How will the LCS be equipped without surface-to-surface missiles initially?

Question

Accepted Answer

LCS Will Be Equipped with Existing Weapon Systems Amidst Missile Delay

The Royal Malaysian Navy's Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) will be equipped with existing weapon systems to maintain maritime readiness, despite a delay in acquiring a replacement surface-to-surface missile system. The first LCS vessel is scheduled for delivery in December this year, but will not include the surface-to-surface missile capability at that time. This situation arises due to Norway revoking export approval for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system supplied by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA).
Existing Armament for Initial Deployment

The LCS will be outfitted with weapon systems currently available within the navy's inventory. While specific details on these "existing weapons systems" are not elaborated upon, the Chief of Defence Force, Gen Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman, stated that this approach will ensure the navy's operational capacity is not compromised. This strategy allows for the vessels to be commissioned and operationalised even before the new missile system is procured and integrated.
Procurement Timeline for New Missile Systems

Acquiring a new surface-to-surface missile system is projected to take at least two years. This timeline accounts for identifying a new supplier, the tender process, and the eventual delivery and integration of the system. Malaysia has shortlisted France, Italy, Turkey, and South Korea as potential alternative suppliers following an evaluation by the Defence Ministry and the Royal Malaysian Navy. However, the tender process for these potential suppliers has not yet commenced.
Financial and Contractual Considerations

Malaysia has reportedly made substantial payments for the initially intended NSM system, with approximately RM600 million paid, representing 95 per cent of the total contract value. The Defence Ministry is expected to engage with KDA in August to seek an amicable resolution regarding the export cancellation. The financial implications and the process of securing a new contract will necessitate a review of the defence budget, a procedure that inherently requires time.
Assurances on Maritime Readiness

Despite the setback concerning the surface-to-surface missile system, assurances have been given that the navy's maritime readiness will not be significantly impacted. The decision to equip the LCS with existing weapon systems is a contingency plan to mitigate the impact of the delay. The Chief of Defence Force has acknowledged the situation as a "setback" but emphasized that actionable plans are in place to manage the challenges and ensure continued operational effectiveness.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How will the LCS be equipped without surface-to-surface missiles initially?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

3

0

0

Share with friends