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THE construction of two Phase 1 maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has surpassed 60 per cent completion and remains on track for delivery, according to Malaysia’s Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin.
The aircraft, currently being built by Italian defence manufacturer Leonardo S.p.A., form part of a RM900 million acquisition signed in 2023 between the Malaysian government and the firm.
“Progress is proceeding according to schedule,” said Khaled following his visit to Leonardo’s facility in Italy, where he received a project briefing led by Stefano Bortoli, Managing Director of the company’s Aeronautics Division.
The procurement of the aircraft is in line with the Royal Malaysian Air Force Capability Development Plan 2055, known as CAP 55, aimed at modernising and enhancing national air defence systems.
“As a maritime nation, Malaysia has a clear requirement for MPAs,” Khaled noted in a Facebook post. “In addition to executing missions such as Anti-Surface Warfare and Anti-Submarine Warfare, these aircraft are vital for monitoring Malaysia’s vast maritime zones.”
The two aircraft under construction represent the first tranche of a total of six MPAs planned for acquisition in phases. Both units are expected to be completed and delivered to the RMAF by next year. - May 13, 2025
