PENGUIN Shipyard International has completed and delivered a composite superstructure (CSS) using Saab’s unique technology for the Republic of Singapore Navy’s new Victory-class multi-role combat vessel (MRCV). The MRCV is a class of six ships being constructed for service with the RSN, succeeding the Victory-class missile corvettes. The delivery, which occurred on 27 June 2026, represents the first of six planned composite superstructures and integrated masts that the Singaporean shipbuilder will supply for this new class of primary surface combatants. This milestone signifies Penguin’s successful entry into complex naval defense architecture, marking its first high-profile defense contract and showcasing its transition from commercial high-speed aluminum crafts to sophisticated military systems integration.
“This milestone marks the successful completion of Penguin’s first composite shipbuilding project and our first naval defence project. The capabilities developed through this project will be integrated across our broader shipbuilding operations, strengthening our ability to undertake more advanced programmes in the future,” said Penguin’s Managing Director James Tham.
Daniel Oscarsson, Head of Saab Business Unit Surface Ships, said, “By integrating composite superstructures into naval ships, our customers benefit from advantages such as low weight, decreased radar cross-section and reduced life-cycle costs.”
Fredrik Martinsson, Head of Project Management, Saab Business Unit Surface Ships, said, “We are seeing a growing number of customers entrust Saab with addressing their operational needs. To better serve these customers locally, we continue to strengthen our strategic partnership with Penguin Shipyard International. With its long-standing heritage and deep expertise in shipbuilding in Singapore, Penguin shares Saab’s strong commitment to understand and meet customer requirements. This makes Penguin a valued and trusted partner for Saab.”
Prior to this naval breakthrough, Penguin International Limited had established its global market presence as a prominent publicly listed designer, builder, and operator of specialized high-speed aluminum commercial craft, with a delivery record approaching nearly 400 vessels across more than 20 countries. The shipbuilder’s commercial portfolio is highlighted by its proprietary-designed FLEX crewboats and armored FLEX FIGHTER security vessels, making it the world’s largest builder of aluminum crewboats for the offshore energy and maritime security sectors. The successful delivery of the first MRCV composite topside validates Penguin’s self-funded, highly integrated engineering model, demonstrating that commercial shipyards with strong technical foundations can successfully pivot into high-specification naval defense manufacturing.
