Hishammuddin lauded navy's creative approach in LCS construction

LUMUT: The creative approach taken by the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in the construction of the littoral combat ships (LCS), as part of the nation's defence assets is a proud achievement.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the project was implemented through the 15 to 5 Transformation Plan introduced by RMN to safeguard the country's waters.
"Even though the plan is made during uncertain economic times, the approach is quite creative, we can ensure that any constraints do not affect the role and responsibilities in making sure the navy has sufficient assets.
"We will never allow any aspects of the national security and defence be compromised in any situation and we will continue ensuring our military assets and capabilities are strategically and efficiently developed," he said at a media conference after the launch of the first LCS vessel, Royal Vessel (KD) Maharaja Lela.
The ceremony was officiated by Raja Permaisuri of Perak, Tuanku Zara Salim and witnessed by Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah at the RMN base here today.
Hishammuddin said the most sophisticated Frigate vessels in Southeast Asia was part of the navy's effort and approach to strengthen its preparedness and effectiveness in conducting surveillance and intrusion prevention activities.
A fleet of six LCS were built by Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BN Shipyard), a subsidiary of Boustead Holdings Berhad and its associate Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation Bhd (BHIC) at a cost of RM9 billion.
The littoral combat ships have four-dimensional warfare capabilities with the durability of overcoming electronic, air, land and water threats as well as the latest warfare management system. — Bernama