First maritime patrol aircraft to arrive by end 2026
The Defence Minister said they are part of a procurement deal worth nearly RM900mil, finalised in 2023, to strengthen the country's defence and maritime surveillance capabilities.
'As a maritime nation, Malaysia must have assets like these aircraft to carry out patrols. They will be equipped with state-of-the-art systems.
'More importantly, they will be fitted with anti-submarine systems, enabling them to respond to related activities,' he said during a working visit to Leonardo's facility here, Bernama reported.
Also present were Malaysia's Ambassador to Italy, San Marino and Kosovo, Datuk Zahid Rastam, Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) chief Jeneral Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Goriman Khan, Defence Ministry deputy secretary-general (policy) Mohd Yani Daud and Leonardo Aeronautics Division managing director Stefano Bortoli.
Mohamed Khaled said the aircraft, with its airframe built in Toulouse, France, will be outfitted with advanced systems, including anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare capabilities before delivery to Malaysia.
He described the procurement as a strategic investment to enhance the Malaysian Armed Forces' (ATM) readiness in addressing regional security challenges, particularly in South China Sea.
'We know the South China Sea presents its own unique challenges, with rising tensions and conflicts, so these acquisitions will greatly aid the country.
'As of now, project progress has exceeded 60% and remains on schedule. We are satisfied with the ongoing work carried out by Leonardo,' he said.
The MPA procurement is part of TUDM's acquisition plan outlined under its Capability Development Plan 2055, which envisions the acquisition of six MPAs in phases.
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