The objective of the training is to deepen the trainees' understanding of security-relevant maintenance processes and to thus further develop their expertise regarding the long-term support for and operation of the Malaysian F/A-18 fleet.
Focus on technical competence
Alongside this, a second, practical training course began at the Stans site at the beginning of August: The RMAF engine mechanics are completing a two-week I-Level training course for the F/A-18 F404 engine. In the RUAG engine shop, particular focus is placed on the Low Pressure Turbine Module (LPT), a central component of the engine. The goal: to impart a sound understanding of the engine maintenance concept – from fault diagnosis to maintenance and specific repair methods.
Part of a strategic offset program
These training initiatives are part of our offset obligation towards Malaysia. Context: Malaysian laws oblige foreign providers like RUAG to implement so-called offset programs once they exceed certain business volumes. The key point of focus here is the sustainable expansion of local capacities – in particular through targeted knowledge transfer to the users of military systems and to domestic industry.
The vast majority of our obligation is covered by an "Industrial Collaboration Program", under which we provide comprehensive training to maintenance specialists within the Royal Malaysian Air Force and local industry. We thus support our Malaysian partners in developing their own technical capacities, while simultaneously promoting operational independence in the maintenance of the F/A-18 fleet.
At the same time, RUAG is also benefitting from this close collaboration: The direct knowledge transfer improves coordination within the business, increases efficiency during order processing, and boosts long-term customer retention. Through the expansion of local capacities, redundant deliveries and queries can be reduced, which makes collaboration not only more effective, but also more economical. Last but not least, through this strategic commitment we are also securing future orders – a classic "win-win" for both sides.
RUAG has maintained a close relationship with the RMAF for 15 years now. Since 2009 we have been overhauling the engines of the F/A-18D aircraft in Stans, and since 2022 we have been providing support for Local Planned Maintenance 12 Years (LPM12Y) on the eight jets operated by the Malaysian Air Force. On account of the continuous growth of our business in Malaysia, we have been subject to offset obligations since 2023.
Next step: On-the-job training in Malaysia
However, the current training block in Switzerland only provides training for the first part of the program. From September, two RUAG engineers are set to travel to Malaysia to further consolidate the newly acquired knowledge together with participants within the scope of a practical on-the-job training program. We are thus ensuring that the conveyed competences are not merely understood on a theoretical level, but can be successfully applied as part of daily operations.
Contribution to fleet availability and international collaboration
With these targeted training measures, we are making a significant contribution to securing the long-term operational readiness of the Malaysian F/A-18 fleet, potentially for the next ten to fifteen years. This partnership exists on the basis of mutual trust and, once again, shows how Swiss quality standards and responsible action are valued the world over.
Sincere thanks goes to all involved teams in Emmen and Stans, who make these ambitious training courses possible, thanks to their wealth of expert knowledge, dedication, and intercultural sensitivity. Your contribution makes a significant contribution to ensuring the sustainable success of our partnership with Malaysia – now and in the future.
What's more, this close collaboration is also of benefit to the Swiss Armed Forces: The experiences acquired within an international context, the continuous training, and the in-depth system knowledge enhance our own knowledge base and contribute to safeguarding the operation of the Swiss F/A-18 fleet.
