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Lieutenant Colonel Tanveer Ahmed, psc, G+
March 2022
Abstract
Modern battlefield is initiated with the air battle which is characterized by its dynamism and catastrophic destruction capability. Modern air delivered weapons and the contemporary technologically advanced military forces have created a new environment of war both at tactical and operational levels. The future battlefield may be unlike anything that world has been experienced previously. Bangladesh is a small country with less geographic depth. Sophisticated munitions can be launched on our key installations from within neighbouring territories with almost no warning.
This reality makes the job of the air defenders more challenging and difficult. Hence Bangladesh Army is changing its approach towards the operational aspect and fighting capability rapidly. Over the last few years, the Army has focused on its resources and procedural aspect of fighting wars. Present days of Air Defence battle has changed drastically. Modern technology enables the Fighter Aircrafts to carry missile with stand-off capability. At the same time modern countries are equipped with long range surface to surface missile, which pose substantial threat to our National assets, Operational Critical Assets and Time Critical Assets.
Air Defence resources having point defence weapons are not full capable against stand-off missiles and Long-Range Surface to Surface missiles. Thus, Air Defence of Bangladesh Army merits longer range missiles to destroy the threat before it can get closer to the target. But present Air Defence assets are not enough to defend all Key Point Installations effectively.
Moreover, field formations demand substantial amount of Air Defence supports. So, a longer-range Air Defence weapon can provide economy of effort as well as fill up the vacuum of Air Defence umbrella. Therefore, time has come to think on the feasibility of Low to Medium Altitude Air Defence (LOMAD) and High to Medium Altitude Air Defence (HIMAD) systems. Thus, the author has taken an endeavour to analyse the issue and suggest feasible options for Bangladesh Army.
Introduction
ICARUS died, but he implanted the dream of flying in the heart of mankind. Since then, mankind made several attempts to fly. Because sky was the limit of men’s dream. We all know that the Wright Brothers turned that dream into a reality. That was the starting of new era. An era of transportation, communication and portal of new inventions and technology. Soon that beautiful dream turned into a nightmare. When airspace became another dimension of threat in the context of warfare. The day men established their domination over sky, the same day warlords started to change the course of warfare. Then the necessity was felt to counter such aerial threats. And the very division of Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) came up as the newer branch of military outfit.
Modern battlefield is initiated with the air battle which is characterized by its dynamism and catastrophic destruction capability. At both the tactical and operational levels, modern air-delivered weaponry and technologically advanced armed forces have produced a new atmosphere of battle. The future battlefield may be unlike anything that world has been experienced previously. Developments in military technology have exponentially raised the accuracy, lethality and range of the air delivered weapon systems.
At the initial stage of any war, the attacker would resort to massive air raids to paralyze the defender. Therefore, defending the skies against various air threats requires a joint force response. And it is also imperative to have advanced aerial defense systems which provide responses to a range of aerial threats from rocket and mortar fire, ballistic missiles, to explosives carrying Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)s or aircrafts.
Bangladesh (BD) is a small country with less geographic depth. Sophisticated munitions can be launched on our key installations from within neighbouring territories with almost no warning. This reality makes the job of the air defenders more challenging and difficult. Hence Bangladesh Army (BA) is changing its approach towards the operational aspect and fighting capability rapidly.
Over the last few years, the Army has focused on its resources and procedural aspect of fighting wars. We are working hard to make the Army as a future role model for the BD Armed forces. Therefore, vision has been changed from the old conventional way of battle. By purchasing equipment and deprioritizing non-essential capabilities and missions, the process has started to accomplish these critical tasks.
Present days of Air Defence (AD) battle has changed drastically. Modern technology enables the Fighter (F) Aircrafts to carry missile with stand-off capability. At the same time modern countries are equipped with long range surface to surface missile, which pose substantial threat to our National assets, Operational Critical Assets (OCAs) and Time Critical Assets (TCAs). AD resources having point defence weapon like 37 millimeter (mm) AD Gun, 57 mm AD Gun and Very Short-Range AD (VSHORAD) Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) and even FM-90 SHORAD Missiles are not full capable against stand-off missiles and Long-Range Surface to Surface missiles.
Thus, AD of Bangladesh Army merits longer range missiles to destroy the threat before it can get closer to the target. Moreover, field formations demand substantial amount of AD supports. So, a longer-range AD weapon can provide economy of effort as well as fill up the vacuum of AD umbrella. Therefore, time has come to think on the feasibility of Low to Medium Altitude AD (LOMAD) and High to Medium Altitude AD (HIMAD) systems. Thus, this author has taken an endeavour to analyse the issue and suggest feasible options for BA.
Aim
The aim of this paper is to analyse the requirement of LOMAD and HIMAD missiles and suggest feasible options for BA.
Rudimentary of AD Operations
AD Doctrine
The accepted concept of AD as per National Air Defence Doctrine (NADD) is to destroy the enemy as far away from the defended area/installation as is operationally feasible. This concept also envisages the capability of increasing resistance against the enemy as he approaches his objective by employing an ever-increasing number of weapons. So, the doctrine prescribes a weapon system with longer range for effective AD.
