What Happened
Defense Deal Falters Amid Reports of Oslo Reneging on Export Approval
Malaysia is seeking further clarification from Norway regarding an order for Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) after reports emerged that Oslo is reneging on a defense exports approval. The deal, signed in 2018, was for an undisclosed number of NSM weapons to equip six new Royal Malaysian Navy Littoral Combat Ships. Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the country will use diplomatic channels to seek clarification and find a solution in the best interest of the country. The potential cancellation of the deal could impact Malaysia’s LCS program, which has already faced significant delays. This development was first reported by Breaking Defense.