OVERVIEW: The Su-30MKM Flanker H is a twin-engine, two-seat, 4.5 generation supermaneuverable multirole fighter designed by Sukhoi for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). The 2014 configuration retained its advanced maneuverability and Western avionics integration, with added operational maturity and expanded indigenous support.

DETAILS: The Su-30MKM is based on the Su-30MKI airframe and features AL-31FP thrust-vectoring engines, canards for improved agility, and 12 hardpoints for multirole loadouts. It is equipped with the N011M Bars PESA radar, OLS-30 IRST, internal RWR, ECM system, and helmet-mounted sight. The aircraft integrates Thales NAVFLIR, Damocles targeting pod, Sigma-95 navigation system, and South African MAW-300 and LWS-310 warning sensors. It supports R-77 and R-73 AAMs, Kh-29T/L and Kh-31A/P ASMs, and KAB-500 guided bombs. By 2014, all 18 aircraft delivered between 2007–2009 were fully operational, with local maintenance support established at RMAF Gong Kedak. Flanker-H is the NATO reporting name assigned to this Su-30 variant.

“Su” refers to Sukhoi, “MK” stands for “Modernizirovannyi Kommercheskiy” (Modernized Commercial), and “M” for Malaysia. The Su-30MKM differs from other variants by incorporating Western targeting, navigation, and self-protection systems while retaining the Russian-built airframe and propulsion. The 2014 configuration reflected increased domestic maintenance capability and enhanced system readiness for joint exercises and regional deployments.

TYPE: Multirole air superiority fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-30MKM is used for long-range air defense, ground strike, and maritime patrol missions. Its hybrid sensor suite, precision-strike capability, and high maneuverability make it the RMAF’s most capable combat platform.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27UB (1985), Su-30 (1992), Su-30MKI (2003 India), Su-30MKM (2008 Malaysia)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Malaysia
Conflict used in: None

SOURCE:
Royal Malaysian Air Force ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Piotr Butowski – Russia’s Warplanes Vol. 1 ; Thales Group: https://www.thalesgroup.com ; United Aircraft Corporation: https://www.uacrussia.ru ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2014