KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 – The internal capabilities of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and collaboration with Aerospace Technology Systems Corporation Sdn Bhd allow the Russian-built Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets to be maintained for the next two years.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said there was no denying that the crisis between Russia and Ukraine had indirectly affected the procurement of components or spare parts for the Sukhoi Su-30MKM aircraft.
“However, the RMAF can still get the spare parts needed from Russia through an appointed local company,” he said when replying to a question from Tanah Merah MP Datuk Seri Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Adly said the ministry had also tried to get spare parts from India.
He added that RMAF would also use existing assets and spare parts for current operational needs for short-term plans until the crisis is over.
“Currently, the RMAF is also implementing the Service Life Extension Programme for this Sukhoi aircraft to ensure that the aircraft can be used optimally,” he said.
– Bernama