Kuala Lumpur, May 27 - The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the global aerospace and maritime industries, drawing attention from across the world while fostering immense local pride in Malaysia. Held biennially on the picturesque island of Langkawi, LIMA’25, the 17th edition of this prestigious event, took place from May 20 to May 24, 2025, under the theme “Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow.” This review delves into the rich history of LIMA, the international participation in 2025, the spectacular aerial displays, the significant business deals and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed, and the overwhelming public attention the event garnered from both Malaysians and global visitors.
A Storied History: The Evolution of LIMA
LIMA’s journey began in 1991 with a modest vision to create a platform for light and experimental aircraft, inspired by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Air Venture in the United States. The inaugural event, held at Langkawi International Airport, attracted just over 100 exhibiting companies. The goal was to leverage Langkawi’s relatively uncongested airspace to showcase aviation innovations, a concept that resonated with industry pioneers. Over the years, LIMA expanded its scope to include maritime exhibitions, reflecting the strategic importance of Malaysia’s maritime boundaries and its growing role in regional defense and trade.
By 2003, LIMA had grown significantly, generating business worth RM 2.182 billion (approximately US$575 million) through contracts, letters of offer, and MoUs. The 2013 edition marked a milestone, with a 10% growth in participation, hosting 433 exhibitors from 31 countries, 333 defense delegations from 38 countries, 68 ships, and 78 aircraft, alongside 38,421 trade visitors and 135,691 public visitors. LIMA 2013 also saw contracts worth RM 4.271 billion, signaling its rising economic impact. The event’s growth continued, with LIMA 2017 recording 555 exhibitors and over 180,000 visitors, and LIMA 2019, launched by then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, further cementing its status as a global hub for aerospace and maritime innovation.
LIMA has evolved into one of the largest maritime and aerospace exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific, blending defense and commercial sectors. Held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), Resorts World Langkawi, and Langkawi International Airport, the event showcases cutting-edge technologies while fostering international partnerships. Its biennial schedule on odd-numbered years ensures it remains a pivotal event on the global industry calendar, supported by the Malaysian government and industry associations like the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Association (SAIA).
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| In November 1991, then-Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad attended the inaugural Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) exhibition in Langkawi, where renowned aviator Dick Rutan showcased his flying expertise. (Image: New Straits Times) |
Global Participation: A Diverse Showcase in 2025
LIMA’25 was a truly international affair, with 860 exhibitors from 24 countries, comprising 426 international and 434 local companies. This marked a significant increase from the 600 exhibitors from over 30 countries at LIMA 2023, reflecting the event’s growing global appeal. The exhibition welcomed 140 delegates from 46 countries and regions, including heads of military, enforcement agencies, and government officials, underscoring its strategic importance in fostering diplomatic and industrial ties.
Participating countries included major players such as the United States, China, Russia, Indonesia, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Türkiye, alongside regional neighbors like Singapore, Thailand, and India. International pavilions from nations such as the US, UK, France, Italy, Germany, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia showcased their latest innovations, from advanced fighter jets to cutting-edge maritime vessels. The diversity of participants highlighted LIMA’s role as a bridge between Southeast Asia and global industry leaders, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a hub for aerospace and maritime advancements.
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| Aero-News Journal was welcomed to the booth of the European manufacturer, Airbus, during LIMA'25 exhibition. Aero-News Journal was briefed about the latest commercial and defense products of Airbus. |
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| The Rosoboron Export booth is showing models of their products, including SU-57 and MC-21 Superjet. |
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| Aero-News Journal was also invited to CATIC (China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation) booth. We were privileged to discuss latest China aero-tech. in fighter jets (including J10C, J-17 and fifth generation fighter jet J-31), and other defense products. |
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| Korea Aerospace Industries' booth showing its products of UAVs, fighter jets, and fifth fifth-generation fighter jet KF-21 |
Aerial Spectacles: A Sky Full of Wonders
The aerial displays at LIMA’25 were a highlight, captivating audiences with breathtaking performances that showcased both technical prowess and artistic flair. Held daily over the five-day event, the four-hour flying displays at Langkawi International Airport featured 43 fighter jets and other aircraft from participating countries. The opening ceremony on May 19, 2025, set the tone with a dramatic performance by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), featuring the Su-30MKM with a new livery of Malaysia's flag, nicknamed "Toruk Maktu", and F/A-18D Hornet, which roared across the skies in a bombardment simulation, thrilling attendees with their precision and power.
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| Air Force Chief Gen. Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan made history when he became the first Air Force chief to fly an aircraft in the LIMA airshow since it was first held in 1991 |
Two aerobatic teams stole the show: Indonesia’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team, flying the KT-1B, and Russia’s Russian Knights, performing with the Su-30SM. The Jupiter team, known for its synchronized maneuvers, delivered a mesmerizing display of agility, while the Russian Knights showcased the raw power of their heavy fighters, executing complex formations and high-speed passes. Unfortunately, the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran team, initially slated to participate, withdrew due to regional tensions in Kashmir, reducing the number of aerobatic teams compared to LIMA 2023, which featured five teams, including South Korea’s Black Eagles and China’s August 1st.
