PUTRAJAYA April 14, 2026 – Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin today received a high-level delegation from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) at Wisma Pertahanan to discuss a landmark proposal for developing Malaysia’s own National Combat Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), also known as combat drones.
The delegation was led by UTM’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ts. Dr. Ali bin Selamat. During the briefing, the minister was presented with detailed plans aimed at building a domestically developed combat drone capability while strengthening the country’s aerospace ecosystem.
“This project will harness local expertise, incorporate foreign technology, and foster cooperation with friendly nations,” Khaled Nordin said in a statement accompanying the meeting photos.
The minister also revealed that during a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador yesterday, Iran expressed readiness to explore technological collaboration in unmanned systems. This partnership could help accelerate Malaysia’s strategic defence capabilities.
The initiative is fully aligned with the National Defence Industry Policy (DIPN), which seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, boost local research and development (R&D), expand technology transfer (ToT), and enhance Malaysia’s self-reliance in defence.
“Malaysia cannot continue to be merely a consumer of technology. It is time for us to build, own, and innovate our own defence capabilities,” Khaled Nordin emphasised.
Photos from the closed-door session at the Ministry of Defence show the minister chairing the meeting, with UTM representatives and senior defence officials seated around the conference table. A group photograph was also taken with the full delegation, including personnel in UTM-branded attire.
The proposal marks a significant step toward elevating Malaysia’s position in the global aerospace and defence sector through homegrown innovation and strategic international partnerships.
Further details on the National Combat UAS project, including timelines and open collaboration opportunities, are expected to be announced in the coming months.
his strategic national defence initiative.
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