The Air Defence Artillery Group (GAPU) of the Malaysian Army (TDM) demonstrated its combat readiness and capability to secure the nation’s airspace during the Panah Jaguh Exercise (EPJ) Series 2/2024. Conducted at the Surface-to-Air Firing Range (LSBU) in Tanjung Logok, Kota Tinggi, Johor, the exercise brought together a large contingent of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), showcasing an extensive lineup of personnel, weaponry, and assets across multiple branches of Malaysia’s defense services.
This intensive live-fire exercise, which took place from October 20, was led by GAPU Commander Brigadier General Azhar Mustapha and featured the participation of 82 officers and 780 personnel of various ranks. In a statement made via social media, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin emphasized the strategic significance of the Panah Jaguh Exercise, highlighting its role in maintaining operational readiness and testing the capabilities of GAPU’s assets and personnel.
“Through such exercises, we can assess whether the assets we have acquired are effective and suitable, and whether our personnel possess the necessary skills, competencies, and capabilities to operate them,” Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated. “Both these aspects are essential to ensure that the challenges and conflicts faced by the nation’s defence can be managed effectively.”
The primary goal of the exercise was to ensure that the Malaysian Army’s air defense units can effectively respond to and neutralize potential threats to the country’s airspace. As tensions around national borders grow and security concerns increase worldwide, maintaining a highly trained, well-prepared defense force remains a priority for Malaysia.
Panah Jaguh Exercise Series 2/2024 presented an extensive and diverse array of Malaysian military assets, underscoring GAPU’s strength in defending national airspace against potential airborne threats. Key weapons systems tested during the exercise included the 35mm Oerlikon cannon, known for its high precision in targeting, and the Starstreak missile, a renowned high-velocity surface-to-air missile system. The inclusion of these assets reflects Malaysia’s focus on integrating both advanced technology and versatile defense tools.
The exercise was not limited to GAPU’s primary weaponry; it also involved armored and tactical support vehicles such as:
- Gempita Armored Vehicle: A versatile armored fighting vehicle utilized for troop transport and ground support.
- ACV 300 Adnan: A tracked armored combat vehicle known for its adaptability in various combat conditions.
- G-Wagon Heavy Machine Gun (HMG): A light armored, weapon-mounted vehicle essential for ground combat support.
- GK MK 1 Gatling Gun and General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG): High-firepower, rapid-response systems designed for effective area suppression.
- Barrett Sniper Rifles: Precision long-range sniper rifles essential for securing strategic points.
These assets underscore the readiness and ability of the Malaysian Armed Forces to employ an adaptable, multi-faceted defense strategy.
One of the exercise’s highlights was its multi-branch, multi-asset collaboration, bringing together assets from the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Air Force to provide a comprehensive defense scenario. The Royal Malaysian Navy’s support included KD Perkasa, a fast patrol craft, and Fast Combat Boats (FCB). Additionally, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) contributed with the Sukhoi SU-30MKM aircraft, a high-performance, multi-role fighter jet that is critical for both offensive and defensive aerial operations.
This inter-branch collaboration demonstrated the interoperability between GAPU and other branches of the Malaysian Armed Forces. It underscored how different branches and military assets can work cohesively to establish a formidable defense network capable of responding to various threat scenarios. By integrating navy, air force, and army resources, the exercise simulated real-life scenarios where rapid coordination is essential, preparing personnel to respond seamlessly to potential national security threats.
In addition to evaluating the capabilities of defense assets, Panah Jaguh Exercise Series 2/2024 placed a strong emphasis on enhancing the skills and readiness of its personnel. The Army Training and Evaluation Program (ARTEP) 31 RAD and the Air Defence Artillery weapon systems’ live-fire drills were integral parts of the exercise, serving to improve personnel’s proficiency in handling complex weaponry and executing coordinated defense tactics.
The exercises evaluated personnel under realistic combat conditions, aiming to improve response times, accuracy, and decision-making in high-pressure environments. The rigorous training environment is designed to ensure that soldiers and officers alike can perform their roles confidently and effectively under real-world conditions.
High-ranking officials, including the Chief of Army General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, Ministry of Defence’s Secretary-General Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, and other senior officers from ATM, attended the event. Their presence underlines the strategic importance of the Panah Jaguh exercise in Malaysia’s defense policy, with leaders assessing the performance of assets and personnel alike.
This engagement by senior leadership indicates a strong commitment to maintaining a highly responsive defense force that is capable of protecting the nation’s sovereignty and responding to evolving defense challenges in Southeast Asia and beyond.
The Panah Jaguh exercise allowed GAPU to assess recently acquired defense assets, ensuring they align with Malaysia’s strategic goals and operational requirements. GAPU’s decision to focus on both traditional and advanced weaponry, such as the combination of machine guns, sniper rifles, and high-precision missile systems, reflects a balanced approach to air defense.
The 35mm Oerlikon cannon and the Starstreak missile system, in particular, were closely monitored during live-fire demonstrations, providing critical data on their operational efficiency, targeting accuracy, and response times. These assets, noted for their quick deployment and adaptability, allow GAPU to cover short- and medium-range air defense scenarios effectively. The exercise provided the perfect opportunity to analyze these systems in real combat scenarios, ensuring their effectiveness before deployment.
As airspace security becomes an increasingly vital concern in the context of global and regional security dynamics, Malaysia’s emphasis on air defense reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding its borders. Located strategically in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has actively fortified its defense posture, particularly in response to evolving security threats in the region. The Panah Jaguh Exercise illustrates how Malaysia aims to maintain robust air defense capabilities as part of its larger security architecture.
Malaysia’s proactive approach is not only intended to deter potential threats but also to contribute to regional stability. The exercise sends a clear message of deterrence and defense preparedness to both allies and potential adversaries alike, demonstrating Malaysia’s resolve to defend its airspace and support regional security initiatives.
In his social media statement, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin underscored the dual purpose of the Panah Jaguh Exercise: assessing the efficacy of acquired defense assets and evaluating personnel readiness.
“Both these aspects are essential to ensure that the challenges and conflicts faced by the nation’s defense can be managed effectively,” said the Minister, emphasizing the exercise’s role in preparing Malaysia’s defense forces for evolving threats.
This approach reflects a long-term strategy in which the Malaysian government and defense ministry prioritize defense procurement that aligns with national security needs. It also underlines Malaysia’s commitment to building a modern and agile defense force, capable of adapting to new technologies and operational challenges.
