one of the nation's most tragic wartime episodes, the sinking of the Montevideo Maru.

Syd Beazley was a technical instructor and carpenter attached to a mission near Rabaul in New Britain in 1941 when the Japanese juggernaut swept through the South Pacific. He was captured along with the bulk of the Australian defenders, the 2/22 Infantry Battalion, known as the Lark Force, when the Japanese overran Rabaul in January 1942.

What now seems certain is that Syd Beazley was among the 845 prisoners of war and 208 civilians who were herded on to a Japanese "hell ship", the freighter Montevideo Maru, in Rabaul harbour on June 22, 1942.

Nine days later, at 2.40am off Luzon in The Philippines, the Montevideo Maru was hit by a torpedo fired from a US submarine and quickly sank. None of the PoWs or civilians survived.

The Montevideo Maru thus became Australia's greatest maritime disaster, with 1053 lives lost: 408 more than the sinking of HMAS Sydney seven months earlier. News of the tragedy was downplayed at the time. Australia had its back to the wall and censorship of bad war news was the order of the day. After the war a perfunctory military inquiry was held. Mystery still surrounds aspects of this inquiry, including the loss of a vital document that is believed to have contained the names of all the passengers on the Montevideo Maru. The manifest, written in Japanese, was sent to Australia in 1946 but has disappeared among millions of military records.

Kim Beazley, twice federal opposition leader and now a professor at the University of Western Australia, recalls family discussions about his uncle's fate.

"I never knew Uncle Syd," he acknowledges. "But my father used to speak of him and wonder whether he had been executed by the Japanese or put on that hell ship. When I was 14, my father went to Rabaul and located a man who knew his brother. He said Syd sailed on the Montevideo Maru, so although there are no records, that seemed to be pretty certain."

Beazley says when he took over as defence minister in the Hawke government he asked his department to dig out the log of the American submarine USS Sturgeon, which sank the Montevideo Maru. "They had just one torpedo left," he says. "They spotted the ship and loosed the torpedo. Then the Sturgeon had to crash dive to avoid detection. The log records that they heard the sound of a ship breaking up. They were recording the death of my uncle.

"I don't harbour any grudges about this. The Sturgeon commander had no way of knowing who or what was aboard. Their job was to sink Japanese ships and the Japanese didn't believe in convoys. They thought it was not a dignified job for their navy to mother-hen a couple of dozen freighters.

"So the Americans lay in wait in known passages and when the ships came, they sank them. It was money for jam, really; a turkey shoot."

The Montevideo Maru was one of many freighters that became known as Japanese hell ships because of the conditions aboard. Thousands of prisoners were held in stinking, fetid cargo holds and transported to Japan to be used as slave labour. They were treated brutally and many died.

The war in the Pacific was seven months old when the Montevideo Maru was ordered to Rabaul in June 1942. A plan to evacuate civilians on a copra-carrying ship was denied and the 1000-man Lark Force and a small contingent of Australian commandos were left to hold off the Japanese. They had no hope. The Japanese took the town on January 25, 1942, and the bulk of Australians were taken prisoner. Amid rumours that they were about to be taken to a nearby island, the men and civilians sailed on June 22, never to be heard of again.

The captain of USS Sturgeon, lieutenant-commander William "Bull" Wright, recorded in his log that a darkened ship at full speed was sighted on the night of June 30 heading north in a channel off Luzon. He chased the ship at full power but "this fellow is really going, making at least 17 knots". About midnight the quarry slowed to less than 12 knots. "After that it was easy," Wright wrote. He said he fired a four-torpedo spread (not a single torpedo, as stated by Beazley) about 4km from the Montevideo Maru and watched as it exploded, then sank within 10 minutes.

One man aboard the ship was crewman Yoshiaki Yamaji, who is the sole living survivor of the tragedy. In a 2003 interview with the ABC, he said the Montevideo Maru slowed to await a rendezvous with two Japanese destroyers that were to escort it through the channel. Yamaji describes the scene: "There were more PoWs than crew in the water. They were holding on to pieces of wood and using bigger pieces as rafts. There were probably 100 in all. They were singing songs. I heard them sing Auld Lang Syne, and watching that, I learned that Australians have big hearts." Yamaji says he, 19 other crew and 100 PoWs and civilians, made it to shore. He says many were then killed in encounters with Filipino militia. Yamaji's description is dramatic and heart-rending. But it may also be the confused recollections of a man now approaching his centenary because there is no evidence that 100 survivors did land or of any fighting on shore.

