(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – By October 2026, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is set to receive the first batch of four FA-50M (FA-50 Block 20) light combat aircraft, part of a total order of 18 aircraft developed by South Korea’s aerospace giant, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).
The FA-50M variant that RMAF will acquire is the latest and most advanced version compared to those currently operated by Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and even South Korea itself. Only Poland’s FA-50PL variant is nearly on par with the FA-50M.
As reported to Defence Security Asia, Malaysia’s FA-50M aircraft will be equipped with the “Sniper” Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP), developed by American defense firm Lockheed Martin.
Weighing approximately 200 kg, the Sniper ATP provides enhanced capabilities for target detection, identification, and continuous surveillance, making it indispensable for all missions, including close air support for ground forces.
The Sniper ATP system is a combat-proven targeting pod used in conflicts involving the United States and other international customers, including on aircraft such as the F-15E, F-16 (all Blocks), B-1, A-10C, Harrier GR7/9, and F/A-18.
Lockheed Martin is also reportedly in the final stages of integrating the Sniper ATP on the U.S. Air Force’s B-52 bombers.
Its “plug and play” capability allows it to be utilized across various platforms without the need for software changes.
Among the Sniper ATP’s features are high-definition mid-wave Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), HDTV, dual-mode laser, laser spot tracker, laser marker, video data link, and a digital data recorder.
It also possesses the ability to track tactical targets through real-time imagery relayed to cockpit displays. The Sniper ATP is also well-suited for pairing with the latest “J-Series” bombs for use against moving and stationary targets.
The introduction of the Sniper ATP on RMAF’s FA-50M aircraft by late 2026 is advantageous for commonality, as the country’s F/A-18D Hornets will also be equipped with the Sniper ATP as part of their Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU).
In May, the U.S. State Department announced the potential sale of 10 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP) to the Royal Malaysian Air Force, valued at $80 million (RM379 million).
On May 7, approval was granted for the sale of the 10 Sniper ATP units following a request from the Malaysian government, likely for use on RMAF’s F/A-18D fighter jets.
The proposed sale includes technical data and publications, personnel training, training equipment and software, logistical support elements, and assistance programs.
“The proposed sale of the Sniper ATP will enhance Malaysia’s capability to meet current and future threats by modernizing the F/A-18D with a common targeting pod,” stated the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
“The sale will also address future obsolescence concerns and enable RMAF to meet future operational requirements. Malaysia will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces,” DSCA added.
The main contractor is Lockheed Martin, which developed the Sniper ATP. Currently, RMAF operates eight F/A-18D Hornet fighter jets developed by Boeing.
In addition to being equipped with Raytheon Intelligence & Space’s Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) “PhantomStrike” radar, Malaysia’s FA-50 Block 20 aircraft will also feature U/VHF radios similar to those used in the latest F-16 Block 70 fighter jets.
The 18 FA-50M aircraft acquired by Malaysia, costing over RM4 billion, will also be equipped with the “Link 16 Block Upgrade 2” military tactical data link, which is secure, intercept-resistant, and reliable.
Additionally, this aircraft variant will be armed with a 20mm gun, AIM-9 missiles, GBU-12 LGB Integration, GBU-38 JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munitions), and AGM-65 Maverick missiles.
There is a strong possibility that Malaysia’s FA-50M will also be equipped with Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile capability, specifically the AIM-120 AMRAAM, as is planned for Poland.
However, the first batch of 18 FA-50M aircraft, which will become operational with RMAF by the end of 2026, will only be equipped with AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.
The FA-50M variant is also reported to be equipped with an Air-To-Air Refuelling (AAR) Probe, the “Cobham Mission System,” developed by Cobham from the United Kingdom.
This aerial refueling capability will ensure that the FA-50M can operate at extended ranges and remain airborne longer. – DSA