A few of Stride's ‘gadgets'

The Star

5 days ago

HOW does the Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence (Stride) envision the modernisation of Malaysia's military capabilities – such as through robotics, aerospace, or advanced materials – translating into tangible operational advantages for the country's armed forces in the coming decade?
Stride director-general Nor Azlan Mohd Ramli outlines several key initiatives that cover operations in the air, on the ground and at sea as part of the Malaysia's 'Future Force' concept.
He says among the key initiatives are Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), co-developed with local industry, which supports missions ranging from surveillance and logistics to potential combat operations.
'Future enhancements will incorporate swarm capabilities and advanced sensor suites.'
And apart from the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) as border monitoring and in tactical combat missions, in the maritime domain, Stride is developing unmanned maritime systems to conduct mine detection, coastal patrols and anti-piracy operations, expanding Malaysia's autonomous maritime capabilities.
At the same time, Nor Azlan says, to complement those efforts, innovations in materials science are also underway.
'The development of lightweight composite materials for military application aims to increase durability, extend platform lifespans, and reduce maintenance costs.
For instance, in the field of fabric technology, Stride has developed TropiKamo®, a near-infrared (NIR) camouflage fabric meticulously designed for optimal performance in tropical climates.
Engineered to provide effective concealment across both the visible and infrared spectrums, this advanced material significantly enhances stealth capabilities in Malaysia's jungle and semi-urban operational environments, says Nor Azlan.
Meanwhile, also in place is Stride's Centre of Excellence for Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technology, which will serve as a national testing hub to certify systems to international standards, improve resilience to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and support the safe integration of electronic and weapon systems.
'By reducing reliance on foreign testing centres, the EMC facility will also help elevate locally developed defence technologies to export-ready standards, thereby reinforcing industrial empowerment and technological independence.'
Nor Azlan says between 2025 and 2035, Stride's initiatives are set to deliver measurable impact for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), including improved operational efficiency, cost savings and enhanced deterrence.
'Upgraded C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Recon-naissance) systems will enable seamless coordination across all operational domains.'
He stresses that the MAF are expected to possess fully integrated, rapid-response capabilities, enabling effective action against simultaneous threats across multiple operational domains.
'Unmanned systems are anticipated to assume a significant share of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and logistics roles, potentially reducing personnel casualties in high-risk environments.
Overall, Nor Azlan says indigenous UAVs and UGVs, coupled with strengthened cyber defence capabilities, will reinforce Malaysia's deterrence posture, supporting missions against piracy, smuggling and territorial incursions.
'Locally developed and tested advanced materials will ensure system reliability in Malaysia's tropical operating environments.
'These advancements will also increase Malaysia's participation in regional initiatives such as Asean and Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) exercises, enhancing defence diplomacy and regional stability.'