RMAF Future; need opinions

STURM

Well-Known Member
The Cougar should last longer without overhauls as its engine has a higher MTBF than its Russian equivalent. For countries like India and China, this is no problem as they already have the ground insfrastructre to support their Mil-17s. Whilst certainly cheaper to procure operatings cost in the long run would be higher. Unless I'm mistaken, the same applies to the MKMs, compared to the Hornets. Though I would have prefered the Merlin due to its larger capacity, longer range and rear ramp, I believe the Cougar was the better option due to Eurocopter already having a servicing/overhaul centre in Malaysia. Eurocopter also announced in February that it was setting up a regional simulator in Malaysia for Puma/Cougar users. The next headache for the RMAF and the treasury will be finding a replacement for the Aloutte 111s in the near future.
 

Tebuan

New Member
The Cougar should last longer without overhauls as its engine has a higher MTBF than its Russian equivalent. For countries like India and China, this is no problem as they already have the ground insfrastructre to support their Mil-17s. Whilst certainly cheaper to procure operatings cost in the long run would be higher. Unless I'm mistaken, the same applies to the MKMs, compared to the Hornets. Though I would have prefered the Merlin due to its larger capacity, longer range and rear ramp, I believe the Cougar was the better option due to Eurocopter already having a servicing/overhaul centre in Malaysia. Eurocopter also announced in February that it was setting up a regional simulator in Malaysia for Puma/Cougar users. The next headache for the RMAF and the treasury will be finding a replacement for the Aloutte 111s in the near future.
For the venerable Alouette III replacement, they should just stick with the same aircraft that Army air wing has chosen, the LUH/LOH 109 from AW. It makes best sense. Given the proliferation of that platform in commercial service in the region and fact that one of the services already operates the type, it would make best financial and logistical sense. It is quite a capable type and already chosen by many countries armed forces.
 

sunshin3

New Member
Guys, there is a June 2009 PDF article by Journal of Politics and Law on ' The Impact of Singapore’s Military Development on Malaysia’s Security'. I note that there are a number of factual errors in this article, like a reference to the RSAF using 'aircrafts with Dassault Aviation Rafale technology' (which is clearly wrong).

4. Malaysia’s Security Impact Analysis

4.1 Security threat

Singapore’s military development and defense system in its early stage was initially defensive in nature, since 1971 Singapore has practiced the poison shrimp doctrine. This doctrine perceived as defense doctrine extracted from the Israel'sdoctrine of defense which affirms that Singapore warns any aggressor not to attack them. This doctrine takes into account the regional geo-political condition similar to Israel’s position which is surrounded by Arab countries. This doctrine is only a warning towards aggressors, however if attacks or threats are thrown at Singapore then the aggressor are forced to face Singapore reaction. The emergence of offensive doctrines known as preemptive strike doctrine is Singapore's preparation to attack the enemy if the enemy is believed (base on accurate intelligence information) to try and threaten its security. Singapore will not attack any country Malaysia in particular, as long as Malaysia does not threaten the security of Singapore. This doctrine is categorized as a need to warn the enemy not to invade or attack Singapore. Hence, to complement the doctrine of preemptive strike, Singapore has implemented another defense doctrine called forward defense whereby the military development and defense must always be advance. This doctrine affects planning and war strategy, hence, Singapore would always need to stay ahead in the development of military in terms of physical and non physical features...

...

In fact Singapore's readiness in sharing intelligence information since 2001 is an
act of willingness to foster good relationship both military powers. Basically Singapore’s military development does not give any threat to Malaysia’s safety. This is because, since Singapore separation from Malaysia in 1965, there has been no security threat on Malaysia. From Malaysia’s military perspective, Singapore is a country that is not classified as a major threat. On the other hand, Indonesia and Thailand are believed to be major threats on Malaysia’s security compared to Singapore. This is because according to Ahmad Ghazali Abu Hassan (2007):-