Concept of AD Planning
BD will employ layered air defence (LAD) with appropriate weapons for the effective AD of the country. The weapons to be employed from the inner to outer layers are AD guns, VSHORAD, SHORAD, LOMAD, HIMAD and Fighter Interceptor. The theme of such employment strategy is to create maximum resistance to the hostile aircrafts as it closes in to the target. Our available assets should be deployed in such a way as to make the job of attacker as difficult as possible. An effective surveillance system comprises of both ground based (static/mobile) and airborne sensors are prerequisite for any strategy that we shall plan. Fighter aircraft and GBAD (LOMAD and HIMAD) could cover all possible threat axis. In addition, a series of point defence weapons (GBAD weapons) comprise of (SHORAD, VSHORAD and AD Arty) surrounding important targets will be employed. However, SAM and AD Arty will be tasked to engage in case fighter interceptors fail to intercept the raiders. (2)
The concept of area defence and point defence are explained below:
a. Area Defence: The Area Defence weapons are designed to defend a wide geographical area with defined threat boundaries by appropriate area weapons with sufficient range to reach out and disrupt enemy air attack. BAF will ensure Area Defence by fighter aircraft, HIMAD and LOMAD to defend the KPIs/VAs/VPs. However, there is an ambiguity on this issue, which will be discussed later.
b. Point Defence: Point Defence weapons will be employed to defend a limited and specific geographical areas or vital installations. Point Defence weapons will be employed individually by three services deploying SHORAD weapon system. Individual services will employ the SHORAD weapons to protect their own bases. Bangladesh Army in addition to her own VPs will take care of all national KPIs. Missile Engagement Zone (MEZ)/Gun Defended Area (GDA) will be formed in the inner most layer according to the LAD concept by deploying AD guns and SHORAD system. In the outer layer, LOMAD will be deployed.
Understanding on Lomad-Himad System
This paper is dealing mostly on analysis of requirement of longer-range missiles in BA. Various countries differ in nomenclature, range and altitude classifications of the missile systems. Significant nomenclatures are used worldwide as per United States of America (USA) and United Kingdom (UK) doctrine. Those are discussed below: (3)
a. USA Doctrine: The doctrine names the longer-range AD systems as LOMAD and HIMAD.
(1) LOMAD: It implies Low to Medium Altitude AD.
(2) HIMAD: It implies High to Medium Altitude AD.
(3) General purpose of LOMAD and HIMAD system is to guard strategic assets but in higher range and with independent Control & Reporting (C&R) system.
b. UK Doctrine: The doctrine names the longer-range AD systems as MSAM and LRSAM.
(1) MSAM: It implies Medium Range Surface to Air Missile.
(2) LRSAM: It implies Long Range Surface to Air Missile.
In BD, for classification of missiles the terms LOMAD and HIMAD are used. But, universally, the terms LRSAM/MSAM are more recognized. Worldwide, weapon manufacturing companies classify various systems as MSAM/LRSAM. So, in this paper the terms LOMAD/MSAM will refer to medium range SAMs and HIMAD/LRSAM will refer to long range SAMs. Range classifications will be discussed in the next segment of the paper.
General Features of Medium and Long range Missile System
General features and system components of medium range and long-range SAMs will be discussed below: (4)
a. LOMAD/MSAM:
(1) A medium-range SAM system typically consists one command and control system, one tracking radar, missiles, and mobile launcher systems. The mobile launcher transports, positions, and launches canisterized missiles. It has the ability to fire missiles in either single or multiple firing modes.
(2) An advanced active radar radio frequency (RF) seeker, advanced phased array radar or electronically scanned array radar, and a bidirectional data link are all standard features on this missile. In all weather circumstances, the RF seeker, which is placed in the front section of the missile, is utilized to detect moving targets. The radar system gives a high-resolution image of the air situation, while the bidirectional data link is employed to send midcourse guidance and target data to the missile. Modern systems, on the other hand, include guidance subsystems for IFF, electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM), and track-viamissile (TVM).
(3) The missile's explosive warhead, which includes a self-destruct fuse, has a high likelihood of hitting enemy targets while causing minimum collateral damage. At ranges of 25-70 kilometers (km) or more, the weapon can engage numerous targets at the same time.
b. HIMAD/LRSAM:
(1) A multifunction radar, autonomous detection and targeting systems, antiaircraft missile systems, launchers, and a command and control centre are all part of a long-range SAM system. It can fire a variety of missiles to construct a layered defense.
(2) Within a range of 300 km and above, the system may engage all sorts of aerial targets, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ballistic and cruise missiles (CM), at altitudes of up to 30 km and above. The system may engage numerous targets at once, on average more than 40.
(3) The majority of the command and control system relies on a mobile command post truck. It coordinates other batteries, controls and monitors longrange surveillance radar, tracks airborne threats, prioritizes threats, and controls and monitors long-range surveillance radar. The system can also exchange information with other defense systems.
Range and Altitude Classification
Various country maintains different range and altitude classifications for their missile systems. Few are discussed below: (5)
a. UK Doctrine:
(1) Long-Range SAM - > 50 nautical mile (nm)=92.6 km.
(2) Medium-Range SAM - 10 to 50 nm=18.52 km-92.6 km.
(3) Short-Range SAM - < 10 nm.=18.52 km.
(4) Very Short-Range SAM/guns - < 3.0 nm=5.5 km.
b. INDIA (IN) Doctrine:
(1) HIMAD- Above 50 km.
