Recently, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has been exploring the possibility of acquiring military aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), specifically the KF-21 Boramae from South Korea, or the Sukhoi Su-57 from Russia (NATO code: Felon). These aircraft are being considered as part of the Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA) program.
Previously, the RMAF had evaluated and considered several European fighter aircraft models for the MRCA program. These included the Dassault Rafale (France), the SAAB JAS-39E Gripen (Sweden), and the Eurofighter Typhoon (a joint project of the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain), as well as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (USA).
Unfortunately, the procurement process for these aircraft did not reach a final decision due to new program adjustments that eventually disqualified these candidates. The primary reason was that these military aircraft, classified as 4.5 generation fighters, had already operated for over 20 years.
In addition to the aging generation of these 4.5-generation fighters, Boeing announced it would cease production of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet by 2025. This was a significant blow to the RMAF, negatively impacting the previously designed MRCA program. Consequently, the RMAF needed other alternatives for its Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA) requirements.
As a result, the RMAF has considered the Russian Su-57 as an alternative. However, concerns regarding the readiness and availability of the Sukhoi Su-57 for export are compounded by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which could negatively impact Malaysia's reputation and delivery schedule.
Another potential option is to acquire used Hornet F-18C/D aircraft from the Kuwait Air Force (KAF) to supplement the current fleet operating within the RMAF, along with additional Sukhoi Su-30MKM (NATO code: Flanker) aircraft.
Given these considerations, the RMAF must thoroughly evaluate its plans for acquiring fighter jets. Notably, the KAI KF-21 is seen as a favorable option for the MRCA program, evidenced by the RMAF's previous acquisition of several fighter jets from the Korean Air Force (KAF).
However, it should be noted that the KF-21 fighter jet, produced by the Korean Air Force, is also classified as a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft.
