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Modernization of Malaysian Air Force with Replacement of Nuri by Leonardo AW149.
The Malaysian Armed Forces are now turning to the Leonardo AW149 to replace the iconic Sikorsky S-61A-4 Nuri helicopter, formerly used by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM). This ambitious fleet renewal project includes the acquisition of 24 helicopters, divided into two phases, to meet the modern operational needs of Malaysia’s military aviation. This announcement was made by General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, Chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces, during a press conference following the 91st Malaysian Armed Forces Day celebration held in Port Dickson.
The Leonardo AW149 is a next-generation medium multi-role military helicopter designed for a wide range of demanding battlefield missions (Picture source: Leonardo)
The S-61A-4 Nuri, produced in the 1960s, is a robust helicopter often used by the Royal Malaysian Air Force for troop transport and logistical missions. Designed with moderate load capacity and older engines, the Nuri has a range of about 450 km and can reach a maximum speed of 204 km/h. While reliable, its outdated design limits its performance in modern combat environments, particularly in terms of protection and target-tracking technology.
The Leonardo AW149 is a next-generation medium multi-role military helicopter designed for a wide range of demanding battlefield missions. Its configuration allows for troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue (SAR) operations, personnel recovery, and special forces missions. Built to offer great flexibility, the AW149 has a spacious and modular cabin capable of carrying up to 16 fully equipped soldiers or 19 with lighter equipment. The helicopter integrates advanced avionics and weapon systems, enabling both day and night missions, even in adverse weather conditions. This adaptability, combined with a mission-specific open architecture tailored to customer needs, optimizes operational efficiency and survivability.
To ensure a high level of crew safety and combat resilience, the AW149 is equipped with numerous defense features. The helicopter is designed with rotor blades resistant to ballistic impacts and a reinforced structure to withstand battle conditions, along with crashworthy fuselage, seats, and landing gear. Self-sealing fuel tanks, an integrated defense system, and optional armor protection enhance its durability. Powered by General Electric or Safran engines, the AW149 can reach a maximum speed of 294 km/h and a maximum range of 1,009 km, with the capability to operate for up to 50 minutes in the event of a transmission failure.
The first phase of this acquisition includes the addition of 12 Leonardo AW149 helicopters for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions, with versatile utility capabilities (Picture source: Leonardo)
The first phase of this acquisition includes the addition of 12 Leonardo AW149 helicopters for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions, with versatile utility capabilities. The second phase, which also includes 12 additional units, has been expedited under government direction to align with military acquisition programs common to various ministries and public agencies. In this framework, the new units will be acquired through an asset leasing system, an innovative approach for the defense sector in Malaysia.
This leasing project is overseen by the Public-Private Partnership Unit within the Prime Minister's Department and the National Security Council. During the Public-Private Committee meeting, the Leonardo AW149 model was selected for its advanced capabilities, particularly for CSAR missions and utility operations. According to General Mohammad Ab Rahman, this decision was made after a thorough cost management analysis conducted in collaboration with the ministry and relevant government agencies.
The current steps involve reviewing the key terms of the concession agreement for this leasing acquisition, in preparation for submission and approval at the next Cabinet meeting. This acquisition strategy will enable the military to rapidly modernize its helicopter fleet while offering budgetary and operational flexibility, thus meeting defense needs while adhering to government directives for a more flexible approach to military procurement.