Norway’s foreign affairs ministry said the changing security landscape in Europe and globally led to its decision to revoke the export licence for the naval strike missile (NSM) system and its associated launcher systems.

“The government has, therefore, over time, worked to strengthen controls on defence technology developed in Norway.

“Exports of some of the most sensitive Norwegian-developed defence technologies will be limited to our allies and closest partners,” Malaysiakini quoted the ministry as saying.

According to missile manufacturer Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, the NSM procurement contract, valued at 124 million euros (RM571.9 million), was signed in April 2018 to equip six new littoral combat ships (LCS).

Norway’s decision to cancel the contract was criticised by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who said it was unacceptable.

Anwar said Malaysia had faithfully honoured every obligation under the contract since 2018, while Norway “has not felt compelled to extend us the same courtesy and demonstration of good faith”.

He said signed contracts were solemn instruments, “not confetti to be scattered in so capricious a manner”.

“If European defence suppliers reserve the right to renege with impunity, their value as strategic partners flies out the window,” he said.

The government is mulling legal action over the matter.

According to the US Naval Institute, the NSMs had been scheduled for delivery to Malaysia in early March. It said Malaysian officials were, however, “notified of unspecified delays”.

It said Norway’s decision to revoke the licence may be related to the NSM utilising a US-made gyroscope component that the US is now restricting exportation of to third parties.