The Republic of Singapore Navy’s (RSN) has started construction on the first of eight littoral mission vessels (LMVs) with the keel laying at Singapore Technologies (ST) Marine in Jurong.

Being built locally by ST Marine together with ST Electronics and DSO National Laboratories, the new LMVs are intended to replace the RSN’s 11 aging Fearless-class patrol vessels (PVs) from the 182/9 Squadron under the maritime security task force.

"The vessels will feature advanced combat systems, technologies and modern concepts aimed at boosting the vessel’s operational efficiency with a leaner crew size."

The vessels will feature advanced combat systems, technologies and modern concepts aimed at boosting the vessel’s operational efficiency with a leaner crew size.

Capable of being deployed for a range of mission modules, the new LMVs will bolster the RSN’s potential for the seaward defence of Singapore.

ST Marine built a total of 12 Fearless-class patrol vessels in the 1990s for the RSN, with six armed for anti-submarine warfare missions, while the remaining were intended for patrol operations.

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The first LMV is anticipated for delivery in 2016 and all eight vessels are scheduled to be commissioned by 2020.

RSN’s LMV programme is managed by the Defence Science and Technology Agency, which is also the systems integrator.

Defence Technology