HOW does the Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence (Stride) envision the modernisation of Malaysia’s navy capabilities – resembling via robotics, aerospace, or superior supplies – translating into tangible operational benefits for the nation’s armed forces within the coming decade?
Stride director-general Nor Azlan Mohd Ramli outlines a number of key initiatives that cowl operations within the air, on the bottom and at sea as a part of the Malaysia’s “Future Force” idea.
He says among the many key initiatives are Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), co-developed with native business, which helps missions starting from surveillance and logistics to potential fight operations.
“Future enhancements will incorporate swarm capabilities and advanced sensor suites.”
And aside from the usage of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) as border monitoring and in tactical fight missions, within the maritime area, Stride is creating unmanned maritime methods to conduct mine detection, coastal patrols and anti-piracy operations, increasing Malaysia’s autonomous maritime capabilities.
At the identical time, Nor Azlan says, to enhance these efforts, improvements in supplies science are additionally underway.
“The development of lightweight composite materials for military application aims to increase durability, extend platform lifespans, and reduce maintenance costs.
For instance, in the field of fabric technology, Stride has developed TropiKamo®, a near-infrared (NIR) camouflage fabric meticulously designed for optimal performance in tropical climates.
Engineered to provide effective concealment across both the visible and infrared spectrums, this advanced material significantly enhances stealth capabilities in Malaysia’s jungle and semi-urban operational environments, says Nor Azlan.
Meanwhile, also in place is Stride’s Centre of Excellence for Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technology, which will serve as a national testing hub to certify systems to international standards, improve resilience to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and support the safe integration of electronic and weapon systems.
“By reducing reliance on foreign testing centres, the EMC facility will also help elevate locally developed defence technologies to export-ready standards, thereby reinforcing industrial empowerment and technological independence.”
Nor Azlan says between 2025 and 2035, Stride’s initiatives are set to ship measurable influence for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), together with improved operational effectivity, price financial savings and enhanced deterrence.
“Upgraded C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Recon-naissance) systems will enable seamless coordination across all operational domains.”
He stresses that the MAF are anticipated to own totally built-in, rapid-response capabilities, enabling efficient motion in opposition to simultaneous threats throughout a number of operational domains.
“Unmanned systems are anticipated to assume a significant share of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and logistics roles, potentially reducing personnel casualties in high-risk environments.
Overall, Nor Azlan says indigenous UAVs and UGVs, coupled with strengthened cyber defence capabilities, will reinforce Malaysia’s deterrence posture, supporting missions against piracy, smuggling and territorial incursions.
“Locally developed and tested advanced materials will ensure system reliability in Malaysia’s tropical operating environments.
“These advancements will also increase Malaysia’s participation in regional initiatives such as Asean and Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) exercises, enhancing defence diplomacy and regional stability.”