(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – As Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence prepares to open tenders for the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) Multi-Role Support Ship (MRSS) procurement programme this October, competition among prospective international shipbuilders is intensifying.
Defence industry sources informed Defence Security Asia that three prominent global shipbuilders—Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea, Fincantieri of Italy, and PT PAL of Indonesia—have emerged as frontrunners in the keenly watched competition to supply these strategically crucial vessels to the RMN.
“All three companies have already presented their respective MRSS designs to the RMN, tailored specifically to meet its operational requirements,” the sources revealed, highlighting that among the navy’s key specifications are vessels approximately 150 metres in length and a displacement of around 10,000 tonnes.
Malaysia’s Defence Ministry is expected to formally open tenders in October for the initial procurement of two MRSS vessels, identified as one of the pivotal strategic initiatives under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), spanning from 2026 to 2030.
A third vessel is anticipated to be procured subsequently during the 14th Malaysia Plan (2031-2035).
This acquisition, repeatedly delayed in recent years, aims to significantly enhance the RMN’s maritime operational capabilities and strengthen national maritime defence infrastructure.
The MRSS is envisioned as a multi-mission platform designed to undertake diverse maritime tasks, including logistical support, medical assistance, search and rescue operations, as well as the deployment and support of military forces.
Former RMN Chief Admiral Datuk Abdul Rahman Ayob previously stressed the strategic importance of acquiring MRSS vessels, noting that, given Malaysia’s unique geography—split into two main territories separated by the South China Sea at the narrowest distance of approximately 568 kilometres—such vessels are vital for effective logistical support and operational readiness.
Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), a world-leading shipbuilder and offshore engineering corporation based in South Korea was reportedly offering Malaysia a customised variant of its MRSS HDL-13000 design.
HHI’s proposed MRSS, with an overall length of between 130 and 150 metres, will have a displacement of about 10,000 tonnes and a cruising speed of between 11 and 14 knots, ideal for operations in challenging maritime conditions.
This vessel is set to incorporate integrated and advanced internal communications systems (ICS), navigation, combat management systems, and weaponry to ensure efficient operations both in peacetime and during conflicts.
Armaments include either a 57mm or 76mm main gun, depending on the RMN’s preference.
According to available data on HHI’s baseline HDL-13000 design, this MRSS can support amphibious operations, capable of transporting up to 16 main battle tanks, six multi-purpose armoured vehicles, and hundreds of fully equipped troops.
Its flight deck can accommodate up to three helicopters simultaneously, further enhancing operational flexibility.
Another formidable competitor, Indonesia’s PT PAL, headquartered in Surabaya, is leveraging its extensive experience in constructing MRSS vessels for the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) and international customers such as the Philippine Navy.
PT PAL’s offer centres on a larger, upgraded 12,000-ton variant of its successful Makassar-class MRSS/Landing Platform Dock (LPD).
The Makassar-class MRSS from PT PAL features lengths ranging from 122 to 125 metres, a beam of 22 metres, and a displacement of approximately 12,000 tonnes.
It can transport up to 507 personnel including crew, and accommodate around 35 combat vehicles, including trucks, armoured vehicles, and amphibious platforms.
Meanwhile, Italy’s Fincantieri, another global naval shipbuilding giant with a distinguished track record in supplying advanced warships worldwide, has also positioned itself strongly.
Its proposal likely revolves around an enhanced version of its proven San Giorgio-class LPD, previously delivered to navies such as Algeria’s Kalaat Béni Abbès and Qatar’s sophisticated “Al Fulk.”
The Al Fulk is an amphibious transport dock (LPD) commissioned by the Qatari Emiri Navy, constructed by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. It is an enhanced version of the San Giorgio-class, similar to Algeria’s Kalaat Béni Abbès
General Characteristics:
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Length: Approximately 143 meters (469 feet)
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Beam: 21.5 meters (71 feet)
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Draft: 5.3 meters (17 feet)
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Displacement: Around 8,800 tons
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Speed: Up to 20 knots (37 km/h)
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Operational Range: 7,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots
Capacity:
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Personnel: Accommodates up to 550 individuals, including 150 crew members and 400 marines.
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Vehicles: Features a spacious garage with two vehicle ramps.
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Landing Craft: Equipped with a floodable internal dock capable of deploying landing craft.