In November 2023, Singapore’s Ministry of Defense (MINDEF) has signed a contract with Fr. Fassmer GmbH & Co. KG to acquire four new Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) to replace the current Sentinel-class Maritime Security and Response Vessels (MSRVs).
The ships are based on a proven OPV design operated by the German Bundespolizei (Federal Police) and are designed with high maneuverability to operate in Singapore’s congested waters. They are equipped with a suite of lethal and less-lethal capabilities to provide flexibility and a calibrated response against a wide spectrum of maritime threats. The four OPVs will be delivered progressively from 2028 onwards. The MSRVs will remain in operational service until the OPVs are delivered and operationalized.
In a separate development, in December 2023, ST Engineering announced that its subsidiary ST Engineering Marine had secured a contract with MINDEF for the mid-life upgrade of its Formidable-class Frigates for the Republic of Singapore Navy. ST Engineering will undertake the design and engineering of the Frigate’s marine and electrical systems’ upgrades, including the Ship Management System and Power Generation System. The Frigates will be upgraded progressively, with the first Frigate expected to complete its upgrades in 2028.
(Sources: Ministry of Defense; ST Engineering)
