Malaysia approves VL MICA missile system for new LCS warships

The Malaysian Ministry of Defence signed a Letter of Acceptance with France’s MBDA to procure the Vertical Launch (VL) MICA naval surface‑to‑air missile system. The agreement was concluded at the opening of the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 in the United Kingdom and will equip the Royal Malaysian Navy’s upcoming Maharaja Lela‑class Littoral Combat Ships.

VL MICA provides 360‑degree, all‑weather point‑defence against aircraft, UAVs, anti‑ship missiles and other aerial threats, with a range of up to 20 km and dual active‑radar and infrared seekers. The first LCS, “Maharaja Lela”, is slated for sea‑trials in May 2026, while the second and third vessels are under construction at Lumut Naval Shipyard. The procurement is described as a critical complement to the LCS programme, strengthening Malaysia’s maritime posture amid evolving regional security challenges.