This agreement establishes a framework for collaborative repair, maintenance, upgrades, and post-sales technical support for avionics systems, aircraft display systems, and automated test equipment across the RMAF’s aviation assets. Under this partnership, ATSC will source critical avionics systems and components from Samtel, facilitating the delivery of integrated support solutions for the Su-30MKM and additional platforms within the RMAF inventory.
ATSC, which already possesses the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) contract for the Su-30MKM fleet, aims to enhance its role as a centre of excellence for sustainment and modernization, leveraging Samtel’s advanced avionics capabilities.
“This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our global expansion efforts,” remarked Puneet Kaura, Managing Director & CEO of Samtel Avionics. “It aligns seamlessly with our vision to provide indigenous, world-class avionics solutions to our allies while nurturing long-term industrial partnerships. By combining ATSC’s robust local presence with our technological leadership, we are eager to deliver outstanding value to the Royal Malaysian Air Force.”
The collaboration also incorporates elements for technology transfer and the development of local capabilities, ensuring that Malaysia’s defence sector gains sustained technical knowledge and reduces reliance on foreign entities.
Lt Col Dato Mohd Fadzar Bin Suhada (Rtd), CEO of ATSC, shared this perspective, stating, “We take pride in strengthening our relationship with Samtel Avionics through this exclusive collaboration. This agreement aligns with our goal of enhancing Malaysia’s defence readiness while fostering industrial partnerships with strategic allies like India.”
The agreement is indicative of a broader movement towards regional defence cooperation and technology-sharing, positioning India’s private defence firms as increasingly significant players within the global aerospace and defence landscape.
Given that the Su-30MKM is a vital air superiority asset for Malaysia, this partnership is anticipated to improve fleet availability, decrease lifecycle costs, and bolster Malaysia’s aspirations for defence self-reliance.
(Edited by : Ajay Vaishnav)