(2) LOMAD- 25-50- km.
(3) SHORAD- 5-25 km.
(4) Close-in Weapon System (CIWS)- 5 km.
c. PAKISTAN (PK) Doctrine:
(1) HIMAD-Above 50 km.
(2) LOMAD- 15-50 km.
(3) Extended SHORAD (ESHORAD)- 10-15 km.
(4) SHORAD-10 km.
d. Bangladesh Perspective:
(1) HIMAD-30 km and above.
(2) LOMAD- 20 km-30 km.
(3) SHORAD- 10 km-20 km.
(4) MANPAD/VSHORAD-6 km-10 km.
(5) AAA/AD Gun-up to 6 km.
Development in Neighbouring Countries
IN Air and Missile Power
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the fourth largest Air Force in the world. IAF has recently transformed into a competent force with a fleet of reasonably modern aircrafts combining technology from both Eastern and Western sources. Eastern Air Command (EAC) is significant than that of other commands.
a. IN has signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia to procure 5x S-400 TRIUMF Advance AD Missile System with the range of 400 km. A battery of S-400 system can deny entire airspace of BD.
b. IN is expected to finalize a $3 billion contract with General Atomics, a US corporation, to purchase 30 armed drones soon. In addition, assuming the contract goes through, the army, navy, and air force will each receive ten combat drones. Reconnaissance for intelligence gathering, observation, and combat missions behind enemy lines would be the primary goals of these UAVs. (6)
MN Air and Missile Power
The MN Air Force (MAF) operates from six main and forward operation bases close to BD border. MAF possesses good number of combat aircrafts.
a. The location and MOBs and FOBs of MAF implies that MN can pose considerable amount of threat on the VAs/VPs of SE part of the country.
c. MN has varied range of SSM like SCUD-C, SCUD-D and SCUD-E capable of reaching target up to 700 km (HWASONG 6, SY-400).
d. MAF may exploit sea route to conduct Offensive Counter Air Operation (OCAO). MAF would assist their navy to impose sea blockade and try to achieve favourable air situation. (7)
Measures to Achieve Preparedness
To keep pace with the recent development and inclusion in the inventory of our neighbouring countries, our AD preparedness should fulfil the following requirements:
a. BD Army must have required longer range weapon system to keep pace with growing air and missile power of neighbouring states.
b. To compensate the short reaction time due to the less geographical depth, all AD elements should have coordinated response against air threat through effective Control and Reporting (C&R) arrangement.
c. Field formations must have adequate AD system with compatible mobility comprising both active and passive AD measures. (8)
Requirement of LOMAD-HIMAD Missiles in BA
Necessity
Elaborate discussion on the threat perception and capability of our adversaries suggests that we need missiles with longer range to defend our assets as well as to engage the threats as far away from the targets as possible. Few significant aspects are discussed below:
a. Integral Capability of the Service: As per the range classification that already mentioned, the LOMAD limit is only 30 km. Only BAF can procure and possess missiles beyond 30 km in the context of controlling possible fratricide. But in the period of crisis services should have self-dependency to accomplish the assigned mission. The extremely limited geographical depth of BD will allow very short and insufficient reaction time for AD system with limited capacity. Therefore, services should must possess sufficient integral ability to defend against air threat from adversary without depending on others.
b. Requirement of Area AD Weapon: In the AD concept of planning it is mentioned that Bangladesh Army is to provide point defence by GBAD to selected VAs/VPs of national importance and to its field formations against hostile air attack. It would limit and confine BD Army’s AD capability to ensure force protection. Wartime logistic installation of Bangladesh Army generally spread over vast area. Division Administrative Area (DAA) is generally dispersed covering 10x10 km area. Forward Logistic Base (FLB) may be arrayed over 20x20 km area. So, Bangladesh Army needs Area AD weapon. However, the range and type of AD weapons need further study.
c. Economy of Effort: A few KPIs like RUPPUR Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), Bangabandhu Bridge (BB), Padma Multipurpose Bridge (PMB) merit critical area AD. Both area and point AD weapon are essential for critical area AD. Bangladesh Army is assigned to protect cluster of VAs/VPs in DHAKA, CHATTOGRAM and KHULNA area. Some of the VAs and VPs located in close proximity may be termed as adjacent VAs/VPs. Area AD weapons will be more effective to protect adjacent VAs/VPs. That will also ensure economy of effort.
d. Cost Effective: Procurement of area AD weapons for Bangladesh Army will minimize the cost and number of units required. It will also facilitate integration and interoperability. Even if we consider the system wise costing as well as the flexibility, then employment of MSAM or similar system is more logical.
e. Force Protection: It is assumed that BAF aircrafts may face difficulty of engaging the targets near bordering areas due to very less reaction time. In such cases the layered AD concept may not be effectively employed. If LOMAD/HIMAD engages en ac close to border then FEZ would fall behind MEZ which would create additional difficulties.
