Following Pete’s article there were 2 major comments on July 2, 2020, regarding Singapore’s proposed Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV). Singapore hopes the MRCV will be operational by 2027 - so the selection process must occur quickly.
1. retortPouch commented:
retortPouch and Shawn C
1. retortPouch commented:
“Right now, our best bet is that the MRCV will be a derivative of the STMarine Vanguard 130 in diagram below:
Concept diagram of STMarine Vanguard 130 derivative. (Diagram courtesy European Defence Review (EDR) Online May
23, 2019 https://www.edrmagazine.eu/imdex-19-st-engineering-unveils-latest-vanguard-combatant-variant)
---
Damen also advertised its Crossover 139 vessel for the requirement
at the International Maritime Defence Exhibition held in Singapore, May 14-16,
2019 abbreviated IMDEX Asia 2019,
but I'm not sure if the tender has been issued for competition yet.
Mothership concept. (Diagram courtesy Rafa Estrada, ST Engineering and UMS Skeldar via Channel News Asia May 19, 2019).
---
The MRCV is not intended to be a classic frigate, but rather
a distributed warfare "mothership", deploying [Unmanned Aerial
Systems] UAS, UUVs, and [Unmanned Surface Vessels] USVs. The Belharra/FDI
frigates do not appear to be structurally optimised to deploy the offboard
warfare systems necessary.
See: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/mothership-navy-submarine-hunter-recon-leader-unmanned-systems-11542998
especially the tweeted video [by scrolling a 6th way down].
The 6 Formidable
class frigates need to undergo a [Mid-Life Update] MLU soon. retortPouch personally
hopes the Herakles
[radar systems] will be replaced by the [SEA
FIRE all-digital multi-function radar].
There is also indication that the Harpoon 1B fit were always considered an interim solution: https://peacethoughstrength.blogspot.com/2008_09_01_archive.html:
There is also indication that the Harpoon 1B fit were always considered an interim solution: https://peacethoughstrength.blogspot.com/2008_09_01_archive.html:
"During the Naval Platform
Technology Seminar held in Singapore in 2004, Singapore’s Permanent Secretary
(Defence) Peter Ho hinted that the Harpoon missile was considered an interim
fit, stating that,” these third-generation platforms (Formidable class frigates)
must eventually be upgraded and armed with a new generation of anti-ship
missiles that can defeat the most advanced defences"."
Strange as it sounds, the tiny
corvette sized frigates were said to be designed with spare space and capacity
for future upgrades. It is said to be a very cramped vessel to live in.
3 minutes 35seconds into above Video https://youtu.be/H4wuQQbKy_8
Hervé Boy, Naval Group’s Surface
Ship Marketing Manager, describes Naval Group’s Belharra Frigate design. This was at IMDEX Asia 2019.
---
---
“Just to add:
I’m personally unsure as to what the Republic of Singapore
Navy (RSN) will pick, though the
close timeline is a big hint that it should be an existing ship design
customised to the RSN’s requirements.
We do know it will have extensive unmanned control and
handling facilities, to operate at least two UAVs, two UUVs and two USVs
(simultaneously?) and act as a data node for off-board sensors (probably
controlling Heron MALE UAVs). Though Singapore’s increasing naval reach indicates a more expeditionary
approach for Fleet units for [Sea Lines of
Communication] SLOC patrols (Shawn C wonders why).
Under the recent RSN organisational change [here?]
181 squadron, operating the 500-ton Victory-class missile
corvettes are under Fleet, not [Maritime Security] MARSEC (Independence-class
LMVs for example), so their replacements will not be designed for just
‘local’ operations.
Shawn C has three guesses [what design Singapore will choose for the Multi-Role Combat Vessel]:
1. The modified Belh@rra
class [aka Belharra frigate] locally built with close Naval Group
cooperation, since they now have an R and D centre in Singapore
2. The larger ST
Vanguard derivative with [Naval Group formerly DCNS] inputs, because the
Vanguard 130 variant looks crammed to the gills
3. [Making a] Wild Guess and personal favourite, the British Type
26 frigate with SEA
FIRE radar, and a 127mm [5-inch] main gun.
retortPouch and Shawn C
27 comments:
Whatever the platform choice, I doubt the Singapore Navy will fit a 5 inch gun. It belongs to the school of thought that CIWS and GP gun functions are best merged into one, so you are likelier to see multiple 76mm SRGM than any larger calibre of gun.
