Malaysian defence update: Key programmes under spotlight at DSA 2024
A RMAF Airbus H225M helicopter under tow at RMAF Subang. The RMAF will be expected to begin a programme to acquire 12 medium lift helicopters to join the 12 H225M helicopters in service, although the 12 new helicopters may not necessarily be additional H225Ms. (Photo: Dzirhan Mahadzir)
The Defence Services Asia (DSA) exhibition in Kuala Lumpur from 6–9 March will feature updates on Malaysia’s defence programmes, including the signing of Batch 2 Littoral Mission Ships and procurement plans for medium lift helicopters.
The status of several Malaysian defence programmes will be expected to be addressed during the Defence Services Asia (DSA) exhibition, held from 6–9 March in Kuala Lumpur. These will include signing for three Batch 2 Littoral Mission Ships, announcing the formal requirement for 12 medium lift helicopters, determining the status of the Malaysian Army’s Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) requirement and the status of the Army’s programme of leased Blackhawk helicopters.
Companies were invited to tender for the Batch 2 Littoral Mission Ship in 2023 with the Malaysian government finally deciding to procure the ships via government-to-government negotiation.
In a 13 March
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