Malaysian Defence Ministry Confirms Purchase Of Two Vera-E Radars

The Defence Ministry today confirmed the purchase of two Czech-made Vera-E passive surveillance radars for RM7.2 million.

Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad said the purchase of the Vera-E, a highly advanced sensor that can detect aircraft, ships and ground vehicles from signals emitted by their radar, communications and other onboard electronic systems, was to protect the country's air space.

"Through the purchase we will also benefit from a transfer of technology in the electronic warfare system," he said when debating the 10th Malaysia Plan for the Defence Ministry in Dewan Negara here Thursday.

Dr Abdul Latiff also said the development of Malaysia's first missile, Taming Sari, has been classified under the official secrets act (OSA) 1972 and cannot be revealed but the Taming Sari was displayed during a Independence Day (Merdeka Day) parade a few years ago.

He added that direct negotiations were also held with Deftech Sdn Bhd, for the purchase of 257 8X8 armoured personnel carriers (APCs), that would be developed and built locally by DRB-Hicom Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd (Deftech) because the company has a proven track record.