KUALA LUMPUR: The lead ship of the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) project, KD Maharaja Lela, is expected to be handed over to the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) this December, says Deputy RMN Commander Vice Admiral Datuk Badarudin Taha.
He said the overall construction of the five Maharaja Lela-class LCS frigates at the Lumut naval shipyard (LNS) has reached 76.88% completion.
The delivery of the vessel is a key component of the RMN’s asset modernisation and fleet rationalisation efforts to ensure maritime readiness remains at the highest level, he added.
“In addition to the Maharaja Lela, which is scheduled for delivery this December, LCS 2 (Raja Muda Nala) and LCS 3 (Sharif Mashor) are expected to be received in April and December 2027 respectively,” he said.
Badarudin issued the message marking the 92nd TLDM Day at KD Sri Gombak and the Lumut Naval Base’s KD Pelandok, broadcast via YouTube yesterday.
Meanwhile, Badarudin said the TLDM is currently developing a networked fleet that is balanced and capable of executing missions, from maritime security operations to warfare.
He added that besides the LCS project, the construction of three Batch 2 Littoral Mission Ships (LMSB2) at Istanbul Shipyard in Turkiye has reached 47.9% so far.
“The three LMSB 2 vessels, which began construction on Dec 4, 2024, are expected to be handed over in stages from October to December 2027, whereas the naming and launching ceremonies are scheduled for May, June and August this year,” he said, reported Bernama.
Badarudin added that the development of the two Multi-Role Support Ship projects is ongoing as part of the navy’s long-term capability enhancement.
“This modernisation is not merely about adding assets. It is about strengthening our combat capability and the readiness of the fleet in facing contemporary maritime security challenges.”