The first indication of the Montevideo Maru's fate came in 1945 when Australian investigators in Japan found a Japanese navy advisory to the Prisoner of War Information Bureau stating that 845 PoWs and 208 civilians had died in the sinking.

An Australian investigator, major Harold Williams, reported that a 48-page nominal roll, written in Japanese and containing the names of the passengers, was attached to the advisory memo. He ordered it sent to Australia for translation. But by 1946 the roll had vanished. Doubt and confusion continues to hamper researchers. Some suggest the nominal roll contained the names of personnel held in the PoW camp at Rabaul because some of the names on the list died before the Montevideo's sailing and are buried in Rabaul.

Keith Jackson, a Sydney businessman who is one of the driving forces behind the newly established Montevideo Maru memorial committee, says discussions have been held about the possibility of locating the wreck. Jackson and his committee want a renewed search for the lost records from 1946 and the declaration of the wreck as an official war grave. "But above all we want a greater recognition on the part of government to bring comfort to the descendants of the men who died and to ensure that the story of the tragedy is elevated to its place as a significant part of Australia's social history. That's the least we can do for them."

Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin tells Inquirer he will consider any requests from the committee. "Australians fought and died at many locations around the world," he says. "We do a lot in recognition of this and are doing more, but it is difficult to satisfy every concern people have."

 
Department of Defence moves to bring horizon closer

Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 19, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

JOHN Faulkner and Greg Combet will face their first major test in the Defence portfolio next week as federal cabinet is expected to sign off on a sharply revised defence capability plan.

The Rudd government will consider cutting the normal 10-year horizon for the $100billion defence capability plan in half, as the Defence Department begins its long quest to find $20bn in savings to pay for new equipment.

Defence's plan to truncate the plan to a 2014 horizon further underlines the fiscal uncertainty that surrounds the $26bn Defence budget, despite the government's pledge to increase defence spending by 3 per cent annually in real terms.

The DCP provides a fundamental road map for the defence industry, outlining the major capital acquisitions planned by the government. In the next two years, these will include the $16bn decision on the F-35 joint strike fighter as well as multi-billion-dollar investments in new naval helicopters and protected vehicles for the army.

The first of the big capital equipment decisions will be the joint strike fighter, with the government expected to sign off on the purchase of up to 100 F-35s by October.

The new-look DCP is expected to be unveiled by Mr Combet at a major defence industry conference in Adelaide next month.

Speculation about a shortened DCP has unnerved the industry, which has relied on 10-year horizons to make critical investment decisions regarding its participation in key projects.

The move would come at a time when the Defence Materiel Organisation has promised further reform and greater transparency in its dealing with the local defence industry.

Lockheed Martin Australia managing director Paul Johnson said last night that a 10-year DCP allowed local industry to address critical long-term planning and investment issues. "If we have a truncated DCP, it presents issues for us in being able to resource for the longer term," he said.

The two Defence ministers are taking a forensic look at the spending commitments made under the recently released defence white paper, including major capital projects.

Their concern is that the new DCP accurately reflects and delivers on the ambitious equipment plans contained in the white paper, which include new-generation submarines and a new class of surface warship, as well as unmanned aerial surveillance vehicles.

Senior government sources said last night that the new DCP would provide more transparency on costs and schedules for major capital equipment projects.

 

 
 

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Department of Defence moves to bring horizon closer
 
Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 19, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

JOHN Faulkner and Greg Combet will face their first major test in the Defence portfolio next week as federal cabinet is expected to sign off on a sharply revised defence capability plan.

The Rudd government will consider cutting the normal 10-year horizon for the $100billion defence capability plan in half, as the Defence Department begins its long quest to find $20bn in savings to pay for new equipment.

Defence's plan to truncate the plan to a 2014 horizon further underlines the fiscal uncertainty that surrounds the $26bn Defence budget, despite the government's pledge to increase defence spending by 3 per cent annually in real terms.

The DCP provides a fundamental road map for the defence industry, outlining the major capital acquisitions planned by the government. In the next two years, these will include the $16bn decision on the F-35 joint strike fighter as well as multi-billion-dollar investments in new naval helicopters and protected vehicles for the army.

