Sukhoi service technical centre can boost national defence industry

BESUT: The service technical centre (STC) for the maintenance and repair of Sukhoi aircraft at the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Base at Gong Kedak, here can boost the national defence industry.
RMAF chief, Gen Tan Sri Roslan Saad said this could be achieved through the involvement of industry players in aircraft maintenance.
"This STC is a second-line maintenance that is comprehensive and effective for Sukhois, which was previously carried out in the hangar of 11 Squadron.
"Apart from aircraft maintenance area, the STC is also equipped with office space, storage space for spareparts, servicing bay and Sukhoi aircraft component testing area," he said at the launch building, here today.
Work on the facility costing RM72 million began in March 2014 and was fully completed yesterday.
In his speech, Roslan reminded the RMAF members of threats which could jeopardise national security, especially from extremist groups in the country.
They should ensure that the assets were ready, equipped with skills and efficiency and enhance leadership and governance at all times.
Roslan also announced the upgrading of the radar at the Air Traffic Control (ATC) of the RMAF Base in Butterworth, Penang starting next year.
"This follows the upgrading of the radar at the ATC at RMAF Base at Gong Kedak, which was named ASR Melor 087."
When completed at year end, the Butterworth project will improve the quality of air traffic control services for all civil and military flights. — Bernama