STM has launched Raja Laut (142), the second of three LMS Batch-2 corvettes under construction for the Royal Malaysian Navy in Türkiye.

Named Raja Laut (142), the vessel becomes the second of three ships ordered under the LMS Batch-2 programme and follows the launch of the lead ship. The programme supports Malaysia's efforts to strengthen maritime security and naval presence around one of the world's most strategically important waterways, the Strait of Malacca.

Second ship takes shape

The launch marks the completion of a major construction phase for Raja Laut and signals the beginning of outfitting, systems integration, harbour acceptance tests and future sea trials.

The LMS Batch-2 programme is based on the Ada-class corvette design developed under Türkiye’s MİLGEM programme. The ships are intended to enhance the Royal Malaysian Navy's ability to conduct maritime security, patrol and surface warfare missions across the country's extensive maritime areas. As a nation divided between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo and located along the approaches to the Strait of Malacca, Malaysia places particular importance on maintaining a capable and modern naval force.

Malaysia selected the Turkish proposal following an international competition, making the programme a significant export success for Türkiye’s naval shipbuilding industry.

Expanding Turkish presence in Southeast Asia

The LMS Batch-2 programme carries importance beyond the delivery of three ships. It has strengthened Türkiye’s position in Southeast Asia, a region where naval modernisation remains a key priority for many regional navies.

The Malaysian programme follows earlier MİLGEM exports and further expands the international footprint of Turkish-designed warships. The success of the design family has helped establish MİLGEM as one of the Turkish defence industry's most visible naval export products, with variants serving or under construction for multiple foreign navies.

For Türkiye, the programme remains an important example of how indigenous naval designs are translating into export opportunities, supporting both the country's defence industry and its growing role in the international naval market.

Author: Özgür Ekşi