The UK-based Systems Engineering and Assessment (SEA) announced on 14 March that it has secured a contract extension with Lumut Naval Shipyard (LUNAS) to supply its fixed triple configuration Torpedo Launcher System (TLS) to the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN).
The agreement provisions for fixed triple configuration TLS to be fitted to the RMN’s five Maharaja Lela-class Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) to enhance the Maharaja Lela-class LCS anti-submarine warfare capability.
According to SEA, the TLS system is weapon-agnostic and is compatible with a range of lightweight torpedoes, while its compact design simplifies maintenance and extends its operational lifetime.
“This contract highlights our commitment to providing advanced, reliable, and adaptable solutions tailored to meet both immediate and longer-term needs for navies around the world,” said Chris Bennett, Head of TLS at SEA.
“By enhancing Malaysia’s maritime defence capabilities and supporting the development of its domestic defence industry, we continue to strengthen our presence in the Asia-Pacific region and build strategic partnerships to meet the demands of modern navies,” added Bennett.
The TLS forms a critical part of a wider programme of upgrades to the Royal Malaysian Navy, as it continues to modernise its fleet in response to evolving maritime threats.
The Malaysian government earlier awarded Boustead Naval Shipbuilding (BNS) a US$2 billion contract in 2014 for the construction of six LCS based on a version of Naval Group’s Gowind-class corvette design. Under the original program plan, the lead ship Maharaja Lela was expected to be delivered to the RMN in 2019, with all six ships delivered by 2023. However, BNS ran into financial challenges and halte work in 2019 with no ships completed.
Sweeping reforms of the LCS programme saw the RMN reschedule delivery of the first LCS to 2026 and the reduction of six vessels to five, with the remaining four LCS to be delivered by 2029. BNS was also nationalised after its acquisition by the Ministry of Finance and now operates as Lumut Naval Shipyard (LUNAS).
“The integration of SEA’s Torpedo Launcher System will significantly enhance the defensive and operational capabilities of the Maharaja Lela-class LCS,” said Captain Rosnizam Che Puteh, Director of LCS Project at LUNAS.
by Jr Ng
