KUALA LUMPUR, June 20 (Bernama) — The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) today officially received the FN MAG 58M 7.62mm caliber weapon system for its EC 725 AP/H225M helicopters in conjunction with the 68th RMAF Open Day at Kuantan Air Base, Pahang.
In a statement, the RMAF said the acquisition of the system is aimed at strengthening the capability of Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) operations in high-risk areas, in line with the RMAF Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP 55).
"The system will also meet self-protection needs when operating in threat zones, thereby enhancing the safety of crew members and personnel during rescue missions," the statement said.
It said the government had signed a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) with Belgium’s renowned arms manufacturer, FN HERSTAL, for the procurement of five units of the machine gun.
“This weapon is among the systems that have proven its effectiveness and is widely used by armed forces around the world,” the RMAF said.
The RMAF informed that prior to the official handover, the Final Acceptance Test (FAT) was conducted from March 30 to June 4 involving their 10th Squadron at Kuantan Air Base and Fifth Squadron at Labuan Air Base.
“The testing was intended to ensure each system met technical specifications, safety standards, and operational requirements set by the RMAF,” it said.
Earlier, the official handover ceremony of the weapon system was carried out by Airbus Helicopters Managing Director Axel de Pascal to Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris.
​-- BERNAMA
