Malaysia has begun preparations for a major combat aircraft modernization program, under which the country's Air Force plans to replace American F/A-18D Hornets and Russian Su-30MKMs by the mid-2030s. The South Korean KF-21 Boramae and the Russian Su-57E are already being named as the main contenders for the future contract. This was reported by Defence Security Asia.
The plans to launch the evaluation of new multi-role fighters were announced by the country's Minister of Defence, Mohamed Khaled Nordin. According to him, the official selection phase is expected to begin in 2029–2030.
Malaysian authorities hope to avoid a situation where the aging fleet of aircraft begins to lose combat capability before a replacement arrives. Kuala Lumpur believes that the future contract will determine the structure of the national Air Force for decades to come.
At the same time, the country continues to modernize its light aviation. Earlier, Malaysia ordered 18 South Korean FA-50M Block 20 aircraft. The country's Ministry of Defence clarified that these aircraft will not replace heavy fighters but will be used as a complement to them.
Against this backdrop, South Korea's position in the future tender has strengthened. The Malaysian Air Force is already beginning to build infrastructure and training systems for Korean equipment, which could benefit the KF-21 Boramae. Experts also note that the readiness timeline for the KF-21 almost coincides with the schedule of Malaysia's MRCA program.
Russia, in turn, is promoting the export version of the Su-57E as a more affordable fifth-generation fighter option. Interest in the aircraft increased after the King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim, was shown the Su-57E during his visit to Russia.
However, the potential acquisition of Russian aircraft raises debates among military analysts and observers. The expert community discusses the risks of sanctions, difficulties with component supplies, and possible restrictions on equipment maintenance.
In addition to the KF-21 and Su-57E, the French Rafale, Swedish Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, and American F/A-18E/F Super Hornet may participate in the future competition. The Malaysian authorities have not yet published the final list of candidates.
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