Norway revoked missile export licences to Malaysia in order to strengthen controls on defence technology developed in Norway, due to the changing security landscape in Europe and globally.
The Norwegian Foreign Affairs Ministry said the move, which sparked backlash from Malaysian officials, including from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, would see Norway limiting sensitive defence technology exports to its closest allies.
“The security policy landscape in Europe and globally has changed significantly in recent years. The government has, therefore, over time, worked to strengthen controls on defence technology developed in Norway.
“Exports of some of the most sensitive Norwegian-developed defence technologies will be limited to our allies and closest partners,” the ministry said in a statement to Malaysiakini.
The ministry said it regrets that the decision has affected Malaysia, but it could not reveal more due to strict confidentiality requirements.
“The Foreign Affairs Ministry can confirm that certain licences related to the export of specific defence technology to Malaysia have been revoked.
“This is solely due to Norway’s application of the export control regulations, and it is regrettable that this affects Malaysia.
“The duty of confidentiality under the Export Control Act is strict. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is therefore unable to comment on individual cases,” the statement said.
Norway still values relationship with M’sia
The Norwegian Foreign Affairs Ministry said its government still values its ties with Malaysia.
“Norway greatly values its relationship with Malaysia and looks forward to continued cooperation and constructive dialogue with the Malaysian authorities,” the statement said.
Norway’s decision means that the naval strike missile (NSM) system for the littoral combat ship (LCS) programme cannot be delivered despite having a contract signed with manufacturer Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (KDA) in 2018.
The decision could leave the Royal Malaysian Navy’s long-delayed LCS programme without an anti-surface missile capability, at least until a replacement system is secured.
According to a New Straits Times report, Malaysia had already paid 95 percent of the contract’s value, amounting to over RM500 million.
Norway’s decision led to Anwar “expressing his vehement objection” to his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store in a telephone call on May 14.
Malaysia’s Defence Ministry, meanwhile, is considering legal action over Norway’s decision.
“A special committee at the ministry level has been established to detail the claims, which are not limited to refunding payments already made, but also include damages arising from breach of contract,” Defence Minister Khaled Nordin said, according to NST Online.
“We are making the necessary calculations. We will not only seek recovery of funds paid, but also compensation for the consequences of the breach that has affected the government.” - Mkini
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