The MPMS can be deployed by military, security and law enforcement agencies in Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ) or other areas of interest. The MPMS therefore expands and extends the operational range of smaller vessels and rotorcraft. « The MPMS may be proposed as a lighter but cheaper solution than Mobile Offshore Platforms », a Muhibbah Engineering representative told Naval News
With its long range capability, the MPMS is able to fulfill variety of missions, from maritime operations support to anti-piracy, C2, forward logistics operations and mobile SAR and HADR. With this in mind, Muhibbah logically targets the Malaysian Coast Guards, the MMEA. « We are expecting a preliminary order for two boats, with an option for two more, » the representative added.
The MPMS is a « stretched » variant of the RMN MV Polaris 85 meters Buoy Tender Vessel. Muhibbah extended the hull to 100 meters in order to create more space for crew and mission systems. It allows the MPMS to deploy up to five CJ66 Fast Interceptor Crafts and two smaller RHIBs. The CJ66 FIC features a 12 meters-long composite hull and an endurance of 250 nm. It is powered by three Mercury Verado engines (350 hp), allowing a maximum speed of 60 knots.
But the most important structure remains the helipad mounted above the ship’s bow. According to the Muhibbah drawing, the landing deck will be strengthened enough to receive the MMEA AW 139 medium-sized helicopter.
The MPMS can transport substantial amount of fuel, water and provisions to accommodate 154 sailors, helicopters crews and supporting troops during 30 days.
The weapons package includes 2 x 7.62 mm machine guns and 1 x 30 mm Remote Controlled Weapon Station, the later being currently discussed with the Turkish company Aselsan which already provides the Royal Malaysian Navy.
