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.
Lockheed Martin P-3C Orions from Japan for maritime patrol, and fighters including secondhand Boeing F/A-18 Hornets are among the candidates as the Malaysian government seeks to bolster its defense capabilities.
Myanmar has put into service six Yakovlev Yak-130 twin-engine trainer and light attack aircraft ordered from Russia in 2015, becoming the second operator of the type in Asia.
Indonesian participation in the KAI KF-X fighter program remains doubtful, following a high-level visit to Jakarta in as many weeks without evident result.
