LABUAN — Malaysia’s first FA-50M light combat aircraft has arrived in the country from South Korea, marking a significant milestone in the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) modernisation programme.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin witnessed the arrival of the aircraft, which made a transit stop at Labuan Air Base before continuing its flight to Kuantan Air Base.
During the visit, Mohamed Khaled received a briefing on the FA-50M’s capabilities and its delivery to Malaysia from No. 15 Squadron Commanding Officer Major Mohd Jamil Awang of the RMAF.
He also inspected the aircraft and interacted with the pilots involved in the flight.
The FA-50M will be stationed at Kuantan Air Base to support the RMAF’s operational readiness and training requirements.
The aircraft’s delivery is expected to strengthen the country’s air defence capabilities while contributing to the development of the RMAF’s human capital through training and the mastery of combat aviation technology.
The programme is also aimed at developing highly skilled future fighter pilots.
Malaysia has ordered 18 FA-50M aircraft from South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) at a cost of nearly RM4 billion under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
The remaining 17 aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in stages up to 2028.
The procurement is part of the RMAF’s asset modernisation efforts and aligns with the First Pillar of the National Defence Strategic Plan (PSPN) 2026-2030, which focuses on strengthening the country’s defence preparedness and capabilities.
The modernisation programme, supported by the development of personnel expertise, is expected to enhance the RMAF’s operational effectiveness in safeguarding national airspace sovereignty and protecting the country’s strategic interests.
Also present were Defence Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali and RMAF Chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris, along with senior military and civilian officers.
