Malaysia condemns Norway over revocation of missile export permit
Washington (ANTARA) - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday criticised Norway after Oslo revoked an export permit related to the delivery of Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems for Malaysia’s military modernisation programme.
“I conveyed Malaysia’s strong objections in a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre regarding Norway’s unilateral and unacceptable decision to revoke the export permit for the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system and its launchers, ostensibly to protect Norway’s security,” he said on his X account.
Norway reportedly justified the move on national security grounds, a rationale described by Anwar as “unilateral and unacceptable.”
“Malaysia has honoured every obligation under this contract since 2018: meticulously, faithfully, and without hesitation,” Anwar said.
“Norway apparently does not feel obliged to extend us the same courtesy and demonstration of good faith,” he added.
The dispute centres on Malaysia’s acquisition of the NSM anti-ship missile system as part of the country’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) modernisation programme, a key component of Kuala Lumpur’s long-term naval strategy.
Anwar warned that the cancellation could significantly disrupt Malaysia’s defence readiness and alter broader regional security dynamics.
“I have explained that this decision will have serious consequences for Malaysia’s operational defence readiness and the Littoral Combat Ship modernisation programme,” he said.
“It will undoubtedly have wider implications for regional balance,” he added.
The Malaysian leader also questioned the broader reliability of European defence suppliers, stating that the move could undermine confidence in future strategic partnerships.
“Signed contracts are serious instruments. They are not confetti to be scattered recklessly,” Anwar said.
“If European defence suppliers are entitled to renege on contracts without penalty, their value as strategic partners will evaporate,” he added.