Rome: Malaysia is set to receive its first Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) from the Italian aerospace, defence, and security company Leonardo by the end of 2026. The second aircraft is scheduled for delivery three months later, as announced by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. These aircraft are part of a procurement deal finalized in 2023, valued at nearly RM900 million, aimed at bolstering the nation’s defence and maritime surveillance capabilities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during a working visit to Leonardo’s facility, Mohamed Khaled emphasized the necessity of such assets for a maritime nation like Malaysia. He noted that the aircraft would be equipped with advanced systems, including anti-submarine capabilities, to address related activities. The visit was attended by various dignitaries, including Malaysia’s Ambassador to Italy, San Marino, and Kosovo, Datuk Zahid Rastam, and Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Goriman Khan.

The aircraft, with airframes constructed in Toulouse, France, will be outfitted with anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems before their delivery to Malaysia. Mohamed Khaled highlighted the strategic importance of this procurement in enhancing the Malaysian Armed Forces’ readiness to tackle regional security challenges, particularly in the South China Sea.

The project is progressing well, with more than 60 percent completion, according to Mohamed Khaled. The acquisition of these MPAs is part of the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP 55), which plans for six MPAs to be acquired in phases.

The MPAs, designated as P-72M, are based on the ATR 72-600 aircraft, widely used in Southeast Asia. Their primary roles include anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare missions, with secondary roles in search and rescue operations, maritime zone surveillance, and joint operations with other military and government bodies.