RMAF to get new defence assets from October
Outgoing RMAF chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan said the acquisitions include unmanned aerial systems (UAS), FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), air defence radars and new helicopters.
He said these procurements are part of the RMAF Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55), as outlined in the Defence White Paper, and are expected to significantly boost the nation's overall defence capabilities.
"In summary, several systems and platforms such as UAS, FA-50 LCA, MPA, air defence radars and new helicopters are currently in the procurement process and will begin entering the RMAF inventory from October this year, with more to follow in 2026, 2027 and by the end of 2028.
"These assets will enhance RMAF's ability to defend our national airspace," he said at the new RMAF chief pinning-of-ranks and change-of-command ceremony at Subang Air Base.
Asghar, who is set to end his service this Dec 26, is succeeded by his deputy, General Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris as the 21st RMAF chief.
Asghar said that since taking over leadership of the RMAF on March 7, 2022, various efforts have been undertaken to ensure the airforce remains a credible, modern and capable force in defending the nation's skies.
"All the policies and directions laid out in my Commander's Order were based on six core pillars – capability enhancement, organisational excellence, empowerment of personnel, resource management, industry collaboration, and welfare sustainability.
"Alhamdulillah, during my tenure, we successfully implemented several of the planned initiatives outlined in CAP55," he said.
He added that strengthening the training structure and human capital development was also prioritised, with officers and personnel sent for various courses both locally and abroad to ensure operational readiness remained at the highest level.
He said the RMAF's active role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, along with hosting international exhibitions such as the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 and 2025, had effectively showcased its capabilities on the regional and global stages.
These achievements, he said, have elevated the RMAF's standing as a key driver of air defence diplomacy and helped strengthen military ties with friendly nations.
Asghar said the welfare of RMAF personnel was never sidelined, with various initiatives implemented, including housing, mental health care and family support programmes.
"The well-being of our personnel, who form the backbone of the force, has always been given due attention," he said.
Asghar also expressed his appreciation to all RMAF personnel, whom he credited for their unwavering cooperation in ensuring the success of all plans during his tenure as the service's top commander.
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