f. Achieve Anti Access Area Denial (A2AD) Capability: We have already analyzed the air and missile powers of IN and MN. IN is in the process of adding S-400 system in their inventory. A battery of S-400 can cover entire airspace of BD. The possession of armed drones of IN can inflict significant threat in our territory. In case of MN, with the available SSMs, they can launch surprise offensive to neutralize BAF in SE part of the country and beyond. Thus, they can achieve control over BD airspace. Furthermore, MN has got proven UCAV capability and experience. Due to shallow strategic depth, Bangladesh Army will have to fight war from International Boundary (IB) without conceding any land. On the contrary, potential adversaries of BD are equipped with stand-off and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) munitions, Tactical SSMs, CM and combat UAVs. These will enable them to deliver payloads without even crossing IB. Hence, it will be impossible to counter the enemy munitions by short range AD weapons. (9)
g. Effective AD Doctrine: We have reoriented our AD doctrinal approach and transformed it from ‘Doctrine of Deterrence’ to ‘Doctrine of Attrition’. But deterrence and attrition are somehow closely related. To deter, one must have the capability to defeat. It takes greater accuracy and higher kill probability to cause a substantial amount of attrition to the adversaries. With present AD system with highest range of 12 km, Bangladesh Army is far behind to attain the effectiveness of AD doctrine. Thus, suitable longer range missile system is the need of time. (10)
Suitable LOMAD/HIMAD Systems for Bangladesh Army
The suitable LOMAD/HIMAD systems for Bangladesh Army are shown in the table below:
The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Embargo
The last two examples Patriot and S-400 systems are the classic examples of LOMAD and HIMAD system respectively. The system requirement is very high of such weapon systems. Of course, these systems are of high range of prices. Even if BD can effort procurement of these are more complicated. Moreover, The MTCR aims to reduce the danger of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) proliferation by regulating exports of items and technologies that potentially contribute to delivery systems (other than manned aircraft) for such weapons. The MTCR focuses on rockets and unmanned aerial vehicles capable of carrying a payload of at least 500 kg (1,100 lb) to a range of at least 300 km (190 miles), as well as the equipment, software, and technology required for such systems. Therefore, MTCR might not permit BD for procuring such system. However, we should follow the trails of such system and their users especially on our adversaries.
Conclusion
AD in the face of greater reliance on air delivered destructive means by the enemy has assumed a greater dimension in the commanders’ protection calculus. In case of any hostility there is a huge air threat on BD. Presently, neither BAF nor the Army ADA is adequately organized and equipped to provide adequate AD due to resource constraint and lack of coordination.
The maximum limit of range in Bangladesh Army ADA is 12 km with SHORAD system. Considering the threat capability of our adversaries Bangladesh Army will not be able to create credible deterrence for them. Let alone defeating the enemy, the listed KPI ratio is far high in regard to the existing effective FU of our ADA. Field formations will highly be devoid of AD protection. Many Critical National Assets will fall under gaps with existing AD assets. Therefore, Bangladesh Army ADA must possess the LRSAM/MSAM.
In the joint services responsibility, it is of utmost importance for the respective services to conceive the overall design of AD battle from a single perspective, set out priorities, economize efforts, understand each other’s limitations, compliment and capitalize each other’s strengths or capabilities with a view to achieving the desired goal.
However, individual services must be capable of completing assigned task independently. Therefore, the AD employment strategy of BD Army must include GBAD system with appropriate weapon system irrespective of Range classification. Moreover, the range classification as well as nomenclature or terminologies should be reviewed for better option of procurement to be at par with world market.
The total AD requirement of the country is huge, that cannot be fulfilled within a short period of time due to financial constraints. However, a dedicated and well thought out plan may be formulated that can be achieved within a fixed time frame and in stages. Considering the importance of AD and in view of the threat to national security, an early start in this regard will certainly pay in the long run. Our national security is a decisive consideration for our national development. However, we are a developing country, with a limited budget and the nation has other priorities as well. It is however appreciated that, our military and political leaders have given due consideration to this neglected sector of national defence and are making positive effort in improving the overall AD system of BD.
Recommendations
Following are the recommendations to obtain the desired LOMAD/HIMAD Missile for BA:-
a. GBAD system of Bangladesh Army should be reinforced with high kill probability weapon system like medium and long-range missiles with Anti-missile, C-RAM capability.
b. Integral AD system for Bangladesh Army with standalone capability for Critical Assets and Field Formations to be planned.
c. Considering the affordability and economic strength of the country as well as MTCR embargo, immediate focus to be placed on procurement of MSAM.
d. The range and altitude classification needs review. The range of LOMAD may be increased upto 50 km.
e. Use of terms LOMAD/HIMAD might be reviewed considering the world market as the terms MSAM/LRSAM are more universally recognized.
Notes and References
2. Headquarters, Department of the United States Army, U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Operations, FM 3-01 (December 2020)
3. Joint Air Operation, Joint Publication, 3-30 (July 2019)
4. National Air Defence Doctrine of Bangladesh (March 2016)
5. Air Defence Artillery in Battle, GSTP-1140 (May 2009)
6. Headquarters, Department of the United States Army, U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Operations, FM 3-01 (November 2009)
7. Joint Warfare Publication 3-63 (July 2003)
8. Formation Level Study Period, 43 SHORAD Missile Regiment Artillery, October 2021
9. Plan Presentation, Air Defence Artillery of Bangladesh, January 2018
10. Major Al Imran, Suitable missile system for Air Defence Artillery Brigade considering the present organization and means to integrate within Army and sister services. Group Research Paper, Officers’ Gunnery Staff Course, Artillery Centre & School, Chattogram, 2012.
