KUALA LUMPUR: The modernisation of defence assets will be implemented progressively and in an orderly and realistic manner, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said this is in line with long-term capability development plans for each branch of the Armed Forces.
"For the Army, modernisation efforts are driven by the "Army4NextGen plan" while the Royal Malaysian Navy’s transformation is guided by the 15-to-5 programme.
"The Royal Malaysian Air Force’s capability development is anchored under the CAP55 programme," he said in his winding up speech at the Dewan Negara on Monday (Dec 15).
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan, specifically the First Rolling Plan (RP1) for 2026, several key defence procurements have been identified to strengthen and modernise the armed forces, Mohamed Khaled said.
"These include the acquisition of two batteries of medium-range air defence missile systems, two Multi Role Support Ships (MRSS), surface-to-surface missile launch systems for the Navy’s 17th patrol vessel squadron, infantry section vehicles, very short-range and short-range air defence systems (VSHORAD and SHORAD), 81mm motorised mortar systems, as well as additional enhancements to the Armed Forces’ satellite communication capabilities," he said.
He stressed that all defence procurements are carried out strictly in accordance with the authority, principles and procurement categories set by the Finance Ministry.
"Based on existing circulars and guidelines, every ministry is required to ensure that procurement processes adhere to best governance practices, emphasising transparency, accountability, fair competition and value for money.
"In this regard, we are committed to ensuring that all military asset procurements fully comply with the procedures and regulations established by the Finance Ministry," he added.
He also expressed his confidence that the introduction of the Government Procurement Bill 2025 will serve as a key pillar in strengthening obligations, responsibilities, governance and transparency across government procurement as a whole.
Responding to concerns regarding obsolete assets and delays in the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) project, Mohamed Khaled said that since the Madani government assumed office, it has taken steps to address and resolve these longstanding issues.
"However, the speed at which such problems can be resolved depends largely on the country’s financial position.
"Despite fiscal constraints, the ministry has consistently received one of the larger allocations under the Madani administration," he said.
On the LCS project, Mohamed Khaled said efforts to complete the programme are ongoing.
"The project was inherited from the previous administration, and the government remains committed to its completion.
"The first Littoral Combat Ship is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026," he added.
