SEREMBAN: The acquisition of more than 30 used F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets belonging to the Kuwait Air Force (KAF) is now at the final stage, pending approval from the United States, as the original manufacturer of the aircraft.
Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief Gen Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan said discussions between Malaysia and the Kuwaiti government on the matter have shown positive progress.
"So far, discussions among all parties have shown encouraging developments. All documentation has been completed and is now under the consideration of the US. We are currently awaiting their approval, and there have been no issues so far.
"Further action will depend on the approval given. We have established a committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Defence, RMAF, and KAF,” he told reporters after officiating the RMAF Excellence Awards Day here on Thursday (Dec 19).
He said the committee was tasked with discussing the next steps following approval, including the implementation of the aircraft acquisition process.
Asghar Khan said that the addition of the Kuwaiti jets would enhance RMAF’s capability in conducting patrol missions more effectively, complemented by the operation of the SU 30 MKM aircraft and the F/A-18 Hornet Squadron 18 currently in use.
The used F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets from KAF are intended to supplement the eight F/A-18C/D jets already in RMAF’s fleet, further strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.
In October, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin visited Kuwait to review the current condition of the Middle Eastern country’s Hornet fighter jets.
The Kuwaiti government has given positive feedback on Malaysia’s intention to acquire the F/A-18C/D Hornet jets and both nations have agreed to establish a committee to begin negotiations on the matter.
Meanwhile, Asghar Khan said the RMAF Excellence Awards Day was an annual event to recognise the achievements of officers and personnel who have enhanced the force's image at both the national and international levels.
At the event, he also presented the RMAF Chief’s Certificate of Appreciation to four officers representing the Ministry of Defence and Malaysia at the Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF 2024) in South Korea last November.
"The exhibition, which featured participation from 32 countries, saw the RMAF innovation team winning three gold medals and one silver medal, a significant and meaningful achievement for the RMAF," he said.
Asghar Khan also presented the Sports Excellence Award to athletes who had achieved success and brought glory to RMAF and Malaysia in various sporting competitions.
He expressed hope that the recognition and awards would inspire RMAF personnel to continue striving for excellence, improving their individual qualities, and achieving greater success in the future.- Bernama
