More of the same for Malaysian maritime forces during COVID-19?
The after-effects of COVID-19 could raise questions over the long-term sustainability of Malaysian maritime forces; even before the pandemic began, the government was struggling to recapitalise ageing assets and introduce more modern capabilities.
Recent resurgence in COVID-19 infections in Malaysia has dashed all hopes for a quick return to normality. Yet even before Malaysian security forces were placed on heightened vigilance, Malaysian maritime forces have undergone months of increased operational tempo, despite capacity shortfalls.
Indeed, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) did not dispatch a warship to August’s RIMPAC exercise in Hawaii, as every single asset has become so prized that it needs to be carefully husbanded for more pressing needs.
Fortuitously, Operation Benteng, activated under the National Task Force to deal with COVID-19, envisages an interagency cooperative effort between the Malaysian Armed
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![UK MoD’s confirmation of MBDA missile for Type 26 points to more European collaboration]()
UK MoD’s confirmation of MBDA missile for Type 26 points to more European collaboration
The Type 26 will also be fitted with the Sea Ceptor vertically launched air defence system that can fire CAMM missiles and a 24-cell Mk 41 vertical launch system that can fire the Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, anti-submarine rockets and long-range anti-ship missiles.
-
![Second Royal Canadian Navy Joint Support Ship is on schedule to be launched mid-2026]()
Second Royal Canadian Navy Joint Support Ship is on schedule to be launched mid-2026
While the first Joint Support Ship is currently in the final stages of outfitting, the second one is on schedule for launching next year.
-
![Is South Korea finally being taken seriously for Western submarine programmes?]()
Is South Korea finally being taken seriously for Western submarine programmes?
South Korean shipbuilders are beginning to make their mark beyond Asia, competing for major North American and European submarine programmes and becoming serious contenders on a global scale.
-
![AUKUS Pillar 2 could narrow focus to “four key areas” says UK official]()
AUKUS Pillar 2 could narrow focus to “four key areas” says UK official
Few concrete ideas have emerged so far on which “advanced capabilities” will be brought forward under Pillar 2 of the AUKUS partnership, but the Pentagon’s review of the programme could bring more clarity.
