Reader comments 30 Nov 14 -- SPS (self-protection systems)

Johnno

Project Echinda was an indication how Defence can get it wrong.

Project Echinda was two fold:

1. was to add common missile plume warning sensors to a range of RAAF/RAN/Army from fast jets to transports coupled with flare/chaff dispensers.

2. was to add a common radar warning receivers to a similar range of aircraft.

if all got too hard.

On the plume sensors, DMO selected a new European product which promised a better performance.
Unfortunately that would have required custom installations on US aircraft (something that Israel has done with its systems but apparently too hard for Aussie). We have ended up with European systems on the Tiger and the NH-90, and I think the Orions and US systems on al l the recent US aircraft purchases.
That certainly means multiple lines of tech support, and I have no idea if that extends to separate stockings of flares and chaff consumables

On the radar warning receiver, Defence first spent a good deal of money on developing a local receiver but the minister (Smith or earlier ?) called a halt because the development effort had been underestimated (cost and time) and trying to install it on imported aircraft would have required custom installations every time. (Again Israel has done it with great success although they are having a battle with the F-35).

Echinda was started without a proper understanding of the risks and constrains involved by somebody.........