Mat Sabu: Malaysia considering Russia's jet trade-in offer
The air force is in discussions to upgrade its fleet of ageing Russian Sukhoi and MiG fighter planes, Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said today.
“However, we must also take into consideration our financial situation. Our current ones are ageing and need to be replaced...
The air force is in discussions to upgrade its fleet of ageing Russian Sukhoi and MiG fighter planes, Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said today.
“However, we must also take into consideration our financial situation. Our current ones are ageing and need to be replaced.
"We have to assess the suitability and the needs of the nation's security," he said, after officiating the Soka GakkaiRun For Peace 2019 at Padang Besar, Taman Klang Jaya this morning.
Mohamad said that while the jets are old and may not be performing at their best level, money is a great concern in discussions on acquiring replacements.
It was previously reported that Malaysia is studying Russia's offer to take back 28 Sukhoi Su-30MKM and Mikoyan MiG-29 fighter jets, if Malaysia is ready to replace them with new aircraft made there.
The offer reportedly was made by Russian President Vladimir Putin in a meeting with Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad,
Russia also offered new replacement and repair services if Malaysia decides to maintain the old aircraft.
Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said Mahathir had told Putin the government would consider the two Russian offers.
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