By M.A.Kadir

Langkawi, Malaysia, May 23, 2025 – After a six-year absence, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and ROSOBORONEXPORT, both subsidiaries of Russia’s state-owned Rostec Corporation, have returned to the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in force. Their presence marks a renewed push into the Asia-Pacific defense market with a display of cutting-edge aerospace and military technologies.

Held under the patronage of the Malaysian Ministry of Defense, LIMA 2025 has drawn global attention, and Russia’s re-engagement signals a strategic move amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region. Visitors to the exhibition are greeted by an impressive array of Russian military and civil aircraft models at the UAC pavilion (stand A005), including the Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighter, the single-engine Su-75, the Be-200 amphibious aircraft, and the new MS-21-310 passenger jet.

The skies above Langkawi came alive as the famed Russian Knights aerobatic team performed stunning maneuvers in their Su-35 fighter jets, demonstrating the agility and combat readiness of the aircraft to potential clients, including the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and other regional militaries.

“The Asia-Pacific region remains a key market for UAC,” said Vadim Badekha, UAC’s General Director. “Our return to LIMA underscores our commitment to fostering cooperation and delivering advanced aerospace solutions.”

Complementing UAC’s showcase, ROSOBORONEXPORT is spearheading a broader defense exhibit, featuring aircraft, helicopters, air defense systems, and naval platforms. Alexander Mikheev, Director General of ROSOBORONEXPORT, highlighted the enduring ties with Malaysia, particularly in the continued operation of Su-30MKM fighters by the RMAF. These aircraft are currently maintained at the Aerospace Technology System Corporation, a joint Russian-Malaysian venture, exemplifying successful technology transfer and collaboration.

Among the highlights of ROSOBORONEXPORT’s exhibit are the Su-57E, Su-35S, and Su-30SME fighter jets, all of which are gaining attention for their operational experience and multi-role capabilities. These aircraft are tailored for modern combat, featuring low radar visibility, advanced avionics, electronic warfare suites, and compatibility with precision-guided munitions.

In the rotary-wing segment, Russia is showcasing the Ka-52E and Mi-28NME attack helicopters, alongside the versatile Mi-171Sh transport helicopter – all noted for their proven performance in combat scenarios. These aircraft appeal particularly to Southeast Asian nations seeking robust aerial platforms for multi-environment operations.

For strategic airlift and humanitarian roles, the IL-76MD-90A(E) stands out as a heavy transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 60 tons of cargo over 4,000 kilometers. It can be rapidly converted into medical evacuation or fire-fighting configurations, enhancing its value for both defense and civilian missions.

Russia’s renowned air defense systems are also on display, including the Antey-4000, S-350E Vityaz, and Viking medium-range SAM systems. Complementing these are the Pantsir-S1M and Pantsir-SMD-E short-range systems and the Verba MANPADS, all designed to neutralize threats from drones to cruise missiles. Their capabilities were recently demonstrated during Russia’s Victory Day, where they defended against massive UAV attacks.

Further strengthening the narrative of technological prowess, the Russian delegation is also promoting electronic warfare systems, loitering munitions like Kub-E, and surveillance drones such as the Orlan-10E and Scat-350M, suited for military and internal security applications.

In the maritime domain, the Project 22160 patrol ship and Project 12701 Alexandrit-E minehunter underscore Russia’s ability to offer versatile naval solutions. ROSOBORONEXPORT has even proposed local production in Malaysia or other regional shipyards to support domestic defense industries and promote regional security partnerships.

This year’s LIMA also spotlights a renewed Russian pitch for joint industrial cooperation. From licensed production of armored vehicles like the BMP-3 – recently premiered with upgraded protection at Vietnam Defence Expo 2024 – to local assembly of missile systems and ammunition, Russia is signaling readiness for deeper technological integration with Southeast Asian partners.

“Our offer is not only about equipment supply,” said Mikheev. “We are here to build long-term, technologically-driven partnerships that support the defense and industrial ambitions of our partners in the region.”

With military-technical cooperation between Russia and Southeast Asia gaining traction, LIMA 2025 may well mark a turning point in how the region views Russian defense exports—not just as arms sales, but as platforms for collaboration, innovation, and shared security.