CENTRAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D) ESTABLISHMENT FOR BANGLADESH AIR FORCE (BAF): A STEP AHEAD TO ENHANCE OPERATIONAL CAPABILITIES
Volume 24, Issue 27
Wing Commander Mahfooz Ur Rahman, Engineering
BAF conducts R&D in all the bases and units in a regular manner. It started with isolated efforts than centralized efforts. Different bases have their own R&D cell that engaged in developing different projects. Technical personnel with their personal interest take the projects and conduct R&D. But lack of sufficient knowledge and experience are the hindrance of indigenous R&D work. Recently a good number of engineering officers have achieved the PhD degree which enriched their knowledge to perform more indigenous R&D projects. But, it is a matter of deplore that, Bangladesh Air Force does not have any R&D infrastructure.
Lack of R&D organization makes the BAF personnel disorganized and discontinuation of effort. At the same time, it is a question, whether, it is fully possible with the level of knowledge and experience BAF personnel possess to conduct a comprehensive R&D that will help to augment of the operational capability of BAF. Taking that into consideration, the researcher proposed a solution with a structure of R&D organization for BAF thus validates the research hypothesis “A central R&D establishment will enhance the operational activities of BAF.”
INTRODUCTION
Background
The birth of Bangladesh is one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It emerged as an independent state after a bloody war in 1971. Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) came into being during the War of Liberation on 28 September 1971. Air Force was formed with one Dakota, one Otter and two Alloutte-3 helicopters in 1971 Liberation War. There after induction of many aircrafts like MiG-21, AN-24, AN-26, Mi-8, F-6, F7, A-5, AN –32, L-39, MiG-29, K-8 enhanced the strength. The induction of the sophisticated equipment enriched the operational capabilities of BAF in different phases. But, some unique modifications on these air assets could further enhance the operational capabilities if BAF would perform some research and development (R&D) activities. But after half a century, BAF could not make any major R&D activities for the enhancement of BAF capabilities.
R&D in the BAF started few years ago. It started with isolated efforts, not centralized efforts. A very few projects which supported a common cause were reported in different stages. However, few successful projects faced difficulties during implementations. It happened due to lack of sufficient knowledge, skilled manpower, policy and infrastructure. It is surprising that the Bangladesh Air Force does not have any central R&D infrastructure.
This paper will address existing R&D environment in Bangladesh Air Force for the policy and technological development. This paper will also examine the minimum organizational set up and research environment required as foundation to undertake forthcoming R&D for BAF before arriving at few credible recommendations.
PRESENT R&D STATE OF BAF Present R&D Organization Recently BAF has established few Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) units like No 207 MRO, 214 MRO and 216 MRO. No 208 MRO, 212 MROs are already in function since long. All these MROs function under the command and control of Bangabandhu Aeronautical Complex (BAC). But, presently, there is limited scope to conduct R&D in these MROs due to some factors like agreement with respective vendors, lack of infrastructure and facilities. But, provisions can be made to establish a separate R&D establishment under BAC to conduct the R&D activities (Group Captain Ashraf in an interview on 17 August 2017).
Case Study
A case study was carried out to understand the present R&D activities of BAF. One of the greatest R&D activity has ever been done in BAF is developing a Non Directional Beacon (NDB) named “DISHARI”. The project was taken by no 205 MU in 1994. It took long years to study and finally develop a complete NDB system and finally could go for operational testing in 2002. Ever since the NDB was developed and made it ready for operational, the output of the NDB was not found satisfactory as expected.
Hence the development is still on progress as of today. The major observations on the said NDB are poor output power and absence of multi-channel mode control. Making an NDB as a part of R&D is not that critical to take more than 20 years. But however, the project could not see the ultimate success as of today. That indicates that there are some issues that hinder the normal flow of R&D activities in BAF (Wing Commander Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017) which are as follows.
a. Lack of skilled manpower.
b. Lack of adequate knowledge.
c. Lack of production infrastructure.
Challenges of Present R&D Activities in BAF
BAF is conducting a number of R&D programmes but due to the lack of organized infrastructure, the R&D cannot see the success.
Very recently, BAF started the design and manufacturing of Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) and in different phases of development, the UAV has been incorporated with different navigational aid to use it in reconnaissance role. The endurance system has also been enhanced.
Now the question is, what is the future the UAV? There is no production and quality assurance system available in BAF. So, even after successful completion of the project, BAF does not have infrastructure to go for massive production (Squadron Leader Mahfuz in an interview on 23 September 2017). There are few major issues and challenges that hinder to conduct sustained R&D activities in BAF. The challenges are discussed in the subsequent paragraph.
Lack of Urgent Need.
