Latest news with #TUDM
The Star
6 days ago
- Climate
- The Star
Flying high for fresh water
Drought fighter: Ahmad Zahid aboard the C-130 Hercules before taking off from the TUDM Subang Air Base for cloud seeding operations. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star Cloud seeding operation creates rain to save critically low Perak dam PETALING JAYA: A cloud seeding exercise has helped increase the critically low water level at the Bukit Merah Dam in Semanggol, Perak, caused by the dry spell, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Deputy Prime Minister said a downpour occurred just 45 minutes after 6,000 litres of salt solution was sprayed into cumulus clouds to generate rain at noon yesterday. He said the operation was conducted by a Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) C-130 Hercules aircraft, which took off from its base in Subang at about 11.30am. Ahmad Zahid, who also joined the flight with the TUDM crew, said the dam's water level stood at about 6m in depth, a mere 12.21% of its capacity. 'The dam level was below 30% of its minimum capacity. 'According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), there were cumulus clouds over the Straits of Malacca moving from the west towards the mainland. 'The clouds were sprayed with the solution at altitudes of between 5,000 and 8,000 feet. I was informed during the return flight to Subang that precipitation occurred 45 minutes later. 'With this scientific method and the help of God, we hope the water level issue will be overcome,' he said to reporters after the cloud seeding operation yesterday. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the National Disaster Management (Nadma) committee chairman, said the dam is not only a water source for households, but also provides water to padi plantations and fish farms. He said failing to promptly address the water shortage could have a ripple effect that may affect food supply, income of rural folk and the stability of the local ecosystem. Ahmad Zahid revealed that the Perak government and the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry had sought the assistance of Nadma in mid-July to conduct cloud seeding operation to increase the low water level at the dam. He also said the districts of Bandar Baharu (Kedah), Selama (Perak), Temerloh (Pahang) and Limbang (Sarawak) as well as Tenom and Pitas, both in Sabah, had recorded high temperatures of between 35°C and 37°C for three consecutive days since Aug 1. 'We will monitor these areas and see if there is a need for cloud seeding to be carried out there. 'However, our priority is to ensure there is adequate supply at water dams,' he said. Ahmad Zahid noted that with the southwest monsoon season, rainfall is scarce and the climate is hot, adding that the dry spell is expected to end in mid-October. 'In the meantime, the Fire and Rescue Department has been directed to prepare the 3,000 tube wells we have to mitigate fires, especially in peat-soil grounds and forests. 'The Health Ministry has also advised outdoor activities, especially among children, to be postponed during this season.' Also present were TUDM chief of flight operations Lt Jen Datuk Masro Kaliwon, Nadma director-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah and MetMalaysia deputy director-general Zunaidi Mat.
The Star
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Pact inked for long-range air defence radar system
LANGKAWI: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has signed an agreement with the Defence Ministry (Mindef) over the development of a long-range air defence radar system for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM). The agreement was signed by MCMC executive chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din and Mindef secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima'25) yesterday. It was witnessed by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin ( pic ). Also present were Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, MCMC commission member Jen (Rtd) Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, Maj-Jen Datuk Muhammad Tarminzi Mustapha, who was representing the Air Force chief, and senior officials from both parties. In a joint statement, MCMC and Mindef said the agreement marks a strategic partnership to enhance national defence capabilities and readiness through the development of key military infrastructure using advanced communication and security technologies. The agreement also reflects the government's continued commitment to national security through public and defence sector collaborations. 'Through this agreement, MCMC and the Malaysian Armed Forces will jointly implement a comprehensive strategic initiative to develop a long-range air defence radar system for TUDM. 'The new radar system will significantly enhance airspace surveillance and control capabilities in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, directly contributing to the nation's security and sovereignty,' it added, Bernama reported. It also noted that this collaboration aligns with the whole-of-government approach, which prioritises inter-agency synergy in pursuit of national aspirations.
