KOTA TINGGI: The Defence Ministry has stated that the Naval Strike Missile supplier has requested discussions over the RM1.06bil claim stemming from the cancelled procurement for the Navy.
However, Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the ministry is cautious about any discussion being used as an excuse or tactic to delay the claims process.
"We are always aware and vigilant against any such tactics to avoid being trapped," he told reporters after attending the Ilmiah Keagamaan Masyarakat (PIKAT) programme at Felda Air Tawar 2 on Sunday (July 5).
The Norwegian government was previously reported to have revoked the export licence for the NSM anti-ship missiles and their launch systems on security grounds.
According to Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace's website, the missile deal was signed with the Navy in April 2018 at EUR124mil (RM571.9mi) to equip six new Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).
Following the cancellation, Malaysia is claiming RM1.06biln from Kongsberg, comprising EUR129.86mil (RM604mil) in direct claims for payments already made, plus EUR96.26mil (RM448.12mil) in indirect claims covering cost implications and knock-on effects from the failed supply.
In a related development, Mohamed Khaled said an evaluation team of navy officers has been formed to identify the best missile system from four countries to replace Kongsberg's Norwegian-made missiles.
"Yes, it's underway, and we want it evaluated ASAP," he said briefly.
On June 28, Mohamed Khaled was reported as saying the ministry had identified four potential countries to supply the anti-ship missile system for the LCS following Norway's cancellation. Turkey and South Korea are among the contenders, along with two European nations.
He said the selection process goes beyond basic specifications, factoring in key criteria to ensure the chosen system meets the navy's operational needs. – Bernama