Hi this recent development between Singapore and Israel defence industry on the collaboration of developong this new anti ship missile platform is interesting. Do you think this is the future ASHM that will be replacing the harpoons on RSN Warships?
https://asianmilitaryreview.com/2020/07/st-engineering-partners-with-iai-on-naval-missiles/
Hi Benjamin
You probably know more than I concerning your question "Do you think this is the future ASHM that will be replacing the harpoons on RSN Warships?"
https://asianmilitaryreview.com/2020/07/st-engineering-partners-with-iai-on-naval-missiles/ describes two Israeli developed missiles the latest Barak model and latest Gabriel.
If those missiles could also be submarine launched And have a land attack capability they would be more competitive against the largest all-platform incumbents: US Harpoon, French Exocet and Russian Club/Klub.
Maybe Israeli/Singaporean joint ventures with the US or France (but not Russia or China, of course) to expand into much larger markets?
Cheers
Pete
Thanks for the reply! By the way what do you thibk the new vessel for MSTF will be? Seems like the fearless 65,75 by ST Marine. Not sure how many will be bought looking at the tight schedule they have ahead
Hi Benjamin
I have to make an admission. I don't know much about current or future Singaporean SURFACE ship choices - my specialty being submarines.
But I see you know quite a lot about current/future Singaporean surface ship choices. So I invite you to fill in the knowledge gaps on this website.
Cheers
Pete
Hi Pete,
Thanks,
I would say it all began with this interview on 2016 which marked Singapore Armed Forces day. Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen would hold an interview every year during SAF Day and gave updates. 2016 interview was the greatest interview so far based on the number of announcements made in that year which was alot. From the unveiling of the Hunter to the Belrex and replacements for the super pumas and Ch 47 and what struck out the most was the phrase joint multi mission vessel. It was an unexpected announcement. Perhaps too early for an announcement. He also mentioned by 2020 all 8 Littoral Mission Vessels would be operational, and indeed with the final 3 of the Independence entering service in February this year.
https://youtu.be/pFwcX4HfgO4
https://youtu.be/kBzG-2tPkkk
Then there was a thought about the Victory Class Missile Corvettes. Those ships were about a decade older than the LSTs why weren't there any announcements with regards to those 500 tons corvettes.
Then came the year 2018 and during SAF Day 2018 was the unveiling of the Multi Role Combat Vessels (MRCV). Other than that were the Next Gen Hotwizer and use of unmanned-manned teaming concepts for the services.
https://youtu.be/VkkP83vE6XM
With that in mind it would seem that the Republic of Singapore Navy announed replacements were settled since there were no other ships of class that needee replacements apart from the Bedok Class MCMV minesweeper/mine hunter vessels. Which from what i know are intended to be replaced by unmammed platforms alongside manned platforms like the LMVs which can conduct mine sweeping/hunting roles as one of its module when needed.
So then came the speculation. What ships to succeed the Endurance Class LSTs and Victory Class MCVs.
For the LSTs mamy were hopping on the Endurance 160 which was revealed by ST Marine back in 2010. Many call it the ideal fit or the pretty obvious choice even though it is now a design revealed 10 years ago. However during IMDEX Asia 2017 an Endurance 170 was unvelied and that reinforced the speculation that the 170 could be the replacement. However this article has downplayed all claims and i couldn't agree more. The JMMS is still far away and there is no conmmencement of project. As in my view revealing the idea of JMMS back in 2016 was premature. Perhaps they want us to get used to its term?
