KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) will carry out a thorough evaluation before deciding on the proposed acquisition of F/A-18 Legacy Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait, says Air Force Chief Gen Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris.
He said the assessment would include delivery timelines, acquisition and maintenance costs, to ensure the aircraft remain viable for long-term operations.
“No decision has been made yet,” he said when contacted today, adding that a technical team is expected to visit Kuwait in September to evaluate the 38 jets on offer.
The plan follows official clearance from the United States, the aircraft’s country of origin. However, a recent media report said negotiations had stalled due to the complexity of the process.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously held talks with Kuwaiti leaders in October 2023, with both sides agreeing to form a joint military committee to explore the deal.- Bernama