Khaled: Defence procurements to be finalised after 13th Malaysia Plan
He said the ministry is waiting for the government to approve the procurement proposals submitted.
"All new procurements will be finalised only after the government tables the 13th Malaysia Plan.
"First, we have to wait for the government's decision by July 31 on proposals submitted for approval (on the procurement of assets).
"These assets are crucial in our effort to build a future force aligned with the modernisation of the armed forces," he said in response to questions about the possibility of Malaysia acquiring littoral mission ship batch 3 and multi role support ship assets from Italy following the prime minister's recent visit to the country.
He said discussions during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Italy and France focused on offers from those countries should Malaysia proceed with acquisitions involving their defence products.
"They are prepared to extend credit facilities, meaning they are willing to provide financial arrangements so that budget constraints will not hinder us from carrying out military modernisation or asset procurement."
Khaled added that any acquisition agreements would be based on government-to-government arrangements to ensure better pricing.
"What matters to us is that the prices offered are based on government-to-government deals, which means the prices are more favourable. If it were through open tender, it is unlikely any country could offer the same terms," he said.
Earlier, it was reported that Anwar, in his visit to Italy, held an engagement session with major Italian firms, including Fincantieri, Leonardo and ENI, toboost cooperation in the defence and energy sectors.
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