Thales has been awarded a significant contract for the supply of a cutting-edge GM400α long-range radar system, accompanied by a comprehensive station infrastructure, to the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The contract was officially endorsed on December 8, 2023, in the presence of the Defense Ministers of both Malaysia and France.
The selection of Thales’ GM400α radar system follows a series of successful live tests that underscored its exceptional performance in enhancing air surveillance and air defense capabilities. Boasting five times more processing power, a commendable increase in the instrumented range by over 10% (515 km), and incorporating advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, the GM400α radar stands out as a technological powerhouse. Deployed in more than 20 nations, this field-proven radar system is globally recognized for its excellence and is poised to provide the Royal Malaysian Air Force with unparalleled situational awareness.
François-Xavier Boutes, the Country Director for Malaysia at Thales, expressed enthusiasm about the selection of Thales’ GM400α radar by the Royal Malaysian Air Force. He highlighted the contract as a testament to Thales’ leadership in the radar domain and a significant milestone in the longstanding success story that began in 2009 when Malaysia became the launch customer for the predecessor radar, the GM400.
Boutes further emphasized that this new contract not only reinforces the defense cooperation between France and Malaysia but also strengthens Thales’ commitment to Malaysia’s air sovereignty, given its historic presence and a robust local installed base.
In an era marked by diverse threats and evolving conflicts, the GM400α addresses the need for a reliable, precise, and up-to-date Recognized Air Picture (RAP). By meeting these challenges head-on, the radar system ensures the maintenance of airspace sovereignty, delivering superior situational awareness consistently.
Leveraging years of successful field experience, Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, and advanced surveillance capabilities, the GM400α excels in detecting a spectrum of targets. From fast jets and missiles to hovering helicopters and UAVs flying close to the ground, the radar system offers unmatched versatility. Additionally, the radar maintains the highest levels of mobility and availability performance in the market.
Under the terms of the contract, Thales will deliver a complete radar station, encompassing essential components such as buildings, access roads, energy infrastructure, air conditioning systems, telecommunications, radome, and all associated logistics.
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