Malaysia activates ScanEagle squadron
Malaysia stands up a ScanEagle squadron in East Malaysia, followed a day later by the commissioning of a Keris-class vessel.
The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) activated its UAV-operating 601 Squadron on 4 March. Equipped with Insitu ScanEagles provided by the US under the Maritime Security Initiative, 601 Squadron is based at RMN Kota Kinabalu in East Malaysia.
The first batch of ScanEagles, comprising six UAVs, two launchers, two SkyHooks and three ground control stations, was delivered in May 2020.
However, the RMN only carried out its first UAV operations on 5 February as it wanted US support personnel on hand to provide technical assistance. However, COVID-19 travel restrictions in both countries resulted in American personnel only being able to
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
-
![USAF opens B-52 upgrade to new companies as major programmes fall behind schedule]()
USAF opens B-52 upgrade to new companies as major programmes fall behind schedule
The US Air Force is seeking additional contractors to support communications upgrades for the B-52, while multiple Stratofortress modernisation programmes continue to experience delays, cost growth and technical challenges.
-
![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.
