Malaysia receives first two KAI FA-50M fighter jets

Malaysia has received its first two KAI FA-50M light combat aircraft from South Korea. The jets landed at the Labuan air base in Sabah on October 30, serving as a stopover before their final destination at Kuantan Air Base.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced that the official handover ceremony is scheduled for mid-November at Kuantan. These aircraft, developed by Korea Aerospace Industries, are part of a larger order of 18 jets intended to replace the Royal Malaysian Air Force's Hawk fleet, which is slated for retirement in 2028.

The FA-50M is a two-seat, single-engine supersonic trainer and light combat aircraft capable of speeds up to Mach 1.2. The fleet will support the air force's lead-in fighter training and light combat missions, specifically serving with No. 15 Squadron. The contract, valued at approximately US$920 million, includes a delivery schedule where six jets are expected by April 2027, with the remaining aircraft arriving in early 2028.