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.
A Philippines tender for light attack aircraft, covering an initial six units, is expected soon. Another batch of six to 12 aircraft should follow delivery of the first batch.
An upgrade program for six Leonardo-Finmeccanica Super Lynx helicopters of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is emerging as a likely alternative to a stalled program to buy six new anti-submarine rotorcraft.
