In a strongly worded statement on X, Anwar said Malaysia had faithfully honoured every obligation under the contract since 2018.

“Norway, it appears, has not felt compelled to extend us the same courtesy and demonstration of good faith,” he said.

He added that 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.

Anwar also said he had made it plain to his Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Store, that the decision to revoke the licence would have grave consequences for Malaysia’s defence operational readiness and the littoral combat ship (LCS) modernisation programme.

“It will undoubtedly carry broader ramifications for the regional balance,” he said.

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