Article Posted on : - Nov 27, 2013

Su-30MK. A Sukhoi photo

NEW DELHI (PTI): Operating similar Russian-origin Su-30 combat aircraft, Air Forces of India and Malaysia have discussed ways of further enhancing their cooperation during the meeting between their chiefs here.

"Malaysian air chief General Tan Sri Dato Sri Rodzali bin Daud, who is on a four-day visit, called on IAF Chief NAK Browne here at the Air Headquarters where a wide range of bilateral issues related to the ongoing defence cooperation were discussed," an IAF release said.

As there is a commonality of aircraft being operated by the two air forces, Gen Bin Daud will also visit IAF's Pune airbase to see the training facilities of Su-30 MKIs and Ozar base repair depot in Nasik which houses MiG-29 upgrade and overhaul facility as well as Su-30 manufacturing facility.

A team of IAF pilots and technicians were in Malaysia in 2008 for two years to train the Malaysian pilots, Weapon System Operators (WSO) and maintenance staff for the smooth induction and operation of their newly acquired Su-30 MKM fighter aircraft.

IAF has also assisted them in setting up a Systems School for the Su-30 MKM at Gong Kedak Air Base.

Browne had visited Malaysia last year and held talks on issues including professional exchanges, Su-30 training, courses, maintenance and logistic issues.