Malaysia orders ATR 72 MPA aircraft from Leonardo
This Italian Air Force ATR 72 MPA took part in LIMA 2027 in Langkawi, Malaysia, indicating Leonardo’s long journey towards winning a contract. (Photo: Leonardo)
Leonardo has scored a hard-won contract to supply maritime patrol aircraft to Malaysia.
On 25 May, the Malaysian MoD signed an acquisition contract with Leonardo for two ATR 72 MPA maritime patrol aircraft. A formal signing ceremony took place at the LIMA 2023 event in Langkawi.
The final purchase of two aircraft, logistic support and training devices for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) comes after a number of years of effort, with the ATR 72 having been selected by Kuala Lumpur in October 2022.
The contract value is MYR789 million ($170.6 million), whereas Shephard Defence Insight lists a unit value of $40 million for the type. Citing a confidentiality clause, Leonardo declined
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
