Latest news with #AsgharKhanGorimanKhan
South China Morning Post
11-07-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Malaysia's South China Sea defences set for fighter jet boost in ‘quiet' military build-up
The United States' approval of Malaysia 's purchase of dozens of fighter jets is set to bolster the Southeast Asian country's air capabilities – especially in the South China Sea – as part of a strategy to 'quietly' build deterrence while also preserving cordial ties with China. Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan confirmed during a June 17 briefing that Washington had approved Malaysia's request to acquire up to 33 used F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait. The move, which requires congressional sign-off under the US Arms Export Control Act, comes after years of negotiations that began in 2017. Malaysian Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari has said the deal is expected to be finalised this year. Abdul Rahman Yaacob, a research fellow at the Lowy Institute's Southeast Asia programme, said the purchase of the fighter jets would significantly bolster Malaysia's air defence capabilities. 'This is critical in East Malaysia, where Malaysia's energy blocks are located in the South China Sea, close to Sarawak,' Rahman said. If deployed in East Malaysia, the Hornets would complement newly developed naval facilities in Sarawak and demonstrate Kuala Lumpur's efforts to build deterrence in an area that had seen increasing Chinese activity, Rahman added.
New Straits Times
16-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
RMAF's CAP55 plan targets cyber, drone, and electronic warfare capabilities
KUANTAN: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is advancing its Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55) to modernise its air defence, focusing on cyber threats, electronic warfare, and drone operations. This strategic initiative aims to enhance operational readiness and modernise the air force to meet evolving security challenges. Its chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan described CAP55 as a blueprint to build an efficient and highly capable air force. "It will be able to address future security challenges, including cyber threats, electronic warfare, autonomous drones, and hybrid conflicts," he told reporters after the RMAF 67th anniversary parade at the Kuantan air base here today. "RMAF will continue to steer forward in enhancing its capabilities and remain ever ready to defend the country's sovereignty." Earlier, in his speech, Asghar Khan said CAP55 involves organisational restructuring, integration of warfare systems, enhancement of training, smart logistics capabilities, and operations based on the concept of multi-domain operations. "In facing the future, the empowerment of human capital is the main pillar. RMAF must produce skilled pilots, innovative engineers, strategic cyber experts, and brave leaders who can make decisions amidst uncertainty," he said. "I want every RMAF member, at all levels, to ensure prudent spending, transparency in project implementation, and reject any form of misconduct," he said. Asghar Khan earlier said Malaysia's bid to acquire F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait has moved a step closer to reality following approval from the United States.
New Straits Times
16-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia gets green light from US to acquire Kuwaiti F/A-18 Hornets
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's bid to acquire F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait has moved a step closer to reality following approval from the United States. Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan confirmed today that Washington has granted the necessary clearance for the deal, as the US is the original equipment manufacturer of the aircraft. The long-anticipated deal involves around 30 Hornets – a mix of single-seat F/A-18Cs and twin-seat F/A-18Ds – currently in service with the Kuwait Air Force. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled previously said the aircraft, originally acquired by Kuwait in the 1990s, are generally in good condition. During his visit to Kuwait last October, Khaled said the Gulf nation expressed no objections to Malaysia's request to procure its Hornet fighter jets. The procurement, however, is subject to approval from the supplier country, the United States, and could only be done once Kuwait has received all of its new fighter aircraft, the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, as well as the Eurofighter Typhoon.
New Straits Times
01-06-2025
- General
- New Straits Times
RMAF must transform to face future threats, says air force chief
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) must embrace transformation as a necessity to meet future challenges, said its chief, General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan. He said all members of the air force must be fully committed to implementing its strategic development plan, Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55). "Transformation is no longer an option but a necessity. "CAP55 is our strategic development plan that reflects our aspiration to build a lean, networked RMAF. It encompasses transformation across combat capabilities, logistics, training, intelligence, and future warfare systems. "I urge all members of the RMAF to carry out this plan with strong commitment and transparency. "Remember, CAP55 is not for me, but for the future generations who will safeguard our airspace," he said in a special address in conjunction with the RMAF's 67th anniversary today. Asghar also called for the strengthening of human capital development within the force, citing today's multi-faceted threat environment. "Today, we face multi-dimensional threats: cyber attacks, electronic warfare, autonomous drones, and hybrid conflicts. "Readiness is not just about weaponry, but also mindset. Investment in human capital development must be strengthened. "We need competent pilots, engineers, cyber operators, and leaders who are creative and forward-thinking," he said. Asghar said the RMAF's journey since June 1, 1958, had demonstrated its maturity as a credible and modern force. "This anniversary does not just represent our maturity as a key component of the Armed Forces, but also commemorates the spirit of struggle, sacrifice and unwavering commitment of our air force heroes. "Indeed, a lot has been achieved and we must continue to move forward with greater strength. "We are standing on the shoulders of giants who have paved the way for us. The transformation that we envision must be built on strong discipline, continuous training, dedication, and patriotism." Calling for the highest standards of conduct, Asghar also reminded personnel to uphold the principles of integrity and professionalism. "In realising our transformation goals, we must adhere to good governance, high integrity, and efficient resource management. "Safety must never be compromised. Avoid negligence, follow procedures, and ensure every operation, training, and administrative process is carried out professionally," he said. Asghar also added that a balanced work environment and support for families must be strengthened to enhance morale and performance.
Free Malaysia Today
11-05-2025
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
Khaled in Turin to inspect work on maritime aircraft
The air force has ordered two ATR-72 maritime patrol aircraft, which are being built in Turin, Italy. (Leonardo pic) PETALING JAYA : Defence minister Khaled Nordin arrived in Turin, Italy, today for a two-day official working visit during which he will inspect progress on two maritime patrol aircraft ordered by the air force. Khaled's delegation includes air force chief Asghar Khan Goriman Khan and a senior defence ministry official, Yani Daud, Bernama reported. Malaysia has ordered two ATR-72 maritime aircraft from the Leonardo defence and arms company in a RM900 million deal announced in 2023. The air force has plans to buy six maritime patrol aircraft in all, as part of its 2055 development plan. The ATR-72MP is a twin-turboprop aircraft for maritime patrol missions. It is equipped with sensors that provide capabilities for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and electronic intelligence gathering. According to the manufacturer, the aircraft has capabilities for monitoring of sea lane traffic, fisheries protection, counter smuggling and counter drug trafficking operations, patrol of exclusive economic zones, as well as search and rescue operations. Khaled is scheduled to leave for Berlin, Germany, on Monday to attend a United Nations ministerial forum on peacekeeping.
