Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Defence is in the final stages of evaluating three options for a surface-to-surface missile (SSM) system after the Norwegian government cancelled the export permit for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministry stated that the selection of the system will consider operational requirements, integration compatibility with naval vessels, costs, and the procurement timeline. A final decision is expected once an option has been agreed upon and the procurement agreement has been signed.

Datuk Wira Dr Ku Abd Rahman Ku Ismail (PN-Kubang Pasu) questioned Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin in the Dewan Rakyat about the government's plans to obtain the NSM system following the cancellation.

In other developments, the construction of all five Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) has reached 80.72% completion as of September 25, with a delay variance of 9.19% against the original target of 89.91%. The contractor, Lumut Naval Shipyard (LUNAS), has guaranteed delivery of the first LCS in April 2027, followed by subsequent deliveries through April 2029.

The first LCS, KD Maharaja Lela, is undergoing Harbour Acceptance Trials, which include testing the main machinery, power generation, and propulsion systems, before proceeding to Sea Acceptance Trials (SAT) with the RMN.