Bangladesh is a peace loving country and maintains a good diplomatic relations with other nations. Unlike India and Pakistan, Bangladesh does not have any potential enemy. Bangladesh is really blessed in this regards. As such, Bangladesh does not have any urgent need to take initiative to conduct massive R&D activities.
Lack of Qualified Researchers.
BAF has never focused on recruiting qualified researcher in BAF. The necessity was never felt. Although, a good number of technical officers have achieved post-doctoral degree but BAF could hardly utilize them in dedicated R&D activities due to other professional commitments. This kind professional commitment will always remain and BAF officers will be responsible to perform those. These will always remain as a challenge for BAF to conduct R&D.. In this regards, qualified and dedicated civilian researchers are required to be recruited in BAF to conduct R&D.
Lack of Authority.
The researchers do continuous study and research to develop a system. At times, it is required to test the progress of the R&D product with the operational system. But due to lack of infrastructure and policy, the researchers are unable to do it. An independent authority to R&D organizations would minimize the problems and increase flexibility (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
Agreement with other technical organizations.
During different phases of R&D work, the researchers require technical support from other technical organizations but due to the lack of agreements, it becomes difficult for them. The NDB which was developed by BAF would not take long time if BAF would have made an agreement with other electric private company to share the knowledge and laboratory (Wing Commander Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
Lack of Production Infrastructure in BAF.
BAF does not have any production infrastructure for the successful R&D projects. Once an R&D project is complete, a massive production is required to manufacture the items. The operational capability of BAF cannot be enhanced without substantial production of items (Wing Commander Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
R&D AND ITS IMPLICATION IN BAF OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENT
Existing Operational Requirements
BAF has inducted a good number of combat aircraft which can be exploited to its maximum capabilities. Induction of YAK-130 (Russia), F-7BG1 (China), K-8 (China), L410 (Checz Republic) will definitely enhance the operational capabilities. On the contrary, the sophisticated aircraft of different origin increases more requirement of interoperability. It is little uncomfortable for a pilot to fly AN-32 of Russian and L-410 from Checz origin with dissimilar features (Wg Cdr Md Mezbah in an interview on27 November 2017).
Similarly, the F-7BG1 is facilitated with LS-6 INS aided bomb but F7BG does not have. A local modification was done in the pylon and electrical system of F-7BG and the same bomb carrying provision was incorporated in F-7BG aircraft. Now the bomb which was purchased for 16 aircraft fleet but now can be planned for 32 aircraft fleet. This has enhanced the operational flexibility for the BAF planners. This will definitely enhance the operational capability of BAF fighter aircraft as well as pilots. (Wing Commander Masud in an interview on 26 November 2017).
Challenges To Meet The Operational Requirements
It has been observed through different interview and survey that BAF has got limitations and challenges to conduct R&D and to implement them in real system. Accordingly, the major challenges which are identified as follows:
a. Organizational Structure. The departments in any organization need a proper structure. If the structure design is strong and fit enough, effectiveness will improve. So, R&D managers should know the properties of the people and tasks in R&D and then try to determine work flow, structure and model of organization in R&D. Usually, specialists are unmanageable. The creativity and innovation needs to more freedom and it means less direct control. Besides, R&D activities needs easy communication and collaborate decisions. As a result, flat structure with the least hierarchical level will better fits to R&D department. BAF does not have any independent R&D organization or establishment which can conduct R&D independently and flexibly (Wing Commander Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
b. Proper Education And Knowledge. R&D programs are conducted by a group of skilled people called researchers. These researchers possess degree education qualifications. As, R&D requires massive theoretical analysis. BAF does not have skilled researchers to conduct R&D. The best way to mitigate this problem is to borrow knowledge from outside. It is not possible to train BAF personnel to impart knowledge and make them qualified in short time. So, BAF may take support from other sources. BUET and MIST could be a good option in this regards.
Significance Of R&D To Meet Operational Requirements
Bangladesh could not build any industrialization capability to produce sophisticated air assets like aircrafts and radar system. All the air assets that BAF operate are originated in other countries. It is a huge costly affair and at the same time creates more dependency on the maintenance of the equipment. BAF entirely depends on the supplier and thus spends a huge foreign currency. Taking that into consideration, BAF had undertaken a number of R&D projects which has seen success in successful completion of the project. Few of the examples are given below:
a. Production Of Non Directional Beacon (NDB).
b. Production Of Automatic Direction Finder (ADF) Tester.
c. Modifications On F-7BG Aircraft For Carrying LS-6 Bomb.
R&D STRUCTURE OF DRDO, INDIA
A structured R&D programme has a large impact on an organization’s ability to execute technological advancement. Many countries have developed their own R&D organization at different levels. India has formed ‘Department of Research and Development Organization (DRDO)’ which deals with different kind of military R&D activities. In order to have a clear idea about a structured R&D organization, the R&D organization structure of DRDO, India is thoroughly studied.
