This week in Midweek Updates
Revolutionize your lighting control with PJ Aviation's RLC - Radio Activated Lighting Controller!
Russian air force delegation visiting South Africa, but Tu-160 bomber arrival uncertain.
EASA, ANAC and CASA type certifications achieved for Piper M700 FURY.
Unmanned combat aerial vehicle program kicks off as part of the Rafale F5 standard.
GAMA welcomes two additions to team.
Moroccan Government signs aerospace cooperation agreement with Embraer.
USAF attends Marrakech Air Show at Royal Moroccan Air Force base.
Bombardier Defence proudly delivers eighth Global Aircraft to the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node Program.
This week in history - 15 September 1968 - The Soviet Zond 5 spaceship is launched, becoming the first spacecraft to fly around the Moon and re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.
Worldwide Incidents and Accidents
Bonus video - Test Flight and Development Centre Airshow
REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR LIGHTING CONTROL WITH PJ AVIATION'S RLC - RADIO ACTIVATED LIGHTING CONTROLLER
Experience Next-Generation Control for Airport, Helipad & Marine Lighting
Designed to meet the unique demands of pilot-controlled airport and helipad lighting, PJ Aviation's innovative "RLC" (Radio Activated Lighting Controller) has entered its third decade of unparalleled performance and development. The 2024 edition has been expertly redesigned for even greater functionality in a smaller, more compact form. With a cutting-edge multiband digital receiver, this latest model ensures reliable control across various applications, from airports and helipads to marine navigation beacons, all while promoting energy efficiency and reducing light pollution.
Why Choose PJ Aviation's RLC?
• Advanced Compatibility: Ideal for 9-15VDC operations, with a 24V version available upon request, expanding options for a variety of lighting setups.
• Powerful Relay Switching: The RLC features three onboard relays that can manage 12A at 30VDC or 250VAC, perfect for high-demand operations.
• FAA L-854 Compliance: Following industry standards with PTT (Push-To-Talk) activated radio pulses, ensuring dependable performance in demanding environments.
• Flexible Customization: Programmed for 3, 5, or 7 “clicks” activation with adjustable timeout settings of either 15 or 30 minutes, tailored to meet specific lighting needs.
• Easy Installation & Setup: Comes with an antenna extension cable, making setup seamless and user-friendly.
Reliable Operation at Your Fingertips
The RLC automatically monitors and activates upon receiving the selected frequency signal. Within an 8-second window, a predefined series of “microphone clicks” initiates activation, lighting up your facility on cue! The easy-to-read onboard LEDs indicate system health, active outputs, and relay status for instant, at-a-glance monitoring.
Technical Specifications
• Dimensions: Compact circuit module (165w x 115h x 30mm thick)
• Supply Voltage: Standard 9 to 15VDC (24VDC option available)
• Frequency Range: Operates seamlessly from 100 to 520MHz
• Output Interface: Three robust relays with uncommitted change-over contacts
• Relay Contact Rating: 12A at 30VDC or 250VAC
Discover the Future of Lighting Control!
With over 20 years of expertise and reliability, PJ Aviation's RLC is your ultimate solution for optimized lighting management in any setting. Transform your lighting control with precision, reliability, and unmatched energy efficiency.
Visit us at www.pjaviation.co.za for more. Join the ranks of aviation and marine professionals who trust PJ Aviation for their lighting control needs.
PJ Aviation - Lighting the Way to a Brighter, Greener Future
RUSSIAN AIR FORCE DELEGATION VISITING SOUTH AFRICA, BUT TU-160 BOMBER ARRIVAL UNCERTAIN guymartin@defenceweb.co.za
A Russian Aerospace Forces delegation is currently in South Africa on a goodwill visit, five years after a similar tour brought two Tu-160 strategic bombers to Air Force Base Waterkloof. At the same time, the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is visiting Moscow.
In a statement, the SANDF said it welcomed the Russian aerospace delegation on 29 October. The visit, concluding on 2 November, is due to see “the Russian air arsenal” brought to South Africa and land at Air Force Base Waterkloof.