March 2022
Abstract
Modern battlefield is initiated with the air battle which is characterized by its dynamism and catastrophic destruction capability. Modern air delivered weapons and the contemporary technologically advanced military forces have created a new environment of war both at tactical and operational levels. The future battlefield may be unlike anything that world has been experienced previously. Bangladesh is a small country with less geographic depth. Sophisticated munitions can be launched on our key installations from within neighbouring territories with almost no warning.
This reality makes the job of the air defenders more challenging and difficult. Hence Bangladesh Army is changing its approach towards the operational aspect and fighting capability rapidly. Over the last few years, the Army has focused on its resources and procedural aspect of fighting wars. Present days of Air Defence battle has changed drastically. Modern technology enables the Fighter Aircrafts to carry missile with stand-off capability. At the same time modern countries are equipped with long range surface to surface missile, which pose substantial threat to our National assets, Operational Critical Assets and Time Critical Assets.
Air Defence resources having point defence weapons are not full capable against stand-off missiles and Long-Range Surface to Surface missiles. Thus, Air Defence of Bangladesh Army merits longer range missiles to destroy the threat before it can get closer to the target. But present Air Defence assets are not enough to defend all Key Point Installations effectively.
Moreover, field formations demand substantial amount of Air Defence supports. So, a longer-range Air Defence weapon can provide economy of effort as well as fill up the vacuum of Air Defence umbrella. Therefore, time has come to think on the feasibility of Low to Medium Altitude Air Defence (LOMAD) and High to Medium Altitude Air Defence (HIMAD) systems. Thus, the author has taken an endeavour to analyse the issue and suggest feasible options for Bangladesh Army.
Introduction
ICARUS died, but he implanted the dream of flying in the heart of mankind. Since then, mankind made several attempts to fly. Because sky was the limit of men’s dream. We all know that the Wright Brothers turned that dream into a reality. That was the starting of new era. An era of transportation, communication and portal of new inventions and technology. Soon that beautiful dream turned into a nightmare. When airspace became another dimension of threat in the context of warfare. The day men established their domination over sky, the same day warlords started to change the course of warfare. Then the necessity was felt to counter such aerial threats. And the very division of Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) came up as the newer branch of military outfit.
Modern battlefield is initiated with the air battle which is characterized by its dynamism and catastrophic destruction capability. At both the tactical and operational levels, modern air-delivered weaponry and technologically advanced armed forces have produced a new atmosphere of battle. The future battlefield may be unlike anything that world has been experienced previously. Developments in military technology have exponentially raised the accuracy, lethality and range of the air delivered weapon systems.
At the initial stage of any war, the attacker would resort to massive air raids to paralyze the defender. Therefore, defending the skies against various air threats requires a joint force response. And it is also imperative to have advanced aerial defense systems which provide responses to a range of aerial threats from rocket and mortar fire, ballistic missiles, to explosives carrying Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)s or aircrafts.
Bangladesh (BD) is a small country with less geographic depth. Sophisticated munitions can be launched on our key installations from within neighbouring territories with almost no warning. This reality makes the job of the air defenders more challenging and difficult. Hence Bangladesh Army (BA) is changing its approach towards the operational aspect and fighting capability rapidly.
Over the last few years, the Army has focused on its resources and procedural aspect of fighting wars. We are working hard to make the Army as a future role model for the BD Armed forces. Therefore, vision has been changed from the old conventional way of battle. By purchasing equipment and deprioritizing non-essential capabilities and missions, the process has started to accomplish these critical tasks.
Present days of Air Defence (AD) battle has changed drastically. Modern technology enables the Fighter (F) Aircrafts to carry missile with stand-off capability. At the same time modern countries are equipped with long range surface to surface missile, which pose substantial threat to our National assets, Operational Critical Assets (OCAs) and Time Critical Assets (TCAs). AD resources having point defence weapon like 37 millimeter (mm) AD Gun, 57 mm AD Gun and Very Short-Range AD (VSHORAD) Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) and even FM-90 SHORAD Missiles are not full capable against stand-off missiles and Long-Range Surface to Surface missiles.
Thus, AD of Bangladesh Army merits longer range missiles to destroy the threat before it can get closer to the target. Moreover, field formations demand substantial amount of AD supports. So, a longer-range AD weapon can provide economy of effort as well as fill up the vacuum of AD umbrella. Therefore, time has come to think on the feasibility of Low to Medium Altitude AD (LOMAD) and High to Medium Altitude AD (HIMAD) systems. Thus, this author has taken an endeavour to analyse the issue and suggest feasible options for BA.
Aim
The aim of this paper is to analyse the requirement of LOMAD and HIMAD missiles and suggest feasible options for BA.
Rudimentary of AD Operations
AD Doctrine
The accepted concept of AD as per National Air Defence Doctrine (NADD) is to destroy the enemy as far away from the defended area/installation as is operationally feasible. This concept also envisages the capability of increasing resistance against the enemy as he approaches his objective by employing an ever-increasing number of weapons. So, the doctrine prescribes a weapon system with longer range for effective AD.
