Malaysia has received an offer from Russia to part exchange its fleet of Russian multiroe combat aircraft for new models, Defense Minister Mohamad Sabu has confirmed in parliament. Sabu said the government is considering the offer from Moscow but indicated that the priorities of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) are in procuring capabilities such as surveillance and light attack. He also indicated that Malaysia would not realistically consider buying a new multirole combat aircraft until after 2030. The RMAF currently operates about 18 Su-30MKM fighters, which were delivered from 2007. The service has also recently retired what is believed to be 10 MiG-29s, which were operated from the mid-1990s.In parliament, Sabu was asked if Malaysia "is willing to accept the Russian government's offer to take back 28 jets" and "replace them with new aircraft made by [Russia]". The deal - reported to include the transfer of new Su-35 or MiG-35 models - would also likely comprise the countertrade of Malaysian palm oil. Sabu added that in line with the RMAF's long-term modernization programme it will continue to prioritise maintaining its existing fleet of Su-30MKMs and eight Boeing F/A-18 Hornets acquired in late 1990s. This sustainment priority will continue through to 2030, he said.