Kuala lumpur: Norwegian defence manufacturer Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace AS (KDA) has clarified that export licensing decisions regarding the supply of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) for the Royal Malaysian Navy's (RMN) Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) are handled entirely by Norwegian authorities. KDA spokesman Ivar Simensen said the company operates in strict accordance with the legal frameworks established by the Norwegian government.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Simensen stated, "Export licensing decisions are handled by the Norwegian authorities. We fully comply with all applicable regulations and do not comment on specific licensing matters," in an email reply, while reaffirming the company's long-term commitment to the region. He further commented on their enduring partnerships, saying, "We remain committed to our long-term partnerships and activities in the region."

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously mentioned that Malaysia will engage Norway through diplomatic channels to seek clarification and discuss appropriate measures over the NSM supply for the RMN's LCS. This engagement aims at safeguarding the country's interests following supply concerns involving KDA. The Norwegian Foreign Affairs Ministry was reported to have revoked certain export licences related to specific technologies, citing stricter export controls.

According to KDA's website, the procurement of the NSM was formalised between the RMN and KDA in April 2018 in a deal worth 124 million euros (RM571.9 million) to equip six new LCS. The missile is capable of long-range maritime strikes at high subsonic speeds, with a range exceeding 300 kilometres.