Concept of AD Planning
BD will employ layered air defence (LAD) with appropriate weapons for the effective AD of the country. The weapons to be employed from the inner to outer layers are AD guns, VSHORAD, SHORAD, LOMAD, HIMAD and Fighter Interceptor. The theme of such employment strategy is to create maximum resistance to the hostile aircrafts as it closes in to the target. Our available assets should be deployed in such a way as to make the job of attacker as difficult as possible. An effective surveillance system comprises of both ground based (static/mobile) and airborne sensors are prerequisite for any strategy that we shall plan. Fighter aircraft and GBAD (LOMAD and HIMAD) could cover all possible threat axis. In addition, a series of point defence weapons (GBAD weapons) comprise of (SHORAD, VSHORAD and AD Arty) surrounding important targets will be employed. However, SAM and AD Arty will be tasked to engage in case fighter interceptors fail to intercept the raiders. (2)
The concept of area defence and point defence are explained below:
a. Area Defence: The Area Defence weapons are designed to defend a wide geographical area with defined threat boundaries by appropriate area weapons with sufficient range to reach out and disrupt enemy air attack. BAF will ensure Area Defence by fighter aircraft, HIMAD and LOMAD to defend the KPIs/VAs/VPs. However, there is an ambiguity on this issue, which will be discussed later.
b. Point Defence: Point Defence weapons will be employed to defend a limited and specific geographical areas or vital installations. Point Defence weapons will be employed individually by three services deploying SHORAD weapon system. Individual services will employ the SHORAD weapons to protect their own bases. Bangladesh Army in addition to her own VPs will take care of all national KPIs. Missile Engagement Zone (MEZ)/Gun Defended Area (GDA) will be formed in the inner most layer according to the LAD concept by deploying AD guns and SHORAD system. In the outer layer, LOMAD will be deployed.
Understanding on Lomad-Himad System
This paper is dealing mostly on analysis of requirement of longer-range missiles in BA. Various countries differ in nomenclature, range and altitude classifications of the missile systems. Significant nomenclatures are used worldwide as per United States of America (USA) and United Kingdom (UK) doctrine. Those are discussed below: (3)
a. USA Doctrine: The doctrine names the longer-range AD systems as LOMAD and HIMAD.
(1) LOMAD: It implies Low to Medium Altitude AD.
(2) HIMAD: It implies High to Medium Altitude AD.
(3) General purpose of LOMAD and HIMAD system is to guard strategic assets but in higher range and with independent Control & Reporting (C&R) system.
b. UK Doctrine: The doctrine names the longer-range AD systems as MSAM and LRSAM.
(1) MSAM: It implies Medium Range Surface to Air Missile.
(2) LRSAM: It implies Long Range Surface to Air Missile.
In BD, for classification of missiles the terms LOMAD and HIMAD are used. But, universally, the terms LRSAM/MSAM are more recognized. Worldwide, weapon manufacturing companies classify various systems as MSAM/LRSAM. So, in this paper the terms LOMAD/MSAM will refer to medium range SAMs and HIMAD/LRSAM will refer to long range SAMs. Range classifications will be discussed in the next segment of the paper.
General Features of Medium and Long range Missile System
General features and system components of medium range and long-range SAMs will be discussed below: (4)
a. LOMAD/MSAM:
(1) A medium-range SAM system typically consists one command and control system, one tracking radar, missiles, and mobile launcher systems. The mobile launcher transports, positions, and launches canisterized missiles. It has the ability to fire missiles in either single or multiple firing modes.
(2) An advanced active radar radio frequency (RF) seeker, advanced phased array radar or electronically scanned array radar, and a bidirectional data link are all standard features on this missile. In all weather circumstances, the RF seeker, which is placed in the front section of the missile, is utilized to detect moving targets. The radar system gives a high-resolution image of the air situation, while the bidirectional data link is employed to send midcourse guidance and target data to the missile. Modern systems, on the other hand, include guidance subsystems for IFF, electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM), and track-viamissile (TVM).
(3) The missile's explosive warhead, which includes a self-destruct fuse, has a high likelihood of hitting enemy targets while causing minimum collateral damage. At ranges of 25-70 kilometers (km) or more, the weapon can engage numerous targets at the same time.
b. HIMAD/LRSAM:
(1) A multifunction radar, autonomous detection and targeting systems, antiaircraft missile systems, launchers, and a command and control centre are all part of a long-range SAM system. It can fire a variety of missiles to construct a layered defense.
(2) Within a range of 300 km and above, the system may engage all sorts of aerial targets, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ballistic and cruise missiles (CM), at altitudes of up to 30 km and above. The system may engage numerous targets at once, on average more than 40.
(3) The majority of the command and control system relies on a mobile command post truck. It coordinates other batteries, controls and monitors longrange surveillance radar, tracks airborne threats, prioritizes threats, and controls and monitors long-range surveillance radar. The system can also exchange information with other defense systems.
Range and Altitude Classification
Various country maintains different range and altitude classifications for their missile systems. Few are discussed below: (5)
a. UK Doctrine:
(1) Long-Range SAM - > 50 nautical mile (nm)=92.6 km.
(2) Medium-Range SAM - 10 to 50 nm=18.52 km-92.6 km.
(3) Short-Range SAM - < 10 nm.=18.52 km.
(4) Very Short-Range SAM/guns - < 3.0 nm=5.5 km.
b. INDIA (IN) Doctrine:
(1) HIMAD- Above 50 km.
