KUALA LUMPUR: Experiencing a high-g ride in an Air Force Su-30MKM fighter jet has provided Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali with deeper insight into the nation’s air defence readiness and personnel expertise.
Lokman Hakim took to the skies on Friday (Aug 28) at the Subang Air Base alongside Air Force chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris.
Speaking after the flight, Lokman Hakim described the experience as an invaluable opportunity to witness firsthand the raw capabilities of the Su-30MKM and the high level of professionalism among RMAF personnel.
"The Su-30MKM remains a vital component of our air defence, particularly in safeguarding Malaysia's airspace and maritime interests," Lokman Hakim said. "It forms a key part of our deterrence strategy, ensuring a credible capacity to defend our sovereignty."
However, he emphasised that advanced fighter jets should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of a broader development of national air power—spanning combat readiness, long-term sustainment, and future fleet replacement.
"Readiness is not merely about keeping an aircraft in good condition. It relies heavily on the pilots’ ability to fully maximise the platform's capabilities," he noted, highlighting the necessity of continuous, rigorous training.
He pointed to recent joint manoeuvres like Exercise Elangaroo 24—where RMAF Su-30MKM and F/A-18D jets trained alongside Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fifth-generation F-35As—as crucial for testing tactics and improving interoperability.
"In real-world scenarios, technology alone doesn't guarantee success. The skills, experience, and tactical judgment of our pilots play a massive role," he added.
Lokman Hakim also praised the ground crews, engineers, and technicians who maintain the complex twin-engine fighters.
"The real strength of the Su-30MKM lies not just in the airframe itself, but in the entire ecosystem—the pilots, maintenance crews, weapons systems, and technical support. That complete package is what delivers maximum defence value for the nation."
