Sukhoi jets fit for service until 2035, says air force chief

KUALA LUMPUR: Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) chief General Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris says the Sukhoi Su-30MKM aircraft remain fully operational and are expected to serve effectively until 2035.

Norazlan said the 18-year-old jets remain relevant and in good condition, and could continue to serve for at least another decade provided they are properly maintained and serviced on schedule.

He added the Sukhoi Su-30MKM he piloted on Merdeka Day performed just as it did when he first flew the aircraft after completing training in Zhukovsky, Moscow, in 2007.

"I was among the first group of four pilots to operate the Sukhoi Su-30MKM in 2007, and its capabilities remain the same to this day," he said.

For fighter aircraft, the minimum operational lifespan is 20 years, but this can be extended to 30 years or more if maintenance is carried out properly and upgrades are implemented.

"After personally flying the Sukhoi Su-30MKM yesterday, and with over 3,000 flight hours on combat aircraft, I can confirm this jet is still in excellent condition and capable of service for at least another decade," he told Berita Harian today.

On Sunday, Norazlan made history as the first RMAF chief to lead an aerial display during the 68th National Day celebrations in Putrajaya, showcasing his ability to pilot the twin-engine, super-manoeuvrable Su-30MKM.

Appointed as the 21st RMAF chief in June, he led a formation featuring 30 national air assets.

The Sukhoi Su-30MKM Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP), undertaken by local firm Aerospace Technology Systems Corporation (ATSC), it's been reported, allows the aircraft to operate for another 10 years through maintenance and upgrades, ensuring the RMAF remains mission-ready.

ATSC also carries out service life extension, maintenance and refurbishment to ensure RMAF aircraft remain at peak readiness in safeguarding national sovereignty.

Reflecting on his experience with the Sukhoi Su-30MKM, Norazlan said he underwent four months of training in Russia in 2007 and last flew the aircraft in 2016.

He added that after nine years away from the cockpit, he faced no difficulty returning to pilot the aircraft for the National Day aerial performance.

"As RMAF chief, I must set the best example for my personnel, and at the age of 58, I want to inspire them that age is no barrier if we maintain our health and continually sharpen our skills.

"I knew this was not an easy task, and I spent five hours training on the Sukhoi simulator at Gong Kedak before the actual flight. I then trained for a week with the team to prepare for the National Day formation display. I am proud of the professionalism and precision demonstrated by everyone involved in the event," he said.

Meanwhile, Norazlan confirmed he will receive a briefing next week on the initial findings of the recent F/A-18D Hornet incident in Kuantan, Pahang.

"The aircraft engine has been brought back to Butterworth, and the investigation is focusing on three aspects — possible foreign object damage (FOD), a bird strike, or an engine issue.

"To determine the cause, we need expert analysis as this investigation is highly technical.

"Until the full report is completed, the operations of all seven F/A-18D Hornets will remain suspended, as we cannot risk the lives of our pilots," he said.