Kuala lumpur: The Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence (STRIDE) is creating a national defence drone framework to counter modern warfare threats, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He emphasized that drones and new technologies are now among the main threats in today's security landscape, making early preparation essential to safeguard the nation's defence capabilities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Defence Minister highlighted that the focus is on emerging areas, particularly in response to the threats posed by modern warfare technologies such as drones. STRIDE has been tasked with developing a framework for national defence drones to ensure preparedness against these emerging threats. The minister made these remarks during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, addressing a query from Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik (PH-Balik Pulau) about the specific research and development (R and D) initiatives under the National Defence Industry Policy (DIPN) launched recently.
Mohamed Khaled explained that the DIPN is an ongoing framework designed to evolve in line with defence needs and technological advancements. He stressed the importance of a strong R and D and technology ecosystem that remains open to all sectors of the defence industry. Initially, the focus will not be on building equipment like aircraft but rather on components and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
Addressing the Royal Malaysian Navy's (RMN) Littoral Mission Ship (LMS) project in Turkiye, Mohamed Khaled noted that the decision was based on specific considerations at the time. However, for future projects, the government plans to limit overseas construction to one ship, with the remainder built domestically. This approach aims to facilitate the transfer of expertise and experience to the local industry.
The DIPN launch also introduced measures to enhance the local defence industry, including a mandate of at least 30 percent local components in all defence procurements. Mohamed Khaled mentioned that there are currently 15 MROs operated by foreign OEMs that Malaysians are now capable of taking over, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in the defence sector.