By Kisho Kumari Sucedaram and Nabilah Saleh
KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- Slovakia is intensifying its push to secure a role in Malaysia’s ongoing armed forces modernisation efforts, with Konstrukta Defence positioning its EVA M3 6x6 artillery system as part of a broader strategy to expand export revenues and establish a long-term industrial presence in the country.
Konstrukta Defence commercial representative Robert Mallo said Malaysia represents a high-potential market, particularly as the country advances its artillery capability development.
“We see strong potential here. The artillery selection process has been ongoing, and we expect it could reopen, creating opportunities for us to participate again,” he said, noting that the company has been involved in the programme since around 2021-2022.
Designed for mobility and rapid deployment, the system reflects a broader shift towards lighter, more flexible artillery platforms suited for diverse operational environments.
Mallo noted that the EVA M3 variant was developed with Malaysian operational requirements in mind, including a five-person cabin configuration, a specification aligned with feedback from the Malaysian Armed Forces.
“This version was designed specifically for Malaysia’s needs. We are fully convinced it is among the best self-propelled howitzers in its class,” he told Bernama on the sidelines of the Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2026 exhibition here today.
Regionally, Slovakia is also eyeing broader Southeast Asian demand, with neighbouring markets such as Thailand exploring similar capabilities.
Although the system has yet to be deployed in Malaysia, he said the broader EVA platform has seen operational use, including deployment in Ukraine, underscoring its battlefield credibility.
In total, more than 750 units of its artillery superstructure components have been delivered globally.
Meanwhile, Finnish company Patria is also eyeing opportunities in the Malaysian market, positioning its Patria 6x6 armoured vehicle as a commercially viable solution aligned with the country’s operational landscape, particularly its dense forest and jungle terrain.
Its key account director Per-Jonas Trollsas said Malaysia presents a promising opportunity as the country looks to enhance its infantry mobility and support capabilities under a long-anticipated 6x6 vehicle programme, which is expected to be revived in the coming years.
He noted that the programme, first announced several years ago, is now likely to materialise around 2027 or 2028.
From a business standpoint, Trollsas said Patria is leveraging its century-long track record and close collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces to offer proven, field-tested platforms.
The company, which employs about 4,000 people and operates across 55 countries, generated net sales of 825.7 million euros in 2024 and preliminary revenue of 1.2 billion euros last year (1 euro=RM4.63).
He added that the Patria 6x6 is designed for ease of use, scalability and cost efficiency, incorporating standardised components such as diesel engines and gearboxes to simplify maintenance and ensure supply chain accessibility.
“These features make the platform well-suited for markets like Malaysia, where operational reliability and lifecycle cost management are key procurement considerations,” he said.
He also noted that Patria is pursuing a partnership-driven approach in Malaysia, working with local players such as G7 Aerospace Group to explore system integration, maintenance and potential industrial collaboration.
“While full-scale local manufacturing may depend on future volume commitments, there is clear potential for local adaptation, support services and technology collaboration as part of our long-term market entry strategy,” he added.
-- BERNAMA
