Lima '25: DPM reflects on Sukhoi flight experience from 15 years ago
LANGKAWI: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reminisced about his past experience flying in a SU-30MKM fighter jet, as his presence at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima '25) today brought back vivid memories of the event.
In a Facebook post, Ahmad Zahid recalled boarding the aircraft at the Gong Kedak Air Base in Besut, Terengganu, in 2010, during his tenure as the defence minister, describing it as a memorable and adrenaline-filled moment.
"I still vividly remember the heartbeat-pounding moment of sitting in the cockpit of this formidable and respected aircraft.
"The pilot's voice, the communication controls, the efficiency of the RMAF personnel – it all feels like it happened just yesterday.
"It was an extraordinary experience that gave me immense appreciation for the skills and courage of our air force heroes," he said.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also the rural and regional development minister, said the Sukhoi SU-30MKM was no ordinary machine and described it as a symbol of the nation's air power.
Lima '25 is organised by the Defence Ministry in collaboration with Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), focusing on innovation and enhancing competitiveness among industry players in line with technological advancements.
This year's edition is the largest maritime and aerospace exhibition in Southeast Asia since its inception in 1991. — BERNAMA
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