LIMA 2007 hints on new MPCSS for Royal Malaysian Navy

Recent reports in the Star suggested that the government is seriously planning on acquiring new Multi-Purpose Command and Support Ship for the RMN. The first hint came directly from the Armed Forces Chief, and later was re-affirm by the Minister of Defence which is also the Deputy Prime Minister. Of course, if the Armed Forces Chief has said it out loud,
it must be that the matter has been agreed upon by the government.

Najib also had suggested that the RMN might get two of the them. Ironically, two is the minimum number that we need. Practically, considering geographical nature of Malaysia, we should get four ships. Two ships to serve the two separated region, while the other two get rested or refitted. So, with four ships, we can maintained a presence of at least two MPCSS ships to cater the need of the fleet.

Now, what are the choices that would be the best for us? Obviuosly the Government will look somewhere in South Korea for the new ships. Not only because they can complete the ships in record time, but also the quality factor they bring in. But, if we want to look on ship builders that is combat-proven, I would suggest we seek the British. Their newly assigned RFA Fort Victoria ships are one of the most sophisticated around. Enough said, here are the pictures :


RFA Fort George A388, one of the 21 ships christened RFA Fort Victoria class


RFA Fort Victoria class ships combines the function of a fleet support tanker and a store support ship.


With an overall length of 204 metres, the ship has two large spot flight deck


Other than its superior onboard systems and advanced functions, the class also can house five Sea King or Merlin helicopters, and supports emergency Harrier landing.

Besides the Fort Victoria class, the RMN might also had fix an eye on the ever famous Rotterdam class from the Netherlands. Newer to that of the Fort Victoria class, the Rotterdam is not only a replenishment ship, it can also act as an amphibious assult platform.
Shorter in length than the Fort Victoria, the Rotterdam has a length of 162.2 metres, and can carry up to 33 MBTs or 170 APCs. And because it is also designed for amphibious assault, the ship is well armed.


HrMS Rotterdam L800, the class flagship. Spain has also acquired two of the class, the Galicia and the Castilia.


Because it has a limited function as a tanker/supplier, the Rotterdam, although shorter in length than the Fort Victoria, can accommodate up to six medium-sized helicopter such as the NH 90.

So, Malaysia, what is your choice? If none of this ship interest the RMN, than they can always ask the Chinese. They also got an interesting semi-stealth ship to be offered.