Royal Malaysian Air Force Receives FN MAG 58M Machine Guns for EC725 Helicopters

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has officially received five FN MAG 58M caliber 7.62 millimeter machine guns for its EC725 helicopters. This acquisition is expected to significantly bolster the RMAF's combat search and rescue (CSAR) capabilities, particularly for missions in high-risk environments.

The new weapon systems are a key part of the RMAF's continuous efforts to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of its air assets, aligning with the RMAF Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55). The installation of these machine guns will improve operational safety and allow for more effective and secure rescue missions.

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The installation of these weapon systems will enhance safety levels during operations, thereby enabling rescue missions to be carried out more effectively and safely.

The FN MAG 58M is a proven and widely used weapon system by armed forces globally. The Malaysian government finalized the procurement through a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) with FN Herstal, a leading Belgian arms manufacturer, for five units of the machine gun.

The EC725 helicopter is a primary asset for the RMAF, capable of various missions including CSAR, humanitarian aid, tactical transport, and special operations. Before the official handover, final acceptance testing (FAT) was conducted from March 30 to June 4, involving No. 10 Squadron at Kuantan Air Base and No. 5 Squadron at Labuan Air Base. These tests ensured that each system met the RMAF's specified technical, safety, and operational requirements.

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The weapon is among the proven effective weapon systems widely used by armed forces around the world.