KUALA LUMPUR: The development of counter-drone capabilities is underway as part of the efforts to strengthen the country's defence readiness against modern and emerging threats, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said the Air Force is currently developing operational concepts for drone and anti-drone systems, which will be integrated with conventional armed forces assets.
"This development planning also involves the Common Operating Picture (COP) capability, integrated operational networks, as well as capabilities to address Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) and grey zone activities," he said in a parliamentary written reply to a question raised by Datuk Seri Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (Perikatan Nasional-Tanah Merah).
Ikmal Hisham had asked the Defence Ministry to state the measures taken by the armed forces in developing training modules and a combat doctrine for anti-drone warfare, taking into account developments in the use of First Person View (FPV) drones in Ukraine.
He also wanted to know what are the measures to counter the use of 'kamikaze' drones in the Middle East by Iran.
Kamikaze drones have become commonplace on modern battlefields, functioning as both an intelligence-gathering tool and guided missile before destroying themselves on impact.
In line with developing these capabilities, Khaled said the preparation of training modules, operational doctrine and specifications for drone and anti-drone systems will ensure armed forces personnel are always prepared to face modern warfare threats.
"This development is being implemented in parallel with efforts to strengthen local industry production of drones based on the operational requirements of the Armed Forces," he said.
