Aviation
Singapore Airlines (SIA) launched the discover Your Singapore Airlines suite
Singapore Airlines (SIA) launched the discover Your Singapore Airlines suite : 29 September 2020 – Singapore Airlines (SIA) today launched the Discover Your Singapore Airlines suite of experiences, which comprises three exciting and all-new initiatives that have been specially curated for our customers and fans in Singapore over the next few weeks.
Restaurant A380 @Changi offers an exclusive dining experience with SIA’s award-winning service inside the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft. Diners can choose from special menus for each cabin class. Options include our signature international cuisine, as well as the best dishes from our special Peranakan menu that has been designed by acclaimed Singaporean chef Shermay Lee. Limited slots for an exclusive pre-lunch tour of the A380 will also be available. All diners will receive KrisShop discounts, a limited edition goodie bag and additional gifts if they turn up in traditional heritage wear. Reservations start on 12 October 2020, and Restaurant A380 @Changi will operate on 24 and 25 October 2020.
Over two weekends in November during the school holidays, Inside Singapore Airlines will provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of our training facilities with a wide range of activities for the entire family. Visitors will be brought on a tour of more than 70 years of SIA’s history, get an opportunity to interact with our pilots and cabin crew, and find out more about the intensive training that they undergo.
Children can enjoy craft activities such as balloon sculpting and making their own batik roses. They will also have the option to dress up and role play as cabin crew, and take home their very own SIA sarong kebaya uniform. Adults can choose to operate a full flight simulator, taste some of our premium in-flight wine labels, and attend a grooming workshop. A selection of the most popular meals that are served on board SIA flights will also be on sale. Bookings open on 1 November 2020, and the tours will be held on 21, 22, 28 and 29 November 2020.
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SIA@Home is for customers who are keen to enjoy the world-renowned SIA in-flight dining experience in the comfort of their own home. They can choose from 10 menus featuring our exclusive First Class and Business Class meals, which will come complete with wine or champagne. Limited edition dining ware and amenities are also available depending on the package chosen. The special cabin crew concierge service for SIA@Home bookings opens on 5 October 2020.
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ANNEX A
Restaurant A380 @Changi
For only two afternoons on 24 and 25 October 2020, our A380 double-decker superjumbo will be hosting diners at Changi Airport. Customers are invited to join us for a memorable dining experience in a cabin class of their choice and experience our award-winning service.
Join us in our heritage showcase
Customers will be treated to a showcase of our cabin crew uniforms through the years, and those who turn up for the Restaurant A380 @Changi experience in traditional heritage wear, such as the sarong kebaya, cheongsam, saree, batik shirt or even a kilt, will receive a special gift.
Tour the world’s largest passenger aircraft
Customers can sign up for an exclusive tour of the A380 aircraft, where they will get to explore our award-winning interiors furnished by renowned international designers, and get a rare behind-the-scenes look at private access areas. Limited spots available on a first come, first served basis.
A memorable dining experience
Diners can look forward to an exclusive dining experience, featuring international cuisines and the best dishes from our Peranakan menu specially designed for Restaurant A380 @Changi by acclaimed Singaporean chef Shermay Lee. To complete the experience, our air sommeliers will recommend fine wines to accompany the meals. Each meal comes with two complimentary alcoholic drinks and free flow of other beverages.
Watch a movie while you dine
With KrisWorld, customers will be able to choose from over 1,000 entertainment options including movies, television shows, and music on demand.
Receive limited edition souvenirs and exclusive KrisShop privileges
To commemorate this unique experience, limited edition souvenirs will be given to all participants. Customers will also get to enjoy exclusive discounts when they make purchases online via KrisShop.com or at our shopping gallery on the day.
Enhanced health and safety measures are in place
The health and safety of our customers and staff is our top priority. Before and after every dining experience, the aircraft will be thoroughly cleaned, with extra care taken to sanitise common surfaces. The aircraft is equipped with HEPA filters, which remove more than 99.9% of the microbes in the air.
