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| RSS Invincible, image courtesy: Republic of Singapore Navy |
Two more Invincible-class (Type-218SG) Submarines
Minister Ng's announcement did not reveal any specific details on when the two new submarines will be ordered or delivered, but as of March 2025, two Invincible-class boats are in commission in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), while two boats remain in Kiel, Germany, one for crew training while the last boat fits out. Dr. Ng has indicated that he expects these four submarines to fully commission by 2028.
Considering the original two Invincible-class boats were ordered in 2013, the new third batch should see significant modifications to the design and incorporate new technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries and increased Unmanned Underwater Vessel (UUV) storage.
The RSN's current commissioned submarine fleet consists of two Invincible-class and two Archer-class (ex-Vastergotland A17) boats, as the last two Challenger-class boats retired in late 2024, leaving the RSN with four operational AIP boats.
As I mentioned in my June 2023 article on the state of Singapore's submarine forces, the two Archer-class boats were purchased from Kockums in 2005, undertook a major refit that included the addition of a Stirling AIP module, and commissioned in 2011 and 2013. This should enable the Archer-class to remain viable boats into the early 2030s.
First MRCV to launch in late 2025
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| First MRCV keel laying, image: Naval News |
Since my August 2024 update on Singapore's MultRole Combat Vessel (MRCV), the first keel was laid in late October 2024, and Dr. Ng has now confirmed that this vessel, which is still unnamed, will launch by the end of 2025. This is in-line with the previously mentioned 2028 commissioning date.
My own opinion on the speed of the MRCV program is due to two primary factors:
1. The Victory-class missile corvettes are now 33 years old and worn out.
2. Once the MRCV construction program is completed, the yard will then switch to the production of the still mysterious Joint Multi Mission Ship (JMMS) program.
We should find out more about the MRCV program and perhaps JMMS, as the upcoming IMDEX Asia 2025.
New Maritime Patrol Aircraft
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| RSAF Fokker-50 MPA: image courtesy Republic of Singapore Air Force |
4 comments:
I believe the P-8A has potential due to earlier sustainment collaboration talks.
https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/boeing-explores-p-8-sustainment-singapore
If SG does get them, best to have the MAD installed like the Indian P-8s.
TW
Singapore can afford to purchase any gold standard solution, but it’s not clear what the RSAF is looking for.
My opinion is that it the solution could be a split buy between a manned aircraft like the P-8A and a MALE UAV for persistent maritime surveillance.
The latest upgrades to the GA MQ-9B include STOL capabilities from the Mojave demonstrator, which enables launch and recovery from an LPH. This would make an intriguing addition to the JMMS to MRCV (if it has the deck space)
An excellent article Shawn.
I notice the C295 approx 23,000kg Max Take Off Weight https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EADS_CASA_C-295#General_characteristics is much smaller than the P8 approx 86,000kg Max Take Off Weight https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_P-8_Poseidon#Specifications_(P-8A) the later being much faster with much heavier weapons and sensor load.
So aircraft with vastly different capabilities.
I wonder if Singapore is putting forward the C295 as a contender to encourage US/Boeing to lower or contain the P8 price?
Cheers Pete
Hey Pete,
I reckon the C295 was mentioned to state the ‘low-end’ of the evaluations taking place, but while it’s a step up from the Fokker-50, it’s not as big a leap in capability that the P-8 would bring, in terms of speed, range and time over target.
I also reckon the C295 was also mentioned as a nudge to Airbus to firm up their A321lxr MPA proposal, which is currently being looked at by France for post 2030 commission. https://www.twz.com/air/airbus-a321-airliners-to-be-modified-into-flying-frigate-patrol-jets-by-france
India is reportedly about to buy 15 C295 MPA to operate as medium range reconnaissance and coast guard to supplement its 12 P-8I, but in my own opinion, Singapore will acquire MALE UAVs for persistent maritime surveillance, and ASW configured manned aircraft.
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