wow! i guess these gentleman (and ladies) need to be extra careful with their posting then. Yours truly an MR Armour callsign 5XX personnel haha... know next to nothing about the navy until recent times when the SCS issues come to the fore in the news. Believe me i have not look at a ship so much as a glance until this year (2012) in all my life till now. Naval combatants are so much interesting to explore! Keeps me engaged in my mind hopefully can ward off dementia... Thanks Mod.
RSN capabilities
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Gentlemen, any update on the rumoured negotiation between Singapore & DCN on the proposed procurement of 4 Scorpene submarines?
What about the plan replacement for the 55 metres PV? Till now no update....
Same goes for the Fokker 50 MPA replacement.
That aside, does anyone think that 6 S-70B multi mission naval helicopters are sufficient for the RSN?Will there be a follow on procurement?
Gentlemen, any update on the rumoured negotiation between Singapore & DCN on the proposed procurement of 4 Scorpene submarines?
What about the plan replacement for the 55 metres PV? Till now no update....
Same goes for the Fokker 50 MPA replacement.
That aside, does anyone think that 6 S-70B multi mission naval helicopters are sufficient for the RSN?Will there be a follow on procurement?
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30 January 2013 – ST announced that it has been awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) for the design and build of eight new vessels (the contract award was also reported in Defense News). Design of the vessels will commence immediately and the delivery of these vessels is expected to be from 2016 onwards. These eight new vessels will replace the Republic of Singapore Navy’s existing eleven 55m Fearless-class Patrol Vessels. While no details of the design was released, these eight new vessels should have:
(i) the capability to launch and recover UAVs and/or USVs;
(ii) sufficient power to meet future growth needs (which means a hybrid propulsion system may be preferred); and
(iii) space for a forward command centre to respond to maritime security threats from non-state and state actors.
(ii) sufficient power to meet future growth needs (which means a hybrid propulsion system may be preferred); and
(iii) space for a forward command centre to respond to maritime security threats from non-state and state actors.
IMO, these new vessels are conceived as part of a fleet design, with some idea on how they will fit with the Singapore Navy's overall force structure and CONOPS. However, the size and tonnage of the eight vessels is not revealed by Mindef at this stage. The eight new vessels for the Singapore Navy will be equipped with enhanced combat systems and integrated communications suite (see Mindef announcement, here) and will be operational to replace the existing vessels by 2020.
The threat matrix has changed and the 55m Fearless hull form is limited in its ability to tolerate battle damage (damage control standards and setting a minimum baseline of survivability); limited in its ability to be upgraded due to space and weight limitations; and limited in onboard power for new modules and system upgrades. I note that Mindef conducted a life-extension programme and a capabilities upgrade the older 62m Victory Class (commissioned in 1990/1) but not the 55m hull form. Further, I note that Singapore has a reduced ship based anti-submarine capability with the latest upgrades to the Victory Class (to gain a Scaneagle UAV capability for the class and an improved littoral radar picture with the Sea GIRAFFE radar system). Over 23 years of service (from 1996 to 2020) is of normal service duration for such a small 55m Fearless hull form (eleven vessels in service, after the RSS Courageous was damaged in 2003 and struck off).
In April 2012, ST Marine announced it had won a contract to design and build four 74 metre vessels under Oman’s Al Ofouq program, which includes associated logistics support for the Royal Navy of Oman (see this DT thread on "Made in Singapore Equipment''). Based on information released by ST at Euronaval 2012, I suspect that these new vessels may be using a hybrid propulsion system such as the Siemens Eco Prop hybrid system (see pdf file from Siemens). The FEARLESS-75 Hybrid PV is designed with E-mode and power take in (PTI)-boost mode. Key features include:-
increased operational flexibility where the electric motors can be configured to perform PTI or power take off functions;
extended range of efficient operation profile as multiple power sources can be included;
requires less space for engine room compared to a conventional layout with two diesel engines;
estimated fuel saving of 7% is achievable based on a varied operating profile on an annual basis compared to a 2-diesel engine configuration; and
cruising speed of up to 15 knots when in E-mode and a top speed of at least 25 knots when in the PTI-boost mode.
extended range of efficient operation profile as multiple power sources can be included;
requires less space for engine room compared to a conventional layout with two diesel engines;
estimated fuel saving of 7% is achievable based on a varied operating profile on an annual basis compared to a 2-diesel engine configuration; and
cruising speed of up to 15 knots when in E-mode and a top speed of at least 25 knots when in the PTI-boost mode.
There is also an older 2009 DT thread on "ST Concepts unveiled at IMDEX 2009'', which deals with a 85 metre OPV design and the Venus USV both from ST Marine.
