KOTA TINGGI: The Defence Ministry (Mindef) is expected to cancel the lease agreement for four UH-60A Black Hawk helicopters, as its supplier failed to meet the delivery deadline, which expires this Wednesday.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said a final decision would be made if the contractors missed the Oct 30 delivery deadline, but alternative solutions are already being considered for the army.
"By Oct 30, next Wednesday, it's likely the Black Hawk lease contract will be cancelled.
"We are in the process of discussing alternatives for the Black Hawks," he told reporters after witnessing the army's Panah Jaguh Exercise Series 2/2024 at the Tanjung Logok Surface-to-Air Range, here, today.
Khaled said the helicopters were intended as a temporary measure under a five-year lease, not for permanent acquisition.
"We must understand that the Black Hawk helicopters were to be leased for only five years, not purchased outright.
"Given the situation, I have asked the army to explore other options, as this lease was a stop-gap arrangement for temporary operational needs," he added.
On Sept 1, Mindef gave the supplier until the end of October to deliver the four helicopters, but as the deadline approaches, no delivery has been made.
In August, the Attorney-General's Chambers had outlined options for the Black Hawks, including proposing termination of the lease contract.
The helicopters were intended to enhance the army's operational capabilities for the next five years.
The Black Hawk helicopters, renowned for its multi-role versatility in both combat and support missions, were seen as a key asset for the army.
"However, with the possibility of the lease contract cancellation, MINDEF is looking at suitable alternatives that will maintain the army's readiness and operational effectiveness," said Khaled.