SHAH ALAM: Major Norlela Harun has made history as the first female pilot in the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) to command the No. 20 Squadron, which operates the C-130H Hercules transport aircraft.
The RMAF in a social media post announced that Norlela officially took over from Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Khairol Fadly Abu Bakar during a ceremony at the No. 20 Squadron hangar at Subang Air Base yesterday.
"Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the RMAF, reflecting her extensive experience and exemplary service record.
"Her leadership will uphold the squadron's legacy of excellence in operating the C-130H, a critical asset in the RMAF's air transport operations," the post read.
Also present at the handover ceremony were Subang Air Base commander Brigadier General Yusri Jamari.
The event also included a final parade honouring Khairol, who led the squadron since January 26, 2023, and was commended for his dedication and successful execution of key RMAF and Malaysian Armed Forces operations involving the C-130H.
"During his nearly two-year tenure, he demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment, ensuring the successful execution of the RMAF and Malaysian Armed Forces' operations involving the C-130H," it said.
The No. 20 Squadron, originally established as the No. 4 Squadron at the Sungai Besi Air Base on May 1, 1980, initially focused on maritime surveillance using PC-130H patrol aircraft. In 1995, the squadron transitioned to strategic and tactical airlift missions, supporting military operations, international humanitarian aid, evacuations, and supply missions.
The squadron's capabilities were further enhanced with the modification of two PC-130H aircraft into KC-130H tankers, enabling aerial refuelling for fighter jets such as the BaE Hawk, F/A-18, and Sukhoi SU-30MKM, cementing its role in the RMAF's operational readiness.