Malaysia considers 5th-generation fighter jets for 2040 fleet replacement

KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry is considering the procurement of fifth-generation (5G) fighter jets from France, the United States and Russia.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, speaking in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, said the acquisition would be part of efforts to replace the entire fleet of fighter aircraft by 2040.

He said the proposal would be taken into account should the delivery of Kuwait Air Force's (KAF) F/A Hornet fighter jets take too long.

What are 5th Generation Fighter Jets?

Fifth-generation fighter jets represent the most advanced aircraft technology ever developed. They are designed to operate with the support of digital programmes and fly-by-wire systems to counter threats on the battlefield.

Modern combat aircraft are characterised by features such as stealth technology, supercruise capability, and highly integrated avionics, all of which provide superior situational awareness, enhanced combat performance and greater survivability in contested airspace.

-Stealth technology consists of complex techniques that make an aircraft difficult to detect by enemy radar, significantly reducing the chances of being tracked.

-Engines are embedded within the fuselage to minimise heat signatures, while specialised radars are developed since adversaries can detect emissions from the aircraft's own systems.

-These design aspects make fifth-generation jets extremely complex and costly to develop, which is why only a handful of nations have pursued such programmes.

Key Specifications of 5th Generation Fighters

Stealth: Designed with low radar cross-sections and other concealment features to minimise detectability.

Supercruise: The ability to sustain supersonic speeds without afterburners, improving range and fuel efficiency.

Advanced Avionics & Sensor Fusion: Highly integrated onboard systems that process inputs from multiple sensors, giving pilots a comprehensive view of the battlespace.

Supermaneuverability: Advanced airframes and thrust-vectoring engines enable exceptional agility and manoeuvring capabilities.

Network-Centric Operations: Ability to share data and communicate with other platforms, enhancing situational awareness and coordination in joint missions.