The government has approved a plan to equip all six Kedah-class patrol vessels with advanced surface-to-surface missiles to boost naval firepower.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government has approved the installation of Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSM) on all six Kedah-class vessels.
The Ministry of Defence said the Royal Malaysian Navy is currently conducting a price survey to determine the actual costs of the entire project.
“The installation of the Naval Strike Missile is planned to be undertaken in phases,” the ministry stated in a written parliamentary reply.
It said the initial phase will focus on assessing and integrating the capability on a primary vessel as a pilot platform.
Expansion to other ships in the class will depend on the pilot’s effectiveness, operational needs, and government budget approval.
This phased approach aims to ensure enhancements to the RMN’s combat capabilities are carried out prudently.
The ministry said it prioritises effectiveness and providing the best value, in line with maritime security and fiscal capacity.
The reply was to a question from Nordin Ahmad Ismail regarding the missile installation under the 2026 Budget.
The six vessels are KD Kedah, KD Pahang, KD Perak, KD Terengganu, KD Kelantan, and KD Selangor.
Also known as New Generation Patrol Vessels, they form a key part of the navy’s surface fleet.