Diners will be seated in groups of up to five, with safe distancing between groups. Diners and crew will be required to undergo temperature screening and complete the SafeEntry digital check-in before boarding the aircraft. They are also required to wear a face mask at all times, except when consuming food or drinks.
Reservations for Restaurant A380 @Changi will open from 12 October 2020 on KrisShop.com.
ANNEX B
Inside Singapore Airlines
For two weekends only in November during the school holidays, Inside Singapore Airlines is offering the public a chance to go behind the scenes and into the SIA Training Centre for a look into our world with exclusive guided tours, activities, and experiences for all ages.
Tour bookings for 21, 22, 28 and 29 November 2020 will open from 1 November 2020.
Tour highlights
SIA’s heritage: Visitors can travel back in time and journey with us through over 70 years of SIA’s heritage. Highlights include a showcase of how our iconic cabin crew uniform and cabin products have evolved over the years.
Training facilities: Perfect for kids and families, this is a rare opportunity to find out from our pilots and cabin crew what it takes to fly and serve in the skies. The tour will feature our latest cabin products and a look at where training on our flight simulators is conducted.
Sustainability showcase: Get a glimpse into what we have been doing to shape a more sustainable future at SIA, from reducing our carbon footprint to our range of waste management measures. Understand more about our conservation efforts through our partnership with the Harapan Rainforest Initiative.
Craft activities: Children and adults alike can enjoy fun craft activities, including balloon sculpting and making their own batik roses.
Satisfy your in-flight cuisine cravings: Choose from a selection of our popular in-flight meals, including our all-time favourite satay, at any time during their visit. Visitors may earn miles for these in-flight meals too, when they use KrisPay.
Indulge in retail therapy: Visitors can get great deals on KrisShop merchandise, including airline exclusive products. Visitors can download the KrisPay app for contactless payment, and to earn KrisPay miles with their purchases.
Receive limited edition souvenirs: All visitors will take home a specially prepared goodie bag.
More information on the Discover Your Singapore Airlines experiences can be found on the Singapore Airlines website. All three experiences will be exclusively available for booking via the KrisShop website. KrisFlyer members can redeem their miles to pay for these experiences or earn miles on their purchases.
SIA will implement enhanced cleaning procedures at all premises, as well as precautionary measures such as temperature screening, safe distancing and the SafeEntry digital check-in system, to ensure the health and safety of all customers.
The Discover Your Singapore Airlines experiences are the result of a market study and a comprehensive review, which also considered factors such as the attractiveness of the initiatives to SIA’s customers and members of the public, the environmental implications, and their financial viability. An idea for a one-off short tour flight, or a “flight to nowhere”, was also initially considered but not pursued after the review.
Aerospace
HAL Plans Batch Upgrades for Sukhoi-30MKI Fleet
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace and military firm, is planning a significant modernization programme to improve the capabilities of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft fleet. This massive project, which is set to begin in fiscal year 2026-27.
The cockpit of the Sukhoi-30MKI has been completely redesigned as the main point of this upgrade effort. In a state-of-the-art makeover, new-generation touch widescreen checks will replace the present cockpit displays. This improvement is expected to improve pilot situational awareness, data visualization, and control over the aircraft’s systems, leading to a more responsive and accessible interface.
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The addition of a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system produced locally for the programme is critical to the upgrade plan. In electronic warfare settings, this radar technology is critical for improving targeting precision and performance. It improves the Sukhoi-30MKI’s ability to operate effectively in difficult operational conditions by improving detection and tracking capabilities.
Along with the radar update, the mission control computer—a crucial part of the aircraft’s avionics suite—will also see significant advancements. Given the updated Sukhoi-30MKI’s powerful radar system and new display infrastructure, these improvements are crucial to guaranteeing seamless integration and top performance.
Additionally, the modernization programme anticipates an improved arsenal of weaponry that may include advanced electronic defenses and ammunition. A powerful asset in both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, this improvement will considerably increase the aircraft’s combat effectiveness.
