India has emerged as a front-runner in Malaysia’s demand for light fighter jets, with a package that will include maintenance and spare parts for the country’s Su-30 fighter jets from Russia.
Hindustan Airways (HAL) Tejas light fighter jets have become Malaysia’s first choice as the country considers replacing its aging fighter jet fleet, which includes the Mikoyan MiG-29, Boeing F/A-18D Hornet and BAE Systems Eagle Mk.108/208s. The two parties are currently negotiating to move forward with the procurement process.
Facing stiff competition from China’s Chengdu JF-17, South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50, and Russia’s MiG-35 and Yakovlev Yak-130, Malaysia has shrunk India, according to HAL chairman and managing director R Madhavan. range of the aircraft.
David Oliver
