Malaysia Receives First South Korean FA-50M Jet Deliveries
The Royal Malaysian Air Force received its first two FA-50M light combat aircraft on October 30, 2026, after the jets were flown from Sacheon, South Korea, to the RMAF Labuan base. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin accepted the two aircraft at the RMAF Labuan base, marking an initial step in a nearly RM4 billion procurement program signed with Korea Aerospace Industries in May 2023.
Contracts and Delivery Timelines
The delivery forms part of a broader order for 18 FA-50M Block 20 aircraft purchased under Malaysia’s Fighter Lead-In Training and Light Combat Aircraft programme. The acquisition is designed to eventually replace the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s aging fleet of Hawk aircraft, which are scheduled for decommissioning in 2028. Following this arrival, the air force expects to receive a total of six FA-50M aircraft by April 2027, with the remaining units scheduled for delivery in early 2028.
Kind of a big deal. 👀 South Korea's homegrown fighter just flew with the big dogs.This formation from Freedom Flag 26-2, the U.S.-South Korea air exercise running Oct 26 to Nov 6 out of Kunsan, has an odd one out. In the middle, between the U-2 and the F-35, sits a KF-21… pic.twitter.com/9UKV8WrZ60
Pilot Training and Operational Bases
Preparation for the new squadron has included intensive training abroad. All six pilots in the initial training group completed their flight training program in South Korea on October 21, alongside engineering officers and technicians. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the aircraft will be operated by the No. 15 Squadron and stationed at both the RMAF Kuantan Air Base on the peninsula and the RMAF Labuan base, providing coverage across both regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first FA-50M aircraft touch down in Malaysia?
The first two FA-50M fighter jets arrived on October 30, 2026, at the RMAF Labuan base after being flown directly from Sacheon, South Korea.
How many total aircraft are included in the agreement with Korea Aerospace Industries?
The contract covers 18 FA-50 Block 20 light combat aircraft tailored under the specific Malaysian designation FA-50M, with a total value approaching RM4 billion.
Where will the new fighter jets be permanently based?
The aircraft will be operated by the RMAF No. 15 Squadron and deployed across both the Kuantan Air Base and the Labuan Air Base, though officials have not yet specified the exact distribution count for each location.
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