THE Defence Ministry has no plans to purchase new fighter jets but studying an offer from Russia, minister Mohamad Sabu told Dewan Rakyat.

He said his ministry will have to consider a few aspects before replacing the old jets.

“Currently, there is no need for the ministry to purchase new aircraft.

“However, we are studying the offer from Russia to take back the old jets (and replace them with new ones).

“We have to look at our financial situation before making a decision,” he said, adding that the current fighter jets Sukhoi Su-30MKM and MiG-29 are old.

Mohamad was replying to Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (Pasir Mas-PAS) who asked if Putrajaya was ready to take up Russia’s offer.

In September, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said spending money on expensive fighter planes was unproductive, as Malaysia was not at war.

He added that the country did not spend much on defence, but would consider Russia’s offer to ensure the nation’s defence forces were operating at a high level.

“While the jets are old and may not be performing at their best, money is a great concern in discussions on acquiring replacements.” – November 21, 2019.