The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is expected to receive 13 more G2000 FIC 18M Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) for deployment nationwide. As part of the first stage, the Royal Malaysian Navy has taken delivery of six FICs worth RM80 million, built locally by Gading Marine Industry (M) Sdn Bhd (GMI), specifically for use in Op Benteng to tackle illegal immigrants and other security affairs. Gading Marine won a public tender issued by the Defence Ministry mid-last year and managed to build six FICs within five months.
After the intrusion in Lahad Datu, Sabah in 2013, Malaysia desperately needs a fast interceptor craft for its security forces to patrol the shallow waters and tight area in Sabah. The establishment of ESSCOM and ESSZONE and ongoing Ops Benteng also makes the acquisition of this combat boat very important. This combat boat is currently in service with Royal Malaysian Police under the name of Gading Marine FAC PC 31.[6] In October 2020, Royal Malaysian Navy has ordered G2000 FIC 18M version for its fast interceptor craft acquisition project.
The G2000 FIC 18M, built by Gading Marine Industry is equipped with two MAN 1550 horsepower main engine with two Hamilton Jet HM 461 water jets, capable of reaching maximum speeds in excess of 50 knots. They are designed to be operated by a crew of five and is capable of carrying up to eight Quick Reaction Force personnel at one time. Armed with one 12.7 mm RCWS and two 7.62 mm machine guns. This FIC also equipped with multi-function display radar, navigation radar, AIS, FLIR, HF radio, VHF radio and intercom.
Gading Marine is a Malaysian private company engaged in maritime industry including shipbuilding, ship fabricator and ship maintenance. Gading Marine operates under its parent company Gading Group, and its headquarters located in Selangor. The company also owned a shipyard in other location in the country. Gading Marine works closely with local universities such as University of Kuala Lumpur in the development and construction of the boats for use in Malaysia as well as training related university students in the field of marine.
