Malaysia, Italy to strengthen defence ties with focus on procurement and tech
HL: Malaysia, Italy to strengthen defence ties with focus on procurement and tech
ROME: Malaysia and Italy are set to deepen defence cooperation, with new agreements on procurement, training, and technology sharing discussed during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's official visit to the country.
Anwar said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, in detailed discussions with his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto, had addressed the ongoing acquisition of maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters from Italian defence contractor Leonardo.
The talks also covered areas such as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), training, and technology transfer.
"They also discussed the centralisation of training and initial flight operations at Batu Berendam Airport," Anwar said, adding that the coordination of these efforts would also involve Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Khaled said both governments agreed that any potential procurement involving Italy should be undertaken via a government-to-government approach.
"In this way, pricing will be more favourable, and there will be a guarantee on any assets purchased, as they will be backed by government assurance," he said.
He added that with Italy's growing interest in the Indo-Pacific region, numerous training exercises and operations are expected to take place, necessitating a joint logistics agreement to address bureaucratic challenges and ensure the smooth support of Italian assets.
Khaled also highlighted Italy's advancements in emerging domains such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, as well as its experience in protecting underwater infrastructure in the Baltic region.
"At Asean defence ministers' meetings, we have raised the issue of securing underwater energy grids that connect Asean countries.
"Therefore, we have requested that Italy share its expertise in this area, from which both Asean and Malaysia can benefit," he said.
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