Article Posted on : - Dec 06, 2011

LANGKAWI (BNS): Malaysia will play host to world's leading aerospace and naval firms displaying a range advanced military technology during the 11th edition of Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition (LIMA '11) that begins today.

The biennial defence show will provide a platform for the global aerospace and maritime industry to exhibit and promote cutting-edge defence technology in the Asia Pacific region.

A wide range of aircraft including fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles will take part in the show with both static and aerobatic display. Besides, a number of naval vessels and other weapons will also be exhibited during the five-day show.

A total of 65 aircraft and 59 ships are taking part in LIMA '11, according to Bernama news agency.

LIMA 2011 is expected to attract the participation of over 400 companies from 56 countries, including US, Russia, France, Italy, India, South Korea and Pakistan.

The previous edition of the international defence show in 2009 had registered the participation of 325 companies from 25 countries and 210 delegates from 39 countries. The show attracted over 70,000 trade and public visitors. Defence deals worth RM5 billion were clinched during the event.

This year, LIMA will focus on major segments like helicopter industry, unmanned aerial vehicles, littoral combat ships that are in line with the market.

Major aerospace firms taking part in this year's exhibition include Airbus, Boeing, Sukhoi, Rosoboronexport, Dassault, SAAB, Embraer, Sikorsky, Thales, Eurocopter and AgustaWestland. The maritime industry will be represented by DCNS, Navantia, Damen Shipyards and Daewoo Shipbuilding among others.

Leading Indian defence firms taking part in the exhibition include BrahMos Aerospace and Goa Shipyard Ltd.

Malaysia's professional aerobatics team, 'Krisakti', will also make its first aerial display during the event that concludes on December 10.