Malaysia’s Defense Ministry (MINDEF) is strengthening its partnership with the UK as it shifts focus to tech-driven military operations, aligned with the national defense strategy. This move was highlighted by Defense Minister Mohamad Hasan during the Defense and Security Equipment International (DSEI 2023) event in London.
At DSEI, the MINDEF delegation had discussions with British Chief of General Staff General Sir Patrick Sanders and engaged with global defense industry leaders, tapping into the latest innovations and technology trends, such as the utilization of the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). MINDEF’s participation at DSEI also aims to promote the upcoming Defense Services Asia 2024 event set for May 6-9, 2024, in Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia is currently transitioning from traditional operations to a tech-based defense approach, aiming to cut operational expenses while boosting investment in development. It is also looking at improving interoperability among the three services of the armed forces, the Malaysian Army (TDM), Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) and the need of an integrated system which would enable more seamless communication. Notably, MINDEF stated that advanced surveillance drones are set to be introduced by 2026, complementing the smaller drones already patrolling the borders near Kalimantan and Thailand.
(Sources: The Sun Daily; New Straits Times)