“If we assess which country has the ability to threaten Malaysia, it is not Singapore but Indonesia. This is because historically Malaysia has faced armed confrontations with Indonesia during the era of Sukarno. We should be reminded about the vision of a Greater Indonesia that was introduced by Sukarno, symbolizing that Indonesia has had the objective and agenda to conquer Malaysia” .​

The perception of this country regarding a threat is based on the history of Malaysia’s confrontations with Indonesia that took place in 1963 (Patmanathan, 1980:23). The military was sent to confront Indonesian military attack that landed in Johor and was facilitated by Singapore to stop intelligence information to Indonesia in Malaysia (Aelina Surya, 1992:18). In fact, according to Ahmad Ghazali Abu Hassan (2007) this confrontation between Malaysia-Indonesia claimed a number of Malaysian troops in Borneo during the effort to protect national security. It is believed to be the sign and measurement of Malaysian military of Indonesia’s ability to use its military force upon Malaysia (Tempur, April 2003:24). Ariffin Omar (2007) explained that:-

“Although Singapore is strong in term of economy, political and military power, it is not a country that can easily set out a war because Singapore realizes that it is still lacking in terms of nationalism or patriotic spirit. The countries that can afford to threaten the security of Malaysia are Indonesia and Thailand.”​

Ahmad Ghazali Abu Hassan (2007) perceives Indonesia and Thailand as nations that are able to threaten Malaysia’s security. This is because Indonesia and Thailand are regarded as unstable states base on the instability of internal politics. Internal problems such as poverty, internal rebellion, ethnic conflict, weak government and terrorist issues make Malaysia prone to security threat through the spread of these internal problems to Malaysia (Jasbir Singh, 2003:66-68). Indonesia’s and Thailand’s weakness and failure to prevent internal problems would provide a direct impact on Malaysia such as the excessive immigration into Malaysia, making Malaysia a hide-out and the spread of terrorist activity are all other factors that formulate the threats from Indonesia and Thailand (Allan Gyngell,1983:116). The close ties between Malaysia and Singapore either from bilateral aspect or through international organizations, has been the pioneering of confidence and belief between both countries...
Any comments on the above article?

In particular, if we think interms of security threat analysis - Malaysia's assessment of threat will determine the RMAF's priority of purchase. How should RMAF prioritise its future purchases?
 
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Dzirhan

Defense Professional
Verified Defense Pro
Any comments on the above article?

In particular, if we think interms of security threat analysis - Malaysia's assessment of threat will determine the RMAF's priority of purchase. How should RMAF prioritise its future purchases?
I wouldn't be placing too much emphasis on an article written by a Malaysian university, the paper despite talking about MAF strategy doesn't even quote anyone from MAF about it though my friend Ahmad Ghazali who's quoted there is a retired Lt. Col and currently working with the National Defence University. The factual errors are another problem also apart from the grammar. Currently the MAF priority is (apart from replacing aging equipment) focused on ensuring that it's disparate assets and forces can communicate and coordinate effectively along with increasing it's surveillance capabilities.
 

johngage

New Member
Dzirhan, I'm curious, if it was up to you, what platform would you choose for the RMAF's next MRCA squadron? I have always felt, from a logistics point of view that the logical option would be another batch of SU-30MKM's. Is this your feeling too? Or do the RMAF boys have other plans? Thank you in advance.
 

Dzirhan

Defense Professional
Verified Defense Pro
if it was up to me, I'll ask the RMAF what they actually think is their best option:). To be honest until the pilot production problem is resolved, talk of additional fighters is somewhat moot (particularly with SU-30s taking up two and so would the F version of the Superhornet if we chose that). If you go for more of same type, then it might make sense on the face of it for more MKMs but support wise the MKMs may be problematic, the RMAF and the Russians seem to have problems working together on that and the integration is still ongoing.
 

nevidimka

New Member
Do any of you know the itinerary of the thunderbirds/RMAF airshow in Subang airport this friday and saturday?

What time will the show start and will there be a static display of the RMAF planes and what other air/force will be taking part?

