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New Straits Times
4 days ago
- General
- New Straits Times
RMAF must transform to face future threats, says air force chief
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) must embrace transformation as a necessity to meet future challenges, said its chief, General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan. He said all members of the air force must be fully committed to implementing its strategic development plan, Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55). "Transformation is no longer an option but a necessity. "CAP55 is our strategic development plan that reflects our aspiration to build a lean, networked RMAF. It encompasses transformation across combat capabilities, logistics, training, intelligence, and future warfare systems. "I urge all members of the RMAF to carry out this plan with strong commitment and transparency. "Remember, CAP55 is not for me, but for the future generations who will safeguard our airspace," he said in a special address in conjunction with the RMAF's 67th anniversary today. Asghar also called for the strengthening of human capital development within the force, citing today's multi-faceted threat environment. "Today, we face multi-dimensional threats: cyber attacks, electronic warfare, autonomous drones, and hybrid conflicts. "Readiness is not just about weaponry, but also mindset. Investment in human capital development must be strengthened. "We need competent pilots, engineers, cyber operators, and leaders who are creative and forward-thinking," he said. Asghar said the RMAF's journey since June 1, 1958, had demonstrated its maturity as a credible and modern force. "This anniversary does not just represent our maturity as a key component of the Armed Forces, but also commemorates the spirit of struggle, sacrifice and unwavering commitment of our air force heroes. "Indeed, a lot has been achieved and we must continue to move forward with greater strength. "We are standing on the shoulders of giants who have paved the way for us. The transformation that we envision must be built on strong discipline, continuous training, dedication, and patriotism." Calling for the highest standards of conduct, Asghar also reminded personnel to uphold the principles of integrity and professionalism. "In realising our transformation goals, we must adhere to good governance, high integrity, and efficient resource management. "Safety must never be compromised. Avoid negligence, follow procedures, and ensure every operation, training, and administrative process is carried out professionally," he said. Asghar also added that a balanced work environment and support for families must be strengthened to enhance morale and performance.
Free Malaysia Today
11-05-2025
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
Khaled in Turin to inspect work on maritime aircraft
The air force has ordered two ATR-72 maritime patrol aircraft, which are being built in Turin, Italy. (Leonardo pic) PETALING JAYA : Defence minister Khaled Nordin arrived in Turin, Italy, today for a two-day official working visit during which he will inspect progress on two maritime patrol aircraft ordered by the air force. Khaled's delegation includes air force chief Asghar Khan Goriman Khan and a senior defence ministry official, Yani Daud, Bernama reported. Malaysia has ordered two ATR-72 maritime aircraft from the Leonardo defence and arms company in a RM900 million deal announced in 2023. The air force has plans to buy six maritime patrol aircraft in all, as part of its 2055 development plan. The ATR-72MP is a twin-turboprop aircraft for maritime patrol missions. It is equipped with sensors that provide capabilities for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and electronic intelligence gathering. According to the manufacturer, the aircraft has capabilities for monitoring of sea lane traffic, fisheries protection, counter smuggling and counter drug trafficking operations, patrol of exclusive economic zones, as well as search and rescue operations. Khaled is scheduled to leave for Berlin, Germany, on Monday to attend a United Nations ministerial forum on peacekeeping.
