RMAF chief Norazlan Aris said drones had become a serious concern because of their low cost and high effectiveness in combat scenarios.

“We’ve seen their impact in recent conflicts. The air force must be prepared with effective counter-drone systems to safeguard strategic assets,” he told reporters after delivering his inaugural address as air force chief at Subang Air Base today.

He said the Air Operations Command was assessing the number of systems required and identifying key airbases for deployment.

“These are compact systems (and) must be strategically positioned to ensure critical infrastructure is protected,” he said.

Norazlan also said the delivery of the Turkish-made Anka-S Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial system was expected by December.

He said the aircraft had completed testing and would be delivered together with their support systems; air force personnel are also undergoing training in Turkey.

RMAF is acquiring three Anka units under a contract signed with Turkish Aerospace Industries during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023.