The first of the big capital equipment decisions will be the joint strike fighter, with the government expected to sign off on the purchase of up to 100 F-35s by October.

The new-look DCP is expected to be unveiled by Mr Combet at a major defence industry conference in Adelaide next month.

Speculation about a shortened DCP has unnerved the industry, which has relied on 10-year horizons to make critical investment decisions regarding its participation in key projects.

The move would come at a time when the Defence Materiel Organisation has promised further reform and greater transparency in its dealing with the local defence industry.

Lockheed Martin Australia managing director Paul Johnson said last night that a 10-year DCP allowed local industry to address critical long-term planning and investment issues. "If we have a truncated DCP, it presents issues for us in being able to resource for the longer term," he said.

The two Defence ministers are taking a forensic look at the spending commitments made under the recently released defence white paper, including major capital projects.

Their concern is that the new DCP accurately reflects and delivers on the ambitious equipment plans contained in the white paper, which include new-generation submarines and a new class of surface warship, as well as unmanned aerial surveillance vehicles.

Senior government sources said last night that the new DCP would provide more transparency on costs and schedules for major capital equipment projects.

 

$415m bomb-proof Australian embassy for Jakarta
 
Mark Dodd | June 18, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

WORK on a $415 million high-security Australian embassy in Jakarta will begin late next year, six years after a Jemaah Islamiah terrorist bombing that killed five people and injured more than 150 others.

The new chancery will be ?bomb-proofed? and house 14 federal government agencies, 123 Australian and 273 local staff, Defence Secretary Mike Kelly said today.

Mr Kelly today submitted budget plans for the new embassy with a start date for construction next year and completion scheduled for 2014.

The current mission is ?overcrowded and dysfunctional?, Mr Kelly told Parliament.

In 2004, a suicide bomber detonated a minivan loaded with more than one tonne of explosives outside the embassy.

"The government approved the relocation of the Jakarta mission on security grounds. The new site will enable appropriate setbacks to buildings for blast mitigation while the buildings themselves will be designed to resist blast,? Mr Kelly said.

"While the new development is driven by the imperative to provide more secure accommodation, a rapid increase of staff in the Jakarta mission over recent years has resulted in the chancery being seriously overcrowded and dysfunctional.?

Construction is expected to start late next year, subject to parliamentary approval.

The project will involve construction of a secure compound, including a chancery of about 20,000 square metres, a head of mission residence, residential accommodation for 32 diplomats and their families, recreational facilities and a medical clinic.

 
 

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THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

003/09
Wednesday, 17 June 2009

THE ANAO AUDIT OF THE SEASPRITE PROJECT

Greg Combet, the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) has released its Audit Report of the Super Seasprite Project.

The ANAOs report stated that the objectives of the audit were to identify issues contributing to the cancellation of the project to supply the required capability and to highlight the project management lessons for current and future major Defence acquisitions.

The report was generally critical of Defences management of the project and made seven recommendations, all of which Defence accepts.  

The Rudd Government is committed to ensuring that we improve our defence procurement practices so we avoid the mistakes of the past, said Mr Combet.
We want to ensure that we deliver the capability the ADF needs when they need it. We are also committed to ensuring that Australian taxpayers get value for money.

Defence has implemented significant reform to its project management practises since the Seasprite project contract of 1997, particularly with the implementation of the 2003 Kinnaird Review.

These include a professionalisation program, improved contracting functions, increased risk awareness and improved governance systems.

The lessons learnt from the Seasprite project have already been incorporated in reforms which have enhanced Defence project management practices and are taken further in the implementation of the Mortimer Review as recently announced by Government.

The Government took the decision to cancel the Seasprite project in March 2008 given the ongoing difficulties the project was experiencing.
**********************

$1.4bn wasted on cancelled Seasprite

Patrick Walters, National security editor | June 18, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

MORE than $1.4 billion of taxpayers' money was wasted on the Defence Department's botched acquisition of the Super Seasprite helicopter, 47 per cent more than the $953 million claimed by the Defence Department last year.

The Auditor-General is highly critical of the Defence Materiel Organisation's management of the US-manufactured helicopters, which were ordered for the navy's Anzac frigates but were never accepted into operational service.

The long-awaited final report by the Australian National Audit Office found the Seasprite had a potential catastrophic failure rate calculated at 20,000 times greater than the US aviation standard.

