Malaysian Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin on board RMAF's Su-30MKM. Photo: RMAF
The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has concluded the Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP) for its fleet of Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter aircraft. This initiative is expected to extend the operational lifespan of the Russian-made jets by ten years.
The programme was conducted domestically, involving over 75 engineers and technicians from the RMAF, Aerospace Technology Systems Corporation (ATSC), and other industry partners. ATSC, a government-owned entity, has previously been responsible for maintaining the now-retired MiG-29N fleet. Officials noted that local completion of the SLEP avoids the need for lengthy overseas maintenance and supports the nation’s defence industry.
The completion of the programme was marked by a visit from Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin to Gong Kedak Air Base on Wednesday (Jan. 21). Accompanied by the RMAF Commander, Gen Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Mohd Asghar Khan bin Goriman Khan TUDM, the minister inspected the operational readiness of Su-30MKM aircraft managed by No. 12 Squadron and officiated at the contract handover ceremony for the SLEP initiative.
Speaking about the programme, officials emphasised its importance in maintaining the RMAF’s strategic assets and reducing reliance on foreign maintenance services. The programme also aligns with efforts to bolster local defence expertise, as it involves collaboration with Malaysian universities on research and development.
In October 2021, the RMAF announced a partnership with ATSC for the SLEP. With the implementation of this program, the Su-30MKM fleet, which was first delivered in 2007, will remain operational until 2035. The cost of a comprehensive overhaul for each aircraft is estimated at around USD 27 million, ensuring 1,500 flight hours or ten years of service.
The RMAF currently operates 18 Su-30MKM fighter aircraft, eight Boeing F/A-18D jets, and 12 BAE Systems Hawk 208 aircraft. In addition, the RMAF has placed an order for 18 FA-50 Block 20 Fighting Eagles from Korea Aerospace Industries. The service is also awaiting the government's final decision on the acquisition of up to 27 F/A-18C and six F/A-18D combat jets, which were previously operated by the Kuwait Air Force (KAF).
The contract for 18 Su-30MKM jets was signed during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in August 2003. Deliveries began in 2007, with the full fleet operational by 2009. The Su-30MKM is a customised variant developed by Sukhoi Aviation Corporation in collaboration with Irkut Corporation to meet Malaysia’s operational requirements.
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