A Record Maybe but Its Sure Show We Lack Strategic Assets

1) Airbus MRTT
2) KC-767 Transport
3) A RMAF Hercules. A globe-trotting taxi.

KUALA LUMPUR: The local media went ga-ga over the flight of a RMAF C-130 Hercules to Irkusk in Russia for the official hand-over of the Sukhoi Su-30MKM.

RMAF chief claimed that it was the first time that a Hercules had flown into Irkusk and this was the highlight of the news stories.

What was more interesting was the fact that the flight (return) took almost 38 hours with at least four refueling stops.

With our almost insatiable desire to fly everywhere, it is a wonder why the RMAF chief feels why the force hasnt upgrade to jet transports. They could double-up as multi-role transport and tanker aircraft.

RMAF needs a few jet-powered MRTT like we need oxygen. The introduction of the MKM clearly reflected the need.

It would not be too expensive if MINDEF could be creative. With Penerbangan Malaysia buying about 5) aircraft for Malaysian Airlimes, a dozen more aircraft could be ordered for RMAF, something which Malaysian Defence had highlighted before.

But we sure know how to see the trees without seeing the forest.