RMAF Strengthens Air Defence, Surveillance At Strategic Sites

SUBANG, June 18 (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is installing air defence and surveillance radar systems at several strategic locations across the country to boost operational capability and readiness.

Chief of Air Force General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the air defence radars are being deployed in Bintulu, Sarawak; Bukit Puteri, Terengganu; and Bukit Lunchu, Johor, while an air surveillance radar is being established on Pulau Layang-Layang in the South China Sea.

“These capabilities are vital to enhance early warning detection and plug surveillance gaps in the country's airspace, particularly within strategic sectors,” he said in his address at the RMAF 68th Anniversary Parade here today.

He said the radar projects are part of phase one of the RMAF Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55), which aims to ensure the force keeps pace with technology and future security challenges.

Touching on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, he said it offers important lessons for Malaysia and the world on maintaining a high level of readiness to face complex and volatile geostrategic challenges.

He said disruptions to Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) in the Strait of Hormuz not only affect global energy supplies but also reverberate through the global economy, supply chains, and international market stability, including in Malaysia.

He added that this situation requires Malaysia to remain vigilant and ready to defend national sovereignty, as the country depends on the security of its SLOCs, especially the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea, which are vital for trade and the economy.

Earlier, Muhamad Norazlan received the general salute before inspecting the review here, accompanied by the parade commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Nazree Mansor.

The air force chief later presented the Pingat Perkhidmatan Am, Pingat Perkhidmatan Setia, and the Chief of Air Force Commendation Certificates to 17 recipients during the event, which was also attended by former chiefs of the air force.

The parade, themed 'Kuasa Udara, Perisai Negara,' involved 16 officers and 272 personnel across four flights, representing the RMAF Special Forces (PASKAU), the RMAF Ground Defence Force (HANDAU), the Women’s Composite Flight, and the RMAF Multi-Trade Composite Flight.

-- BERNAMA