KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia is set to ramp up its maritime defence capabilities with a significant procurement of military assets from Italy, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced at the close of his three-day official visit to the country.
The planned acquisitions include two Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) for the Royal Malaysian Navy, 28 Leonardo AW149 helicopters, as well as Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) and Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) expected to be built by Italian shipbuilding giant Fincantieri, Bernama reported.
Speaking at his exit press conference in Rome, Anwar said the procurement reflects Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its national security infrastructure while deepening longstanding ties with Italy, which he described as a leader in the global defence industry.
“These defence assets will help strengthen Malaysia’s longstanding bilateral ties with Italy, renowned for its advanced military industry,” he said.
Accompanying Anwar during the visit, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said discussions are ongoing to finalise the procurement structure, with emphasis on value-added cooperation such as centralised training.
He added that the MPAs are initially expected to operate from Batu Berendam Airport in Melaka.
To ensure maximum returns and transparency, Mohamed Khaled said Malaysia has proposed that the deal be executed through government-to-government (G2G) arrangements.
“This approach will help us secure better pricing and asset guarantees directly from the Italian Government,” he explained.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Defence is also exploring expanded collaboration with Italy in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and underwater security command centres.
Anwar’s stop in Italy marks the first leg of his official visit to three nations – Italy, France and Brazil – as part of Malaysia’s broader diplomatic and economic outreach strategy.
He is scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris before heading to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, following an invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. – June 3, 2025