Article Posted on : - May 18, 2010

Sukhoi Su-30MKM. A File Photo.

KUALA LUMPUR (BNS): Royal Malaysian Air Force's (RMAF) squadron of Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighters will soon be trained by India and Russia as part of the trilateral Russian-Indian-Malaysian collaboration.

The Sukhoi is a very complex and complicated aircraft to operate. India has therefore, sent an Indian Air Force (IAF) team, while Moscow has deployed a warranty team from aircraft manufacturer Irkut Corporation for training the Royal Malaysian Air Force's (RMAF) squadron of Su-30MKM fighters.

The two countries are committed to bolster Malaysia's air defence and combat capability, so far as the Su-30MKM squadron is concerned.

"The fact that a foreign country is permitted to groom, train and equip your frontline pilots is by itself a testament of the confidence and faith they have in us. This is a strong demonstration of a high-level of friendship and diplomacy which is very commendable," IAF's chief flight instructor Group Captain K V R Raju was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.

The instructor is leading an Indian contingent of four instructor pilots, one weapons systems officer, two engineers, 22 technicians and two administrative servicemen.

The IAF pilots would be retained until August, while their colleagues would return after the completion of their two-year tour of duty in July.

Raju said the trilateral collaboration was something unique as it provided a stepping stone for the country to groom its next generation of airmen.

"Thus far, our assessment of the RMAF crew shows they are of an exceptional high standard and I am confident the current crew will pass on their expertise and experience to others to take Malaysia to the next level of competency."

"I believe strongly in this partnership, especially with the support of the proven Irkut Corporation and India's Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd in terms of obtaining reliable spares and equipment," Lt Col Mohamad Asghar Khan said.

He was referring to the pioneer batch of six pilots, four engineers and 53 technical crew sent to Russia and over 100 technical crew sent to India for training.