Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Read more
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday condemned Norway’s move to revoke the export license for a naval missile system for Malaysia’s navy, warning it could damage confidence in European defense suppliers.
Anwar said he raised Malaysia’s “vehement objection” during a phone call with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, after Oslo blocked delivery of the Naval Strike Missile system and launcher components intended for Malaysia’s littoral combat ship program.
“Malaysia has honored every obligation under this contract since 2018: scrupulously, faithfully and without equivocation,” Anwar said in a statement. “Norway, it appears, has not felt compelled to extend us the same courtesy and demonstration of good faith.”
The missile manufacturer, Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace AS, said export licensing decisions are handled entirely by Norwegian authorities, according to Malaysian national news agency Bernama.
The Norwegian government hasn’t made any public comments on the cancellation of the missile system or Anwar’s remarks.
Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin told local media that the government had already paid nearly 95% of the contract value when Oslo blocked delivery in March.
The NSM anti-ship missile system was meant to equip Malaysia’s new class of littoral combat ships as part of its modernization efforts.
Anwar said Oslo’s move would hurt Malaysia’s operational readiness and “undoubtedly carry broader ramifications for the regional balance.”
He questioned the reliability of European defense suppliers if signed agreements could be reversed unilaterally.
“Signed contracts are solemn instruments. They are not confetti to be scattered in so capricious a manner,” the Malaysian leader said. “If European defense suppliers reserve the right to renege with impunity, their value as strategic partners flies out the window.”
Khaled said the government was now examining legal options and possible compensation claims over the cancelled delivery.