Free Malaysia Today
29-04-2025
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
RMAF's ‘top guns', past and present, reunite
RMAF chief Asghar Khan Goriman Khan (fourth left) with retired generals (from left) Affendi Buang, Abdullah Ahmad, Mohd Yunus Mohd Tasi, Sulaiman Sujak, Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz, Rodzali Daud and Ackbal Abdul Samad. (RMAF pic) BUTTERWORTH : They kept the Malaysian airspace secure, from flying post-World War fighter aircraft to new-generation marvels. These were the country's crème de la crème of Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fighter pilots from yesteryear to present, 300 of whom gathered for the first time to reminisce about their glorious flying days. As was the tradition, military fighter pilots operated not under their actual names but under covert call-signs given by their fellow comrades – Kimosabe, Taro, Hawkeye, Jaguh and Scatman – names rarely known to the public, for obvious reasons. RMAF chief Gen Asghar Khan Goriman Khan described the reunion of serving and retired fighter pilots as well as weapon sensor officers as 'historic'. 'They took to the skies with courage and determination, not just to defend a young nation but to shape its history,' Asghar said at the 'Fighter Reunion 2025 – Connecting the Past to the Future', held at the RMAF Butterworth air base in Penang. Present were guest-of-honour and the country's first local RMAF chief Sulaiman Sujak, who turned 91 on March 25, and RMAF deputy chief Muhamad Norazlan Aris. The reunion took place at the RMAF air base in Butterworth, Penang. (RMAF pic) Among the former RMAF chiefs present were retired generals Mohd Yunus Mohd Tasi, Abdullah Ahmad, Nik Ismail Nik Mohamed, Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz, Rodzali Daud, Affendi Buang and Ackbal Abdul Samad. Asghar reminisced about how they flew sub- and supersonic jets like the CL41G Tebuan, CAC Avon Sabre, A4-PTM Skyhawk, Northrop F-5E Tiger II, BAE Hawk 100/200, MiG-29N Fulcrum, F/A18-D Hornet and Sukhoi Su-30MKM Flanker. Reflecting on the RMAF's journey since 1958, with humble beginnings from propeller-driven aircraft and basic infrastructure, Asghar said these fighter pilots had transformed the RMAF into a force to be reckoned with. He said the 1960s saw the dawn of a new era with the pioneers navigating uncharted skies, patrolling borders and ensuring peace during the Emergency and Confrontation with Indonesia. Then, the 1980s and 1990s brought the RMAF into the jet age. 'The F5E defended our sovereignty, the Hawks became our workhorses, while the MiG-29 gave us dominance in the sky. Then, came the crown jewels – the F/A-18 and Su-30MKM – a masterpiece of precision technology symbolising our arrival on the global stage,' he said. Asghar briefing Sulaiman (left) on the aerial aerobatic display of F/A18-D and Su-30MKM jets, as Yunus looks on. (RMAF pic) He added that as they stood on the shoulders of giants, they ought to look to the horizon as the world was changing when engaging in warfare. 'Tomorrow's battles may not be won solely in the skies but in realms that we have yet to master – space, cyberspace and beyond. 'The airspace warfare is upon us, with satellites no longer tools of communication but potential battlegrounds for dominance. Hypersonic missiles and drones are rewriting rules of air defence, while artificial intelligence is reshaping decision-making in combat. He added that the RMAF must rise to meet these challenges by adapting, innovating and investing in the technologies of tomorrow. Asghar called on everyone to continue to cultivate the spirit of excellence as pioneers and reminded them that as they navigated the skies of the future, to always remember those who gave them their wings and taught them that success was not just about reaching the peak. Asghar (foreground, in flying suit) with former and current fighter pilots and other officers at the reunion. (RMAF pic) 'It is in ensuring that others can climb higher. Together, let us honour the past, master the present and conquer the future,' said Asghar. Meanwhile, Sulaiman said it was 'special' to be able to mingle with the current pilots, in line with the theme 'Connecting the Past to the Future'. Ghani, on the other hand, said: 'What an amazing reunion comprising Malaysians of all races and creeds – Malays, Chinese, Indians, Eurasians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus and Christians – all one, with no distinction. Affendi said the reunion was a gathering of the old and young who were trained for dedication, excellence and camaraderie. The reunion included an exhibition called 'Down Memory Lane' and an aerial aerobatic display of F/A18-D and Su-30MKM jets, culminating with dinner.