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The modernization project planned by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) represents a significant stride in India’s quest for enhanced air combat capabilities and technological self-reliance. With the comprehensive redesign of the Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft fleet, encompassing cutting-edge cockpit displays, an indigenous AESA radar system, and an upgraded mission control computer, the Indian Air Force is on track to secure a formidable edge in contemporary aerial warfare.
This strategic initiative not only strengthens the Sukhoi-30MKI’s capabilities but also underscores India’s commitment to innovation and defense technology development.
In the pursuit of its ambitious upgrade plan, HAL, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, places a pivotal emphasis on successfully securing the much-needed approvals and financial sanctions from both the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
This visionary project, if granted the necessary green light, is set to unfold over the course of multiple years, signifying a long-term commitment and dedication to a transformative goal. The overarching objective is nothing short of remarkable: to meticulously convert the entire existing fleet of Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft into the cutting-edge Super-30 variant, with the ambitious deadline set for the year 2034. The meticulous execution of this grand undertaking will proceed at a steady and methodical pace, with an annual target of transforming 20 to 25 aircraft.
Aerospace
Comparison between F-35A and F-15Ex
The F-35A and the F-15EX are both advanced aircraft developed by renowned aerospace companies, Lockheed Martin and Boeing respectively. Each aircraft boasts a distinct set of features and capabilities, making them well-suited for specific roles within modern air warfare. Let’s compare these two remarkable aircraft in terms of their primary functions, specifications, capabilities, and support.
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Primary Functions & costs
The F-35A, designed jointly by Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, has a wide range of primary roles. It excels at stealthy, all-weather strike missions, close air support, air superiority, maritime strike, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and command and control operations. Its estimated price is roughly $80 million, with a flying cost per hour of less than $24,000, and its anticipated procurement is for 2025.
On the other hand, The F-15EX, developed by Boeing, serves as a cutting-edge aircraft with primary functions focused on air superiority and targeted strikes in less or uncontested airspace. Its estimated price is roughly $80.3 million, with a flying cost per hour of less than $27,000, and its anticipated procurement is for 2025.
specifications
The F-35 A is a single-seater aircraft with impressive characteristics that is Equipped with a powerful Pratt & Whitney F135 engine. It can fly with a maximum takeoff weight of 65,918 lb (29,900 kg), with a fuel capacity of 18,250 lb. The aircraft measures 51.4 ft (15.7 m) in length, 35 ft (11 m) in wingspan, and 14.4 ft (4.4 m) in height. It has a combat radius of 670 miles and a top speed of Mach 1.6 at altitude. The service ceiling of the F-35A is 50,000 feet.
F-15 offers flexibility with a crew capacity of 1 or 2 individuals and is Powered by 2 General Electric F110-GE-129 engines. The maximum takeoff weight is an impressive 81,000 pounds (37,000 kg), supported by a fuel capacity of 13,550 lb. The aircraft spans 63.8 ft (19.446 m) in length, with a wingspan of 42.8 ft and a height of 18.5 ft (5.64 m). It achieves a maximum speed of Mach 2.5 at altitude and has a combat radius of 1,100 miles, with a service ceiling of 60,000 ft.
Radar cross-section & Weaponry
The F-35 A design is robust; in contrast to its 8,000-hour design life, its service life has been evaluated to reach 24,000 hours. The F-35A has an extremely low radar cross-section, at 3.8mm, which reduces its radar profile. It can transport a range of US and NATO air-to-air and ground weaponry, with an internal weight capacity of 5,700 pounds in stealth mode and 22,000 pounds in exterior “beast mode,” including a 25mm cannon.
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The F-15EX has a design life of 8,000 hours, although testing over 30,000 hours has shown it to be robust. It is relatively large on radar compared to the F-35 A due to its greatest radar cross-section of 42.8 feet. With a total weight of 29,500 pounds distributed among nine external stations, the aircraft is equipped with all US air-to-air and ground armaments, including a 20mm cannon.