Russia's Defence Ministry on Monday said it had sent a group of aircraft to South Africa on a friendly visit, including Il-62 and An-124 aircraft as well as Tu-160 bombers. However, although the An-124 was seen landing at AFB Waterkloof on Tuesday, the Tu-160s have not arrived and it is rumoured their visit has been cancelled or postponed.
There was speculation the Tu-160s would visit the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition in September, but this was apparently cancelled at the last minute. A Russian delegation arrived at Waterkloof in July to inspect the base ahead of the possible Tu-160 deployment.
The SANDF said the current visit is part of a display of defence cooperation, strengthening of military-to-military relations, in particular with the South African Airforce (SAAF), and includes “a bilateral seminar of both technical staff where officials deliberate on combat planning and the planning philosophy as well as search and rescue matters.”
“This friendly visit aims to reaffirm the diplomatic ties held by both countries' military organisations, and it comes at the back of strong historical links existing between both countries dating as far back as 28 February 1992 which after, the Ministries of Defence of both countries penned an agreement on 14 June 1995 that the joint unit of the Aerospace Forces of the Russian Federation will from time-to-time visit the Republic of South Africa. The SANDF will emerge as big heirs of this visit which sets a platform for the SA Air Force to gain knowledge and exposure to the large military air assets including the Il-62, An-124, and Tupolev Tu-160 'Blackjack' bombers.”
The SANDF added that this is part of the South African National Defence Force's broader military to military partnership framework with several other defence forces across the globe.
In October 2019, two Tu-160s arrived at Waterkloof, flying 11 000 km non-stop from Russia. They were supported by an Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft and an Ilyushin Il-62 passenger jet, which arrived a couple of days before.
The Tu-160s' historic first visit to South Africa coincided with the opening of the first Russia-Africa Summit. This year's visit coincides with the end of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Summit in Russia, which President Cyril Ramaphosa attended. It also coincides with a visit by Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha, who arrived in South Africa on 27 October.
At the same time, Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya, is visiting Moscow “to discuss issues related to bilateral military cooperation.” Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the visit commenced with a ceremonial laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Alexandrovsky Garden.
“Cooperation with our African partners is of strategic and long-term significance for Russia, fostering friendly, reliable, and equitable relations,” Army General Oleg Salyukov emphasised during discussions.
“Throughout the meeting, the military leaders agreed to enhance collaboration between the armed forces of both countries across various sectors,” the Foreign Ministry said.
EASA, ANAC AND CASA TYPE CERTIFICATIONS ACHIEVED FOR PIPER M700 FURY
The M700 FURY has received type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Brazil's Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC), and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) of Australia, including approval for flight into known icing (FIKI) and unpaved surfaces. Customers in these regions have been eagerly awaiting these certifications to take delivery of their aircraft, with deliveries beginning this month.
The M700 FURY is the fastest single-engine aircraft in Piper's history, offering a maximum cruise speed of 301 knots and a range of 1,424 nautical miles. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-52 engine, this cabin-class turboprop combines exceptional performance with advanced features; including the HALO Safety System with Garmin's Emergency Autoland, and FIKI making it ideal for both private owners and operators.
"The EASA, ANAC, and CASA certifications are significant milestones for the M700 FURY," said John Calcagno, President & CEO of Piper Aircraft. "These approvals reinforce our commitment to delivering a world-class aircraft with exceptional performance, safety, and versatility to key international markets."
The M700 FURY is designed with both safety and ease of use in mind. Safety-enhancing features include Garmin's Electronic Stability Protection (ESP), SurfaceWatch™, and SafeTaxi®, providing pilots with increased awareness and control. For ease of use, the aircraft is equipped with Autothrottle and Garmin PlaneSync™, simplifying operations and streamlining preflight and in-flight procedures.
UNMANNED COMBAT AERIAL VEHICLE PROGRAM KICKS OFF AS PART OF THE RAFALE F5 STANDARD
On this day, Sébastien Lecornu, French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, announced the development launch of the unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that will complement the future Rafale F5 standard after 2030.
The announcement was made at a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the French Strategic Air Forces (FAS) at the Saint-Dizier air base, in the presence of General Jérôme Bellanger, Chief of Staff of the French Air and Space Force (AAE), and Éric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.
