Airbus Defence and Space has renewed its commitment to Malaysia’s defense communications infrastructure with the signing of a new contract that extends the Malaysian Armed Forces’ (MAF) access to secure X-band satellite services through at least 2029. Announced at the 2025 Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), the agreement builds on a decade-long collaboration that began with the successful launch of the MEASAT-3b satellite in 2014.
The satellite, built by Airbus and operated by Malaysian provider MEASAT, has played a central role in delivering high-assurance satellite communications across Malaysia’s land, sea, and air defense operations. The new contract also includes an Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) that aims to deepen Airbus’ engagement with Malaysia’s growing space and defense technology ecosystem. Under this initiative, Airbus will work closely with local partners to share technical expertise, build national capacity, and support the long-term development of sovereign satellite and electronic warfare capabilities. The agreement strengthens Airbus’ longstanding relationship with MEASAT, which also includes the development of the MEASAT-3d satellite, launched in June 2022 to enhance telecommunications services across Malaysia, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
In parallel with its satellite operations, Airbus is also scaling up its air mobility footprint in Malaysia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Malaysia remains Airbus’ third-largest market in the region, after China and India, and continues to play a key role in the A400M program as the first export customer. With over 13,000 flight hours, Malaysia’s A400M fleet is the most active globally, having supported a wide range of missions, from military deployments to humanitarian relief. At LIMA 2025, Airbus announced an expanded in-service support contract for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s A400M fleet and reaffirmed its interest in offering additional platforms such as the A330 MRTT and the C295 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft to enhance Malaysia’s aerial capabilities and border security.
(Sources: The Edge Malaysia; Bernama)
