Malaysia steps up training with US National Guard
Twelve Malaysian air force personnel trained with American counterparts in Washington state last year. (US National Guard)
The Washington Air National Guard (ANG) plans to step up engagement with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), as the latter awaits the arrival of a US-funded air surveillance radar.
Brig Gen Gent Welsh, Washington ANG commander, told Shephard in a media conference that his command hopes to build upon the August 2021 training of RMAF personnel in radar operations by the Western Air Defense Sector (WADS), which is under the Washington ANG.
‘I see things like that as a foundational part of the State Partnership Program [SPP]. With unit-to-unit relationships we have our Western Air Defense Sector and our
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
-
May drone digest: American loitering munition spending continues to drive market growth
Loitering munition procurement has accelerated throughout May 2026 as militaries continue to prioritise the capability. The US has led this activity by advancing swarm-drone concepts, downselecting more drones for the Army’s LASSO programme, and awarding procurement contracts for various systems.
-
How defence sovereignty is driving middle power jet programmes
While moving away from US-made equipment towards home-grown options is a rising preference for some countries, there are multiple hurdles to overcome to compete with the US’s expansive global footprint and dominance.
-
Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity
The latest purchase of F-16V combat aircraft comes as the country presses ahead with its long-held plans to modernise its air combat capabilities and invest in the replacement of ageing Russian aircraft.
-
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.