(2) LOMAD- 25-50- km.
(3) SHORAD- 5-25 km.
(4) Close-in Weapon System (CIWS)- 5 km.
c. PAKISTAN (PK) Doctrine:
(1) HIMAD-Above 50 km.
(2) LOMAD- 15-50 km.
(3) Extended SHORAD (ESHORAD)- 10-15 km.
(4) SHORAD-10 km.
d. Bangladesh Perspective:
(1) HIMAD-30 km and above.
(2) LOMAD- 20 km-30 km.
(3) SHORAD- 10 km-20 km.
(4) MANPAD/VSHORAD-6 km-10 km.
(5) AAA/AD Gun-up to 6 km.
Development in Neighbouring Countries
IN Air and Missile Power
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the fourth largest Air Force in the world. IAF has recently transformed into a competent force with a fleet of reasonably modern aircrafts combining technology from both Eastern and Western sources. Eastern Air Command (EAC) is significant than that of other commands.
a. IN has signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia to procure 5x S-400 TRIUMF Advance AD Missile System with the range of 400 km. A battery of S-400 system can deny entire airspace of BD.
b. IN is expected to finalize a $3 billion contract with General Atomics, a US corporation, to purchase 30 armed drones soon. In addition, assuming the contract goes through, the army, navy, and air force will each receive ten combat drones. Reconnaissance for intelligence gathering, observation, and combat missions behind enemy lines would be the primary goals of these UAVs. (6)
MN Air and Missile Power
The MN Air Force (MAF) operates from six main and forward operation bases close to BD border. MAF possesses good number of combat aircrafts.
a. The location and MOBs and FOBs of MAF implies that MN can pose considerable amount of threat on the VAs/VPs of SE part of the country.
c. MN has varied range of SSM like SCUD-C, SCUD-D and SCUD-E capable of reaching target up to 700 km (HWASONG 6, SY-400).
d. MAF may exploit sea route to conduct Offensive Counter Air Operation (OCAO). MAF would assist their navy to impose sea blockade and try to achieve favourable air situation. (7)
Measures to Achieve Preparedness
To keep pace with the recent development and inclusion in the inventory of our neighbouring countries, our AD preparedness should fulfil the following requirements:
a. BD Army must have required longer range weapon system to keep pace with growing air and missile power of neighbouring states.
b. To compensate the short reaction time due to the less geographical depth, all AD elements should have coordinated response against air threat through effective Control and Reporting (C&R) arrangement.
c. Field formations must have adequate AD system with compatible mobility comprising both active and passive AD measures. (8)
Requirement of LOMAD-HIMAD Missiles in BA
Necessity
Elaborate discussion on the threat perception and capability of our adversaries suggests that we need missiles with longer range to defend our assets as well as to engage the threats as far away from the targets as possible. Few significant aspects are discussed below:
a. Integral Capability of the Service: As per the range classification that already mentioned, the LOMAD limit is only 30 km. Only BAF can procure and possess missiles beyond 30 km in the context of controlling possible fratricide. But in the period of crisis services should have self-dependency to accomplish the assigned mission. The extremely limited geographical depth of BD will allow very short and insufficient reaction time for AD system with limited capacity. Therefore, services should must possess sufficient integral ability to defend against air threat from adversary without depending on others.
b. Requirement of Area AD Weapon: In the AD concept of planning it is mentioned that Bangladesh Army is to provide point defence by GBAD to selected VAs/VPs of national importance and to its field formations against hostile air attack. It would limit and confine BD Army’s AD capability to ensure force protection. Wartime logistic installation of Bangladesh Army generally spread over vast area. Division Administrative Area (DAA) is generally dispersed covering 10x10 km area. Forward Logistic Base (FLB) may be arrayed over 20x20 km area. So, Bangladesh Army needs Area AD weapon. However, the range and type of AD weapons need further study.
c. Economy of Effort: A few KPIs like RUPPUR Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), Bangabandhu Bridge (BB), Padma Multipurpose Bridge (PMB) merit critical area AD. Both area and point AD weapon are essential for critical area AD. Bangladesh Army is assigned to protect cluster of VAs/VPs in DHAKA, CHATTOGRAM and KHULNA area. Some of the VAs and VPs located in close proximity may be termed as adjacent VAs/VPs. Area AD weapons will be more effective to protect adjacent VAs/VPs. That will also ensure economy of effort.
d. Cost Effective: Procurement of area AD weapons for Bangladesh Army will minimize the cost and number of units required. It will also facilitate integration and interoperability. Even if we consider the system wise costing as well as the flexibility, then employment of MSAM or similar system is more logical.
e. Force Protection: It is assumed that BAF aircrafts may face difficulty of engaging the targets near bordering areas due to very less reaction time. In such cases the layered AD concept may not be effectively employed. If LOMAD/HIMAD engages en ac close to border then FEZ would fall behind MEZ which would create additional difficulties.
