ST Engineering’s marine subsidiary has secured a contract with the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) for the mid-life upgrade of the Republic of Singapore Navy’s Formidable-class Frigates. Source: Jordan Tan/Shutterstock

ST Engineering’s marine subsidiary, a player in Singapore’s defence sector, has clinched a contract with the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) for the mid-life upgrade of the Republic of Singapore Navy’s Formidable-class Frigates. 

The upgrade will encompass marine and electrical systems, including ship management and power generation systems, to ensure enhanced operational life and mission effectiveness. With the first Frigate set to complete its transformation by 2028, ST Engineering will play a role in reinforcing Singapore’s defence and security.

The scope of the contract encompasses a redesign and engineering overhaul of the Frigate’s marine and electrical systems. This strategic move is geared towards extending the operational life of the Formidable-class Frigates, ensuring their continued effectiveness in safeguarding Singapore’s maritime interests.

According to GlobalData’s “Singapore Defense Market 2023-2028” report, the Singaporean Navy procured five Formidable-class frigates from ST Engineering between 2008 and 2009. 

Tan Leong Peng, president of Marine at ST Engineering, said, “This contract is a testament to our naval expertise, demonstrating our competence in extending the operational life of the Formidable-class Frigates. 

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These upgrades are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of these Frigates, enhancing Singapore’s defence and security. We are committed to supporting MINDEF in ensuring the continued mission effectiveness of this important capability.”

The commitment to ensuring the continued mission effectiveness of the Formidable-class Frigates reflects ST Engineering’s dedication to supporting MINDEF in advancing the nation’s naval capabilities. As the maritime landscape evolves, this initiative positions Singapore for greater resilience and agility in meeting future sea challenges.

In 2020, The Republic of Singapore Navy’s Formidable-class frigate, RSS Supreme, participated in a Multinational Group Sail (MNGS) in the Pacific Ocean. The MNGS involved five ships from Australia, Brunei, Japan, and the US, conducting drills such as replenishment at Sea with the Royal Australian Navy and various exercises during the transition from Guam to Hawaii.