RMAF Chief Joins FA-50 Test Flight, Gets Up-Close Look at KF-21 “Boramae”

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – A few days ago, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Goriman Khan, conducted an official visit to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to assess the progress of the FA-50M Fighter Lead-In Trainer-Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT-LCA) procured by RMAF.

According to an official statement released on RMAF’s Facebook page today, the first batch of FA-50M light combat aircraft is expected to be delivered in October 2026.

“This visit marks a significant milestone following the procurement contract signed between the Government of Malaysia and KAI,” the statement read.

“It also serves as a platform to directly observe the development progress of RMAF’s new assets, which will act as a catalyst in enhancing the nation’s air combat training and operational capabilities.”

The Malaysian Ministry of Defence signed a procurement agreement with KAI in May 2023 for the acquisition of 18 FA-50M (Block 20) light combat aircraft, valued at approximately RM4 billion.

The FA-50M variant acquired by RMAF is among the most advanced and capable versions of the aircraft, surpassing those procured by other countries, including South Korea and several Southeast Asian nations.

Only Poland’s FA-50PL variant is comparable in terms of capability to RMAF’s FA-50M.

A key highlight of the RMAF Chief’s visit to KAI was his participation in a test flight aboard a KAI-owned FA-50, alongside a test pilot.

“This hands-on experience enabled the RMAF Chief to personally assess the aircraft’s maneuverability, avionics systems, and overall suitability to meet RMAF’s operational and training requirements,” the statement added.

“Based on his assessment, the FA-50M not only meets the required technical and tactical specifications but also has the potential to become a strategic asset in strengthening the nation’s air defense capabilities.”

The statement further noted that, in line with the FA-50M acquisition, six RMAF pilots are scheduled to undergo intensive training in South Korea starting in October 2025 to familiarize themselves with the aircraft’s operational systems.

Additionally, 51 RMAF engineering personnel will attend maintenance courses beginning in January 2026, ensuring the aircraft’s technical readiness once it enters service with RMAF.

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

Both companies play crucial roles in the FA-50M’s supply chain and maintenance support, ensuring the long-term operational sustainability and effectiveness of the aircraft.

Accompanying photos in the RMAF statement also showed the RMAF Chief posing with the KF-21 “Boramae,” a 4.5-generation fighter jet developed by KAI.

“Overall, the RMAF Chief expressed satisfaction with the progress of the FA-50M development.”

“This visit not only reinforced confidence in RMAF’s new assets but also marked a new era in strategic cooperation between Malaysia and South Korea in defense and aerospace.

With this positive development, RMAF is on track to becoming a formidable air force in the region,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, Defence Security Asia has been informed that the production of RMAF’s FA-50M light combat aircraft by KAI is progressing smoothly, with construction already surpassing 50% completion.

Industry sources revealed that the latest progress in the FA-50M’s production is ahead of the original schedule, reflecting the efficiency of KAI’s manufacturing program.

“The FA-50M fighter jet production has already exceeded 50% completion, progressing ahead of the contract’s initial timeline,” the source confirmed.

Previously, industry sources also informed Defence Security Asia that all 18 FA-50M fighter jets will be stationed at RMAF Kuantan Air Base upon their arrival.

— DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA