Subang air base: The first experience of flying in a Su-30MKM fighter jet gave Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali a new perspective on the aircraft's capabilities and the level of competency of Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) personnel responsible for its operation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the experience was highly meaningful as it not only provided an opportunity to observe the aircraft's capabilities up close, but also offered an insight into the importance of competency, discipline and professionalism among RMAF personnel in ensuring the asset is utilised to its full potential. Lokman Hakim emphasized the significance of the experience in allowing him to witness firsthand the capabilities of the aircraft and the expertise of the personnel operating it.
The flight took place last Friday at Subang Air Base and also involved Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris. Lokman Hakim noted that the experience provided an insight that the Su-30MKM should not be viewed merely as a fighter jet, but rather as a combat system whose effectiveness depends on a combination of technology, people and the overall operational support ecosystem.
He highlighted the Su-30MKM's important role in the RMAF's air defence capabilities, especially in protecting the country's airspace and maritime interests. The aircraft forms part of Malaysia's deterrence strategy, ensuring credible capabilities to defend its sovereignty and national interests. Lokman Hakim stressed that the Su-30MKM should be seen as part of the overall development of air power, including combat capabilities, readiness, sustainment and balanced planning for asset replacement in line with the country's strategic needs.
He explained that the readiness of an air asset is determined not only by the physical condition of the aircraft, but also by the pilots' ability to master and fully utilise the capabilities of the platform. Continuous training is crucial to maintain a high level of understanding, skills and readiness, including through joint training involving aircraft from different platforms.
Lokman Hakim mentioned the RMAF's experience in conducting joint training with the Royal Australian Air Force's fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II aircraft during Exercise Elangaroo 24, which also involved the RMAF's F/A-18D and Su-30MKM aircraft. He concluded by stating that the true strength of the Su-30MKM lies in the combination of the platform, pilots, engineers, technicians and the overall support ecosystem that has been built, and that this capability must be continuously strengthened to ensure maximum defence value to the country.