Malaysia and Norway are in a dispute after Oslo revokes export licenses for a naval strike missile system ordered for Malaysia’s navy. Multiple reports say Norway’s decision is a last-minute halt that affects the Malaysia-ordered Naval Strike Missiles (NSMs) built by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for Malaysia’s long-delayed littoral combat ship programme. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and other officials condemn the move and warn it undermines confidence in European defence suppliers, while also saying Malaysia is considering legal action. Malaysia asks Norway for clarification following an export control stoppage reported to have occurred shortly before scheduled deliveries.
Norway says it cancelled the exports and has defended its decision. Separately, the United States denies any role in Norway’s cancellation, stating it supported the acquisition and raised the broader issue of Washington’s influence in weapons deals involving American-made components. The dispute also includes claims by Malaysia that it has already paid a large portion of the contract value. The companies and governments involved are now dealing with the implications for deliveries and contract terms.