The Star
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
TUDM chief personally takes to the skies
Soaring high: Jen Mohd Asghar Khan (left) makes history as the first TUDM chief to fly an aircraft at Lima. — Bernama LANGKAWI: Royal Malaysian Air Force chief Jen Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan made history by becoming the first chief to fly an aircraft at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima) air show in its 37-year history. Jen Mohd Asghar Khan opened the air show from the cockpit of a Su-30MKM fighter jet enthralling thousands of spectators. Equally impressive was the aircraft, known as 'Toruk Makto', which means Rider of the Last Shadow from the movie Avatar, that featured the iconic Jalur Gemilang livery. TUDM said Jen Mohd Asghar Khan, who carried the call sign 'Gunjiz', was in action flying alongside Gong Kedak air base commander Kol Mohd Norazan Othman, who carried the call sign 'Sting'. 'During the 12-minute flight, the aircraft performed various extraordinary manoeuvres, some of which were incapable of being performed by other fighter aircraft, capturing the attention of local and international guests present on the opening day of Lima'25,' the statement said, Bernama reported. It said that Jen Mohd Asghar Khan's direct participation not only reflected his patriotic spirit but also demonstrated the commitment of TUDM's top leadership to uphold professionalism, courage and organisational excellence. Jen Mohd Asghar Khan, who began his career as a TUDM pilot in 1985, also has experience flying A4 Skyhawk, F-5E and MiG-29N fighter aircraft.
The Star
14-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
First maritime patrol aircraft to arrive by end 2026
TURIN (Italy): Malaysia is expected to receive its first Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) from Italian aerospace, defence and security company Leonardo by the end of 2026, with the second aircraft scheduled for delivery three months later, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (pic). 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.
The Star
13-05-2025
- The Star
Lima '25 ready for takeoff
Defying gravity: Royal Malaysian Air Force aircraft conducting preliminary exercises in the Butterworth airspace in preparation for Lima '25. — Bernama LANGKAWI: Get ready for breathtaking aerial displays and an impressive collection of planes and ships. The 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima '25) returns this month, expecting to draw 400,000 tourists to the island. Taking place from May 20 to May 24 at Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre Hall and Resort World Langkawi, Lima '25 will host 603 exhibitors from 25 countries. They will showcase the latest in maritime and aviation products and services. It will also be a rare chance to view an impressive line-up of leisure, commercial and military aircraft up close at the static display grounds, said a spokesperson from Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd, the co-organiser of the event held by the Defence Ministry. The spokesperson added that the event's tagline will be 'Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow', adding that 120 air assets and 110 maritime assets would be on display, from countries like Malaysia, Turkiye, Korea, China, France, Russia, Germany, the United States, Italy and many more. Among the aircraft that will be featured are fighter jets SU-30MKM, F/A-18 and Hawk 108/28 from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM), Piper 28 from Thai Flying Club, F/A-18 Super Hornets and B52/B1 from the US Air Force. The Ilyushin IL-76 belonging to the Russian Aerospace Forces and the Dornier 228 aircraft from the Indian Air Force will also be among the main attractions. For the fleet parade, a total of 34 ships will be anchored in position, including 15 from the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), five from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), and 15 ships from foreign naval forces. 'MMEA's participation will feature vessels such as KM Tun Fatimah, KM Langkawi, KM Gagah, KM Mulia and KM Perwira,' said the spokesperson. Meanwhile, the airspace in the northern region is now filled with the regular roars of TUDM aircraft training for Lima '25. In a statement, TUDM said the flight exercises involved fighter jets, carriers and helicopters involving two phases. Phase 1 took place from May 6 to 13 in the airspace of Alor Setar, Kedah and Butterworth, Penang, while Phase 2 begins today and will be conducted until May 19 in the Langkawi airspace. 'During the exercise, TUDM aircraft will conduct low-altitude tactical flights. This exercise will also involve a series of explosions for the opening gimmick of Lima '25,' TUDM said. Lima '25 will open its doors for three days to traders and two days to the public during the five-day programme. It is one of the largest exhibitions in the maritime and aerospace industry in South-East Asia since it was first held in 1991.
