The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is set to embark on a significant transformation of its helicopter fleet with the acquisition of the Leonardo AW149, a military variant of the latest generation helicopter, to replace the aging Sikorsky S-61 “Nuri.” This move comes as part of Malaysia’s broader defense modernization effort, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of its armed forces.
The Leonardo AW149 has been selected as the preferred helicopter for the RMAF, with its tailored specifications perfectly aligned with the needs of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF). According to RMAF Chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan, the AW149 will provide a versatile platform for crucial missions such as Search and Rescue (SAR), Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), and utility missions, all while ensuring cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
The Sikorsky S-61 “Nuri,” which has served the Malaysian military for decades, has become outdated and increasingly difficult to maintain. The Nuri, first introduced in the 1960s, has long been a workhorse for the RMAF, supporting various missions ranging from troop transport to disaster relief. However, its age has led to frequent maintenance challenges, safety concerns, and increasing operational costs. Replacing it has been a top priority for the MAF as it seeks to maintain operational readiness and capability in the face of evolving security challenges.
The Leonardo AW149, being a more advanced and modern platform, offers a host of advantages over its predecessor. It is designed specifically for military use, with a focus on survivability, versatility, and advanced technology integration. General Asghar emphasized that the specifications of the AW149 helicopters to be acquired by the RMAF are “entirely different from those used for civilian purposes,” underscoring the military-grade enhancements tailored to the needs of the Malaysian defense forces.
“The helicopter is well-suited for three primary roles: Search and Rescue (SAR), Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), and utility missions,” said General Asghar. He further explained that the AW149 is not just a technological upgrade but also offers long-term financial benefits for the RMAF. “If we were to opt for a different type of helicopter, we might need to spend more. Moreover, the operational costs of the Leonardo AW149 could potentially be lower compared to other types of helicopters,” he added, assuring that all necessary considerations were made to ensure the best decision for the Malaysian military.
The AW149 brings cutting-edge technology and design to the table, offering several advantages over older helicopters such as the Nuri.
Versatility: The AW149 is designed as a multi-role helicopter, capable of adapting to various mission requirements. Whether for SAR missions in hostile environments or transporting troops and supplies, the AW149 provides the flexibility that the RMAF needs.
Performance: Powered by two engines—either the General Electric CT7-2E1 or the Safran Aneto-1K—the AW149 boasts a top speed of 294 km/h and an operational range of 1,000 kilometers. It can fly for up to five hours, making it ideal for long-range missions.
Capacity: The helicopter can carry between 16 to 19 fully equipped troops, providing robust personnel transport capabilities. This feature is especially critical in combat situations where rapid deployment of soldiers is required.
Survivability: Designed with military operations in mind, the AW149 is equipped with advanced avionics, protective measures, and weaponry to ensure it can operate in hostile environments while safeguarding its crew and passengers.
Cost Efficiency: As General Asghar pointed out, the operational costs of the AW149 are likely to be lower than other helicopter models, making it an economically sound choice for the RMAF. Moreover, the lease-purchase agreement means the RMAF will not bear the burden of maintenance costs, allowing for more predictable budgeting and cost management.
The acquisition of the AW149 is part of a phased procurement strategy outlined by the Malaysian government. According to Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, the RMAF will acquire a total of 24 helicopters, divided into two phases. Phase 1 will involve the procurement of 12 helicopters with both utility and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) capabilities, while Phase 2 will see the acquisition of an additional 12 helicopters.
This phased approach ensures that the RMAF can gradually replace its aging fleet without overwhelming the defense budget or logistical support infrastructure. The procurement program is coordinated by the Public-Private Partnership Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department and the National Security Council, highlighting the significance of this initiative for Malaysia’s national defense.
“The type of helicopter that has been finalized through the Public-Private Committee Meeting for the RMAF is 12 units. At this point, we are considering the Leonardo AW149, which is capable of conducting both CSAR missions and utility tasks,” said General Mohammad, confirming the decision to proceed with the AW149 after careful evaluation.
The use of a public-private partnership model for this acquisition allows the government to leverage private sector expertise in financing and managing the project. This approach not only accelerates the procurement process but also provides the MAF with access to cutting-edge technology while maintaining fiscal discipline.
One of the core missions for the AW149 within the RMAF will be Search and Rescue (SAR), as well as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) operations. Malaysia, with its vast maritime zones and challenging geography, has a high demand for robust SAR capabilities. The AW149, with its long operational range and ability to operate in difficult environments, is ideally suited to meet these needs.
In SAR missions, speed and endurance are critical factors. The AW149’s ability to cover 1,000 kilometers and stay airborne for up to five hours provides the RMAF with a significant advantage in locating and rescuing individuals in distress, whether on land or at sea. The helicopter’s capacity to carry a large number of troops or SAR personnel also allows for rapid and large-scale responses to emergencies.
In CSAR missions, the AW149’s military-grade enhancements come into play. Combat Search and Rescue involves retrieving personnel from hostile environments, often under enemy fire or in hazardous conditions. The AW149 is equipped with advanced avionics, defensive systems, and weaponry to protect both the crew and those being rescued. This capability is particularly important for modern military operations, where the ability to extract personnel from danger can be the difference between success and failure.
The acquisition of the AW149 marks a significant step forward for the RMAF, not only in terms of replacing its aging helicopter fleet but also in enhancing its overall operational capabilities. The AW149’s versatility means that it can perform a wide range of missions, from humanitarian aid and disaster relief to combat operations, making it a valuable asset in both peacetime and wartime scenarios.
The helicopter’s advanced technology and performance capabilities will also allow the RMAF to operate more effectively in regional security operations, including maritime surveillance, border security, and counter-terrorism efforts. As Malaysia continues to face security challenges in its surrounding waters and within the broader Southeast Asian region, the AW149 will play a crucial role in ensuring that the RMAF remains a capable and responsive force.
Moreover, the decision to acquire the AW149 through a lease-purchase agreement reflects a growing trend among militaries worldwide to adopt flexible procurement models. This approach allows the RMAF to access the latest technology without the immediate financial burden of full ownership, while also ensuring that the helicopters are maintained to the highest standards by the private sector.
