The Royal Malaysian Air Force will receive new UAVs, combat aircraft and radar in 2026, focusing on operational readiness and integrity.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force is scheduled to receive and operate several new strategic assets this year as part of its modernisation agenda.
Chief of Air Force Gen Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the assets include three ANKA Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, an air defence radar in Bintulu, and two F/A-50M light combat aircraft.
He stated that the arrival of these new assets demands comprehensive preparation beyond merely adding platforms.
This preparation includes organisational restructuring, human resource competency development, and infrastructure upgrades.
Strengthening doctrines, operating procedures, and maintenance systems is also crucial to ensure optimum asset readiness.
Muhamad Norazlan made these remarks in his 2026 New Year address at the Air Warfare Centre Auditorium in Subang.
He emphasised that 2026 marks a critical phase in the RMAF’s transformation agenda.
Continuous commitment from personnel is required to protect national airspace sovereignty amid an increasingly complex security environment.
He stressed that an operational mindset must be the core of the RMAF’s thinking and work culture.
“This approach emphasises the ability to optimise the elements of man, machine, and method in an integrated manner,” he said.
Planning and execution must be oriented towards mission success and actual field capabilities, not just process compliance.
The CAF’s Six Pillars of Command remain the foundation of the service’s direction.
Execution across all leadership levels must be disciplined, integrated, and based on accountability.
Muhamad Norazlan said the RMAF’s success is measured by its real-world operational capability.
This includes the ability to operate, support, and sustain assets in actual operational environments.
Regarding leadership, he outlined four core values: firmness, courage, fairness, and wisdom.
These values are pillars for a professional, high-integrity work culture.
He affirmed that the RMAF will not compromise on disciplinary misconduct or legal violations.
This stance is to preserve the dignity and credibility of the service.
The force also prioritises efforts to restore public trust in the Malaysian Armed Forces.
Combating corruption without compromise and strengthening integrity systems are key priorities.
Discipline will be enforced firmly, fairly, and consistently, regardless of rank or position.
Muhamad Norazlan expressed confidence in the RMAF’s future direction.
With strong leadership and the right work culture, the RMAF will remain a credible air power.
This capability is essential for facing future security challenges in the nation’s interest.
