US Considers Selling Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) to Malaysia, Says Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled

Kuala Lumpur, 30 May 2026 – The United States is actively considering the sale of Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems to Malaysia as an alternative solution following Norway’s cancellation of the export licence.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin confirmed the development after a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth in Singapore today.

The discussion took place on the sidelines of the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

Solution After Norway Cancels Export Licence

According to Mohamed Khaled, Malaysia had briefed the US on the issue of Norway’s export licence cancellation and sought Washington’s assistance in finding a resolution.

“We have asked for the US’s views to help resolve the issue we are facing. As you know, there is a US company that produces the same missile as Norway. We have inquired whether the US would allow the sale of these missiles to us to address the problem,” he said.

The procurement of the NSM and its launchers was originally signed between the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) and Norway’s Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) in April 2018, with a contract value of €124 million (RM571.9 million). The system was intended to equip the six new Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) of the RMN.

However, Norway later revoked the export licence citing national security concerns.

Maritime Information Sharing Also Discussed

In addition to the NSM issue, the United States proposed enhanced cooperation on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), which Malaysia is currently implementing.

During the Shangri-La Dialogue, Mohamed Khaled also used the platform to strengthen defence ties with other nations.

He held separate meetings with Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles to discuss the establishment of a Joint Planning Committee, expansion of intelligence sharing, and preparations for the Malaysia-Australia High Level Committee (HLC) meeting as well as the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA).

Malaysia and Canada also agreed to strengthen defence relations through more formal cooperation, including a proposed signing of a formal agreement.

Strategic Move for Malaysia’s Defence

The request for US consideration on the NSM sale is viewed as a strategic step by Malaysia to ensure its maritime defence capabilities remain on track despite the setback from Norway.

The Shangri-La Dialogue 2026, held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore, brings together defence ministers, military chiefs, and diplomats from dozens of countries to discuss regional and global security issues.

The matter remains under consideration, with no final decision announced at this stage.