Vision & Mission
Vision.
Make India prosperous by establishing world class science and technology base and provide our Defence Services decisive edge by equipping them with internationally competitive systems and solutions.
Mission
a. Design, develop and lead to production state-of-the-art sensors, weapon systems, platforms and allied equipment for our Defence Services.
b. Provide technological solutions to the Services to optimize combat effectiveness and to promote well-being of the troops.
c. Develop infrastructure and committed quality manpower and build strong indigenous technology base
Organization of DRDO
The DRDO has two tier structures, the corporate headquarters, the Corporate Headquarters at new Delhi and Laboratory / establishments, regional center, field station across the length and breadth of country. DRDO Headquarters under the DOD R&D, is organized under two sets of directorates i.e. The corporate directorate and technical directorate. The present organization of DRDO is shown below:-
Sphere of Activities of DRDO
The important charter of duties include:
a. Formulation and execution of programmes of scientific research and design, development, test and evaluation, in fields of relevance to national security.
b. Direction and administration of agencies, laboratories, establishments, ranges, facilities, programmes and projects of the Department.
c. All matters relating to certification of the design air worthiness of military aircraft, their equipment and stores.
d. All matters relating to the protection and transfer of technology generated by the activities of the Department.
e. Scientific analysis support and participation in the acquisition and evaluation proceedings of all weapon systems and related technologies proposed to be acquired by the Ministry of Defence.
Product Realization Model of DRDO
Product realization model of DRDO is as follows:-
Interaction with Indian Industries
DRDO has taken a conscious decision to activity promote participation on Indian industry in defence production. Interaction with industries take place during different phases of a production cycle, such as:
a. Development Phase.
Once system / product to be developed is identified and qualitative requirements are established, suitable industrial entities are identified to participate in the activity as “Developmental Partners.”
b. Limited Series Production (LSP) Phase.
Once a lab developed prototype system, it is successfully evaluated by prospective users and a limited series production order is usually placed by the prospective user. Industry partners are coopted for execution of this phase of activity.
c. Bulk Production.
Primarily, substantial portion of the work of sub-system is being framed out by them in consultation with nodal DRDO laboratory to private industries in the civil sector. With the opening up of defence production to industries in the private sector, their involvement is steadily growing up.
d. Spin-Off, Marketing.
Private industries are called upon to exploit the civil spinoffs from the defence technology by effecting required repackaging / modification. At times, there is a requirement of industry taking up maintenance of the equipment on its sub-system for a defined period. Scope also exists for industry to seek potential market for these products in India / abroad with due approvals.
PROPOSED FIELDS OF IMPROVEMENT TO CONDUCT R&D TO ENHANCE OPERATIONAL CAPABILITY IN BAF
Scope of Improvement
BAF conducts R&D since long but achieved little prominent success which can enhance operational capabilities. There are few reasons identified in the previous discussions. However, following points may be addressed for the successful conduct of R&D.
a. Improvement of Technological knowledge. Over the period of time, BAF has taken steps to educate the technical personnel to build up their knowledge. A good number of officers of engineering branch have achieved Ph.D degree from well reputed university. Few more officers are undergoing course. But, the number is very less. The continuation of this effort will obviously enable BAF officers to produce good outcome through R&D. Only the training will not be sufficed if they are not given opportunity to serve in this field. Teaching profession in MIST could be a good option to develop their knowledge (Air Cdre Shawkat in an interview on 17 August 2017).
b. Integration of Civil /Public Resources.
Till now, in BAF, there is limited scope for civil or private organization to do R&D for BAF. But, this situation can be changed taking lesson from DRDO. BAF may approach to the different industries, factories, universities to carry out the desired R&D for BAF. The civil or private organisation (like BUET, MIST etc) will also be benefited in terms of enrichment of their knowledge.
c. Establishment of infrastructure.
To carry out R&D, research laboratory is prerequisite requirement. The R&D activities under Bangabandhu Aeronautical Complex (BAC) (Group Captain Faroquein an interview on 17 August 2017) can meet up the immediate requirements, but BAF needs to remember that overhaul complex is established for repair & maintenance not for R&D. Without ensuring a proper working environment & facility, it would be difficult to enhance the R&D considering the enhancement of BAF operational capabilities. As such, a separate & dedicated facility is required to conduct armament and avionics related R&D.
