World · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia's second multipurpose mission ship to launch by end-2027
Malaysia's second Multi-Purpose Mission Ship, currently under construction in Turkey, is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, Defence Minister Saifuddin Nasution said. The vessel will bolster the country's maritime capabilities in the region.
LSN Malaysia ·
The second Multi-Purpose Mission Ship (MPMS) being built in Turkish shipyards will be delivered to the Royal Malaysian Navy before the end of 2027, Defence Minister Saifuddin Nasution announced on Saturday. The announcement underscores Malaysia's ongoing modernisation of its naval fleet to enhance operational readiness and regional maritime presence.
The MPMS represents a significant upgrade to Malaysia's defence infrastructure, designed to undertake a range of operations including patrol, surveillance, and humanitarian assistance missions. The vessel follows the successful commissioning of the first MPMS, which has been deployed across Malaysian waters for various security and peacekeeping operations.
Saifuddin said the construction project in Turkey is progressing on schedule. The defence ministry has been coordinating closely with Turkish shipbuilders to ensure the vessel meets all technical specifications and operational requirements set by the Royal Malaysian Navy. The ship will be equipped with advanced maritime systems and capable of supporting diverse naval missions.
The acquisition of the second MPMS forms part of Malaysia's broader defence modernisation strategy, aimed at strengthening the country's maritime security posture in the South China Sea and the Straits of Malacca. Naval experts have noted that such multipurpose vessels are increasingly vital for countries managing extensive maritime zones and economic interests in busy shipping lanes.