Also what is the occasion anyways?

BTW on the topic, couldn't RMAF go for the single seat Sukhoi's in the MKM version? The new Su 35 Avionics allows the multirole functions to be handled by a single pilot. Since the planes are of the same type.. a mix of the 2 types would it be too heavy on the logistics?
 

nevidimka

New Member
Nvm, I got it. I think its from Dzirhan.

Itinerary provided by RMAF PR Department courtesy of Pirate, Alert5.

1. 1ST Oct 09 (Thursday).
1200H – Arrival of 2 X C17 at Subang Air Base.
1430H -1500H – Arrival of 8 X F16.
- Arrival of 2 X KC135 Tanker.
2. 2nd Oct 09 (Friday).

Practice Day / Media.

0900H – Final Planning Meeting.
- Base Opened Day. (Armed forces & Embassy Staff)
1030H -1100H – C17 Demonstration.
1100H -1130H – Shukoi Air Show.
1130H -1230H – Thunderbirds Air Show. (Fly Over Twin Tower)
1200H – F16 fly-by with Chief of Armed Forces.

3. 3rd Oct 09 (Saturday).

Actual Day / Open for Public.

0900H – Base Open Crowd.
0915H – Arrival of Guests.
0930H – Arrival of Chief of RMAF.
0945H – Arrival of Chief of Armed Forces.
1000H – Arrival of Diplomats.
1015H – Arrival of Dignitaries.
1030H -1100H – C17 Demonstration.
1100H -1130H – Sukhoi Air Show.
1130H -1230H – Thunderbirds Air Show.
1245H -1300H – Autograph Signing by Thunderbirds Crew.
1300H – VVIP & pilot Photography session.
Lunch.
1400H – Programme End.


Just wanna know will there be static display by RMAF sukhois in the show??
 

STURM

Well-Known Member
The paper ' The Impact of Singapore’s Military Development on Malaysia’s Security' may have been badly written and flawed in some aspects, but in my humble opinion it has got something right- Indonesia continues to pose a security challenge to Malaysia, as it has for the past few decades. Despite the ups and downs in relations with Singapore, which Malaysia has much in common in terms of history, culture and economics, ties with Indonesia have always been more problematic. Over the years, the Malaysian government has gone out of its way to mantain good relations with it large neighbour. Until recently, the 'Confrontation', was almost never mentioned in the Malaysian press.
 

genduthijau

New Member
For Cost I would also agree that the Gripen with a package of AEWC of Saab would be a very attractive proposition.

For capability you cannot go pass the F18 E/F/G Rhinos,(i honestley think they will win alot of contracts over the next 10 years,Indian order,Brazil and also the new aircraft for the UK navys Aircraft carriers)

As to Ex US F/A 18D hornets, i would stay away from those fatigued airframes.Remember they are Navy planes ,that have had such forces placed on there Airframes by the rigors of landing and takeoffs from Carriers.

Also i would assume that a number of ex US F18 A/B/C/D would have corrosive issues on the airframes,being a Navy plane.

Malaysia should consolidate its fleet.I am a believer in the F18 Rhinos,but thats me.

As the Malays have purchased SU30.........maybee this is the aircraft they should just continue to purchase,sell the F18,and consolidate the Fleet of SU 30s

Comments always welcomed
Regards.......
IMO, RMAF did not the ideas of having single engine fighter. That's why RMAF choosed Mig29's, SU30MKM's and the famous bugs. I don'w why, may be reliability issue. But more engines means more money. Just my opinion.
 

nevidimka

New Member
Is there any news on when at least RMAF plans to follow up the second batch of SU 30 MKM's?
India is already planning on an upgrade for their batch of SU 30 MKI's which is the same mould from where the MKM came from.
If the gov continues with its current style of spending a liltle bit on everything on a rotary basis, by the time it gets back to the SU 30, the initial batch planes would be outdated and they will have to look at upgrades together with a new batch of planes.
I think the MAF should consider overlooking the replacement of the burnt RMN ship for now and concentrate on completing the air force capabilities, that is the second batch of SU 30's and AWACS by selling off the MiG 29's. If possible also look at replacing the bugs with the superbugs.

