Malaysia postpones plan to buy new fighter jets due to IS concerns

(Baonghean.vn) - Malaysia has postponed a $2 billion plan to replace its aging fighter jet fleet, instead considering upgrading its aerial surveillance capabilities to counter the growing threat from jihadists affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) group, a source familiar with the matter said on July 13.

Rafale fighter jet. Photo: Reuters

Over the past few years, Southeast Asia’s third-largest economy has been weighing up a competitive bid to buy French Rafale fighter jets and the Eurofighter Typhoon, made by British firm BAE Systems. Kuala Lumpur is considering buying up to 18 of the jets to replace its Russian Mig-29s, nearly half of which are grounded.

However, Reuters news agency quoted a Malaysian Defense Ministry source as saying that the country had postponed the above plans, as it was now considering increasing its aerial surveillance capabilities, which would become essential in the fight against jihadists.

The decision comes as Islamic militants continue to clash with security forces in Marawi in the southern Philippines. Malaysia and Indonesia, which share Borneo island, are coordinating with the Philippines to conduct sea and air patrols along their shared border in the Sulu Sea.

“Regarding the Rafale fighter jet, France is still pushing for the sale of the aircraft to the Philippines during the recent Paris air show. However, given the current situation, Malaysia is focusing on strengthening its maritime patrol aircraft rather than multi-role fighter jets,” the source said.
The crisis in Marawi has raised concerns among Southeast Asian governments, as the region could become the next IS base, especially as militants return home from Iraq after the terrorist group was defeated in its stronghold of Mosul./.

Lan Ha

(According to Reuters)