Malaysia Orders Thales GM400A Long-Range Radar

Thales signed a letter of award on December 8 for the supply of the Ground Master 400Α (GM400α) long-range radar system to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

This development is part of the defense cooperation framework between France and Malaysia, marking a continuation of their collaboration since 2009 when the RMAF became the launch customer for the GM400's predecessor.

The GM400α radar system aims to augment the air surveillance and air defense capabilities of the RMAF, providing enhanced situational awareness. Thales conducted successful live testing of the GM400α, showcasing a 10% increase in instrumented range (515km), five times more processing power, and advanced artificial intelligence capabilities.

Designed to address evolving threats and conflicts, the GM400α focuses on building a reliable and up-to-date Recognized Air Picture (RAP) to maintain airspace sovereignty and superior situational awareness. Leveraging Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, the radar can simultaneously detect various targets, including fast jets, missiles, hovering helicopters, and UAVs, even in cluttered environments near the radar.

Under the contract, Thales will deliver a complete radar station, including buildings, access roads, energy supply, air conditioning, telecommunications, radome, and associated logistics.