(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Closer defence cooperation between Malaysia and South Korea will be a key focus when Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin visits the East Asian nation from September 8 to 13.
The visit is expected to emphasize enhancing defense ties, not only between the two governments but also among defense industry companies in both countries.
While detailed information on the Minister’s itinerary in South Korea remains scarce, it has been confirmed that he will visit Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).
This visit is anticipated to be the highlight of the Minister’s official trip, especially given Malaysia’s significant “investments” in KAI to boost the capabilities of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
Sources indicate that further substantial “investments” in the defense sector, involving both Malaysian and South Korean defense companies, are currently under consideration.
Details of these “investments” will be disclosed once Defence Security Asia receive the necessary clearances.
Should these proposals materialize, they are expected to elevate Malaysia-South Korea defense relations to a new level.
Last year, the Malaysia Ministry of Defense signed a contract with KAI for the acquisition of 18 FA-50 Block 20 light combat aircraft, valued at approximately RM4 billion.
Malaysia is expected to receive the first batch of these aircraft by the end of 2026.
The FA-50 Block 20, officially named the FA-50M (Malaysia), is the most advanced variant in the FA-50 series, which is also in service in several other countries. Only Poland possesses this particular variant.
In addition to the FA-50 Block 20, KAI is reportedly courting for Malaysia to acquire 18 more of these light combat aircraft, potentially bringing the total number in RMAF’s fleet to 36.
KAI has also expressed its desire to attract Malaysia’s attention to the 4.5-generation KF-21 “Boramae” fighter jet as a replacement for the aging F/A-18D Hornet and Sukhoi Su-30MKM currently in service.
The RMAF plans to retire these aircraft by 2035 and 2040, respectively.
It is expected that KAI will make a strong pitch for the additional FA-50 Block 20 and KF-21 “Boramae” aircraft during the Minister’s visit and discussions with KAI’s senior management.
Recently, South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace and its local partner, Cendana Auto, signed a Memorandum of Agreement to upgrade the Malaysian Army’s K200 MIFV (Malaysia Infantry Fighting Vehicle) tracked armored vehicles.
Hanwha Aerospace confirmed to international defense portal Janes on August 9 that the two companies will develop a prototype of the upgraded K200 MIFV for testing and evaluation purposes.
The Ministry of Defense stated that this agreement aims to develop the local defense industry in the field of ‘Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul’ (MRO) for armored vehicles.
Additionally, it seeks to position Malaysia as a regional MRO hub in the automotive sector.
The Malaysian Army is believed to possess 111 K200 MIFVs, acquired in stages to support military operations under the United Nations flag in conflict zones such as Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The K200 MIFV weighs 13 tons and is equipped with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun.
Furthermore, the South Korean-made “K239 Chunmoo” Multiple Rocket Launch System (MRLS), produced by Hanwha Aerospace, is eyeing the Malaysian market, potentially to replace or complement the ASTROS system that has long been used by the Malaysian Army.
The “K239 Chunmoo” is considered a leading competitor to the HIMARS MLRS system, with analysts noting that its capabilities match those of the American-made HIMARS.
During the DSA & NATSEC 2024 exhibition a few months ago, Hanwha Aerospace signed an MoU with the rising local defense industry player, Widad Business Group. The “K239 Chunmoo” system is used by the armed forces of countries such as South Korea, Poland, and several others in the Middle East.
It can launch two different caliber rockets simultaneously, with capabilities to fire 130mm, 227mm, and 239mm rockets, hitting targets at ranges of 36km, 80km, and 290km, respectively. The system is also reportedly capable of launching 600mm tactical missiles.
South Korea is also reportedly trying to attract Malaysia’s interest in its Medium Range Air Defence System (MERAD), known as the “KM-SAM” or “Cheongung” (Cheolmae II).
The RMAF has requested the acquisition of a battery of the MERAD system under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12).
As part of the RMAF’s CAP55 development plan, the acquisition of up to four MERAD batteries has been outlined, starting from the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-25) and continuing until the 15th Malaysia Plan (2035-2040).
The KM-SAM system, being promoted by South Korea to Malaysia, is unique in that it incorporates technology from both Western and Russian blocs.
It was developed by South Korea’s LIG Nex1 Agency for Defense Development (ADD), with technical assistance from Russia’s Almaz-Antey, known for developing the S-300, S-400, and the latest S-500 air defense systems.
Hanwha Systems developed the radar system, while Hanwha Aerospace supplied the launcher vehicles. The KM-SAM system draws inspiration from air defense systems developed by Russia’s Almaz-Antey, such as the S-300 and S-400. — DSA