When a country decides to take charge of its own defence, the real work starts on the ground, not on paper. The launch of the Defence Industry Policy is a big deal for Malaysia. Now the focus is on the groups that are shaping the Malaysia’s defence aviation industry, where local capability, long-term readiness, and strategic confidence are becoming national priorities.
AIROD Advances Malaysia’s Defence Aviation Industry as a Strategic Pillar
AIROD Sdn. Bhd. has reiterated its willingness to assist Malaysia’s long-term defence goals in the wake of the formal launch of Dasar Industri Pertahanan Negara (DIPN). The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) developed the policy with the goals of enhancing industrial resilience, strategic sustainability, and defence self-reliance. These objectives closely match the operational DNA of AIROD.
For almost 50 years, AIROD, Malaysia’s first aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organization, has made sure that military aircraft, especially those of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), are operationally ready. With the Defence Industry Policy Launch now setting a national direction, AIROD’s role as a trusted in-country sustainment partner has never been more critical.
Experience-Based and Ready for New Platforms
Since its founding in 1976, AIROD has supported both domestic and foreign military aircraft fleets with more than 50 years of practical experience. Because of this heritage, the business is well-positioned to accept, integrate, and maintain new aircraft platforms that are launched as part of Malaysia’s defence modernization initiatives.
According to AIROD Chief Executive Officer Major General Dato’ Ir Ibrahim Bahari RMAF (Retired), ongoing investments in infrastructure, certifications, tooling, digitalisation, and workforce development ensure that the organization remains platform-agnostic and future-ready, which are key principles emphasized by the DIPN.
Developing Self-Sufficiency Using Talent and Technology
An extensive MRO ecosystem is the foundation of AIROD’s preparedness. Both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft are supported by scalable infrastructure, and a highly skilled Malaysian technical personnel provides certified knowledge on a variety of military platforms.
The company’s proven ties with global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) provide technology transfer, localization, and secure in-country support. The DIPN’s objective of effectively maintaining defence assets over their lifetime is directly supported by AIROD, which is enhanced by digital and predictive maintenance capabilities, including AI-enabled solutions.
A Malaysian Capability with Global Impact in Defence Aviation
Beyond national boundaries, AIROD has a proven track record with international air forces like the Philippine Air Force, Indonesia’s TNI-AU, the United States Air Force, the United States Marine Corps, and operators throughout Africa. This international recognition supports the goals of the Defence Industry Policy Launch and enhances Malaysia’s position in the global aerospace ecosystem.
AIROD is prepared to serve as both a strategic industry anchor and a service provider as the DIPN transitions from vision to execution. In sustaining today’s fleets and preparing for tomorrow’s platforms, the company continues to prove that Malaysia’s defence aspirations are firmly supported at home.
