In a landmark move signaling a shift in the operational doctrine of the Malaysian Army, the force is set to induct hovercraft into its arsenal for the first time in its history. The initial two Hovercraft Fast Interceptors—locally designated SALAMANDER—are scheduled for delivery in October this year, marking a significant step forward in the Army’s push for greater amphibious versatility and rapid-response capabilities in littoral environments. According to Lt Col (Rtd) Shahrulamir Abd Rahman, Business Development Manager of IDC Technologies Sdn Bhd, the remaining four units will arrive by October 2026, completing a fleet of six under the current acquisition program.
The introduction of hovercraft is not merely a technological upgrade; it represents a strategic adaptation to an evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific. The South China Sea has become an increasingly contested arena, with great power competition, grey-zone threats, and maritime security challenges shaping Malaysia’s defence priorities.
Fast, amphibious platforms that can seamlessly operate across coastal, estuarine, and riverine terrains are now a necessity rather than a luxury. The SALAMANDER hovercraft, based on the Kaiman-class model developed by Australian firm Airlift Hovercraft Pty Ltd, is designed to address both military and non-military operational requirements.
Rugged, agile, and engineered for harsh conditions, the SALAMANDER introduces a new dimension in mobility, bridging the gap between land forces and maritime elements. The hovercraft is built for multipurpose deployment, including military operations, search and rescue (SAR), and industrial missions.
Under the RM20.37 million contract awarded to IDC Technologies—a Bumiputera defence firm—the three-year acquisition program includes supply, delivery, rigorous testing, commissioning, and operator training. IDC Technologies will provide hands-on training for Army personnel to ensure seamless integration and mission readiness.
Each SALAMANDER can transport up to 10 personnel, including two operators and eight fully equipped troops. The craft has an endurance of at least seven hours at cruising speed without requiring refuelling. It is capable of speeds between 40 and 60 km/h, with a payload capacity of 900kg, making it ideal for high-risk missions such as covert insertions, rapid beach landings, and battlefield logistics in denied terrain.
Unlike conventional amphibious vehicles, hovercraft can traverse both land and water, making them invaluable for Special Operations Forces (SOF) and other rapid-response units. Malaysia’s geography—characterized by islands, mangroves, river deltas, and flood-prone zones—makes the hovercraft an ideal asset for challenging operational environments.
Beyond military use, the hovercraft is expected to play a crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions. Malaysia frequently experiences monsoon flooding, with submerged roads and isolated communities posing significant logistical challenges. The hovercraft’s ability to glide over swamps, marshlands, shallow estuaries, and floodwaters will enhance the Army’s ability to respond effectively in disaster-stricken areas.
In addition to disaster relief, the SALAMANDER is well-suited for Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW), including counter-smuggling operations, anti-piracy patrols, and border security missions, particularly within the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE) and other strategic chokepoints.
From a geo-strategic perspective, Malaysia’s decision to acquire hovercraft signals an intent to enhance littoral dominance, increase expeditionary mobility, and develop a credible rapid-response capability in times of conflict or crisis. The move aligns with broader regional trends, where Southeast Asian nations are increasingly investing in amphibious capabilities to prepare for hybrid threats and contested maritime environments.
Countries like Japan and the Philippines have ramped up their amphibious programs, with Japan expanding its fleet of AAV7 Assault Amphibious Vehicles and the Philippines focusing on littoral response units. Malaysia’s acquisition of hovercraft reflects a similar recognition of the strategic value of multi-domain readiness.
IDC Technologies has expressed interest in future defence tenders, particularly those involving strategic and dual-use assets that align with Malaysia’s Armed Forces modernization roadmap. While the hovercraft initiative is a major leap forward, it is part of a broader transformation within the Malaysian Army as it seeks to enhance its agility, speed, and operational flexibility.
As modern warfare evolves, the need for rapid, adaptive, and multi-functional platforms becomes paramount. The SALAMANDER hovercraft could prove to be a quiet but impactful disruptor in Malaysia’s defence strategy—one that fills critical gaps in mobility and operational reach.
With deliveries set to begin in October, all eyes will be on the Malaysian Army as it integrates this cutting-edge capability into its force structure. Whether in warfighting, disaster response, or maritime security, the SALAMANDER is poised to be a game-changer in the nation’s evolving military doctrine.