This will certainly give the MAF more capable air supremacy against potential adversaries in the region during this troubled times. Any potential adversaries would have to deal with an overwhelming capability in the air by MAF if a country wants to think about attacking Malaysia.

That I think will certainly buy us more time b4 we go back to the round robin method of upgrading the MAF.
 

Ananda

The Bunker Group
From Tempur English section Sunday 11/10/09

In Malaysia, Rosoboronexport State Corp has at last initiated discussions with MINDEF Malaysia aimed at buying back the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) remaining 15 MiG-29Ns (which have been progressively grounded since early this year) and in turn supplying the RMAF with an follow-on batch of six Su-30MKMs at a fair price. If this deal is finalised, then the RMAF will eventually possess a total of 24 Su-30MKMs. Elsewhere, Russia will complete deliveries of an initial eight Su-30MK2s to Vietnam in 2010. Russia and Vietnam had signed a $500 million contact for the sale of the eight Su-30MK2s last January. “The contract was signed in January, and we will fulfill it in 2009-2010,” Alexander Mikheyev, Deputy General Director of Rosoboronexport State Corp said during MAKS-2009. Mikheyev added that Vietnam had already made several advanced payments under the contract and the deliveries would be made in two batches of four aircraft each. Vietnam has also expressed interest in buying eight additional Su-30MK2s, and talks on a new contract could start in the near future. Su-30MK2s are presently operational with China’s PLA Air Force, PLA Navy and the Indonesian Air Force.
How reliable it'is ?? Quite a good deal in my oppinion considering RMAF will not going to use those Mig 29 anymore.
 

OPSSG

Super Moderator
Staff member
From Tempur English section Sunday 11/10/09

How reliable it'is ?? Quite a good deal in my opinion considering RMAF will not going to use those Mig 29 anymore.
It makes sense for Rosoboronexport State Corp, if they can make it happen, given that we have people telling us that the RMAF is not delighted with the service provided, thus far. The Russians are smart, the more Malaysia buys, the more incentive Indonesia will have in buying more (to see if the Russians can get a little Maritime Southeast Asia arms race going on). :)

Link to the relevant Tempur article here.
 
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genduthijau

New Member
Is there any news on when at least RMAF plans to follow up the second batch of SU 30 MKM's?
India is already planning on an upgrade for their batch of SU 30 MKI's which is the same mould from where the MKM came from.
If the gov continues with its current style of spending a liltle bit on everything on a rotary basis, by the time it gets back to the SU 30, the initial batch planes would be outdated and they will have to look at upgrades together with a new batch of planes.
I think the MAF should consider overlooking the replacement of the burnt RMN ship for now and concentrate on completing the air force capabilities, that is the second batch of SU 30's and AWACS by selling off the MiG 29's. If possible also look at replacing the bugs with the superbugs.

This will certainly give the MAF more capable air supremacy against potential adversaries in the region during this troubled times. Any potential adversaries would have to deal with an overwhelming capability in the air by MAF if a country wants to think about attacking Malaysia.

That I think will certainly buy us more time b4 we go back to the round robin method of upgrading the MAF.
IMO MAF should upgrade their SAM capabilities. Current capabilities are restricted to SHORADS and VSHORADS. A battery or two of S300-PMU1 could do the job just fine. But then again there will be integration issues. Any aggressor would think twice if such asset are made avalaible and operational in Malaysia.

But then come the money issue. Do Malaysia have the cash and resources to operate and maintain the system?
 

nevidimka

New Member
I know there is a debate on using those SAM as opposed to acquiring expensive Air Force, but I do not think that is the right way to go. While SAM's are important defensive equipments, we cannot forgo the jets in protecting the country. These jets are more flexible, and be able to serve both the defensive and offensive role when need arises.
 
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