6 Seahawks may not be sufficient but I suspect that the next naval helicopter procurement may or may not be more Seahawks (because of procurement and operating cost concerns).
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Ananda
The Bunker Group
Two additional S-70B for RSN :
Singapore orders two additional S-70B helicopters
Singapore orders two additional S-70B helicopters
Singapore has 6 Formidable, with each already allocated S-70B. So, what this 2 additional S-70B for ? Is RSN already preparing additional frigates to hosts this additional S-70B ? Can Formidable hosts 2 S-70B ? If not mistaken, Formidable is not big enough to hosts 2 helicopters of S-70B class. It will take Frigate with similar size of NATO latest standard Frigate to do that, and that's just barely. To hosts 2 S-70B class ASW Helicopters properly, ideally you need a destroyers on Arleigh Burke size or those latest Japanese destroyers series.
The two new Seahawks are:
(i) for training new pilots and air crew for 123 squadron (for a total of 8 helos in the squadron);
(ii) for other naval units needing naval air support for training purposes; and
(iii) to refine and validate naval air doctrine.
(ii) for other naval units needing naval air support for training purposes; and
(iii) to refine and validate naval air doctrine.
This is part of the naval air train and sustain functions, needed in the near future. Naval air needs to slowly grow and for that to happen the RSN will need to train more dedicated naval helo air crews (as existing crews are rotated to other staff and fleet functions for their career development). There is need to establish a very small naval pilot training pipeline with the two new Seahawks (or what the USN, at a much larger scale, calls a fleet replacement squadron role).
The two Seahawks and other naval air assets to be acquired may also be dual hatted for CFT-151 missions (we may need to insert floor armour against small arms for counter-piracy or other special missions) or other planned longer duration navy missions to train overseas with our strategic defence partners (Australia, US, Japan, and NZ, just to name a few) and lastly, to support Singapore's existing naval ship building customers (like Thailand and Oman - whose navies send personnel to Singapore for training), as we work to build closer ties with them.
There are already existing plans for new MPAs and more capable maritime UAVs. This is a natural development as the RSN matures its naval air capabilities.
No. It only has space for one helicopter.
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Ananda
The Bunker Group
Thanks for the reply OPSSG. However if this is for training and back-up purpose, why then the article says those two will be equipped with different set of weapons kit/system ? At first I also presumed it will be used for training and back-up, however the mentioned of different weapons kit raise questions for me, that those two will not be used with ASW as main priority (as existing fleet for Formidable), but more to 'perhaps' on different role.
That's why I thought unless RSN plan to have additional 'upgrade' Formidable, or it will be used from Endurance LPD for more on multi-role purpose. However I also remembered that during Endurance class operations off Somali coasts, they used Super Puma which I do believe more appropriate for Multi-role tasks than S-70B.
Just wandering why if this more as back-up and training, they need different weapons kit.
Keep in mind that we are discussing news that comes from an industry source without Mindef confirmation.
Being new at this (organic naval air), changing the weapons fit is part of the learning process and evolving the RSAF 123 squadron's capabilities in support of the RSN's First Floatilla to protect Singapore's extended SLOCs (i.e. contingency planning for missions out of South East Asia, should Singapore be asked to contribute naval forces for coalition operations in a out of area contingency, like in the Middle East). IMO, Third Floatilla vessels are unlikely to be deployed without escorting frigates in a non-permissive threat environment. The First Floatilla's core mission set (be it via a Task Group or by itself), with organic air support, include out of area contingencies (or operations more than 1,000 miles away from Singapore), in a higher threat environment (closer to war).
Further, I would speculate that post-2020 (with MSTF concept of operations being revised to be threat relevant), it may be possible to have some of the RSAF 123 squadron's existing Seahawks, re-roled, to support maritime security missions in support of ongoing MSTF operations, then.
For me, a purchase of 2 helos, is a stop gap purchase. The Endurance Class and its future helo support needs will not be met by a purchase of two Seahawks.
Just my 2 cents worth of speculation.
Yes, while the RSN need numbers, a squadron of 6 Seahawks (with the same weapons fit) is insufficient in their required operational capabilities to support the Formidable Class in their projected operating environment and to meet the SAF's joint service training needs. With a different weapons fit on the new Seahawks, IMHO, the Formidable Class can be assigned to perform slightly different roles, like low intensity maritime security missions (and not just in a traditional naval surface and sub-surface warfare roles) in a more optimal manner. It is likely that the last CTF-151 deployment of a Formidable Class frigate and a naval helicopter, to the Gulf of Aden, taught Singapore important lessons on operating and sustaining naval air operations, and the need for aircraft to meet threatre entry standards, before they can be considered for operational deployment in theatre (like floor armour inserts against small arms for counter-piracy and no need for an installed dipping sonar, taking up weight and space), hence a stop gap acquisition to augment or improve existing capabilities.
