Commanders consider naval arms race
There needs to be continued co-operation in the Asia Pacific region to guarantee safety and security in the maritime domain, according to the Malaysian deputy chief of navy.
Making a keynote address at the Asian Naval Warfare conference in Kuala Lumpur on 10 September, VAdm Ahmad Kamarulzaman argued that countries in the region needed to have credible naval forces to provide those guarantees, but also warned that nations needed to be aware of the security perceptions that their actions created.
Countries in the region are continuing to spend money on naval modernisation, with Frost & Sullivan stating that Asia-Pacific is
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging]()
As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging
Research programmes and system procurement efforts to counter uncrewed surface and underwater vehicle threats are accelerating as naval drone uptake spreads.
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027]()
US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027
After recording a nearly six-year delay in the OPC schedule, the USCG intends to advance with the programme, reaching multiple milestones in the short term.
-
![Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached]()
Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached
Australia’s selection of an upgraded Mogami-class frigate marks Japan’s first-ever export of a major surface combatant. With an ambitious 2029 delivery target, the deal could open the door to further naval exports – but inexperience and geopolitical friction with China loom large.
