SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India-Malaysia defense cooperation, Delhi-based Samtel Avionics has signed a strategic collaboration and exclusivity agreement with Malaysia’s Aerospace Technology Systems Corp (ATSC) to provide comprehensive avionics support for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fleet, with a particular focus on the Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets. The agreement, announced on May 22, 2025, aims to deliver cutting-edge avionics systems, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, and post-sales support, reinforcing India’s growing stature as a global defense technology provider.
Under the terms of the agreement, Samtel Avionics, a leading Indian aerospace and defense firm, will collaborate with ATSC, a key MRO provider for the RMAF, to enhance the operational capabilities of Malaysia’s Su-30MKM fleet. The partnership leverages Samtel’s expertise in advanced avionics, including Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) and Head-Up Displays (HUDs), which are already integrated into the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI fleet. This collaboration builds on Samtel’s earlier contract with the RMAF in October 2024 to equip all 18 Su-30MKM jets with MFDs and HUDs, further modernizing Malaysia’s air combat capabilities.
The agreement encompasses the supply, maintenance, and overhaul of avionics systems, ensuring the Su-30MKM remains a formidable asset in Malaysia’s defense arsenal. Samtel’s MFDs, available in 5”x5”, 6”x6”, and 5”x4” configurations, enhance pilot situational awareness and streamline the management of flight data and combat systems. The HUDs provide critical flight information directly in the pilot’s line of sight, improving mission effectiveness during high-speed maneuvers and combat scenarios. Additionally, the partnership includes robust post-sales support to ensure long-term reliability and operational readiness.
This collaboration is a testament to the successful joint venture between Samtel Avionics and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), known as Samtel HAL Display Systems (SHDS). SHDS has already delivered over 1,000 MFDs for the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet, showcasing its capability to produce high-quality, indigenous avionics solutions. The expertise gained from this partnership has positioned Samtel as a reliable partner for international defense forces, with the RMAF contract marking a significant milestone in India’s defense export journey.
ATSC, based at the RMAF Gong Kedak Air Base in Terengganu, brings its extensive MRO expertise to the partnership, having established itself as a key maintenance hub for the Su-30MKM since 2010. The collaboration with Samtel enhances ATSC’s capabilities, enabling localized maintenance and upgrades, which reduce costs and downtime while fostering Malaysia’s aerospace industry expertise.
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