LCS scandal: fewer ships, more money, less fire power

According to the latest auditor-general's report, Malaysia is buying fewer littoral combat ships (LCS) for more money, with the first vessel facing delays and potential lack of full combat capability. The contract originally covered six ships at RM9.13 billion, but is now for five ships at RM11.23 billion, with 76.22% of the revised contract value already paid.

The audit estimates that resolving the surface-to-surface missile system issue could take three years for negotiations and six years for production and delivery, meaning Malaysians may receive their first LCS vessel without essential weapons. The project has undergone numerous delays and cost increases, with Malaysians now facing the possibility of receiving a vessel that may not be fully operational until 2035.

The auditor-general's findings highlight a significant accountability crisis in the LCS procurement program, questioning whether Malaysia is truly receiving the warships it paid for or merely expensive work-in-progress.