Daily Express
29-04-2025
- General
- Daily Express
Royal Malaysian Air Force's ‘top guns', past and present, reunite
Published on: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 Published on: Tue, Apr 29, 2025 By: Adrian David, FMT Text Size: RMAF chief Asghar Khan Goriman Khan (fourth left) with retired generals (from left) Affendi Buang, Abdullah Ahmad, Mohd Yunus Mohd Tasi, Sulaiman Sujak, Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz, Rodzali Daud and Ackbal Abdul Samad. (RMAF pic) BUTTERWORTH: They kept the Malaysian airspace secure, from flying post-World War fighter aircraft to new-generation marvels. These were the country's crème de la crème of Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fighter pilots from yesteryear to present, 300 of whom gathered for the first time to reminisce about their glorious flying days. As was the tradition, military fighter pilots operated not under their actual names but under covert call-signs given by their fellow comrades – Kimosabe, Taro, Hawkeye, Jaguh and Scatman – names rarely known to the public, for obvious reasons. RMAF chief Gen Asghar Khan Goriman Khan described the reunion of serving and retired fighter pilots as well as weapon sensor officers as 'historic'. 'They took to the skies with courage and determination, not just to defend a young nation but to shape its history,' Asghar said at the 'Fighter Reunion 2025 – Connecting the Past to the Future', held at the RMAF Butterworth air base in Penang. Present were guest-of-honour and the country's first local RMAF chief Sulaiman Sujak, who turned 91 on March 25, and RMAF deputy chief Muhamad Norazlan Aris. Among the former RMAF chiefs present were retired generals Mohd Yunus Mohd Tasi, Abdullah Ahmad, Nik Ismail Nik Mohamed, Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz, Rodzali Daud, Affendi Buang and Ackbal Abdul Samad. Asghar reminisced about how they flew sub- and supersonic jets like the CL41G Tebuan, CAC Avon Sabre, A4-PTM Skyhawk, Northrop F-5E Tiger II, BAE Hawk 100/200, MiG-29N Fulcrum, F/A18-D Hornet and Sukhoi Su-30MKM Flanker. Reflecting on the RMAF's journey since 1958, with humble beginnings from propeller-driven aircraft and basic infrastructure, Asghar said these fighter pilots had transformed the RMAF into a force to be reckoned with. He said the 1960s saw the dawn of a new era with the pioneers navigating uncharted skies, patrolling borders and ensuring peace during the Emergency and Confrontation with Indonesia. Then, the 1980s and 1990s brought the RMAF into the jet age. 'The F5E defended our sovereignty, the Hawks became our workhorses, while the MiG-29 gave us dominance in the sky. Then, came the crown jewels – the F/A-18 and Su-30MKM – a masterpiece of precision technology symbolising our arrival on the global stage,' he said. He added that as they stood on the shoulders of giants, they ought to look to the horizon as the world was changing when engaging in warfare. 'Tomorrow's battles may not be won solely in the skies but in realms that we have yet to master – space, cyberspace and beyond. 'The airspace warfare is upon us, with satellites no longer tools of communication but potential battlegrounds for dominance. Hypersonic missiles and drones are rewriting rules of air defence, while artificial intelligence is reshaping decision-making in combat. He added that the RMAF must rise to meet these challenges by adapting, innovating and investing in the technologies of tomorrow. Asghar called on everyone to continue to cultivate the spirit of excellence as pioneers and reminded them that as they navigated the skies of the future, to always remember those who gave them their wings and taught them that success was not just about reaching the peak. 'It is in ensuring that others can climb higher. Together, let us honour the past, master the present and conquer the future,' said Asghar. Meanwhile, Sulaiman said it was 'special' to be able to mingle with the current pilots, in line with the theme 'Connecting the Past to the Future'. Ghani, on the other hand, said: 'What an amazing reunion comprising Malaysians of all races and creeds – Malays, Chinese, Indians, Eurasians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus and Christians – all one, with no distinction. Affendi said the reunion was a gathering of the old and young who were trained for dedication, excellence and camaraderie. The reunion included an exhibition called 'Down Memory Lane' and an aerial aerobatic display of F/A18-D and Su-30MKM jets, culminating with dinner. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
