LIMA 2023: Royal Malaysian Navy unveils Maharaja Lela class LCS.

Visitors to the Royal Malaysian Navy pavilion will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the cutting-edge naval assets and capabilities that the navy possesses. The showcased vessels include a model of the renowned Maharaja Lela-class frigates, which exemplify the RMN's commitment to maintaining a robust and modern fleet.

Model of a Maharaja Lela class Littoral Combat Ship on the Royal Malaysian Navy's booth at Langkawi. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The Maharaja Lela-class frigate is an advanced naval vessel designed for a wide range of maritime operations. With a displacement of 3,100 tons and a length of 111 meters, this littoral combat ship (LCS)/frigate combines versatility and power.

Her CODAD propulsion system, consisting of four MTU 20V 1163 M94 engines, provides a total output of 29,600 kW, enabling a maximum speed of 28 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the frigate boasts an array of sensors and processing systems. The Naval Group SETIS combat system forms the backbone of its combat capabilities, while the Thales SMART-S Mk2 search radar, Rheinmetall TMEO Mk2 fire control radar, and Thales TUS ASW suite (including Kingklip Mk.1 hull-mounted sonar and CAPTAS-2 towed array sonar) enhance its situational awareness and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

In terms of armament, the Maharaja Lela-class frigate is equipped with a Bofors 57 mm gun and two MSI DS30M 30 mm cannons for surface engagements.

She also carries 16 VL MICA surface-to-air missiles (planned) for air defense, eight Naval Strike Missiles for anti-ship operations, and two triple J+S torpedo launchers for anti-submarine warfare. The vessel can accommodate various types of UAVs and helicopters, weighing up to 10 tons, in its stern hangar and helicopter landing platform.