Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) signed 40 contracts or Letters of Acceptance (LOA), Letters of Intent (LOI), and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), worth RM11 billion, with selected strategic partners during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that these contracts involved 40 LOA, two LOI worth over RM30 million, awarded to companies from the end of 2023 to date, and six MoUs between MINDEF and selected strategic partners. The total value also includes 45 other procurement contracts worth between RM10 million and RM30 million signed previously.
Mohamed Khaled highlighted that the procurement amount increased by about RM1 billion compared to RM10.1 billion, with 43 documents, signed at LIMA ’23. These acquisitions cover five main areas: the acquisition of strategic assets for land, maritime, air defence, cybersecurity, and facilities and welfare of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).
The Minister emphasized the importance of enhancing the readiness of the country’s defence assets and strengthening territorial sovereignty. An example is a LOI to Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd for procuring 136 units of Type A Armoured Vehicles (KJA) and Infrastructure worth RM1.88 billion.
He further explained that empowering MAF’s capabilities is crucial by ensuring assets are maintained in good condition and enhancing existing capabilities. This includes contracts like the Maintenance and Repair Contract for the Prime Minister’s Class Submarine worth RM1.02 billion, and the obsolescence management service procurement contract for KD Perdana worth RM48 million.
Addressing non-traditional threats is also a priority, achieved by strengthening national cybersecurity and telecommunications technology, such as X-Band Satellites and leasing “Secure Satellite Communication Channels”. Additionally, procurement involves development and research, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies, while prioritizing aspects of well-being.