The Malaysian Army (TDM) is set to recommend the cancellation of the Black Hawk helicopter lease contract to the Ministry of Defence, citing delays in the delivery of the first of four helicopters.
Chief of Army Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan expressed the urgency of acquiring these assets to facilitate operational tasks and training for personnel. However, the contractor has reportedly failed to fulfill its commitment as outlined in the agreement.
“If by May they still fail to meet this obligation, then TDM will take firm action by proposing to the ministry the cancellation of the Black Hawk lease contract, so that we can move forward. It is an urgent necessity, and we are firm with our decision,” Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain stated to reporters after attending a passing-out parade of young soldiers at the Army Basic Training Centre (Pusasda) in Port Dickson.
Earlier in April, Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain had indicated that the army would consider further action if the appointed contractor failed to deliver the first Black Hawk helicopter by the end of last month. TDM had anticipated the timely delivery of one of four Sikorsky UH-60A+ Black Hawk helicopters leased for the Army Air Corps.
The passing-out parade witnessed 1,498 soldiers completing their training for the 199/2023 session.