Malaysia’s Russian Fighter Jet Deal – The Untold Story of Lt-Gen Abdul Ghani’s Historic Mission

Malaysia’s First Russian Fighter Jet Deal – The Untold Mission of Lt-Gen Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz

In 1992, a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s military history unfolded when Lt-Gen (Rtd) Abdul Ghani Abdul Aziz was entrusted with a bold mission — to acquire Russian fighter jets for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). This marked a significant shift from Malaysia’s traditional procurement of Western aircraft.

Then the RMAF deputy chief, Abdul Ghani was summoned by Defence Minister Najib Razak following the 1991 Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) exhibition. The breathtaking aerial performance by the Russian Knights aerobatic team had impressed then Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, sparking interest in the MiG-29 Fulcrum.

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The Russian Mission Begins

Abdul Ghani led a team on a fact-finding mission to Russia, visiting the Moscow Aircraft Production Organisation (MAPO), the Kubinka air base — home of the Russian Knights — and Krasnodar. The evaluation involved not just performance checks but also logistical and operational feasibility, including overcoming language barriers and cultural differences.

Despite language issues — the Russian instructors barely spoke English — Ghani pushed through, even politely refusing a traditional shot of vodka offered post-flight, jokingly later calling it a “recovery tonic.”

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From Evaluation to Procurement

Impressed by the MiG-29’s capabilities, Ghani recommended the fighter jet for Malaysia. Training began in India and Russia for Malaysian crews. By 1994, Malaysia had acquired two squadrons of MiG-29N Fulcrums.

A decade later, the government procured 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKMs in a US$900 million deal, which also paved the way for Malaysia’s first astronaut programme.

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Legacy of a Pioneer

Abdul Ghani, who retired early in 1996, left behind a powerful legacy. From his humble beginnings as a transformer apprentice to logging over 5,000 flight hours and mastering 12 aircraft types, his story is one of resilience and duty.

Though proud of Malaysia’s growth, he warned against over-privatisation of the military, stressing the need for internal capability to maintain and operate defence assets during crises.

Source : FMT