The Seasprite's crash worthiness was below contemporary standards, it could not be flown in bad weather, the cockpit was too small for some crewmen and the advanced computerised combat system never worked properly.

But most worrying, the computerised flight control system tended to make unpredictable movements of flight controls, known as hard-overs. During flight testing, that occurred four times in 1600 flying hours. The aircraft design specification was for one potentially catastrophic failure in a million hours.

The Rudd government cancelled the project to give the navy an anti-submarine capacity in March last year, terminating the prime contract with US firm Kaman Aerospace Corporation and handing the Seasprites back to them for an eventual sale.

The project ran for 12 years, with a $746m contract for 11 Seasprites being signed by the Howard government in 1997.

Equipped with Penguin anti-ship missiles, the Seasprites were designed to operate from the Anzac frigates, providing maritime strike and surveillance for the RAN's surface fleet.

The ANAO report reveals that extra expenditure of at least $448m was incurred by Defence in establishing the Seasprite capability on top of the $953m spent on the prime contract. This included $201m spent on Penguin missiles, which cannot be used on any other aircraft, and $135m on in-service support. An extra $59m went on spare parts and $47m on last year decommissioning 805 squadron, which was destined to operate the Seasprites.

The handling glitches and stability issues led to the Seasprite's grounding by the navy in March 2006 after it had been provisionally accepted by the RAN.

The ANAO found the decision to cancel the project could not be attributed to any individual factor.

"If there is an overriding message from this project it is that risks to project outcomes need to be better managed and related accountability for managing project performance strengthened," it said.

The DMO's Seasprite project office had experienced "ongoing difficulties in attracting and retaining appropriately qualified personnel which inhibited its capacity to manage a large and complex project".

Right from the start, an inadequate understanding of the risks associated with the acquisition was not attained through the requirement definition and tender-evaluation processes.

"Poor contract management practices within Defence and DMO, over the life of the project, contributed to ongoing contractual uncertainty," it said.

The Auditor-General said the risks associated with the project were increased by the decision to fit upgraded systems "into a smaller helicopter than the Anzac ship is designed to operate".

The navy is now looking to buy a fleet of up to 24 combat helicopters at a cost of well over $1bn to replace the junked Seasprites and provide its surface fleet with a capable anti-submarine warfare platform.

Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet said last night that Defence had accepted all seven recommendations from the ANAO designed to prevent a repeat of the Seasprite.

"The lessons learned from the Seasprite project have already been incorporated in reforms which have enhanced Defence project management practices and are taken further in the implementation of the Mortimer review as recently announced by government," Mr Combet said.

 

Whingeing German troops too soft to fight Taliban
 
Roger Boyes | June 17, 2009

Article from:  Times Online

THEY have a beer ration of up to a litre a day, and wurst for dinner. Taliban or no Taliban, Germans take a little bit of home with them when they serve in trouble spots.

Even their carefully-sorted rubbish gets dumped in wheelie bins before being sent from Afghanistan to Germany for recycling.

Now Germany's most senior officer has warned soldiers not to get too cosy or become too soft.

"We cannot guarantee soldiers that they will have an all-round feel-good experience," said General Wolfgang Schneiderhan.

His outburst follows complaints made by German soldiers to the official ombudsman about their tours abroad.

Some have grumbled about unsuitable sleeping bags for their Congo peace-keeping mission - "there is no reason why this issue should have come before parliament" said General Schneiderhan - while others moaned about the long hours, a lack of childcare for their families at home and poor medical care.

Army doctors in particular say that they are on the brink of leaving because pay and conditions are so bad. So many have returned to civilian life that there is a shortage of medics in the field.

"We have to tell a professional soldier who complains about his third tour of overseas duty that he has to get a grip - this is his profession," said General Schneiderhan.

"Perhaps the problem is down to the general tendency in society to delegate responsibility to someone else, or perhaps it is the stress associated with change," he told several hundred army officers and politicians at an official reception.

It is a far cry from Germany's old military traditions - the Prussian officers who helped to defeat Napoleon or the tactical flair of Rommel, the Desert Fox, but the troops' reluctance will not come as a surprise to the country's allies in combat zones such as Afghanistan, where German participation is limited by a host of caveats.

German Medevac helicopters have to be back at base by dusk. German Tornado aircraft are restricted to unarmed reconaissance.

