U.S. service members and military units have arrived on Langkawi, Malaysia, to take part in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA 25) from May 20-24. The biennial event brings together leaders from government, military, and industry sectors to display advancements in maritime and aerospace defense as well as civil and commercial applications.
The exhibition includes a variety of activities such as equipment displays, flight demonstrations, forums, conferences, cultural exchanges, technology talks, and career fairs. The presence of U.S. defense and aerospace industry representatives at LIMA 25 highlights ongoing private sector engagement and support for Malaysia’s defense modernization efforts.
“LIMA 25 showcases the deepening defense and economic partnerships between the United States and Malaysia and our shared commitment to regional security,” stated U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan. He emphasized the American presence at LIMA 25 as evidence of robust military and commercial engagement across the region.
Events at LIMA 25 include various exchanges aimed at enhancing cooperation in anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, air warfare, strategic defense, close-maneuvering, and operational coordination both onshore and offshore. This participation underscores the significant partnership between the two democracies.
“Malaysia continues to be a key partner for us in the Indo-Pacific,” said Vice Adm. Fred Kacher of the U.S. 7th Fleet. He noted that numerous exercises are conducted annually to advance cooperation between their navies.
Static displays by U.S. military units feature a U.S. Air Force C-130J Hercules from the 36th Airlift Squadron; USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG 123); two F/A-18E Super Hornets from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137; and one MH-60R from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 49.
“Our participation in this dynamic showcase of multinational strength is a testament to our ability to operate cohesively across a challenging maritime landscape,” said Rear Adm. Fred Goldhammer of Carrier Strike Group 11.
U.S. military units participating in aerial demonstrations include two F/A-18s from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17. All participating aircraft belong to CVW-17 attached to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group operating in the Indo-Pacific region.
More than 400 U.S. military service members are involved in LIMA 25, reinforcing strong defense ties with Malaysia while showcasing shared commitments to maritime cooperation and regional stability.