Proposed R&D Organization & Facilities for BAF
From the above discussion, it is found quite evident that an organization is required for conducting R&D to enhance the operational effectiveness of BAF. Taking the reference from DRDO, BAF may think for a broad R&D establishment as follows:-
a. Aeronautics
b. Avionics
c. Missile System
d. Radar System
e. Electronics and Computer Science
f. Human Resources, Training, Finance and Administration
Under the broad R&D establishment, few sub-division may be planned as follows (Armed Forces Division, Operations and Plans Directorate, 2017: 12):-
a. Technology Development
b. Production Design and Development
c. Prototype Development and Documentation
d. Quality Control
e. Testing facilities
f. Induction facilities
In order to conduct the R&D, the following major civil research personnel may be required in addition to qualified military researchers (Armed Forces Division, Operations and Plans Directorate, 2017: A-1) :-
a. Chief Research officer
b. Chief Scientific Officer
c. Research Officer
d. Scientific Officer
e. Junior Scientific Officer
Details of Proposed R&D Establishment
The central R&D organization in BAF may be established as an independent entity with full financial authority, movement authority and recruitment authority for the civil researchers. The proposed independent organization may be established directly under Chief of Air Staff (COAS) or Assistant Chief of Air Staff {ACAS (O&T)} or a separate ACAS (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017). Considering the above factors, the detailed proposed R&D organization may be as follows:-
Head of R&D Organization.
The Head of R&D organization may be from BAF with a senior rank. The head of R&D may be given full financial and budgetary authority. In addition, full authority may be given to the chief on the following field (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
a. Recruitment civil researcher (non-government)
b. Procurement of R&D related equipment
c. Collaboration and agreement with civil & foreign company
d. Making Government Order (GO) for any kind of foreign visit for the organization staff.
e. Full authority on the sub-ordinate staff to keep and maintain the secrecy of the R&D activities.
Strategy and Planning Division.
This division may serve directly under the head of organization would be responsible for formulating policy and overall planning of the R&D proposals in co-ordination with different squadrons, units, AFD, MOD etc (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017).
Science and Research.
This main division would be responsible for the conduct of the research. The head of this division may be a qualified BAF officer or a Gazetted Civil Officer having vast research experience. All the researchers would perform their research under this division (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017). The following fields of research may be conducted under this division:-
a. Aerospace system
b. Avionics System
c. Armament System
d. Radar System
e. Electronic and IT System
Project Development & Production.
This division would be responsible for the dealings with the outcome of research product. This division would ensure the following (Wg Cdr Akhter in an interview on 21 August 2017):-
a. Quality Control Check
b. Test and Trial with the System
c. Prototype Development
d. Production (with local resources or outsourcing)
Collaboration and Co-ordination.
This division may be given responsibility for the collaboration and co-ordination with other agencies like (Group Captain Shahjahan in an interview on 21 August 2017):-
a. To make co-ordination with educational institute (BUET, MIST etc) to conduct research on focusing on the operational requirement of BAF.
b. To outsource the potential researcher in different sectors in Bangladesh.
c. To co-ordinate with sister services for any joint venture programme.
Administration and Logistic System.
This division may be responsible for following responsibility (Armed Forces Division, Operations and Plans Directorate, 2017: A-1):
a. Transport Section.
b. Budget and Procurement Section.
c. Legal and media Section.
d. Human Resource Management (HRM) and Administration Section.
CONCLUSION
R&D activities is a continuous and systematic effort to enhance the operational capability of any Air Force. BAF is still dependent on foreign technology and striving for self- reliance, but is far away from self-reliant technology. To compete with the modern technology; up-gradation, modification, development and innovation is badly required. BAF has a few potential engineers with high academic background. BAF also has good technicians experienced in aircraft maintenance and radar maintenance.
But, all the highly technical skilled personnel could not make any synergistic effect to make some modification that will increase the operational efficiency. Few of the reasons were identified as lack of knowledge and expertise, organized R&D structure etc. Production of R&D product is a challenge for BAF due to its huge expenses. This can be supplemented by the taking some steps like, outsourcing, commercialization etc. Initially it is quite feasible to go for outsourcing for the production of R&D product. Gradually, different Bangladeshi companies can help to make massive production of this product.
Having understood the requirement and justification of central R&D system in BAF, it may be mentioned that, the neighboring country of Bangladesh, India has established an R&D establishment (DRDO) and has reached far ahead conducting military R&D not in military level but at national level. As such, BAF may think of setting up an independent R&D organization taking reference from DRDO, India to conduct the research keeping enough flexibility so that the establishment of this organization can be absorbed by the combined national R&D organization in near future if such requirement arises.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Basing on the major findings of the research, the paper recommends the following measures to be undertaken:
a. BAF may take steps to setup an independent R&D establishment to conduct R&D in more organized way.
b. BAF engineers and technicians may be given adequate training and higher academic degree to make them qualified researchers.
c. Civil researchers may be recruited under the proposed R&D establishment to carry out research along with BAF researchers.
d. Steps may be taken to interact with civil local and foreign industries in order to make production of the R&D product.
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Mark Wagner