“This stealth combat drone will contribute to the technological and operational superiority of the French Air Force by 2033. It is significant that it is being initiated today, as we mark the 60th anniversary of the Strategic Air Forces and the 90th anniversary of the Air and Space Force: in aeronautics - a highly complex field - the future has deep roots, and innovation is built on experience. Dassault Aviation and its partners are proud to serve the French Armed Forces and the French defence Procurement Agency (DGA). Their renewed confidence honours and obliges us,” declared Éric Trappier.
This UAV will be complementary to the Rafale and suited to collaborative combat. It will incorporate stealth technologies, autonomous control (with man-in-the-loop), internal payload capacity, and more. It will be highly versatile and designed to evolve in line with future threats.
It will benefit from the achievements of the nEUROn* program, Europe's first stealth UCAV demonstrator.
The Rafale F5 combined with the UCAV and their evolutions, like the Mirage IV in its times, will ensure France's independence and capability superiority in the coming decades.
* Initiated in 2003, the nEUROn program brought together the aeronautics resources of six European countries, with project management by Dassault Aviation. nEUROn completed its maiden flight in December 2012. More than 170 test flights have been conducted to date. The nEUROn program has lived up to all its promises in terms of performance levels, lead times and budget.
GAMA WELCOMES TWO ADDITIONS TO TEAM
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced the addition of Carsten Hoyt and Andy Phillips to the team. Hoyt will serve as GAMA's General Counsel and Director of Regulatory Affairs and Phillips as Manager of Airworthiness and Regulatory Affairs.
“GAMA is fortunate to be able to add two solid additions to its hardworking team. Carsten Hoyt is well regarded within the aviation industry for his robust legal and regulatory expertise and Andy Phillips has a wealth of experience within international regulatory policy and airworthiness. Both Carsten and Andy have diverse backgrounds and knowledge of aerospace's regulatory ecosystem which will bolster the expertise of our engineering and operations teams. We are thrilled to welcome them to the GAMA team and know that they will be valuable assets in serving the interests of our member companies,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.
Prior to joining GAMA, Hoyt served as an airworthiness regulatory, national security, and international law attorney for the FAA Office of Chief Counsel. Additionally, Hoyt has extensive experience in military aviation, which include serving as a Naval Aircrewman and aircraft avionics maintainer in the U.S. Navy and later as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. He continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve where he currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Hoyt's educational background includes a Juris Doctor from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, a Master's of International Relations and National Security from the Naval War College, and a Bachelor's in Political Science from Washington State University.
As General Counsel and Director of Regulatory Affairs, Hoyt will manage the work done within GAMA's Policy & Legal Issues Committee and work in the areas of operations, safety and security regulatory affairs, as well as provide in-house legal counsel.
Prior to joining GAMA, Phillips served as Aerospace Policy Adviser at ADS Group, the trade association for the UK aerospace industry, with a focus on airworthiness, policy and bilateral activities with FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Additionally, he spent some time as Government Affairs Manager for the Heathrow Airport as well as various positions working at the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Phillips earned his Master of Public Policy from the London School of Economics, and his BA in Politics from the University of Nottingham.
As Manager of Airworthiness and Regulatory Affairs, Phillips will work closely with member companies through GAMA's Technical Policy Committee activities and regulatory agencies to advocate for policy and regulatory activities related to design, airworthiness, certification and/or approvals of general aviation aircraft and equipment to address the current and future needs of the industry.
MOROCCAN GOVERNMENT SIGNS AEROSPACE COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH EMBRAER
The Moroccan Government has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) to launch potential joint projects in the Moroccan aerospace industry, across areas in commercial aviation, defence and urban air mobility. The MOU further acknowledges the mutual desire to strengthen and expand cooperation and investment between the Federal Republic of Brazil and the Kingdom of Morocco, around forging increased Atlantic cooperation across two role models of the Global South
The agreement, between The Moroccan Government and Embraer, was signed by the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Ryad Mezzour; the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government, in charge of Investment, Convergence and Evaluation of Public Policies, Mr. Karim Zidane; the Managing Director of the Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency, Mr. Ali Seddiki; and Embraer Commercial Aviation President and CEO, Mr. Arjan Meijer.