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.janes.com/amp/singapore-airshow-2020-st-engineering-positions-endurance-170-for-potential-overseas-customer/ZnlJK3dHVU9mZ28xajRJVkc5dVI5VFp1cVMwPQ2&ved=2ahUKEwjVvJCKw53rAhVYfSsKHWdtDiUQFjAOegQIBBAB&usg=AOvVaw2KrB0TvdTuTSq7sBhmDvMO&cf=1
For the MRCV the unveiling of the Multi Role Combatant during IMDEX Asia 2019 was quite a clear cut in my opinion. I mean the concept is pretty much a match to what the MRCV is supposed to be.
Hi Benjamin
Thanks for your good comments at August 16, 2020 at 1:32 AM
I'll turn them into an article tomorrow (Tuesday August 18th).
Cheers
Pete
Hi thanks. Though i am writing a 2nd part on the new mstf vessel. Which covers the year 2018 to present.
Why was the announcement of purpose built ships for the MSTF so recent if the MRCV and JMMS were announced years earlier
The obvious reason was the rise in piracy along the Singapore Straits
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://www.gard.no/web/updates/content/28972430/piracy-incidents-rise-in-singapore-strait&ved=2ahUKEwjUsfeugKLrAhUhH7cAHbutC1MQFjACegQIARAB&usg=AOvVaw00WIXNc5qpOc3AyXorMKsd&cshid=1597659304513
MSTF was formed in 2009. Believed was in response to 2008 Mumbai Attack
There were speculations why the increase in piracy. From covid which created economic hardships to the redeployment of naval vessels by the Indonesian Navy to contested waters in the SCS
Increased pirate activity occured before covid hence such conclusion can't be drawn
Unsure if redeployment to Natuna islands did result in a gap which created an opportunity for the pirates. The area concerned is the Singapore Strait. Origin of redeployed ships is unclear
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/indonesia-china-natuna-islands-dispute-south-china-sea-12237456&ved=2ahUKEwi6tr6SgaLrAhUdILcAHaFjCDoQFjAAegQIAxAB&usg=AOvVaw0T9el1O5SOp196wO3frS66&cshid=1597659473739
So far the reorganising of the MSTF is seen in response to the increase in piracy with the concern of terrorism where returning fighters from the Middle East are returning to the region
Fact sheet MSTF
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/web/portal/mindef/news-and-events/latest-releases/article-detail/2020/June/29jun20_fs3&ved=2ahUKEwjAyOnRg6LrAhU6_XMBHeyDAMwQFjACegQIBBAI&usg=AOvVaw36kSjzu8h63pevo09qrUOj
RSN Formation
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/oms/navy/Formations.HTM&ved=2ahUKEwjAyOnRg6LrAhU6_XMBHeyDAMwQFjABegQIBBAC&usg=AOvVaw3xDS9brEBE9XRRCVFnMbI3&cshid=1597660135450
There was a Maritime dispute between Singapore and Malaysia from 2018-2019 which i believe contributed to this restructuring as well
Dispute timeline:
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-malaysia-maritime-dispute-port-limits-timeline-11006762&ved=0ahUKEwijkb7HlKLrAhX58HMBHauCDCYQxfQBCCowAA&usg=AOvVaw2HdVPBmOcW1eX1D0OSJ3ID
The RSN deployed an LMV to the area much to the dismay of Malaysia. Malaysia did not send any naval vessel. They deployed their maritime agency vessels. It was a grey zone conflict with no clashing invloved other than a cat mouse chase and one tanker made contact with their agency vessel
https://youtu.be/KJiFQbbjdjk
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.seatrade-maritime.com/asia/collision-disputed-singapore-malaysia-waters-reignites-political-tension&ved=0ahUKEwiN2sGgl6LrAhXBW3wKHSt9A6YQxfQBCCowAA&usg=AOvVaw3XHwUghri2mIi0OTILXqeW
Matter was resolved with both sides reverting to the original status before the dispute tooked place after diplomatic talks/pressure. So Malaysia did not get what they came for in the end
What will these new purposed built ships look like? On one end it can be a lighter version of the LMV. On the other end it can be based on the fearless 75
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.stengg.com/media/30815/product-datasheet-fearless-class-patrol-vessel.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwiCtcG0nKLrAhWJc30KHZ23CvgQFjAAegQIARAB&usg=AOvVaw23sMtotZYxJi9uPk139D-F
Smaller than the LMV, these vessels are catered towards localised waters
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://defpost.com/singapores-maritime-security-task-force-to-acquire-new-purpose-built-platforms/%3Famp&ved=2ahUKEwj77syAnqLrAhXLb30KHbaeASkQFjAEegQIBBAB&usg=AOvVaw30x-UDupNtvVmT8R2p9PF3&cf=1
Thanks Benjamin
I'll turn all our great comments into an article tomorrow.
