RMAF to Receive Delivery of New Assets from Early 2012

01 Juni 2011

Thales Groundmaster 400 mobile air defence radar for RMAF will be delivered in 2012 (all photos : Defense Industry Daily)

BUTTERWORTH (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is expected to receive delivery of new military assets from early next year onwards which will enhance its role in protecting the country.

RMAF chief Jen Tan Sri Rodzali Daud said the acquisitions would include EC725 helicopters suitable for conducting search and rescue missions, scheduled for delivery in 2013.

The country''s air defence capability would further be enhanced with the delivery of new weapons and radar systems between 2012 and 2014, he said, adding that RMAF would acquire its first Airbus A400M air-lifters in 2015.

He said this in his speech in conjunction with RMAF''s 53rd anniversary celebration at the RMAF base here today.

"In this regard, there''s a need for air force personnel to enhance their knowledge and skills to enable us to use and maintain the new assets without depending on outside help," he said.

Rodzali said RMAF would keep tab on regional security issues, such as overlapping territorial claims, in efforts to ensure the security of the country.

"We''ll also deal with encroachment into Malaysia''s maritime boundaries and airspace," he said.

A military parade themed "The People: Engaging The Talent" was also held in conjunction with the anniversary celebration.

Rodzali said this was in line with RMAF''s bid to attract more young people to join the force.

(Bernama)