Malaysia explores acquiring BrahMos missiles for Su-30MKM fleet

Malaysia is exploring the integration of the Indian-Russian BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system onto its fleet of 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKM multirole fighters. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that initial discussions regarding the acquisition took place during bilateral meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

While Anwar expressed support for the proposal as a means to cement the trusted relationship between Malaysia and India, he emphasized that the final decision rests with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). The BrahMos is a ramjet-powered missile capable of traveling at speeds approaching Mach 3, designed to engage both naval and land targets from standoff distances.

If approved, the upgrade would significantly enhance the RMAF’s long-range anti-ship strike capabilities, particularly in strategic maritime regions such as the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca. The missile system is a joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya.