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.
Substituting procurement spending for personnel, Singapore uses aerostat surveillance and small-crew ships, while preparing to introduce tanker aircraft that need fewer people.
Indonesia will sign a much-delayed contract for 11 Sukhoi Su-35 Flankers before the end of January if the newly appointed air force chief of staff has his way.
Delivery of two Korean Aerospace KAI T-50s to the Royal Thai Air Force has been delayed indefinitely after the trainers suffered unspecified technical faults.
