Kuwait F/A-18 Fighter Jet
Malaysia drops plans to buy Kuwaiti F/A-18 fighter jets, a move that highlights the country’s ongoing struggle to modernise its air force. The reported decision, confirmed by defence sources and published by Malaysian outlet Twentytwo13, signals a recalibration of priorities amid budgetary pressures, logistical concerns, and doubts about long-term value.
Why Malaysia Drops Plan to Buy Kuwait F/A-18 Fighter Jets
The central reason Malaysia drops the plan to buy Kuwait F/A-18 fighter jets lies in timing and capability. Kuwait’s legacy Hornets, which are being phased out for newer F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, would not have been available until after 2026. Delivery delays, partly linked to U.S. Navy procurement schedules and COVID-19 disruptions, meant the jets could only enter Malaysian service by 2027 or 2028. By then, analysts warned, the fighters would already appear outdated against regional threats.
Technical Gaps Between Fleets
Technology is another decisive factor in Malaysia’s decision to drop the plan to buy Kuwait F/A-18 fighter jets. Malaysia’s existing F/A-18D Hornets already operate with upgraded SCS29C software, the AN/APG-73 radar, and Link 16 datalink connectivity. Kuwait’s older Hornets run the SCS25XK software and AN/APG-65 radar, a clear step back in capability. To integrate them, Malaysia would have faced costly avionics upgrades, logistical reconfiguration, and significant downtime, raising questions about operational efficiency.
Structural Fatigue Concerns
Experts also cautioned that even with relatively low flight hours, the Kuwaiti airframes could suffer fatigue. Restoring them to full service would demand structural inspections and heavy maintenance. This risk further reinforced why Malaysia dropped the plan to buy Kuwait F/A-18 fighter jets despite initial interest in the acquisition.
Financial and Strategic Considerations
Budget realities strongly influenced Malaysia’s choice. Defence planners concluded that channelling scarce resources towards older jets would compromise funding for future generations of fighters. Analysts pointed out that Malaysia dropped the plan to buy Kuwait F/A-18 fighter jets to avoid wasting money on a short-term stopgap solution. Any purchase would likely divert attention from broader Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) modernisation programmes, including long-term fighter replacements.
Wider Procurement and U.S. Approval Hurdles
There were also questions about U.S. government approval. Since the deal involved American-built jets, Washington’s consent was required under export controls. Observers noted that uncertainties in obtaining timely approval contributed to why Malaysia dropped the plan to buy Kuwait F/A-18 fighter jets, as delays could have added yet another layer of risk.
What Comes Next for Malaysia’s Fighter Fleet?
The cancellation highlights a broader challenge: balancing capability, affordability, and timing. Malaysia continues to evaluate options for more advanced aircraft that align with long-term strategic requirements. Analysts believe that rather than retrofitting older jets, Malaysia must now focus on platforms offering sustainability and technological relevance. Ultimately, Malaysia drops its plan to buy Kuwait’s F/A-18 fighter jets to prevent short-term repairs from weakening the country’s long-term defence posture.
