Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) a Strong Contender for Royal Malaysian Navy’s MRSS Procurement
The procurement of two Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) for the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is a key initiative under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), which will run from next year until 2030. The third MRSS for RMN is expected to be acquired during the 14th Malaysia Plan (RMK-14), covering the period from 2031 to 2035.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Malaysian Ministry of Defence is expected to open a procurement tender for two Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) this October, anticipated to attract bids from several leading global shipbuilders.
The acquisition of these two MRSS vessels for the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is a key initiative under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), which runs from 2026 to 2030.
The third MRSS for RMN is anticipated to be procured under the 14th Malaysia Plan (RMK-14) between 2031 and 2035.
This strategic procurement, which has faced multiple delays, aims to enhance RMN’s operational capabilities and strengthen Malaysia’s maritime defense infrastructure.
The MRSS is designed for diverse naval operations, including logistical support, medical assistance, search and rescue missions, and troop deployment.
One of the contenders expected to submit a bid is Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), a leading South Korean shipbuilder and offshore engineering company.
HHI is likely to propose a customized 10,000-ton MRSS, tailored to RMN’s requirements, based on its HDL-13000 base model.
Measuring between 130 and 150 meters in length, HHI’s MRSS design is capable of cruising at speeds between 11 and 14 knots, making it highly versatile for operations in challenging maritime conditions.
The vessel is also equipped with an advanced integrated communication system (ICS), as well as combat and weapon control systems, ensuring efficient and secure operations in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.
In terms of armament, the MRSS proposed by HHI is expected to feature either a 57mm or 76mm main gun.
According to specifications from the HDL-13000 base model, the vessel can support amphibious missions, transporting up to 16 main battle tanks, six multi-purpose armored vehicles, and hundreds of fully armed troops.
Additionally, its flight deck can accommodate up to three helicopters to support naval operations.
Besides HHI, other shipbuilders expected to compete in the tender include Indonesia’s PT PAL, the Netherlands’ Damen, France’s Naval Group, China’s CSOC, Japan’s Mitsui, and Turkey’s TAIS.
Former RMN Chief Admiral Datuk Abdul Rahman Ayob previously emphasized the critical need for MRSS vessels, citing Malaysia’s unique geographical position, which consists of two separate regions divided by the South China Sea, with the shortest distance spanning approximately 568.42 kilometers.
“With our geographical separation, we require such platforms for logistical support and to strengthen our operational capabilities,” he stated in an interview with a local newspaper.
He further stressed that the MRSS is a crucial requirement, and its procurement should be expedited.
— DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA
