As Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence prepares to officially open tenders for the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) Multi-Role Support Ship (MRSS) procurement program this October, competition among international shipbuilders is heating up.
Three major global shipbuilding companies—Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea, Fincantieri of Italy, and PT PAL of Indonesia—have emerged as frontrunners in the bid to supply these crucial naval assets.
The MRSS procurement is a key component of Malaysia’s long-term defense strategy. The ships will play a vital role in logistics support, disaster relief, amphibious operations, medical assistance, and search and rescue missions.
The RMN has long highlighted the necessity of MRSS vessels due to Malaysia’s unique geographical makeup, with its territories—Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia—separated by the South China Sea. The shortest distance between these two regions is approximately 568 kilometers, making maritime mobility critical for national defense and logistical support.
The Defense Ministry has confirmed that the tender process will commence in October for the acquisition of two MRSS units under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), which runs from 2026 to 2030. A third vessel is expected to be procured under the 14th Malaysia Plan (RMK-14), covering the years 2031 to 2035.
This acquisition, which has faced repeated delays over recent years, is considered vital for the RMN’s modernization efforts. Former RMN Chief Admiral Datuk Abdul Rahman Ayob previously emphasized that MRSS vessels are a strategic necessity for Malaysia’s military preparedness and maritime security.
Several global shipbuilding giants have already submitted their MRSS designs, each tailored to meet Malaysia’s specific operational requirements. The RMN is reportedly considering vessels approximately 150 meters in length with a displacement of around 10,000 tonnes.
South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), one of the world’s largest and most advanced shipbuilders, is offering Malaysia a customized variant of its HDL-13000 MRSS design.
The HDL-13000-class MRSS is a robust and versatile ship designed to handle diverse missions, including amphibious operations and logistical transport.
- Length: 130 to 150 meters
- Displacement: Approximately 10,000 tonnes
- Cruising Speed: 11 to 14 knots
- Armament: 57mm or 76mm main gun (based on RMN’s preference)
- Transport Capacity: 16 main battle tanks, six multi-purpose armored vehicles, and several hundred troops
- Helicopter Support: Flight deck capable of handling up to three helicopters simultaneously
HHI’s design incorporates state-of-the-art integrated internal communications systems (ICS), advanced navigation, and a modern combat management system. These features ensure that the MRSS can effectively perform in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.
Indonesia’s state-owned shipbuilder, PT PAL, is a formidable contender in the MRSS tender, leveraging its extensive experience in producing similar vessels for the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) and other international clients, including the Philippine Navy.
PT PAL’s proposed MRSS is based on an upgraded and larger 12,000-tonne variant of its successful Makassar-class Landing Platform Dock (LPD).
The Makassar-class MRSS:
- Length: 122 to 125 meters
- Beam: 22 meters
- Displacement: Around 12,000 tonnes
- Personnel Capacity: Up to 507 personnel, including crew and embarked forces
- Vehicle Capacity: 35 combat vehicles, including trucks, armored personnel carriers, and amphibious transporters
- Helicopter Operations: Capable of handling multiple rotary-wing aircraft for increased operational flexibility
PT PAL’s Makassar-class vessels have already proven their capabilities in Indonesia’s naval operations and have also been exported to the Philippines, reinforcing PT PAL’s credibility as a serious competitor for Malaysia’s MRSS program.
Fincantieri, a world-renowned Italian shipbuilder, has entered the competition with a design based on its San Giorgio-class Landing Platform Dock (LPD).
Fincantieri’s MRSS proposal is believed to be an enhanced version of its Kalaat Béni Abbès-class LPD, which was previously supplied to Algeria, as well as the Al Fulk, an advanced LPD delivered to the Qatari Emiri Navy.
- Length: Approximately 143 meters
- Beam: 21.5 meters
- Draft: 5.3 meters
- Displacement: Around 8,800 tonnes
- Speed: Up to 20 knots
- Operational Range: 7,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots
- Personnel Capacity: 550 individuals (150 crew members and 400 marines)
- Vehicle Garage: Equipped with two vehicle ramps for efficient deployment
- Landing Craft Support: Features an internal dock capable of launching and recovering landing craft
Fincantieri’s extensive experience in building warships for European, Middle Eastern, and North African navies positions it as a strong contender for Malaysia’s MRSS program.
With three highly competitive contenders, Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence faces a challenging decision in selecting the optimal MRSS provider. Several key factors will influence the final choice:
Cost and Financial Considerations – Budget constraints and cost-effectiveness will play a major role in selecting the winning bidder. The Malaysian government will need to balance affordability with capability.
Technology and Capabilities – The RMN requires modern and reliable vessels equipped with cutting-edge communications, weapons, and logistical support systems. The ability to integrate the MRSS into Malaysia’s existing naval framework will be a crucial factor.
Local Industry Involvement – Malaysia has increasingly emphasized local participation in defense procurements. Shipbuilders that offer technology transfer, local job creation, and collaboration with Malaysian defense industries may have a competitive edge.
Delivery Timeline – Given the strategic importance of these vessels, Malaysia will prioritize shipbuilders that can deliver the MRSS within the required timeframe to avoid further delays.
Interoperability with Regional and Allied Navies – Malaysia frequently conducts joint military exercises with ASEAN and international partners. The selected MRSS must be interoperable with allied naval forces for seamless operations.
As the October tender opening approaches, industry analysts anticipate intense negotiations and lobbying among the competing shipbuilders. The MRSS contract is a significant opportunity, not only for the winning bidder but also for Malaysia’s broader defense modernization agenda.
The Royal Malaysian Navy’s decision will have long-term strategic implications, shaping the country’s maritime defense capabilities for decades to come. The MRSS will serve as a cornerstone of Malaysia’s ability to project power, provide humanitarian assistance, and safeguard its territorial waters.
With geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea persisting, Malaysia’s naval modernization is more important than ever. The acquisition of MRSS vessels is a critical step toward enhancing the RMN’s operational readiness and ensuring national security.
Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence as it evaluates the competing bids and moves forward with this long-awaited naval procurement. The final decision will not only determine the future of the RMN but also signal Malaysia’s broader strategic priorities in the evolving maritime security landscape.
