RMAF may send Sukhois to India for maintenance amid Russia sanctions

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is exploring the possibility of sending its Sukhoi fighter jets to India for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) following servicing difficulties in Russia caused by international sanctions.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said India had offered an alternative for the Russian-made jets, as it possesses the capability to manufacture spare parts and service the aircraft.

"India has a large number of Sukhoi assets, and they are now able to produce spare parts," he said during Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Mohamad said Malaysia has faced hurdles in sending Sukhoi engines to Russia because payments cannot be made through conventional international banking channels due to United States sanctions.

"We can send the equipment, but we cannot make payments. Russia is under sanctions, and payments cannot be processed through the SWIFT system," he said.

He said India's offer could ensure the operational readiness of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Sukhoi Su-30MKM fleet.

The matter was discussed during the recent official visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Malaysia, he said.

Mohamad added that Malaysia, India and Vietnam, which all operate Sukhoi jets, are forming an informal group exploring cooperation in logistics, spare parts and technical support.

"Cooperation in areas including security, trade and technology is being enhanced following the upgrade of the Malaysia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024," he said.