LIMA 2023: Royal Malaysian Navy displays Lekiu class frigate KD Lekiu


At LIMA 2023, the presence of KD Lekiu stands as a powerful testament to Malaysia's formidable naval capabilities and unwavering commitment to ensuring maritime security.


Russian Vyborg Shipyard laid the Purga ice class coastguard ship of project 23550 925 001 RMN's Lekiu class frigate KD Lekiu. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)


With a displacement of 2,270 long tons (2,306 metric tons) at full load, a length of 106 meters (347 feet 9 inches), and a beam of 12.8 meters (42 feet), it presents a formidable and imposing presence.

Powered by four diesel engines driving two shafts, KD Lekiu generates 16,000 brake horsepower (11,931 kilowatts), enabling it to achieve a speed of 28 knots (32 mph or 52 km/h). Its range reaches an impressive 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers), ensuring extended operational capabilities.

The frigate's complement consists of 146 personnel, including 18 officers, highlighting the teamwork and expertise required to operate this sophisticated vessel.

Equipped with advanced sensors and processing systems, KD Lekiu is outfitted with the BAE Systems Insyte Nautis F combat data system as its combat system.

Her radar suite includes the Ericsson Sea Giraffe-150 surface search radar, Thales Netherlands (Signaal) DA-08 air search radar, and Thales Defence I-band navigation radar.

She also features various fire control radars, such as the Marconi 1802SW, Alenia Marconi Systems Nautis F combat data system, Radamec Series 2000 Optronic weapon director, and BAE SYSTEMS 1802 fire control radars.

The frigate utilizes the BAE Type V 3001 thermal imager and the Thales Underwater Systems Spherion TSM 2633 LF sonar for enhanced situational awareness.

In terms of electronic warfare and decoys, KD Lekiu is equipped with the BAE Mentor-A electronic support measures (ESM) system, Thales Defense Scimitar electronic countermeasures (ECM) system, and two Super Barricade 12-barreled launchers for decoy deployment. She also utilizes the Graseby Sea Siren torpedo decoy for enhanced defense capabilities.

The frigate's armament includes a Bofors 57 mm gun, two MSI DS30B 30 mm cannons, and 16 vertical launch system (VLS) cells for Sea Wolf surface-to-air missiles.

She is armed with eight Exocet MM40 Block 2 surface-to-surface missiles for anti-ship operations and features two triple Eurotorp B515 launchers for A244-S anti-submarine torpedoes.

KD Lekiu has the capacity to carry and operate a single Super Lynx 300 helicopter. She features a stern hangar and a helicopter landing platform, enabling effective aviation operations.