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Malaysia signs NSM launcher deal, issues Littoral Combat Ships support LOI and acquires first USV

29th May 2025 - 16:35 GMT | by Dzirhan Mahadzir in Langkawi Island, Malaysia

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Malaysia has boosted naval firepower with new NSM launchers and its first unmanned surface vehicle, as LCS delays prompt rearmament of legacy ships. (Photo: US Navy/Kenneth Rodriguez Santiago)

As LCS delays persist, RMN re-arms Lekiu-class frigates and embraces unmanned systems amid budget constraints.

The Malaysian government has signed a US$10.4 million contract for Naval Strike Missile (NSM) launchers to be installed on the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) frigate KD Jebat, and has issued a $189.3 million Letter of Intent (LOI) for logistic support and sea trials for the Maharaja-Lela-class Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).

Both announcements were made during the biennial Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) exhibition, held from 20–24 May in Malaysia.

The NSM contract covers two launcher sets only, with Malaysian Defence Minister Khaled Nordin confirming that a separate contract for the missiles would follow. Although NSMs have already been

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