LIMA 25 – LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

By Hans van der Wilt | GMAP.NL Team | May 2025

Every two years, the tropical paradise island of Langkawi transforms into the epicenter of Asia-Pacific’s aerospace and maritime defense industry. For aviation enthusiasts, military analysts, and industry professionals, LIMA (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition) has become the region’s premier defense showcase.

This year’s 17th edition, held from 20 to 24 May 2025, operated under the theme “Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow”, blending cutting-edge defense technology, spectacular aerial displays, and a comprehensive maritime component. GMAP.nl was present to capture all the action from this prestigious event.

📍 Location Check: Langkawi International Airport – Tropical Paradise Meets Air Power

Located on Malaysia’s resort island of Langkawi in northern Kedah state, approximately 30 kilometers from the mainland, Langkawi International Airport (WMKL) serves as the perfect venue for this biennial spectacular. The exhibition space at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), strategically positioned adjacent to the airport, provides extensive static display areas and excellent viewing opportunities.

Unlike typical airshows, LIMA uniquely combines aerospace with maritime demonstrations, with naval displays held at Resorts World Langkawi (RWL), where 31 warships and maritime assets were on display, including 12 vessels from 10 participating nations.

The warm tropical setting, and stunning island backdrop create an unique atmosphere for aviation photography and spotting.

Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, located on the mainland near the city of Alor Setar, was used by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) to host the aircraft participating in the various (opening) displays. GMAP also visited this airport, capturing additional photographs in excellent conditions.

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A Pan-Asian Defense Showcase

LIMA 2025 drew participation from 24 countries with 860 exhibitors and over 450,000 visitors across the five-day event, cementing its position as one of Asia-Pacific’s most significant defense exhibitions.

The flying display program featured 43 aircraft performing daily shows, showcasing both regional air power and international cooperation:

Aerobatic Teams:

Indonesia’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team flying the KT-1B delivered synchronized precision maneuvers that captivated audiences
Russia’s Russian Knights performed with six Su-30SM heavy fighters, showcasing raw power and aggressive aerobatics

Solo Displays:

Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Su-30MKM – The specially painted “Toruk Makto” in Malaysia’s flag colors became the star attraction
RMAF F/A-18D Hornet – The distinctive yellow-striped “Pikachu” provided dramatic displays with extensive flare usage

Notable Absences: The Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran aerobatic team withdrew due to regional tensions, while anticipated appearances by the Su-57 Felon and F-22 Raptor did not materialize. Due to bad weather during the opening ceremony, a low fly-by of two USAF B-52 bombers had to be cancelled.

Static Display Highlights

The static display area featured a diverse international collection:

Brasil: KC-390
Canada: CP-140 Aurora
Germany: Airbus A.400M
India: HAL Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft
Italy: Leonardo P-72A
Russia: IL-76 cargo aircraft
Singapore (RSAF): F-16, AH-64D Apache, CH-47SD Chinook
United States: F/A-18 Super Hornets, C-130J, SH-60 Seahawk helicopter

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Maritime Power on Display

True to its name, LIMA’s maritime component equaled the aerial spectacle in scale and importance. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency showcased Kilat and Petir patrol boats alongside Agusta Westland, Dauphin, and Bombardier aircraft, while the Royal Malaysian Navy presented an impressive fleet including frigates and patrol vessels.

Daily maritime demonstrations featured RHIBs, patrol boats, and helicopters conducting coordinated operations in the waters off Resorts World Langkawi, demonstrating the integration of air and sea capabilities.

Visitors could tour three naval vessels daily, including a Malaysian frigate and rotating vessels from participating nations.

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony or so-called “Gambit” on May 19, 2025, featured a dramatic bombardment simulation by RMAF Su-30MKM and F/A-18D Hornet fighters, setting an aggressive tone for the week ahead. The roar of afterburners across Langkawi’s tropical skies thrilled attendees and demonstrated Malaysia’s commitment to regional air defense.

Business and Industry

LIMA 2025 functioned as much more than an airshow – it’s a critical defense industry marketplace. The first three days were reserved for trade visitors, featuring conferences, panel discussions, and the signing of numerous memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and defense contracts.

Major exhibitors included:

Turkish firms: Roketsan (munitions) and Aselsan (weapon systems and electronics)
French industry: Naval Group, Thales, and Safran
Russian state enterprises: Showcasing the Orlan reconnaissance drone and Lancet loitering munition
Korean Aerospace Industries: Promoting the FA-50 program with Malaysia

🧳 Travel Tips for GMAP Readers

Planning a trip to LIMA 2027? Here’s what we recommend:

Book early: Langkawi is a tourist destination, so accommodation fills quickly during LIMA. Consider staying in Kuah town or one of the beach resorts.
Trade vs. Public days: The first three days (trade days) offer better access to static displays and fewer crowds. Public days (final two) feature afternoon flying display repeats and significantly larger crowds.
Transportation: Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. Many visitors rent scooters or cars to explore the island.
Weather: May is hot and humid in Malaysia. Bring sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water. Brief tropical showers are possible.
Photography: Airport perimeter spots are accessible but crowded during public days. Consider trade day access for better photography opportunities.
Tickets: Public day tickets were approximately RM35 ($8 USD) per day. Trade tickets ranged from RM165-375 depending on package.