Malaysia conducts first live torpedo launch from Scorpène submarine
Malaysia Conducts Historic Live-Fire Torpedo Exercise
Overview of the Event
The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has marked a significant milestone by successfully executing the inaugural live torpedo firing from one of its Scorpène-class submarines, specifically KD Tun Razak. This operation took place during Exercise ‘Taming Sari 23/25,’ which concluded on 5 August 2025, following 16 years since the submarine’s commissioning.
Details of the Live-Firing Exercise
- Date of Firing: 29 July 2025
- Submarine: KD Tun Razak
- Weapon Fired: Black Shark torpedo, configured for active combat
The RMN confirmed that a live Black Shark torpedo was discharged during the exercise, aiming to assess the submarine’s operational capabilities. This represents a pivotal advancement, as previous firings of the Black Shark had only involved non-lethal configurations.
Prior to this exercise, the RMN had tested the Black Shark in various drills, including a notable instance in 2014, where the torpedo was deployed without a live warhead.
Additional Activities During the Exercise
The exercise was not limited to the live-firing of the torpedo. KD Tunku Abdul Rahman, a sister submarine to KD Tun Razak, engaged in synchronized missile launch operations with other naval assets:
- Participating Vessels:
- KD Lekir (Kasturi-class corvette)
- KD Lekiu (Lekiu-class frigate)
- Missiles Launched:
- Exocet MM40 anti-ship missiles from both KD Lekir and KD Lekiu
- An Exocet SM39 missile launched from the torpedo tubes of KD Tunku Abdul Rahman
Strategic Implications
This successful torpedo firing not only enhances the combat readiness of the RMN but also signifies advancements in Malaysia’s naval capabilities amid evolving maritime security challenges in the South China Sea.
The operational proficiency demonstrated during this exercise is indicative of Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its defense posture and maritime sovereign capabilities in a region characterized by increasing geopolitical tensions.
In summary, the live-firing event represents a vital step in enhancing the tactical readiness and technological sophistication of the Royal Malaysian Navy.
