Malaysia's NSM Order Falters: Norway Rethinks Defense Exports

A significant anti-ship missile procurement for Malaysia's naval forces faces uncertainty, as Kuala Lumpur seeks urgent clarification from Norway. Reports indicate Oslo may be reversing its defense export approval for the Naval Strike Missiles (NSM), posing a considerable challenge to Malaysia's ongoing naval modernization efforts.

BELFAST and SINGAPORE — Malaysia says it will “seek further clarifications” from Norway surrounding an order for Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) after reports emerged that Oslo is reneging on a defense exports approval — likely signaling cancellation of the deal.

Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin said in a statement published on social media today that he had taken note of reports claiming the procurement is facing a supply issue along with Norway’s apparent change of heart.

In light of the reports, “Malaysia will use diplomatic channels with the Government of Norway to seek further clarifications and find the best solution in the interest of the country,” he said. Nordin did not mention if Kuala Lumpur will seek to recoup any payments made to Kongsberg or if alternative weapons are to be assessed as a possible NSM replacement.

Malaysia and Kongsberg signed a deal in 2018 for supply of an undisclosed number of NSM weapons to equip six new Royal Malaysian Navy Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).

The “Ministry of Defense remains committed to ensuring the country’s defense readiness is unaffected and maintaining good bilateral relations” with Norway, he added.

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway’s Ministry of Defense and Kongsberg all did not respond to a request for comment by press time.

Should the cancellation go ahead, it would deal a fresh blow to Malaysia’s LCS program, leaving the navy in need of a new primary anti-ship missile at a time when the country’s lead ship, LCS 1 Maharaja Lela, has started sea trials after years of delay.