The Malaysian Army’s Rocket Artillery Brigade successfully conducted the Lembing Sakti Exercise at Tanjung Hantu, Lumut, Perak. The exercise, observed by Army Chief General Tan Sri Dato’ Muhammad Hafizuddeain bin Jantan, involved the participation of the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM), and local enforcement agencies to ensure training safety and coordination. It focuses on coastal defense and includes the Complete Round Proof (CRP) test firing of SS 40 rocket with tracking conducted at Tanjung Hantu using the 61 RAD’s ATHUR radar. The Malaysian Army is equipped with 36 Brazilian-made Astros II multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS).
Astros II (Artillery Saturation Rocket System) is a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher produced in Brazil by the Avibras company. It features modular design and employs rockets with calibers ranging from 127 to 450 mm (5–17.72 inches). It was developed on the basis of a Tectran VBT-2028 6×6 all-terrain vehicle for enhanced mobility based on Mercedes-Benz 2028 truck chassis while later versions use Tatra 815-7 chassis. A full Astros system includes 1 wheeled 4×4 Battalion level Command Vehicle (AV-VCC), which commands 3 batteries, and a series of 4×4 and 6×6 wheeled vehicles. All vehicles are transportable in a C-130 Hercules. The launcher is capable of firing rockets of different calibers armed with a range of warheads. Each rocket resupply truck carries up to two complete reloads.
Exercise “Lembing Sakti” is an annual training event for the Rocket Artillery Brigade, conducted since 2003. This exercise is a critical exercise for the Malaysian Army, focusing on the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) ASTROS II, managed by the Rocket Artillery Brigade Headquarters. Lembing Sakti aims to test the readiness and proficiency of personnel in handling the ASTROS II, guided by the Army’s Training and Evaluation System (ARTEP). An impressive 128 rockets were launched during this session, showcasing the system’s capabilities. The exercise also proceeded with the firing of seven rounds from the 155MM G5 MK III howitzers. A total of seven 155 mm rounds, comprising three ILLUM and four Smoke rounds, were fired to test the Base Bleed capability, which has been in the Army’s inventory since 2001.
It also tested the readiness of the unit, with support from the Royal Malaysian Navy, the Royal Malaysian Air Force, and local enforcement agencies to ensure training safety. The event was also attended by Deputy Army Chief Lieutenant General Dato’ Tengku Muhammad Fauzi bin Tengku Ibrahim, Western Field Commander Lieutenant General Dato’ Pahlawan Hj Muhammad Huzaimi bin Sabri, Army Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Dato’ Zaidan bin Atan, and other senior army officers. This exercise underscores the Malaysian Army’s commitment to maintaining high levels of readiness and operational capability, ensuring the defense forces remain well-prepared to safeguard national security.
