The Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) second Littoral Combat Ship (LCS 2) has reached a significant milestone, completing its first stage of painting. This development was shared by Lumut Naval Shipyard (LUNAS), the shipbuilder. LCS 2 has successfully undergone blasting and the initial painting process, a pivotal step in its construction. The next phases involve detailed surface preparation and additional coating applications to ensure the vessel meets stringent maritime standards. These procedures are critical for enhancing the ship’s durability and resilience in challenging marine environments. This progress brings the vessel closer to its much-anticipated completion. The LCS have faced delays and challenges, but the completion of the initial painting for LCS 2 signals forward momentum. The program’s success is critical for modernizing the RMN and addressing regional security challenges.
The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), also known as the Maharaja Lela-class frigate, represents the largest and most advanced surface combatants in the RMN’s fleet. Announced in 2011 as the Second Generation Patrol Vessel (SGPV), the ships are based on an enlarged variant of the Gowind-class corvette, designed by France’s Naval Group (formerly DCNS). Under a contract finalized in 2015, all six ships in this class are being constructed by Malaysia’s Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation (BHIC) at a cost ceiling of RM9 billion (approximately USD 2.8 billion). Once delivered, these frigates will surpass the capabilities of the Lekiu-class frigates currently in service.
As the LCS program advances, its state-of-the-art technology and capabilities will enhance the RMN’s operational reach and maritime defense posture in the region.
The Maharaja Lela-class frigates are meticulously designed to prioritize stealth, survivability, and multi-role versatility. With an overall length of 111 meters and a displacement of 3,100 tons, these vessels are the largest and most sophisticated surface combatants ever built for the Royal Malaysian Navy. The frigates are powered by a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) propulsion system, enabling a top speed of 28 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots. Accommodating a crew of 138 personnel, the ships are equipped to endure missions lasting up to 21 days without resupply. Additionally, the vessels feature a flight deck and hangar capable of supporting a rotary-wing aircraft, such as the Super Lynx 300 or AW139, further enhancing their operational flexibility.
The combat system is centered around the Naval Group’s SETIS, an integrated platform designed for multi-threat environments. The frigates are fitted with the Thales SMART-S Mk2 radar for search and surveillance, complemented by the Rheinmetall TMEO Mk2 electro-optical tracking system for precise fire control. Anti-submarine warfare capabilities are enhanced by the Thales CAPTAS-2 sonar suite. The primary weapon is a Bofors 57 mm naval gun, housed in a stealth-designed cupola to minimize radar cross-section. For close-range engagements, the frigates are armed with two MSI DS30M 30 mm cannons. The vessels are prepared to accommodate advanced missile systems, including 16 Sylver Vertical Launch Systems (VLS) for surface-to-air missiles, though the final missile selection remains pending. The ships have been configured to integrate Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missiles (NSM). Anti-submarine warfare is facilitated by two fixed triple torpedo launchers from J+S, further enhancing the ships’ ability to counter underwater threats.