Being new at this (organic naval air), changing the weapons fit is part of the learning process and evolving the RSAF 123 squadron's capabilities in support of the RSN's First Floatilla to protect Singapore's extended SLOCs (i.e. contingency planning for missions out of South East Asia, should Singapore be asked to contribute naval forces for coalition operations in a out of area contingency, like in the Middle East). IMO, Third Floatilla vessels are unlikely to be deployed without escorting frigates in a non-permissive threat environment. The First Floatilla's core mission set (be it via a Task Group or by itself), with organic air support, include out of area contingencies (or operations more than 1,000 miles away from Singapore), in a higher threat environment (closer to war).
Further, I would speculate that post-2020 (with MSTF concept of operations being revised to be threat relevant), it may be possible to have some of the RSAF 123 squadron's existing Seahawks, re-roled, to support maritime security missions in support of ongoing MSTF operations, then.
The Endurance Class is part of RSN's Third Floatilla and they are already multi-role and most of their helo support will come from either RSAF's 125 or 126 squadrons (currently operating Super Pumas). IMHO, the upgrade of the air capabilities of the Endurance Class will come, much later (as part of the SAF's medium to long term plans to improve the SAF's power projection capabilities for overseas non-combatant evacuation of Singaporeans and providing for contingencies involving Singaporeans on Singapore flagged ships).
For me, a purchase of 2 helos, is a stop gap purchase. The Endurance Class and its future helo support needs will not be met by a purchase of two Seahawks.
Just my 2 cents worth of speculation.
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So I've become curious as to what others think of the arrival of the USS Freedom means to Singapore's strategic position.
From my viewpoint (as an expat living in the US), it means the following.
1) A visible shift in defense alignment with the US (in line with the Obama administration's shift towards Asia). While SG wants to engage with China economically, this seems to signal that, at the end of the day, Singapore trusts the US more. I know we've always gone with the US/NATO for the majority of our foreign military purchases and operated with them in multiple joint exercises but we've never quite allowed them to actually base a warship or combat units on our soil. It seems a pretty big step to take, especially considering how traditional foreign policy has been to remain as neutral as possible towards the various global powers.
2) The basing of the USN's LCS at CNB means greater sharing and cooperation between the two navies, which is always a plus. It also acts a deterrent in a roundabout way. No one's going to sabre-rattle with SG with a USN warship sitting in Changi. Therefore, it ends up as a win-win for the US and SG.
But I'm also curious to know if it will participate in regional patrols in cooperation with the RSN.
From my viewpoint (as an expat living in the US), it means the following.
1) A visible shift in defense alignment with the US (in line with the Obama administration's shift towards Asia). While SG wants to engage with China economically, this seems to signal that, at the end of the day, Singapore trusts the US more. I know we've always gone with the US/NATO for the majority of our foreign military purchases and operated with them in multiple joint exercises but we've never quite allowed them to actually base a warship or combat units on our soil. It seems a pretty big step to take, especially considering how traditional foreign policy has been to remain as neutral as possible towards the various global powers.
2) The basing of the USN's LCS at CNB means greater sharing and cooperation between the two navies, which is always a plus. It also acts a deterrent in a roundabout way. No one's going to sabre-rattle with SG with a USN warship sitting in Changi. Therefore, it ends up as a win-win for the US and SG.
But I'm also curious to know if it will participate in regional patrols in cooperation with the RSN.
The plus in having the LCS out of Singapore is that we are not a claimant in the South China Sea disputes between China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and the Philippines. Therefore, a country not a party in these disputes.
It is so cute that the Fearless Class replacement for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) is going to be called Littoral Mission Vessels (*smacks head* for lack of originality in naming). It has been reported that the RSN will acquire eight 1,150-tonne Littoral Mission Vessels (LMVs) to enter operational service from 2016. Each LMV will have an integrated mast, a helipad but no hanger. They are baselined for maritime security operations and be configurable to meet specific mission requirements, with a twin stern ramp capable of launch and recovery of two RHIBs or USVs at the same time. The LMV also has a boat hoisting and handling crane. The LMVs are in the Pohang sized-class (the Pohangs have a length of 88m and a beam of 10m).