f. Achieve Anti Access Area Denial (A2AD) Capability: We have already analyzed the air and missile powers of IN and MN. IN is in the process of adding S-400 system in their inventory. A battery of S-400 can cover entire airspace of BD. The possession of armed drones of IN can inflict significant threat in our territory. In case of MN, with the available SSMs, they can launch surprise offensive to neutralize BAF in SE part of the country and beyond. Thus, they can achieve control over BD airspace. Furthermore, MN has got proven UCAV capability and experience. Due to shallow strategic depth, Bangladesh Army will have to fight war from International Boundary (IB) without conceding any land. On the contrary, potential adversaries of BD are equipped with stand-off and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) munitions, Tactical SSMs, CM and combat UAVs. These will enable them to deliver payloads without even crossing IB. Hence, it will be impossible to counter the enemy munitions by short range AD weapons. (9)
g. Effective AD Doctrine: We have reoriented our AD doctrinal approach and transformed it from ‘Doctrine of Deterrence’ to ‘Doctrine of Attrition’. But deterrence and attrition are somehow closely related. To deter, one must have the capability to defeat. It takes greater accuracy and higher kill probability to cause a substantial amount of attrition to the adversaries. With present AD system with highest range of 12 km, Bangladesh Army is far behind to attain the effectiveness of AD doctrine. Thus, suitable longer range missile system is the need of time. (10)
Suitable LOMAD/HIMAD Systems for Bangladesh Army
The suitable LOMAD/HIMAD systems for Bangladesh Army are shown in the table below:
The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Embargo
The last two examples Patriot and S-400 systems are the classic examples of LOMAD and HIMAD system respectively. The system requirement is very high of such weapon systems. Of course, these systems are of high range of prices. Even if BD can effort procurement of these are more complicated. Moreover, The MTCR aims to reduce the danger of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) proliferation by regulating exports of items and technologies that potentially contribute to delivery systems (other than manned aircraft) for such weapons. The MTCR focuses on rockets and unmanned aerial vehicles capable of carrying a payload of at least 500 kg (1,100 lb) to a range of at least 300 km (190 miles), as well as the equipment, software, and technology required for such systems. Therefore, MTCR might not permit BD for procuring such system. However, we should follow the trails of such system and their users especially on our adversaries.
Conclusion
AD in the face of greater reliance on air delivered destructive means by the enemy has assumed a greater dimension in the commanders’ protection calculus. In case of any hostility there is a huge air threat on BD. Presently, neither BAF nor the Army ADA is adequately organized and equipped to provide adequate AD due to resource constraint and lack of coordination.
The maximum limit of range in Bangladesh Army ADA is 12 km with SHORAD system. Considering the threat capability of our adversaries Bangladesh Army will not be able to create credible deterrence for them. Let alone defeating the enemy, the listed KPI ratio is far high in regard to the existing effective FU of our ADA. Field formations will highly be devoid of AD protection. Many Critical National Assets will fall under gaps with existing AD assets. Therefore, Bangladesh Army ADA must possess the LRSAM/MSAM.
In the joint services responsibility, it is of utmost importance for the respective services to conceive the overall design of AD battle from a single perspective, set out priorities, economize efforts, understand each other’s limitations, compliment and capitalize each other’s strengths or capabilities with a view to achieving the desired goal.
However, individual services must be capable of completing assigned task independently. Therefore, the AD employment strategy of BD Army must include GBAD system with appropriate weapon system irrespective of Range classification. Moreover, the range classification as well as nomenclature or terminologies should be reviewed for better option of procurement to be at par with world market.
The total AD requirement of the country is huge, that cannot be fulfilled within a short period of time due to financial constraints. However, a dedicated and well thought out plan may be formulated that can be achieved within a fixed time frame and in stages. Considering the importance of AD and in view of the threat to national security, an early start in this regard will certainly pay in the long run. Our national security is a decisive consideration for our national development. However, we are a developing country, with a limited budget and the nation has other priorities as well. It is however appreciated that, our military and political leaders have given due consideration to this neglected sector of national defence and are making positive effort in improving the overall AD system of BD.
Recommendations
Following are the recommendations to obtain the desired LOMAD/HIMAD Missile for BA:-
a. GBAD system of Bangladesh Army should be reinforced with high kill probability weapon system like medium and long-range missiles with Anti-missile, C-RAM capability.
b. Integral AD system for Bangladesh Army with standalone capability for Critical Assets and Field Formations to be planned.
c. Considering the affordability and economic strength of the country as well as MTCR embargo, immediate focus to be placed on procurement of MSAM.
d. The range and altitude classification needs review. The range of LOMAD may be increased upto 50 km.
e. Use of terms LOMAD/HIMAD might be reviewed considering the world market as the terms MSAM/LRSAM are more universally recognized.
Notes and References
2. Headquarters, Department of the United States Army, U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Operations, FM 3-01 (December 2020)
3. Joint Air Operation, Joint Publication, 3-30 (July 2019)
4. National Air Defence Doctrine of Bangladesh (March 2016)
5. Air Defence Artillery in Battle, GSTP-1140 (May 2009)
6. Headquarters, Department of the United States Army, U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Operations, FM 3-01 (November 2009)
7. Joint Warfare Publication 3-63 (July 2003)
8. Formation Level Study Period, 43 SHORAD Missile Regiment Artillery, October 2021
9. Plan Presentation, Air Defence Artillery of Bangladesh, January 2018
10. Major Al Imran, Suitable missile system for Air Defence Artillery Brigade considering the present organization and means to integrate within Army and sister services. Group Research Paper, Officers’ Gunnery Staff Course, Artillery Centre & School, Chattogram, 2012.
