Lekiu-class (F2000)

Summary

Description

The Lekiu-class frigates serve as key surface combatants for the Royal Malaysian Navy and are currently the navy's most advanced units until the completion of the Maharaja Lela-class frigates. Named after figures from the Malay epic "Hikayat Hang Tuah," the two vessels in the class are KD Jebat and KD Lekiu. Jebat, named after the figure who succeeded Hang Tuah as Admiral, is considered the senior ship.

These frigates were constructed in the United Kingdom by Yarrow Shipbuilders (now BAE Systems Surface Ships) using the company's F2000 frigate design. As part of the purchase agreement, there was a significant technology transfer and offset program which benefitted Malaysian companies. However, complications with integrating the combat systems ensued, leading to delays. The vessels were finally commissioned in 1999, enhancing the Royal Malaysian Navy's capabilities significantly.

Their operational history is marked by participation in various significant endeavors, such as anti-piracy measures in the Gulf of Aden in 2008, involvement in the 2013 Lahad Datu blockade, the extensive search for MH370 in 2014, and participation in RIMPAC, the world's largest maritime exercise, in 2018.

Development plans for additional ships within the class were unveiled, with announcements in 2006 hinting at new acquisitions from the UK under Project Brave. However, those plans were abandoned by 2009. Subsequently, the Lekiu-class batch 2 was presumed canceled after the announcement of the Maharaja Lela-class frigate purchases in 2013.

A limited service life extension program begun in 2015 sought to upgrade various systems onboard. Enhancements included the integration of the Thales Vigile 100 Mk2 ESM, Chess Dynamics Sea Eagle FCEO, and the Terma Scanter 6000 navigation radar, which served to extend the operational lifespan and capabilities of the class.

Both Jebat and Lekiu are currently operational and serve within the Royal Malaysian Navy's 23 Frigate Squadron.

Technical specifications