Industry Players Vie for FA-50M Fighter Jet MRO Contract with Royal Malaysian Air Force

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Several companies have expressed their interest to the Malaysian government in participating in the Maintenance, Refurbishment, and Overhaul (MRO) of the FA-50M (Block 20) light combat aircraft, which the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is set to receive starting in October next year.

Defence Security Asia has learned that Kemalak is among the companies that have conveyed their interest in undertaking MRO services for the FA-50M aircraft and is currently awaiting the government’s decision on the matter.

“It is understood that several companies have expressed their interest in being involved in the MRO of the FA-50M fighter jets. However, as of now, no decision has been made by the government or RMAF,” an industry source told Defence Security Asia.

A robust Maintenance, Refurbishment, and Overhaul (MRO) framework is vital to ensuring the sustained operational readiness of fighter aircraft and other critical defense assets within the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

The company awarded the MRO contract will collaborate closely with the aircraft manufacturer and key Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) component suppliers, working to maintain the fleet at peak performance and operational efficiency.

Developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), the FA-50M light combat aircraft represent the latest advancement in Malaysia’s aerial defense capabilities.

According to sources familiar with the matter, production of RMAF’s FA-50M jets is progressing ahead of schedule, with manufacturing already surpassing the 50 percent completion mark—an indicator of KAI’s streamlined and efficient production process.

“The FA-50M production progress for RMAF has exceeded 50 percent, surpassing the original contractual schedule,” a source said.

According to industry sources, all 18 FA-50M jets will initially operate from RMAF Kuantan Air Base.

A September 2022 report from Philippine media revealed that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) had only five operational FA-50 light fighter jets out of a fleet of 12, with the remaining aircraft grounded due to delays in spare parts procurement and routine maintenance challenges.

During a Senate hearing, the then PAF Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Arthur Cordura confirmed the issue, stating that just five FA-50s were mission-ready, leaving the fleet’s operational readiness rate at a mere 40 percent.

The concerns over fleet availability were further underscored last week when one of the 12 FA-50PH jets crashed, claiming the lives of both pilots on board.

RMAF is expected to receive the first batch of FA-50M jets in October 2026, according to statements from the Ministry of Defence and RMAF.

In May 2023, the Ministry of Defence signed a procurement agreement with KAI to acquire 18 FA-50M (Block 20) fighter jets, valued at approximately RM4 billion.

RMAF’s FA-50M variant is the most advanced and capable version compared to those operated by other countries, including South Korea and several Southeast Asian nations.

Only Poland’s FA-50PL variant is comparable to RMAF’s FA-50M, with both aircraft featuring the advanced AESA PhantomStrike radar.

Last month, RMAF Chief Gen. Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Goriman Khan visited KAI’s facility in South Korea to review the development of the FA-50M jets procured by RMAF.

An RMAF statement described the visit as “a significant milestone following the procurement contract between the Malaysian government and KAI.”

“It also served as a platform to personally assess the progress of RMAF’s new assets, which will be a catalyst for the evolution of the country’s air combat operations and training capabilities,” the statement added.

During his visit to KAI’s facility, the RMAF Chief participated in a test flight of an FA-50 aircraft alongside a KAI test pilot.

“This hands-on experience allowed the RMAF Chief to evaluate the aircraft’s maneuverability, avionics systems, and overall suitability for RMAF’s operational and training requirements.”

“Based on his assessment, the FA-50M not only meets technical and tactical requirements but also has the potential to be a strategic asset in strengthening Malaysia’s air defense capabilities,” RMAF stated.

Six RMAF pilots are scheduled to undergo intensive training in South Korea in October 2025 to familiarize themselves with the FA-50M fighter jet’s operational systems.

Additionally, 51 RMAF engineering personnel will commence maintenance training in January 2026, ensuring the aircraft’s technical readiness for future service.

The visit also reinforced defense industry ties between Malaysia and South Korea, as the RMAF Chief also toured facilities of Hanwha Aerospace and Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Services (KAEMS).

Both companies play a critical role in the supply chain and maintenance of the FA-50M, ensuring the aircraft’s long-term operational viability and service effectiveness.

— DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA