Malaysia has begun preparations for a major combat aviation modernization program, under which the country's air force plans to replace its aging American F/A-18D Hornets and Russian Su-30MKMs by the mid-2030s, according to Defense Security Asia.

Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced plans to launch an evaluation of new multirole fighters. According to him, the official selection phase is expected to begin in 2029–2030. The country's authorities hope to avoid a situation in which the aging aircraft fleet begins to lose combat effectiveness before a replacement is available. Kuala Lumpur believes the future contract will shape the structure of the national air force for decades to come.

Currently, the leading contenders are the South Korean KF-21 Boramae fighter and the Russian Su-57E (the export version of the fifth-generation fighter). South Korea's position in the upcoming tender is strengthened by existing cooperation: Malaysia previously ordered 18 South Korean FA-50M Block 20 light aircraft. The country's air force is already beginning to build infrastructure and training systems for Korean aircraft, which could benefit the KF-21. Furthermore, the KF-21's readiness schedule closely aligns with the Malaysian MRCA program.

Russia, for its part, is promoting the Su-57E as a more affordable fifth-generation fighter. Interest in the aircraft increased after Malaysian King Sultan Ibrahim was shown an Su-57E during his visit to Russia. However, the potential purchase of Russian aircraft is controversial among military analysts. Experts are discussing the risks of secondary sanctions, difficulties with component supplies, and possible maintenance restrictions.

In addition to the KF-21 and Su-57E, experts estimate that the French Rafale, Swedish Gripen, European Eurofighter Typhoon, and American F/A-18E/F Super Hornet may also participate in the upcoming competition. Malaysian authorities have not yet released the final list of candidates.