KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia will explore other options to meet its air defence needs following delays in the delivery of F/A-18 Legacy Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has confirmed.
The delay stems from uncertainties surrounding Kuwait’s receipt of new aircraft from the United States, which has postponed the transfer of the fighter jets to Malaysia, Bernama reported.
“I was informed that Kuwait’s delivery of new jets from the United States has been further delayed. Therefore, we cannot wait without certainty, because Kuwait can only hand over the F/A-18s to us after they receive their new aircraft,” he said.
“If they do not get them, then they cannot hand them over to us. So, this raises the issue of how long we can wait to fulfil our requirements,” he added.
Speaking to reporters after attending the BHPetrol Zakat Wakalah Contribution Presentation Programme at Dewan Muafakat Taman Air Biru, Mohamed Khaled stated that his ministry is actively studying other potential solutions to avoid leaving Malaysia in a disadvantaged position. This includes evaluating available aircraft in the market.
“If we just wait, we will not be doing anything to consider other options. So, this is why we think we need to have alternatives, so that we are not left in a situation that does not favour us,” he explained.
Earlier, on August 26, Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief General Datuk Seri Muhammad Norazlan Aris had indicated that the force is reviewing all aspects before making a final decision on the potential purchase of second-hand F/A-18 Hornet jets from Kuwait. He also dismissed rumours that the agreement had been cancelled, emphasising that all considerations are still being evaluated.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Khaled, who is also the Kota Tinggi MP, confirmed that the planned purchase of 18 FA-50 fighter jets from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), due for delivery in 2027, is expected to meet the RMAF’s operational needs.
“In addition, we will also assess the capability of the Sukhoi MKM fighter jets we currently own, to determine if they are sufficient for the nation’s defence requirements,” he said.
“A detailed study is needed because, beginning in 2027, all Hawk 108 and Hawk 208 light combat aircraft will be phased out of service,” he added. — September 6, 2025