Der Spiegel magazine highlighted the case recently of a Taliban commander - nicknamed the Baghlan Bomber because of his role in blowing up a sugar factory in that northwestern province - who was cornered by the KSK German special service unit but allowed to escape. The KSK are not authorised to kill, under the terms of engagement imposed by the German parliament, unless they are under attack.

Although the north of Afghanistan is not as quiet as it used to be - about 30 German soldiers have been killed since 2001 - other members of the ISAF force have voiced dissatisfaction about Germany's contribution.

The reports of soldiers' complaints made to parliament by Reinhold Robbe, the ombudsman, paint a picture of a force that is concentrating more on its own wellbeing than on the peace-keeping mission.

In 2007 German forces in Afghanistan consumed about 90,000 bottles of wine in addition to 1.7million pints of beer; that figure has stayed constant. British and US bases by contrast have an alcohol ban.

The diet is heavy on carbohydrates, low on fruit and a higher proportion of soldiers are overweight than in the civilian population of Germany. Mr Robbe admitted that too many soldiers had a "passive lifestyle". In short the soldiers are fat, they drink too much and spend a great deal of time moaning.

There are 3,500 German soldiers in Afghanistan. German troops also take part in missions in Kosovo, Bosnia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. For much of the postwar period Germans were constitutionally banned from serving on foreign missions.

Deployment still requires a parliamentary mandate and this gives complaining soldiers some clout. If they moan loud enough they can usually secure improvements but they continue to suffer equipment shortages, like their British counterparts, and officers complain of insufficient training.
 
 

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Submarine training tank springs a 300,000L leak
 
Cameron Stewart | June 16, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

AN embarrassing navy bungle has seen more than 300,000 litres of water leak out of a six-storey submarine training tank at HMAS Stirling in Perth.

The lost water is the equivalent to a person taking 6000 showers, flushing a toilet 38,000 times or using a dishwasher 12,000 times.

The accident is the result of poor maintenance of the $25million Submarine Escape Training Facility, which has been left idle since May last year because of a mismanaged Defence tender to run the facility. The SETF is used to give submariners pressurised underwater escape training inside a tall cylinder-shaped tank, filled with about 500,000L of water.

However, a valve and pipe began leaking the weekend before last, causing 60 per cent of the water in the tank to leak out into nearby ditches. The navy did not detect the leak until early on the following Monday.

The tank is usually emptied once a year for maintenance purposes, but this is the first time in the SETF's 20-year history that it has lost a large volume of water by mistake. The facility, described on the navy's website as "the most advanced of its kind in the world today", has been idle for 13 months after the navy and the Australian Submarine Corp, the original preferred tender, argued over aspects of a Defence tender to run the centre.

The dispute forced the navy to issue another tender to run the centre, but as yet no winner has been announced.

The result of the bungle is that more than 100 navy submariners have been flown around the world at taxpayers' expense to conduct training in Canada rather than at HMAS Stirling.

Escape training is mandatory for all new submariners and qualified submariners must take a refresher course every three years. The head of navy maritime systems, Rear Admiral Boyd Robinson, told a parliamentary committee this month that the navy expected to award a contract to run SETF next month and start-up training and certification of workers could take a further three months.

Meanwhile, a British submarine rescue vehicle has finally arrived in Australia, ending a 2 1/2-year period when the navy had no deep-sea submarine rescue capability.

The Royal Navy LR5 vehicle was brought to Australia to quell growing criticism from media and submariners that there needed to be a rescue vehicle based in the country in case of a submarine emergency.

The navy's Australian rescue vehicle, Remora, sank in December 2006 and has still not regained certification.

 

 
 

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Security lapses put Aussies in danger

Amanda Hodge, South Asia correspondent | June 15, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE safety of Australian embassy staff operating out of the US diplomatic compound in Kabul has been jeopardised by security lapses so severe the US State Department has issued a series of complaints against the private contractor responsible.

State Department documents released during a US Senate hearing last week showed the contractor in charge of security at the US embassy in Afghanistan, ArmorGroup North America, "has been deficient since the start of the contract in July 2007".

ArmorGroup left guard posts at the embassy vacant, hired Gurkha security guards who could not speak English, and failed to properly train their personnel on how to repel attacks.

A surprise inspection of the compound by State Department officials in March found the problems still existed, with 18 guard posts left vacant, some for several hours.

Australian embassy staff were forced to move out of temporary offices at the Serena Hotel in Kabul following a suicide bomb attack by Taliban militants in January last year.

