Malaysian Defense Minister Conducts Closer Inspection of RMN Submarine KD Tun Razak Operations
In addition to closely inspecting the operations of the Prime Minister-class submarine, KD Tun Razak, the Malaysian Defense Minister also reviewed the operations of the new-generation coastal patrol vessel, KD Selangor, at an undisclosed location in the South China Sea.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Malaysian Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin recently conducted a closer inspection of the capabilities of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) submarine, KD Tun Razak, currently operating out of the RMN base in Kota Kinabalu.
In a Facebook post, he shared that he had the opportunity to dive to the maximum operational depth of the high-capacity diesel-electric submarine, KD Tun Razak.
The RMN possesses two Prime Minister-class submarines of the Scorpene type, acquired from the French company DCNS (now known as Naval Group).
Malaysia is the only Southeast Asian nation operating Scorpene-class submarines.
Commissioned into RMN service in 2009, both KD Tun Abdul Razak and KD Tunku Abdul Rahman are equipped to carry Exocet SM39 submarine-launched missiles, Black Shark torpedoes, and naval mines.
Malaysia signed a procurement agreement worth over €1 billion for the two Scorpene submarines in 2002.
Alongside his visit to KD Tun Razak’s operations, the Defense Minister also observed the operations of the new-generation patrol vessel, KD Selangor, at an undisclosed location in the South China Sea.
In his Facebook post, Mohamed Khaled shared:
“During my visit to the RMN base in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, I observed the operations of KD Selangor in the South China Sea.
Accompanied by the Ministry of Defense’s Chief Secretary, the Eastern Fleet Commander, and welcomed by KD Selangor’s 92 crew members, I also witnessed firsthand the operational activities of KD Tun Razak, one of the RMN’s submarines.
This Scorpene-class submarine was acquired from France and commissioned in 2009.
During this visit, I was not only briefed on KD Tun Razak’s capabilities but was also given the rare opportunity to dive to its maximum operational depth.
This experience is a testament to our submarines’ ability to operate effectively and reliably.
The voyage was staffed by a highly skilled and competent crew, developed through this submarine acquisition program.
I am confident that this submarine not only represents the modernization of the RMN fleet but also plays a crucial role in positioning Malaysia as a nation with a respected and formidable navy.
I pledge continued commitment to the modernization and strengthening of strategic military assets to defend Malaysia’s sovereignty.” — DSA
