{
  "id": 13597165,
  "title": "LCS ‘better than nothing’ despite prolonged delays, say experts",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/lcs-better-than-nothing-despite-prolonged-delays-say-experts",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-11T00:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/10/11/lcs-better-than-nothing-despite-prolonged-delays-say-experts"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The controversial littoral combat ship (LCS) project, despite numerous delays and cost overruns, is expected to still benefit the Malaysian navy according to defence analysts. While some have questioned the ships' technological relevance by the time of delivery, experts Lam Choong Wah and Salawati Mat Basir maintain that the LCS will significantly improve the navy's capabilities. Lam acknowledged that some systems may be outdated, but emphasized that the project is still better than nothing. Salawati added that the LCS project is critically needed by the navy, despite being behind schedule and over budget. Analysts are calling for a royal commission of inquiry to investigate the troubled project and for increased transparency and oversight in future defence procurements.",
  "summary": "Two defence analysts say the vessels would still enhance the navy’s capabilities, but one also calls for an RCI to probe the troubled project.",
  "key_points": [
    "LCS project delayed and over budget",
    "Experts see value despite technological concerns",
    "Call for inquiry and transparency in defense procurement"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "LCS ‘better than nothing’ despite prolonged delays, say experts",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/11/lcs-better-than-nothing-despite-prolonged-delays-say-experts-13605257",
        "published": "2026-10-11T00:30:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}