New Delhi: India's Samtel Avionics and Malaysia's Aerospace Technology Systems Corp (ATSC) have signed an exclusive strategic agreement to support the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), especially its fleet of Su-30MKM fighter jets.
The deal, announced at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2025), is a long-term partnership between two key players in the defence sector. It aims to deliver cutting-edge avionics systems, maintenance, upgrades, and post-sales support for the RMAF's high-performance aircraft.
Think of it as giving the Malaysian Air Force a high-tech pit crew with Indian expertise and local reach.
A Closer Look At The Deal
On the one hand, ATSC is a vital arm of National Aerospace and Defence Industries (NADI). It is Malaysia's designated one-stop centre for all Russian-origin military equipment.
Samtel, on the other hand, is a trusted name in India's private defence tech space, known for building rugged, military-grade electronics used across land, air, and rail platforms.
Under the agreement, ATSC and Samtel will work hand-in-hand to manage repairs, technical upgrades, and avionics support. This will support not just the Su-30MKM fleet, but potentially for other RMAF aircraft too. Samtel will act as the exclusive supplier of key systems like aircraft displays and automated test equipment.
“This partnership is a significant milestone in our global growth journey,” Puneet Kaura, Managing Director and CEO of Samtel Avionics, said in a press release. “It aligns perfectly with our vision of providing indigenous, world-class avionics solutions to allied nations while fostering long-term industrial partnerships. Through ATSC's strong local footprint and our technology leadership, we are confident of delivering exceptional value to the Royal Malaysian Air Force.”
Beyond Business
This collaboration carries long-term benefits in terms of technology transfer and local skill development. Samtel is bringing its high-tech hardware and deep domain know-how to Malaysia, with a promise to help build local capabilities over time. The companies are calling it a win-win for technology transfer, sustainability, and defence readiness.
“We have worked with Samtel before, and we're excited to take this relationship to the next level,” said Lt Col Dato Mohd Fadzar Bin Suhada, CEO of ATSC. “This deal helps Malaysia strengthen its defence posture while also growing ties with a strategic partner like India.”
This is a solid step forward for Indo-Malaysian defence cooperation.
Bilateral Ties
India and Malaysia upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in August 2024. The move aims to deepen collaboration across digital infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and defence research.
https://www.mea.gov.in/Images/CPV/1674-17-03-2025-en.pdf
In February, the two sides held the 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) meeting in Kuala Lumpur, reaffirming joint military training, defence R&D, and interest in Indian defence manufacturing.
With Malaysia currently chairing ASEAN, India is also looking to scale up regional cooperation through this strategic partnership.
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