THE Defence Ministry will continue the plan to purchase 18 light combat aircraft, Minister Mohamad Hasan said today.

He said the procurement of all 18 aircraft had been approved by the previous administration.

“We want the current cabinet to approve what was approved by the previous administration.

“The acquisition of light combat aircraft still remains at 18 and hopefully, as soon as possible, but it needs to go through certain processes,” he said while visiting Subang Air Base.

He said his ministry will also look at priorities and proposals to increase the assets of the armed forces because it involves a large allocation of funds.

“We want to complete what we should have and what needs to be upgraded (aircraft),” he said.

Commenting on preparations for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (Lima 23), Mohamad said the ministry had invited six countries to participate in the static and air shows.

“Two countries have confirmed participation. Thus far, 80% of exhibitors have committed to participate,” he said, adding that the exhibition also provided the ministry and the Malaysian Air Forces the opportunity to look at defence assets from abroad, in addition to discussing strategic defence diplomacy.

Lima 23 is scheduled to take place May 23-27, and is expected to see the participation of more than 600 exhibitors, from both local and international defence industry companies, and attract more than 50,000 delegates from home and abroad. – Bernama, January 10, 2023.