Norway has defended its decision to revoke export licenses tied to a naval missile system sale to Malaysia, saying its most sensitive defense technologies will now only be exported to close allies and partners.
The decision blocks the delivery of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) system and launcher components meant for Malaysia’s littoral combat ship program. The missile system was supplied by Norwegian defense company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace under a deal signed in 2018.
In a statement to AP, Norway’s foreign ministry said the country had tightened controls on defense exports due to changes in the global security situation in recent years.
“Exports of some of the most sensitive Norwegian-developed defense technologies will be limited to our allies and closest partners,” the ministry said, adding that it was “regrettable” that Malaysia was affected.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim criticized the decision during a phone call with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Anwar warned the move could damage confidence in European defense suppliers and affect Malaysia’s naval readiness.
Malaysia has reportedly already paid 95% of the contract value and is now considering legal action and compensation claims following the cancellation.