Cheers
Pete
Forgot about
Air Aspect
There are 8 S70B seahawks
6 purchased to serve organic to the 6 Frigates
2 more subsequently purchased in blk 2 configuration
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/web/portal/mindef/news-and-events/latest-releases/article-detail/2018/july/21jul18_fs&ved=2ahUKEwiu1Yi6jqfrAhXllEsFHZY1BjsQFjABegQIAxAH&usg=AOvVaw2-xbj43Zu4g0cosKdlTBry&cshid=1597834840253
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/singapore-airshow/2018/02/06/singapore-touts-improved-software-on-newly-received-seahawk-helos/&ved=0ahUKEwj19dPijqfrAhUYfX0KHcjZCp8QxfQBCDwwAw&usg=AOvVaw0BiowSbHQbcGxsxtjkGba_
RSAF intends to operate the Fokker 50 MPA to its fullest as long as it remains operationally and economically feasible
4 light transport
5 MPA
Singapore Airshow 2020, chief of RSAF was asked regarding transport planes. No plans in the short term for any replacements. Fokker 50 underwent upgrades in 2017
Note the C130s are now the oldest aircraft in the RSAF Oldest at 60 years
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/singapore-airshow/2020/02/14/singapores-air-chief-were-happy-with-current-fleet-performing-maritime-security/&ved=0ahUKEwiTlYWfj6frAhWEeX0KHSPBAfQQxfQBCDMwAQ&usg=AOvVaw3wSKdQwQbh9HG0VQr5mFVq
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/oms/navy/careers/our-assets/maritime-patrol-aircraft.html&ved=2ahUKEwj7ha6RkafrAhUYYysKHTdzDfsQFjABegQIAhAB&usg=AOvVaw13EJEAjcO5mSm28S4StkCd&cshid=1597835574145
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/oms/navy/careers/our-assets/s-70b-seahawk.html&ved=2ahUKEwizsuTukafrAhVRWX0KHT2kBGwQFjAAegQIAxAC&usg=AOvVaw066AD5Uw8MZ-X2PzrX7Xq1&cshid=1597835714470
I was hoping they interviewed the Chief of Navy regarding the MPAs though i am unsure how they collaborate as the Airforce is the one maitaining and running the seahawks and Fokker 50 with the Navy using it to its operational needs i think(need clarificarion)
Other than that is the Scan Eagle UAVs that serve onboard the Victory Class corvette. The ships traded Anti Sub capability for the UAVs when it underwent upgrade. To date the latest scan eagle avaliable is the model 3
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/oms/navy/careers/our-assets/scaneagle-uav.html&ved=2ahUKEwi-svGznafrAhUGfSsKHVpdD5IQFjABegQIAhAB&usg=AOvVaw3LI1I39fUF2a8JIgBXX8t_&cshid=1597838825049
RSAF will be replacing UAVs as it faces obsolences. That is quite rather fast considering that the Hermes 450 arrived in 2007 & attained FOC in 2015 while the Heron 1 arrived in 2012 & attained FOC in 2017
Tooked quite a time to have the UAVs declared FOC
IAI Heron 1 MK 2 was unvelied during SA 2020. Coincidence? It can perform maritime survelliance so that leaves a thought
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2020-02-19/rsaf-chief-upgraded-f-16s-maritime-patrol-and-new-uavs%3Famp&ved=0ahUKEwj4vJaAnKfrAhWQF3IKHdL9ASMQyM8BCCowAA&usg=AOvVaw2AD6ficpaZQJsjV2bZ-HDA&cf=1
Word count limit reached continuing from Air Aspect
The unveiling of Heron 1 mk 2 on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2020 could be a bid to the RSAF for their next replacement and maybe the most obvious pathway. In time we will know what the replacements for the Hermes 450 and Heron 1 will be.
