Defence Ministry allocates RM6bil for new military hardware including aircraft, UAVs and naval vessels
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will receive new aircraft, unmanned systems and naval assets this year under the Defence Ministry’s RM21.74 billion allocation in Budget 2026, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.
He said RM6 billion of the allocation has been channelled specifically for the procurement of defence assets and equipment for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).
“InsyaAllah, this year we will receive several new assets.
“Among the major ones are four units of fighter lead-in trainer or light combat aircraft, three units of medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial systems, and five interceptor craft,” he said in his New Year address today at Wisma Perwira ATM.
Khaled said the ministry would also begin the procurement of several strategic defence systems to strengthen Malaysia’s air and maritime security capabilities.
“Among the strategic procurements we will initiate are very short-range air defence systems, medium-range air defence systems, and a multi-role support ship,” he said.
He said the acquisitions are part of efforts to modernise national defence assets in line with future force development plans.
“These procurements are aimed at strengthening and modernising our defence capabilities to ensure the readiness of the Malaysian Armed Forces in facing future challenges,” he said.
Khaled said the Defence Ministry’s allocation for 2026 represents an increase of 2.92% compared to the previous year , mounting RM21.74 billion as announced from the Budget 2026 last year.
He added that the ministry will also push to strengthen Malaysia’s domestic defence industry to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
“InsyaAllah, this month we will launch the National Defence Industry Policy, which outlines seven clear thrusts to build a strong, competitive and resilient defence industry.
On regional security, Khaled said Malaysia remains cautious over developments in the South China Sea.
“We cannot afford to be complacent because the South China Sea remains an area of uncertainty, especially with the use of grey zone tactics that threaten national sovereignty,” he said.
He said the continued presence of such tactics posed risks to national sovereignty, requiring Malaysia to maintain credible defence capabilities to protect its maritime interests and territorial integrity.