The parties have identified business opportunities, with excellent potential to bring mutual benefits in the short and long term to both Embraer and Morocco. The agreement covers opportunities in commercial aviation, defence, and urban air mobility, providing a framework around which to build an integrated sourcing ecosystem in Morocco, fostering innovation and economic growth and contributing to job creation and the development of local skills.
This project of cooperation will also consider an important range of fields in incremental phases by developing training and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul. Other fields to be explored for potential collaborations include: R&T especially in decarbonization, clean mobility, sustainable aviation, sustainable aviation fuel.
“Today, we are signing a landmark partnership agreement with Embraer at this prestigious event - the Marrakech airshow,” said Mr Ryad Mezzour, The Minister of Industry and Trade. “This collaboration not only highlights the strength of our Moroccan ecosystem but also positions us as a key player in the global aerospace industry. It marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of our aeronautics industry, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and attracting strategic investments from global industry leaders. The agreement will catalyse a deeper synergy between Morocco and the major industry leader, Embraer, accelerating our shared ambitions and unlocking potential for groundbreaking achievements in aerospace”.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Embraer to develop a long-term relationship with the strong and thriving Moroccan aerospace industry,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “It's particularly pleasing that our new partners in Rabat put the same emphasis on skills and training as we do at Embraer. Education, skills and development for young people is the basis for any strong industry, and a common value for all parties. We look forward to making a difference together, growing the industry and maximizing the benefits for all.”
“Morocco is set to be a major partner for Embraer Defence and Security, and we are committed to collaborating closely with the Royal Moroccan Air Force to position the C-390 as the leading choice for their Future Tactical Airlift capabilities. Our support would include comprehensive training, maintenance, and logistics for their fleet,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defence and Security. “With a growing number of countries choosing the C-390 for its outstanding performance and high availability, now is the ideal time for the Royal Moroccan Air Force to consider joining this strong community.”
USAF ATTENDS MARRAKECH AIR SHOW AT ROYAL MOROCCAN AIR FORCE BASE
The United States Air Force (USAF) put itself on display at this week's Marrakech Air Show (MAS) with a pair of heavyweights from its logistic fleet.
A C-30J Super Hercules made the transit from Ramstein air base in Germany to Marrakech, one of four imperial cities in Morocco, with a Utah Air National Guard KC-135 stratotanker crossing the Atlantic Ocean to reach the North African country for the show at the Royal Moroccan Air Force base.
“USAF participation in this international exhibition is intended to strengthen US and international security assistance efforts as well as US strategic partnerships with African countries,” according to a US Africa Command statement.
It goes on to quote Brigadier General Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs as saying: “We are glad to be back in Morocco. Interactions and exchanges with our partners at MAS 2024 allow us to learn from and leverage the strengths of other nations.”
Also attending is USAF Brigadier General Shawn Holtz, Deputy Director of Strategy, Engagement and Programmes for US Africa Command.
“The United States and the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco share a longstanding partnership, with Morocco hosting Africom's largest exercise, African Lion and partnering with the Utah National Guard for more than 20 years. The MAS is one more opportunity to strengthen our relationship, exchange ideas, promote trust and bolster security co-operation in the region.”
The generals were part of bilateral discussions with senior leaders from the Morocco Royal Armed Forces and other African military leaders while in Marrakech.
The air show and discussions highlight the strategic partnership between the US and Morocco rooted in shared interests in regional peace, security, and prosperity and a longstanding commitment to continued co-operation US Africa, Command has it.
The Utah National Guard has had an active partnership with Morocco since 2003 through the State Partnership Programme, fostering a strong, trust-based relationship focused on security co-operation. Through joint training and humanitarian missions, both forces exchange knowledge, refine tactics and enhance operational capabilities.
