The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has opted for a strategic collaboration with Turkey for its Littoral Mission Ship Batch II program, signaling a significant shift in procurement strategy. This decision, announced by Defense Minister YB Mohammad Hassan, emphasizes the selection of Turkey as the preferred partner for the acquisition of three initial corvettes with plans for a total of eight vessels.The program’s primary focus is to procure versatile corvettes capable of executing anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and patrol missions. Minister Hassan highlighted that Turkish shipyards possess the capabilities necessary to meet the stringent requirements outlined for these vessels.
This shift in partnership stems from a reassessment of the Littoral Mission Ship acquisition program following Malaysia’s 2018 general election. Originally slated for construction by China, the program underwent revision in early 2019 to streamline costs and accelerate the delivery process. The new contract now entails all four ships being built under a Government-to-Government framework, with the chosen shipyard set to be announced in due course. Evaluation stages involve prominent Turkish shipyards such as STM’s Ada-class, Dearsan C92 corvette, and TAIS Shipyardn with its 92-meter OPV. Other competitors in the program were South Korea’s HHI’s (Hyundai Heavy Industries) HDF-2600 and Dutch Damen’s SIGMA designs.
Notably, STM, recognized for constructing the Ada-class (MILGEM projec) corvette and its variants, has collaborated with Malaysian TDA, facilitating the transfer of crucial technology for both the LMS Batch II and the MMEA’s Multi-Purpose Mission Ship project. While the Ada-class design remains a frontrunner, concerns have been raised regarding its potential cost exceeding the allocated budget for the LMS Batch II. Moreover, insights into the vessels’ specifications, particularly the length and inclusion of Vertical Launch Systems (VLS), indicate Turkey’s adept understanding of the RMN’s requirements.
As expected, all three Turkish proposals commitment to utilizing the Havelsan Advent Combat Management System (CMS) in any selected proposal further underscores the company’s alignment with Malaysian technological needs. Additionally, the collaboration agreement between STM and TDA, managed under the Industrial Collaboration Policy, reflects a concerted effort to facilitate technology transfer and bolster mutual capabilities. As the RMN progresses with its plans for the Littoral Mission Ship Batch II, the selection of a Turkish partner marks a pivotal step toward enhancing Malaysia’s naval capabilities while fostering international collaboration in defense endeavors.
