Norway’s decision to revoke the export licence for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system will not disrupt the delivery timeline of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) project, according to the Defence Ministry.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin assured that the ministry, through the RMN, is currently reviewing alternative missile systems to replace the NSM while ensuring the overall LCS programme continues as scheduled.
He was responding in Parliament to Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar (BN-Kinabatangan), who had raised concerns regarding the impact of Norway’s move on Malaysia’s maritime defence preparedness, particularly in relation to the LCS project, as well as the government’s mitigation plans.
Khaled stated that the revocation of the export licence does not affect the planned delivery schedule of the LCS vessels, stressing that the Armed Forces’ operational readiness remains intact despite the development.
He added that the ministry views Norway’s decision seriously but maintains confidence that current assets and existing weapon systems are sufficient to safeguard the nation’s maritime sovereignty.
The RMN, he said, continues to rely on its existing capabilities while working to ensure continuity of defence readiness through ongoing maintenance programmes, life extension efforts and upgrades of current assets.
To strengthen long-term preparedness, the ministry has also implemented several mitigation measures, including diversifying defence procurement sources and enhancing defence diplomacy to secure stable supply chains for critical equipment.
Khaled further noted that the situation highlights the risks of depending heavily on a single foreign supplier for strategic defence systems. In response, the ministry aims to accelerate the National Defence Industry Policy to bolster local defence capabilities.
He also said future acquisitions will prioritise government-to-government arrangements to reduce exposure to unilateral disruptions or contract cancellations, ensuring more stable and secure defence procurement planning moving forward.
