Malaysia has identified four countries as potential suppliers of anti-ship missile systems to replace the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), following Norway’s decision to revoke the export licence for the weapon system.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the Defence Ministry is currently evaluating proposals from the four countries based on several key criteria to ensure the selected system meets the operational requirements of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), particularly for its Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).
He said the shortlisted countries include European nations as well as Turkiye and South Korea, although their identities have not been disclosed as the evaluation process is still ongoing.
The minister said the main consideration is whether the missile system can be integrated with the Combat Management System (CMS) on the LCS, which is built by France.
He added that compatibility with the ship’s existing systems is crucial, as several countries are now offering alternative missile solutions to Malaysia.
Apart from technical integration, the ministry is also assessing delivery timelines, as earlier NSM procurement took up to eight years, and the government is seeking faster delivery to improve naval readiness.
Cost considerations are also being taken into account, alongside the need for technology that is equal to or better than the NSM system.
Norway previously revoked the export licence for the NSM and its related launch systems to Malaysia on national security grounds.
The original contract for the NSM procurement, signed in April 2018 between the RMN and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, was valued at €124 million (RM571.9 million) for the equipping of six LCS vessels.
Following the decision, Malaysia has issued a legal claim exceeding RM1 billion and is awaiting a response from the Norwegian government.