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2020-01-31/iai-introduces-heron-mk-ii-complex-missions%3Famp&ved=0ahUKEwjbyYWUuafrAhVu73MBHW0PCggQyM8BCCowAA&usg=AOvVaw0iu28znD96PPRI6HFI8hwa&cf=1
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://armyrecognition.com/february_2020_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/iai_to_unveil_heron_mk_ii_uav_at_singapore_airshow_2020.html&ved=0ahUKEwjbyYWUuafrAhVu73MBHW0PCggQxfQBCDYwAg&usg=AOvVaw1KmEAQedRdgiLaw1bOIVb9
Not so sure where to look for the Hermes 450 replacements? The Hermes 900 perhaps?
RSN LMVs were also seen trialing out the S 100 Camcopter. Note: Not officially part of the RSN.
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://schiebel.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2018-04-29_Janes_Navy_International.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwiB2Ob_uafrAhXSdn0KHXyYCxoQFjAAegQICBAB&usg=AOvVaw0MYi_LQ6bkeu0f9dRohlNH&cshid=1597846527850
Another thing to note is half of the LMVs have a deck for a medium lift heli. The other 4 does not have the heli pad but with space able to accomodate small UAVs or VTOL UAVs. Reason for not having the deck is due to some considerations.
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://kementah.blogspot.com/2020/02/republic-of-singapore-navy-rsn.html%3Fm%3D1&ved=2ahUKEwiPwKHWuqfrAhVJbn0KHVBGAMEQFjAUegQIBhAB&usg=AOvVaw29FR73fspBmDcvNYRbJvwR&cshid=1597846826450
https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/oms/navy/careers/our-assets/littoral-mission-vessel.html&ved=2ahUKEwiPwKHWuqfrAhVJbn0KHVBGAMEQFjABegQIAxAC&usg=AOvVaw2uHYr8yKeaXGRnaxKe28ig&cshid=1597847128451
RSS Invincible the first of class is undergoing sea trials
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/singapores-first-invincible-class-submarine-commences-trials-as-pioneer-crew-begins-training
Thanks Benjamin
The photo of Invincible looks much like Israel's Dolphin 2. I wonder whether Invincible will also mainly sit quietly on the seafloor - aided by:
- AIP, and
- the X-plane rudders (which are angled to be less likely to break/distort on the seafloor as well as better manoeuvring)?
Pete
It sure has an x plane rudder. Though i doubt we will follow what the dolphin 2 role is.
As much of a quantum leap the 218 is. We still have a long way to go. Btw any idea what torpedo size it carries? 533mm?
Invincible class is a state of the art custom built modern sub conducting the same roke as archers but far better with its capability. We invested quite heavy into it. Still think it wont have silos for long range missiles or anti aircraft missiles. Though i wonder if it is capable of launching long range cruise missiles via torpedo tubes.
Other than that, i wonder if 4 subs can secure our waters and around it. Regional level. 6 to 4 is 33% reduction. Though note that archer was not planned from the start and wasnt intended. Just that we got an offer from the swedish and we thought to give it a try. If i rmb that was how the story kinda goes in simple words
Hi Benjamin
The cost of each 218 was too low for any substantial variation on the 214. I basically think 218s have the features of a (slightly stretched (70m) for greater range/endurance, longer lasting AIP) 214 (usually 65m long) rather than the 218 being as custom built, say, as a Dolphin 2.
