Anwar gives Norway PM earful over axed missile contract

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has expressed Malaysia’s vehement objection to Norway’s revocation of the export licence for the naval strike missile (NSM) system and its associated systems.

In a Facebook post today, Anwar said ire over the unilateral and unacceptable decision, which was ostensibly to protect Norway’s security, was conveyed in a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

He said Malaysia has honoured every obligation under this contract since 2018, scrupulously, faithfully, and without equivocation.

“Norway, it appears, has not felt compelled to extend us the same courtesy and demonstration of good faith,” he said.

Anwar said he made it plain that this decision will have grave consequences for Malaysia’s defence operational readiness and the littoral combat ship (LCS) modernisation programme, adding that it will undoubtedly carry broader ramifications for regional balance.

“Signed contracts are solemn instruments. They are not confetti to be scattered in so capricious a manner,” he said.

Anwar said if European defence suppliers reserve the right to renege with impunity, their value as strategic partners flies out the window.

The Norwegian Foreign Ministry has reportedly withdrawn several export licences related to certain technologies as part of the country’s move to tighten export controls.

According to the website of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (KDA), the procurement of the NSM was signed between the Royal Malaysian Navy and KDA in April 2018 with a contract value of €124 million (RM571.9 million) to equip six new LCS vessels.

- Bernama

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