RMAF EC725 helicopters get firepower upgrade for combat rescue missions

KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force's EC725 helicopters have received a firepower boost, enhancing their combat search and rescue (CSAR) capabilities in high-risk environments.

This comes after the RMAF received the FN MAG 58M 7.62mm weapon system for its EC725 AP helicopters as part of its efforts to strengthen operational readiness and enhance the effectiveness of its air assets under the Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP 55).

The RMAF said the helicopters are among its key assets, capable of undertaking a range of missions including CSAR operations, humanitarian assistance, tactical transport and special operations.

"The acquisition was undertaken to meet the requirements of CSAR missions, which often require helicopters to operate in hostile or high-threat environments where self-protection capabilities are essential.

"The system will enhance the safety of aircrew and personnel involved in rescue missions, enabling operations to be carried out more effectively and safely," it said in a statement.

The handover ceremony saw Airbus Helicopters managing director Axel de Pascal present the weapon system to air force chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris in conjunction with the 68th RMAF Open Day at the Kuantan air base.

The RMAF said the government had signed a letter of acceptance with Belgian firearms manufacturer FN Herstal for the procurement of five FN MAG 58M machine guns chambered in 7.62mm calibre.

It said the FN MAG 58M is a proven weapon system that is widely used by armed forces around the world.

Prior to the handover, a final acceptance test was conducted from March 30 to June 4 involving No. 10 Squadron at Kuantan air base and No. 5 Squadron at Labuan air base.

The tests were carried out to ensure that the weapon systems met the technical specifications, safety standards and operational requirements set by the RMAF.