Defence Ministry shortlists three missile systems for LCS, says Khaled

LUMUT, Sept 19 — The Defence Ministry (Mindef) is nearing completion of its process to select a surface-to-surface missile system for the Royal Malaysian Navy's Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) from among three potential suppliers. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin did not reveal the identities of these three nations during a press conference, but stated that several critical matters needed to be addressed before a final government decision could be made.

Khaled Nordin made this announcement at the launch of the Cyber Force Nucleus Team, coinciding with the 93rd Malaysian Armed Forces Day at the Royal Malaysian Navy Base. In July, Malaysia had halted all procurement of new defense equipment or assets from Norway following that country's decision to withdraw its export license for the LCS missile system.

When asked about the potential acquisition of the BrahMos air-to-surface missile system from India, Khaled Nordin mentioned that the matter would be forwarded to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) for thorough evaluation. This evaluation would encompass various aspects such as the implications of the system, the necessary integration of the system into existing RMAF defense assets, including the Sukhoi fighter aircraft.

Furthermore, Khaled Nordin emphasized the importance of reviewing Malaysia's current defense doctrine, as the existing system boasts a range of only 100 kilometers, whereas the proposed BrahMos system offers a significantly extended range of 300 to 400 kilometers.