The Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has signed a contract with Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) for the detailed design and construction of six Multi-Role Combat Vessels (MRCVs) to replace the existing Victory-class Missile Corvettes (MCVs) in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The six MRCVs will be delivered progressively from 2028 onwards. The MCVs have been serving with distinction since 1989 and will remain in operational service until the MRCVs are delivered and operationalised.
The Multi-Role Combat Vessel employs key technologies such as configurable modular payloads and unmanned systems, allowing the vessel to function as a “mothership” for unmanned drones and vessels to conduct a range of missions from peace to war. The MRCV is designed to function as a mothership and can operate a range of manned and unmanned systems in a flexible, intuitive and integrated manner. The MRCV will be able to support a wide spectrum of missions with maximum combat effectiveness.
“This contract affirms our capabilities to design and build large and complex naval vessels,” said Ng Sing Chan, President of Marine business at ST Engineering. “The new MRCV will harness the ‘multiplier effect’ of digital technologies, to meet the RSN’s requirements for faster, more efficient operations. It also demonstrates our commitment to support MINDEF in the area of design, construction, operations and support.”
ST Engineering will be responsible for the procurement and integration of the platform equipment and MINDEF furnished equipment. Its scope of work will also include the undertaking of design and the provision of Integrated Logistics Support Engineering to support and maintain operational readiness during the lifespan of the MRCVs. The MRCVs will be constructed at ST Engineering Marine’s premises in Singapore. The contract is not expected to have any material impact on either the net tangible assets per share or the earnings per share of ST Engineering Group of the current financial year.