The embassy, headed by ambassador Martin Quinn, is understood to have been operating from the US compound in the Afghan capital since then, although the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will not confirm or deny this in the interests of security.

A departmental spokesman told The Australian: "The safety and security of staff is our highest priority and we will continue to take whatever steps we consider are necessary to help ensure the most effective security possible."

But security at the US embassy has been publicly under question since April last year, when two former ArmorGroup employees sued the company, now a subsidiary of Wackenhut, for wrongful dismissal after they raised concerns about security.

Behind the scenes, the State Department has been raising concerns about security at the embassy since July 2007, when it issued the company a notice advising that the shortage of guards and armoured vehicles endangered "performance of the contract to such a degree that the security of the US embassy in Kabul is in jeopardy".

Two months later, it warned ArmorGroup it risked losing the contract because the company's failure to provide enough trained guards "gravely endangers performance of guard services in a high-threat environment such as Afghanistan".

In August 2008, the State Department again outlined "serious concerns regarding AGNA's ability to respond in the aftermath of a mass casualty" because the company did not employ enough trained guards.

Despite the concerns, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State William Moser confirmed last week that the ArmorGroup contract would be renewed for another year.

Mr Moser told the Senate hearing the company had failed to fulfil the terms of its contract, but said it had done an adequate job of protecting the embassy.

Wackenhut vice-president Samuel Brinkley admitted to the hearing that his company's performance had been deficient but said the problems had been fixed.

But he said ArmorGroup was struggling to provide the security required for the embassy at the contract price and was losing $US1 million ($1.2m) a month.

Defence to target ethnic groups for new recruits

Cameron Stewart | June 15, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

THE Australian Defence Force will target Arabs, Africans, Asians and other ethnic recruits in an ambitious attempt to overturn a century of Anglo-Celtic domination in the ranks.

The far-reaching new strategy has the potential to reshape the face of the nation's military, which has lagged embarrassingly behind the rest of the country in reflecting ethnic diversity.

If successful, it will pose a direct challenge to the flame-keepers of the Anzac legend, who have traditionally portrayed the Aussie Digger almost exclusively as a white, male Anglo-Saxon.

Only 5 per cent of Australia's soldiers, sailors and air force personnel are from non-English-speaking backgrounds, compared with 21 per cent for the population as a whole.

The new multicultural recruitment strategy, to be launched in coming months, is seen by Defence as a key to solving its endemic recruitment crisis.

"This strategy aims to widen the recruiting pool and strengthen our engagement with young Australians from diverse cultural backgrounds," the new Minister for Defence Personnel, Greg Combet, told The Australian.

The strategy poses a challenge for the ADF because ethnic groups have traditionally shunned the military, believing they would be seen as outsiders in an overwhelmingly white male environment.

According to the 2007 Defence census, 87 per cent of all ADF personnel are Australian-born, compared with only 71 per cent of the general population. Only 1per cent of ADF personnel are from Asia, compared with 6 per cent for the broader community.

To help break down these barriers, the ADF has asked its own soldiers with ethnic backgrounds to volunteer as go-betweens with ethnic communities to convince young Arabs, Asians, Africans and others of thebenefits of donning the slouch hat.

"Current serving members with culturally diverse backgrounds will share their own stories to highlight the opportunities an ADF career has offered them and can for others," Mr Combet said.

Defence experts are studying the size of ethnic groups and gauging attitudes towards the ADF within those communities.

Defence sources said there would be no targeting of quotas from specific ethnic groups and no relaxation of English language standards for entry into the ADF.

A Defence budget brief released last month by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute found there was a significant "over-representation of Anglo-Celtic born individuals" in the regular ADF, as well as in the reserves and even in the civilian workforce in the Defence Department.

"By relying on a limited part of the population, the Defence Force misses the opportunity to recruit some of the best and brightest in the community," the report's author, Mark Thomson, said.

The ASPI report said the problem with an overwhelmingly Anglo-Celtic military was a lack of language skills and also reduced "cultural empathy".

"There is something unsettling about a defence force that is unrepresentative of the society it seeks to protect, especially for a country like Australia that defines its identity so closely with its military history and ethos," Mr Thomson said.

 
Faulkner hits Afghan ground running

Joe Kelly | June 15, 2009

Article from:  The Australian

JOHN Faulkner h