The displays weren’t limited to aerobatics. Static exhibitions allowed visitors to get up close with aircraft like Thailand’s F-5 fighter jet, the US’s Boeing P-8 Poseidon, Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, and Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk, alongside Russia’s Ilyushin Il-76. The “Opening Gambit” on day one, described by airshow veteran Mark Jefferies as “like no other,” featured multiple fighters firing infrared flares, creating dramatic black patches on the airfield and culminating in a rare appearance by a US B-52 Stratofortress, which made a 4,200-nautical-mile round trip from Diego Garcia to perform a low-pass flyover.
Maritime demonstrations complemented the aerial shows, with 31 warships and maritime assets, including 12 vessels from participating nations, on display at Resorts World Langkawi. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency showcased its Kilat and Petir boats, alongside Agusta Westland, Dauphin, and Bombardier aircraft, while the Royal Malaysian Navy presented an impressive fleet, including KD Mahawangsa, KD Lekiu, and KD Tunku Abdul Rahman. These displays underscored the integration of air and sea capabilities, a hallmark of LIMA’s comprehensive approach.
@aeronewsjournal #russianknights taking off for morning show at #lima25 final day. The Russian aerobics team performed a stunning maneuvers with their #sokhoi #SU35 #lima25langkawi #airshows #malaysia #russia ♬ Valor - Karlo
Deals and MoUs: Driving Innovation and Collaboration
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| During the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA 2025), the Defense Ministry finalized 40 agreements, including contracts, letters of acceptance, letters of intent, and memoranda of understanding, totaling RM11 billion with various strategic partners. (Image: The Star) |
LIMA’25 was a hotbed for business, with several high-profile deals and MoUs signed, reinforcing Malaysia’s role in the global defense and aerospace markets. While exact figures for 2025 are not fully disclosed, Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced that the event would feature agreements focused on indigenous defense technologies. Key MoUs included initiatives for defense satellite development programs, the integration of artificial intelligence into defense applications, and the establishment of a national center of excellence in aviation. These agreements align with Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional leader in aerospace innovation by fostering local capabilities and international partnerships.
Historically, LIMA has been a catalyst for significant contracts. In 2007, deals included the RM 2.8 billion purchase of Airbus A400M aircraft for the RMAF. LIMA 2013 saw 24 contracts worth RM 4.271 billion, while LIMA 2017 recorded agreements valued at RM 3.7 billion, an 81% increase from 2015’s RM 2 billion. LIMA’25 continued this trend, with industry leaders like Dassault Aviation, Spirit AeroSystems, and Safran Landing Systems engaging in discussions to supply advanced technologies, including potential deals for Dassault Rafale jets, building on interest expressed in 2015.
The event’s 60% defense and 40% commercial focus facilitated collaborations across sectors. Seminars hosted by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on aerospace and shipbuilding emphasized smart solutions and sustainability, with industry giants like Asia Digital Engineering and SIRIM Berhad sharing insights. These discussions paved the way for partnerships that aim to position Malaysia as Asia’s premier shipbuilding and ship repair hub, further boosting economic growth and job creation.
Public Attention: A Global and Local Phenomenon
LIMA’25 captivated both local and international audiences, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors over its five-day run. The first three days were dedicated to trade professionals, attracting 38,421 trade visitors in 2013 and likely more in 2025 given the increased exhibitor count. The final two days opened to the public, with projections suggesting a 10% increase from LIMA 2017’s 180,000 visitors, potentially surpassing 200,000 attendees. The event’s appeal to Malaysians was evident in the enthusiastic crowds at MIEC and Resorts World Langkawi, where families, students, and enthusiasts marveled at the displays and explored the LIMA Gallery, which chronicled the event’s history since 1991. For Malaysians, LIMA’25 was a source of national pride, showcasing the country’s technological advancements and strategic importance. The event’s economic impact, including full bookings for lodging and transit services, boosted local businesses, while its scenic setting in Langkawi attracted tourists who combined exhibition visits with island exploration. International visitors, including aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals, praised the event’s organization and unique blend of defense and commercial showcases, with posts on social media describing it as a “must-visit” for its “unparalleled” displays.
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| LIMA'25 witnessed a massive crowd of public visitors since early morning on the two days assigned for public visitors. |
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Unity
LIMA’25 solidified its status as a world-class event, blending cutting-edge technology, international collaboration, and public engagement. Its history reflects Malaysia’s ambition to lead in aerospace and maritime innovation, while its 2025 edition showcased the participation of 24 countries, spectacular aerial and maritime displays, and significant business deals that promise to shape the industry’s future. The event’s ability to captivate both global and local audiences underscores its role as a bridge between nations and a source of pride for Malaysia. As LIMA looks to 2027, its legacy of innovation, partnership, and spectacle continues to thrive, ensuring its place as a global attraction and a beacon of local aspiration.