Malaysia is expected to choose between a second batch of Sukhoi Su-30MKMs or Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets for its next fighter purchase, with industry sources saying both types have their supporters within the nation's defence establishment.
The procurement process is unlikely to begin until the Malaysian government has called a general election, scheduled for 2009 but widely expected next year. A decision on new fighters must be made around the end of 2008 in order to secure funding during Kuala Lumpur's 2011-15 five-year plan, with deliveries expected from 2011.
Malaysia already has 18 Su-30MKMs on order, with six scheduled for delivery by year-end and the remainder to follow in 2008, ahead of its first squadron becoming combat-ready by early 2009. The type is considered favourite for the new fighter deal, with senior air force officers believed to be backing a follow-on order for another 18, which they say will allow the service to eventually operate a single fighter type, cut expenses and increase overall combat potential.
But some quarters are sceptical about the reliability of Russian equipment. Malaysia suffered problems with its earlier batch of 16 RSK MiG-29Ns, and Malaysian pilots involved in the Su-30MKM programme say additional work needs to be done to integrate French, German, Indian and Russian equipment with the new aircraft.
Industry sources say the Super Hornet is more popular in the defence ministry, as its cost is similar to the Su-30MKM, while Australia's recent order for 24 F/A-18Fs has boosted the type's export credibility. Boeing has not made a formal presentation to the Malaysian government, but will offer the Super Hornet if it moves forward with the project.
Kuala Lumpur's immediate procurement priorities are for new utility helicopters, airborne early warning and control and maritime patrol aircraft, so it could instead opt to upgrade its eight F/A-18Ds and MiG-29Ns, which have at least six years of life left without modification.
"Fighters are not an immediate requirement," says one industry official. "Malaysia must live up to its commitment to monitor the waters around it, especially the Malacca Straits." This need has taken on added urgency following recent AEW&C and MPA procurements by Singapore and Thailand, the source adds.
ATSC announced during the LIMA air show in Langkawi that it has renewed a contract to provide maintenance services for Malaysia's MiG-29s, and signed a new agreement to provide similar services for the Su-30MKM. Cobham also announced the receipt of an order to provide buddy-buddy refuelling systems for use by the latter type.
Source: Flight International