218s are mainly called "218" because "4" is an "unlucky number" in Cantonese (eg. Singaporean) Chinese numerology - see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_numerology#Four
I've only heard about 218s having 8 torpedo tubes (like 6 might be 533mm), PERHAPS 2 MAY be 533s or unfinished for retrofitting as 650mm (with special forces swim out and future missile option) and no vertical silos. see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Invincible-class_submarine .
Few or no SUBMERGED submarines fire anti-aircraft missiles by any horizontal or vertical means because this announces or better defines their SUBMERGED position for attacking aicraft, optical, radar, sonar sensors and ASW missiles.
As with horizontal torpedo tubes launched anti-ship missiles (for all previous Western SSKs) and, of course horizontal torpedo tube launched Tomahawk missiles on UK SSNs, horizontal torpedo tubes would very likely be the launch mode for 218s.
I think the 218's main mission mode would be to monitor Chinese of other potentially hostile submarines, ships and disguised fishing boats and dinghies while the 218 is sitting stationary or moving up to 4 knots in the Malacca and Singapore Straits. The 218's substantial range/endurance is also for pursuing, blocking or surveilling ships and submarines at greater distances right up to China-Hainan Strait and Andaman Sea working with US ally.
Singapore/218s working with allies and in conjunction with other surface and flying sensor attack platforms helps offset the small numbers of 218s likely available (eg. just 3 x 218s with 4 months notice of an emergency).
Regards
Pete
I wonder how much of a sub costs to be considered low. Each sub costs an estimated $900mill which is alot imo. To he fair nuclear subs costs way more. I mean im not sure other nations diesel electric subs costs but i think ours might be one of the most expensive kind.
As nice as people try to paint it, i never see singapore as having an ally but a partner. We do that so as to not put ourselves in a spot to side with a party. Never our position to pick sides and make alliances. Even with partners i believe we should not have the mindset of counting on others to help. I would say things are quite shady in this era. Lots of trusts issues. We can come out and say nice to work/collaborate with a great partner but i cant be certain that help is always there. Must consider the otherwise option.
We have a saying "no one owes us a living"
We should live to that phrase and count on ourselves as best as we can.
Of course foster close relations so that we make friends and have good ties at the same time maybe in the hopes of a trusted friend. Should something bad were to happen. One thing i do not like is when friendships are used in a way to coerced one to do something for the other as if there is some owing to it.
It always puts us in a spotlight and we have to come with a very well written statement to put ourselves aside from such situations.
These r mainly my view.
Closest we ever have is the FPDA. Though how much substance it holds i wonder. It was meant for the sake of Singapore and Malaysia. Some thought it was a way to get us 2 to stop our not so positive relations back in the past and to try to see that we are in the same boat.
Still i wonder how effective can the FPDA be? Afterall there is no committment for military intervention. Its like some meeting/consultation to get ideas or suggestions or pressure.
Even if military intervention were to happen, which is capable of doing so. I follow one blogger who is americsn just like to posts mikitary stuff. Through the years i saw posts which showd the Britain Force shrinking from land, sea to air. Which made me wonder if the British going defensive at such rate. To be clear i did not follow on the British military developments but im certain they are having issues in the force projection with their shrinking size. Need clarification. It would be nice to have a post dedicated to the changes in the British forces in the past decade.
I see the Australians stepping up. Its impressive how they are doing multiple projects with their budget at that scale. Their navy is seeing quite a development imo.
We have a long way to go here at home. The 3rd gen transformstion back in the after 2005s era made me thought we achieved alot of gains. But reality is we got a long way to go. Still and always will be.
Hi Benjamin
Thanks for the interesting issues you raise at September 14, 2020 at 2:38 AM.
See my article response, at https://gentleseas.blogspot.com/2020/09/singapore-more-of-western-ally-than.html dated September 14, 2020.
