Marhalim Abas, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, covers Southeast Asian defense. He has worked as a journalist specializing in Southeast Asia defense and security since 1994, initially with the New Straits Times newspaper.
Two Royal Malaysian Air Force pilots were killed when their BAE Systems Hawk Mk. 108 twin-seat trainer crashed during a routine training flight on June 15.
Indonesia may be close to finally signing a long-delayed deal to buy Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker multi-role fighters, as Russia offers the inducement of a local service center.
