Naval Group and ST Engineering Marine have signed a deal with the Singapore Ministry of Defence for the mid-life upgrade (MLU) of the Formidable-class frigates.

The agreement was announced on December 14, 2023. 

Naval Group, serving as the sub-contractor under ST Engineering Marine Ltd, brings to the table its history of collaboration dating back to the inception of the Formidable-class frigates construction programme in 2000.

Having spearheaded the construction of the inaugural vessel in the Formidable-class series at the Lorient shipyard in France, Naval Group understands the frigates' intricacies.

The Republic of Singapore Navy has six Formidable-class frigates in its fleet, receiving one from Naval Group initially in 2005, and the rest between 2008 and 2009 from ST Engineering following a technology transfer, as highlighted in GlobalData's intelligence on the Singapore defence market. 

Naval Group Far East, the subsidiary established in 2005 following the delivery of the Formidable frigates to the Singaporean Navy, will play a role in the project. With a dedicated team of specialists in project management, maintenance, logistics, and supply chain support.

Beyond the immediate scope of the upgrade, the collaboration between Naval Group and ST Engineering opens avenues for expanded cooperation in coastal maritime security and support for French Navy operations in the region. Additionally, establishing the Naval Group Singaporean Center of Excellence shows a commitment to knowledge exchange, further strengthening ties between the two entities.

In March 2023, ST Engineering Marine secured a contract from the Singapore MoD to design and construct six multi-role combat vessels (MRCVs) for the Republic of Singapore Navy. These vessels, scheduled for delivery in 2028, will replace the RSN's existing Victory-class missile corvettes.