Pete
Hi Pete, apols for digging up this old post. Some updates on the MRCV. Interestingly, this looks closer to a destroyer than a frigate if the tonnage is confirmed.
https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/03/singapores-dsta-taps-saab-for-mrcv-design/
Cheers,
TW
More details on the MRCV have been revealed at IMDEX.
https://www.janes.com/amp/imdex-2023-singapore-to-replace-corvettes-with-frigate-sized-ships-under-mrcv-programme/ZnlJK3dHVU9mZ28xajRJVkc5dVI5VFp1cVMwPQ2
Cheers,
TW
Thanks TW at 5/04/2023 4:55 PM re More details on the MRCV have been revealed at IMDEX 2023 in Singapore
The Janes link https://www.janes.com/amp/imdex-2023-singapore-to-replace-corvettes-with-frigate-sized-ships-under-mrcv-programme/ZnlJK3dHVU9mZ28xajRJVkc5dVI5VFp1cVMwPQ2 is article
titled "IMDEX 2023: Singapore to replace corvettes with frigate-sized ships under MRCV programme" by Ridzwan Rahmat May 4, 2023, 03:20 AM
[which states] "The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will soon be equipped with a new class of frigate-sized combatants under a plan to replace the service's six Victory-class corvettes...
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will soon be equipped with a new class of frigate-sized combatants under a plan to replace the service's six Victory-class corvettes with the multirole combat vessel (MRCV).
While earlier computer-generated images issued by the country's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) have long hinted that the MRCV will be larger than the Victory class, official comments on the new vessel's probable size were only provided by the ministry at a recent media briefing ahead of the IMDEX 2023 naval exhibition held in Changi, Singapore.
“The MRCV might be slightly larger than a frigate, but smaller than the LST,” said a MINDEF representative at a media briefing, in reference to the country's Endurance-class landing platform docks (LPDs), which the RSN refers to as ‘landing ship tanks'.
The RSN's Endurance class displaces about 8,000 tonnes at full load, and its Formidable-class frigate has a full-load displacement of about 3,300 tonnes.
MINDEF's most recent computer-generated images indicate a vessel that has an overall length of between 110 and 130 m. The helicopter-capable warship is depicted with a 76 mm naval gun and vertical launching system (VLS) in the forward position, and a space for anti-ship missile launchers amidships. Deck markings in the images indicate that the vessel will accommodate rotor-wing unmanned aerial vehicles on its flight deck and hangar, in addition to helicopters."
Ends
might not be referring to Singapore formidable frigate size, and it mentioned LST (RSN does not operated any LST and LST are generally bigger than LPD) instead of Endurance LPD. just wondering will be equip with A70 VLS and purchase more S70B Seahawk?
JMMS might be 4x 21000 tons. And can Blue spear be fired from Type 218SG?
MT
Hi MT
Your questions are fragments rather than full sentences in English. I'm assuming you are from the PRC?
The RSN's 5 Endurance-class LSTs displace 8,500 tonnes full load. This class is listed (right sidepane) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endurance-class_landing_platform_dock as being able to take "AS 332M Super Puma or AS532UL/AL Cougar or CH-47SD Chinook helicopters"
"can Blue spear be fired from Type 218SG?" This may be a classified matter. Please consult your MSS or PLA Intelligence.
Cheers Pete
Good day Pete,
Saab has an excellent new write-up about the RSN's MRCV as well as the existing LMV.
https://www.saab.com/newsroom/stories/2023/basic-design---what-is-required-to-create-the-worlds-most-versatile-ships
Seems like it will be a heavy frigate in terms of size and capability, imho.
Cheers
TW
Hi TW at 11/27/2023 8:26 PM
I trust Singapore's Navy are quite happy with the current/future surface ships at https://www.saab.com/newsroom/stories/2023/basic-design---what-is-required-to-create-the-worlds-most-versatile-ships
Regards Pete
Hi Pete,
Nice display by Saab of the SG MRCV concept at the Singapore Airshow. Pics and vids courtesy of user Fz on Twitter.
https://x.com/Fz06572957/status/1762401038211195087?s=20
32 VLS cells in the mockup, but we all know things can change.
Cheers
TW
Thanks TW at 2/28/2024 8:19 PM
If only Australia could buy surface ships and subs as efficiently and decisively as Singapore?!
Regards Pete
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