Major differences from Earlier Versions
Multiple software and processor updates have been made to the F-35A. Progress includes improved weapon capability and electronic warfare systems. The current version, known as Block 3F baseline, is moving towards Block 4, with software and weapon improvements planned twice yearly in 2024.
The F-15 has undergone advancements since 2001, including the addition of digital fly-by-wire technology, enhanced display coding, and Suite 9 avionics. With a passive-active Warner survivability system, its cockpit display is similar to that of the T-x trainer and Eagle trainer.
Congressional support
Major constituencies like Texas, California, Georgia, and Florida have been vocal in their support for production, demonstrating the congressional leadership’s backing. In Utah, Arizona, and Nevada, notable bases and installations house or support the F-35A. In order to demonstrate its broad reach, Lockheed has distributed F-35 subcontracts to all 50 states.
Regions in Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, and Washington are actively supporting production, which has significant congressional support. North Carolina, Oregon, and Georgia all have significant institutions that support F-15 operations. Boeing’s wide influence is evident, with business conducted in all 50 states.
In conclusion, while both the F-35A and the F-15EX are cutting-edge innovations in military aircraft, they excel in different domains. The F-15EX is a strong option for uncontested airspace situations due to its focus on air superiority and focused strikes, remarkable performance, and cost-effectiveness. While the F-35A’s stealth capabilities and versatile design make it suitable for a variety of tasks. Both are remarkable aircraft with their own strengths and capabilities, catering to different mission profiles and strategic objectives.
Aerospace
UAE reportedly seeking a role in KF21 fighter jet
The Financial News, a South Korean daily, said on Thursday that the UAE’s Tawazun Economic Council had sent a letter to South Korea’s Office of National Security explaining Abu Dhabi’s desire in direct cooperation on the development of the KF-21.
Surprisingly, the letter allegedly requested that Abu Dhabi replace Indonesia’s investment in the program.
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Indonesia holds a 20% shareholding but has failed to meet its financial obligations. Jakarta, which had planned to purchase up to 50 KF-21s, joined the program in 2010 but fell behind on payments in 2017, owing an estimated $557 million by July 2022. In May, Jakarta attempted to assuage Seoul’s fears by announcing a revised payment schedule.
The KF-21 Boramae’s stealth capabilities are a crucial feature. The aircraft is equipped with modern stealth technology such as a low-observable design, radar-absorbent materials, and internal weapon carriage.
These features lower the radar cross-section of the aircraft, making it more difficult to detect and track hostile radars. The KF-21’s stealth characteristics increase its survivability and allow it to more effectively infiltrate opposing defenses.
The UAE’s alleged interest is not surprising. After all, Abu Dhabi pledged $30 billion in South Korean businesses, including defense, in January. The affluent Arab kingdom inked a $3.5 billion contract with South Korea for the Cheongung II KM-SAM air defense missile system in January 2022, the largest-ever arms export transaction for Seoul at the time.
As these multibillion-dollar investments in the South Korean industry illustrate, the UAE would have little issue repaying Indonesia’s debt to the Boramae programme. Furthermore, Abu Dhabi would surely be interested in co-producing the fighter since it would aid in the development of its domestic defence sector through significant technology transfers, which Seoul has proven to be generous with.
The UAE has halted talks with the US over a record sale for 50 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II stealth planes in late 2021 due to differences over American preconditions and Emirati cooperation with China.
The KF-21 Boramae is powered by two General Electric F414-GE-400K afterburning turbofan engines. These engines provide the necessary thrust for the aircraft’s high-performance capabilities. The F414 engines are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and ability to operate in various environmental conditions. They enable the KF-21 to achieve the supersonic speeds and maneuverability required for air combat scenarios.
On the other hand, India, China, and Turkey are already in the process of developing their own Fifth Generation Fighter Jet. Turkey has already exhibited it and is awaiting the final engine selection for their 5th generation fighter plane. Americans are looking forward to the 6th generation fighter jet, which will be the most advanced in terms of engine thrust and weapons technology.
Most countries are working together to develop collaborative efforts to build their own fighter plane.
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