Experts: Consider bilateral ties in handling Norway missile issue
PETALING JAYA: The halted delivery of Norwegian missiles for the Royal Malaysian Navy’s littoral combat ships (LCS) would be a setback to the modernisation of the country’s maritime warfare capabilities, say defence experts.
They also said while Malaysia has a right to legal action over the alleged breach of contract, there must be tact and diplomacy in navigating a solution as it entails a government-to-government relationship.
Defence analyst Zaki Salleh said with Norway’s refusal, Malaysia may be forced to seek more than just monetary compensation.
“Malaysia has the right to examine whether there has been a breach of contract terms, administrative costs, strategic losses or financial implications arising from the cancellation.
“However, diplomatic negotiations should be prioritised to avoid tensions in bilateral relations.
“At the same time, compensation for losses should be pursued from the supplier company.”
Zaki cautioned that Malaysia cannot be seen as too weak to the point that the country’s strategic interests are sidelined.
“Malaysia and Norway have always maintained good trade relations although the export-import value is relatively modest, ranging between RM1bil and RM2bil.
“There could be a significant impact on Norway as around 50 Norwegian companies are involved in oil and gas operations in Malaysia as well as other industries,” said Zaki.
He said a professional approach through diplomatic channels, legal avenues and strategic negotiations is the most appropriate path to ensure national dignity, defence interests and international relations are safeguarded.
“Following this, the government should diversify defence procurement sources so as not to rely too heavily on a single country or bloc.
“Other supplier nations will also observe how Malaysia manages this issue,” Zaki said.
He said the main implication of the cancellation is on the planning and modernisation of the country’s defence capabilities.
“The Naval Strike Missile is among the modern anti-ship missile systems with a strong reputation in the international market.
“The cancellation has a direct impact on the process of completing the navy’s LCS,” Zaki said.
Prof Dr Mohd Mizan Mohammad Aslam of Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia’s Faculty of Defence Studies and Management said Malaysia should insist that the Norwegian company fulfil the contract.
“The refusal by the Norwegian government to export the missiles actually stems from the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.
“It has nothing to do with us. The problem is on the curb on sale of military assets due to their regional cooperation and the United States.
“The decision by Norway did not include Malaysia in the discussion although a contract was signed with a Norwegian company on the sale of the missiles,” said Prof Mohd Mizan.
He said the loss goes beyond monetary loss as Malaysia now has to look for new missiles.
“We need to make this issue significant, so that everyone – particularly at the international level – understands that the decision is unprofessional, unethical and unacceptable, and that it has a major impact on our country.”
On May 12, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the missiles, which were supposed to be delivered in March this year, were blocked after the Norwegian government refused to approve the export licence just days before shipment.
He said the missiles were meant to equip the LCS fleet, as well as naval vessels KD Jebat and KD Lekiu.