BOMBARDIER DEFENCE PROUDLY DELIVERS EIGHTH GLOBAL AIRCRAFT TO THE U.S. AIR FORCE BATTLEFIELD AIRBORNE COMMUNICATIONS NODE PROGRAM
Bombardier Defence today announced the delivery of the eighth Bombardier Global jet to the United States Air Force's (USAF) BACN program, which is part of a previously announced multi-year contract between Bombardier and the USAF. This deal represents a potential total value of close to US$465 million. To date, Bombardier Defence has delivered seven Global aircraft to the BACN program under other agreements, with a ninth aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2025.
“We are proud that Bombardier's category-defining Global aircraft continue to be a platform of choice for the U.S. Air Force,” said Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive Vice President, Aircraft Sales and Bombardier Defence. “The speed, agility and low operating costs of our Global jets make them ideally suited for specialized missions meant to strengthen national and international security initiatives, such as the critical BACN program. With the delivery of this aircraft, Bombardier Defence continues to deepen its relationship with the U.S. Air Force and set itself apart as a missionized platform provider of choice.”
The BACN aircraft, known as E-11A, is a specialized communications platform that enables enhanced situational awareness and interoperability. Dubbed “Wi-Fi in the sky” by the USAF, BACN-equipped Global aircraft act as high-altitude communications gateways that can be used around the world, relaying or bridging voice and tactical data between air and land forces, and surmounting obstacles such as mountains, rough terrain or distance. Due to their unmatched combination of speed, range and endurance, Bombardier Global aircraft remain the platform of choice for more than 10 different mission types across the world.
Bombardier Defence has dedicated in-house engineering and support teams with the ability to incorporate customer-requested modifications and provide comprehensive integration solutions with complete certification capabilities across the full spectrum of civilian, military and hybrid operations. Recognized around the world for its diverse portfolio of proven and versatile specialized aircraft platforms, Bombardier brings decades of experience working with hundreds of special mission operators and renowned mission systems integrators.
15 SEPTEMBER 1968
The Soviet Zond 5 spaceship is launched, becoming the first spacecraft to fly around the Moon and re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.
Zond 5 launched on 14 September 1968 at 21:42.10 UTC, from Site 81 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The thrust of the third-stage rocket was terminated at 160 kilometres (99 mi), which was the start of a 251-second coast. Block D, the upper-stage rocket, ignited and burned for 108 seconds, placing the spacecraft into a parking orbit of 191 by 219 kilometres (119 mi × 136 mi). Fifty-six minutes into the parking orbit the Block D fired a final time for the trans-lunar injection. After this manoeuvre, the launch was announced to the world.
Zond 5 launched on 14 September 1968 at 21:42.10 UTC, from Site 81 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The thrust of the third-stage rocket was terminated at 160 kilometres (99 mi), which was the start of a 251-second coast. Block D, the upper-stage rocket, ignited and burned for 108 seconds, placing the spacecraft into a parking orbit of 191 by 219 kilometres (119 mi × 136 mi). Fifty-six minutes into the parking orbit the Block D fired a final time for the trans-lunar injection. After this manoeuvre, the launch was announced to the world.
It became the first spaceship to travel to and circle the Moon in a circumlunar trajectory, the first Moon mission to include animals, and the first to return safely to Earth. Zond 5 carried the first terrestrial organisms to the vicinity of the Moon, including two Russian tortoises, fruit fly eggs, and plants. The tortoises underwent biological changes during the flight, but it was concluded that the changes were primarily due to starvation and that they were little affected by space travel.
South Africa, Cullinan: A Jabiru J170 crashed in the mines near Cullinan, South Africa. Both occupants were killed. A local aviation source reported that the pilot had declared an emergency with a rough running engine.
Democratic Republic Conga, Kinshasa-N'Dolo Airport: A DR Congo Air Force MI24 helicopter crashed under unknown circumstances at N'Dolo Airport, Kinshasa. One occupant died in the crash, two others were seriously injured and later died from the injuries sustained in the crash. The helicopter was destroyed by fire.
Argentina, Andino cerca de Rosario, Santa Fé, Argentina: A Cessna 206 Stationair 6 on a Illegal flight carrying 475 kilos of cocaine from Bolivia to Argentina was detected on Argentine radars and intercepted by Tucano aircraft of the Argentine Armed Forces. The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing near Rosario.
