Kuala lumpur: More than 60 percent of the Royal Malaysian Navy's (RMN) assets have surpassed 40 years of age, creating challenges for operational readiness and necessitating phased replacements under the RMN 15 to 5 Transformation Plan, according to RMN chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Admiral Zulhelmy highlighted that the ageing fleet has put increased pressure on the navy to maintain operations, as these vessels are vital for safeguarding the nation's maritime territories. He emphasized the continuous demand for ships to be deployed around the clock for six operations each year, noting that the current condition of these vessels differs significantly from their original state.

The RMN is now primarily engaged in corrective maintenance rather than preventive maintenance, with difficulties arising in sourcing spare parts. Admiral Zulhelmy pointed out the ongoing service of four Perdana-class Combat vessels, which have been operational for more than 50 years, as a testament to the RMN's effective maintenance practices. These vessels have been repurposed from missile boats to patrol vessels due to outdated systems and equipment.

To extend the operational life of KD Perdana and KD Ganyang, the RMN is implementing an asset obsolescence management program aimed at enhancing the vessels' structural integrity, allowing them to remain operational for an additional 10 to 15 years until replacements are procured. Admiral Zulhelmy also mentioned that the RMN's asset modernisation would proceed in tandem with the government's financial capabilities under the RMN 15 to 5 Transformation Plan. This includes the acquisition of Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and potential submarine procurement under the 14th Malaysia Plan (14MP).

The MRSS project has received government approval under the 13MP and is currently at the proposal evaluation stage before finalizing the procurement process. Admiral Zulhelmy noted that the project is expected to continue into the 14MP, with two MRSS required under the 13MP and a target of three vessels under the RMN 15 to 5 Transformation Plan, with the third vessel planned for local construction. Several countries have submitted proposals to supply the MRSS, which are now under evaluation.