The Malaysian government plans to sign a firm contract for four Airbus Military A400Ms at next week’s Langkawi air show. Industry sources say Malaysian manufacturers Composite Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM) and SME Aerospace will also win contracts to supply EADS Casa with components for the airlifter. Malaysia has been negotiating with Airbus Military since late last year, before a 31 December 2004 industrial partnership deadline, and CTRM and SME have begun development work ahead of their anticipated appointment as programme partners.

Source: Flight International