Malaysian officials believe they can keep the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) fleet of 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets airworthy despite sanctions imposed by many countries in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Senior Defence Minister Hashimuddin noted that the RAF backs contracts for the jets through local companies, which have a two-year supply of spare parts.
The main local company is Aerospace Technology Systems Corporation (ATSC). This is a joint venture between Sukhoi and Airod, Malaysia’s long-established MRO with a 70% stake. “Any global economic sanctions against Russia will have little impact on continued access to spare parts, parts, services and technical inputs,” said ATSC CEO Lt Col Mohd Fadzar, a retired RMAF engineer. “The engineers and technicians involved in maintaining RMAF jets are experienced and qualified to undertake various technical solutions,” he added.
Sukhois was delivered to RMAF in 2007. There were some repairability and parts supply issues that grounded most of the fleet in 2018. But the issue was resolved, allowing ATSC to continue the life extension program at Gong Kedak Air Base, home to the Royal Air Force’s 12th Squadron, which flies Russian jets.
Following an extended visit to Moscow, Fadzar said the Russian export agency Rosboronexport has assured that the OEM’s warranty and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) specifications will be maintained. The refurbishment, costing about US$95 million (RM400 million), is aimed at keeping the aircraft in service until 2035.
Both Hashimmuddin and Fadzar mention that other countries are also available as spare parts, such as China and India, which have large fleets of similar Sukhois.
Chris Pocock
