(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has unofficially received the first batch of four Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) G2000 MK II from its manufacturer, Gading Marine Industry Sdn Bhd.
According to X account (formerly known as Twitter) of RMN’s Eastern Fleet Command Headquarters, these four vessels will be operational in the waters off the East Coast of Sabah next month.
These FIC G2000 MK II boats are part of the 13 high-speed crafts acquired by TLDM.
While the post from the Eastern Fleet Command Headquarters did not provide extensive details, it is anticipated that more information will be disclosed to the media during the official handover ceremony scheduled for next month.
All 13 units of the FIC MK II, estimated at a value of RM120 million, are equipped with a 12.7mm Remote Controlled Weapon System (RCWS), enhancing the capabilities of the FIC MK II compared to its predecessor, the FIC MK I.
Additionally, the FIC MK II is outfitted with more powerful engines, utilizing 2x MAN V12 1650HP engines and 2x Hamilton water jets for propulsion.
The increased horsepower allows the 18-meter vessels to reach speeds of 52 knots per hour, an improvement over the 50 knots achieved by the FIC MkI.
Regarding the operational range, the FIC MkII has a radius of 350 nautical miles at a speed of 35 knots.
Designed to accommodate a crew of five and eight military personnel, the FIC MK II is engineered for various missions, including coastal patrol (surveillance), interception, clandestine missions, search and rescue operations, and rapid response.
These vessels will also feature an Electronic Control System (ECS), radar, GPS, and a Machinery Control System.
In March 2021, TLDM received six FIC MK I vessels valued at RM80 million, deployed to key RMN bases nationwide.
At that time, the Defense Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, stated that the FICs would be utilized for operational assignments to enhance control levels in the country’s waters, particularly in Operation Benteng.
Each FIC is equipped with two primary engines, water jet propulsion systems capable of exceeding 50 knots, operated by a crew of five, and capable of carrying up to eight Quick Reaction Force (QRF) members simultaneously. – DS