The LMVs could well be longer in length than than the four Al-Ofouq-class patrol vessels also being built for the Oman Navy by ST Marine. Dzirhan Mahadzir has posted a pix of the LMV, here; and xtemujin has a pix of the LMV model's side profile, at his blog, here (see pix 12).
The expensive part of the LMVs will be in the mission modules for the USVs & UAVs being developed by Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) & Singapore Technologies (ST), which is not being discussed at this time. It looks like the LMVs will have to provide some weight margin for growth (fitted for and not with concept) and some space margin for launching and storing the USVs. ST's Venus USV (which includes the 16-metre Venus–16, and the 9-metre Venus–9; both of which are re-configurable USVs) will increase the functionality and capability of the LMVs. The Venus USVs can be integrated with four different payloads to perform different types of missions:
(i) Towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar (TSAS) from Thales Underwater Systems to perform Mine Detection and Classification mission.
(ii) Expendable Mine Disposal Systems (EMDS) from ECA to perform Mine Identification and Neutralisation mission.
(iii) Remote Weapon Station (RWS) from OTO Melara to perform Force Protection mission.
(iv) Dipping Sonar from Thales Underwater Systems to perform Anti-Submarine Warfare mission.
(ii) Expendable Mine Disposal Systems (EMDS) from ECA to perform Mine Identification and Neutralisation mission.
(iii) Remote Weapon Station (RWS) from OTO Melara to perform Force Protection mission.
(iv) Dipping Sonar from Thales Underwater Systems to perform Anti-Submarine Warfare mission.
As Permanent Secretary (Defence Development), Mr Chan Yeng Kit said:
"...Defence planners started to bring in Modelling and Simulation technologies for simple Operational Analysis in the 1990s. They would probably be surprised how much technologies have permeated our capability development process today, allowing us to understand system design limitations, so that we can optimise operational performance even before systems are built. Some advocates would probably venture to suggest that Modelling and Simulation technologies allow us to learn from the future rather than from the past, helping defence planners make multi-million-dollar decisions with confidence.
Modelling and Simulation technologies continue to play an important role in system optimisation. In Singapore's case, we use it quite extensively. For example, it was used in our Navy's new Littoral Mission Vessel program, to determine the optimal workflow design when we integrated the Bridge-CIC-Machinery Control Room into a common C2 Hub...
...For Singapore, I see force-multiplier technologies such as network-centricity, sense-making, mission modularity and unmanned systems, to be areas with potential for exploitation..."
Modelling and Simulation technologies continue to play an important role in system optimisation. In Singapore's case, we use it quite extensively. For example, it was used in our Navy's new Littoral Mission Vessel program, to determine the optimal workflow design when we integrated the Bridge-CIC-Machinery Control Room into a common C2 Hub...
...For Singapore, I see force-multiplier technologies such as network-centricity, sense-making, mission modularity and unmanned systems, to be areas with potential for exploitation..."
14 May 2013 --Sagem (Safran) has been awarded a contract with the DSTA to develop and produce a new Gun Fire-Control System (GFCS) for the LMVs ordered by the RSN. A long-standing partner to the RSN, Sagem (Safran) has also supplied the GFCS for the six Formidable class frigates, and four Endurance class vessels.
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The RSN is having an open house and here's a ChannelnewsAsia link to the Tours on warships, hands-on booths for visitors among Navy Open House highlights. Might be worth a look at brown water navy developments (and related to prior counter-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden), the RSN is showcasing an armoured Fast Craft Utility (FCU) with a counter-RPG-birdcage (working along-side RHIBs) as part of the dynamic defence display with regard to VBSS for a non-compliant vessel.
There are some photos from a blogger's preview of the event, here, and here (great set of pixs by xtemujin). There are also a blogger's comments (Chinese Junk aka David Boey) on the details on upgrades to RSS Tenacious and the inclusion of a Thales STING-EO Mk2 FCR on bridge roof and a new multi-function optronic system mounted on the mast of the ship (it is one of two Formidable-class vessels having its systems upgraded for future counter piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden). The Thales STING-EO Mk2 FCR allows the direct control of the A-gun and offers support functions such as sector search (with automatic target detection), missile launch detection, projectile position measuring during gun fire and kill assessment support. Facilities for calibration, tilt and alignment corrections are also provided. I believe (but I could be wrong - because ST also has its own EO product-line) the new multi-function optronic system is supplied by Sagem (Safran) and is called EOMS NG. EOMS NG combines infrared search and track (IRST) with electro-optical gun fire control in a single unit that is a 3-axis stabilized system. The system offers passive panoramic surveillance (area adjustable from -20° to +60°) with automatic threat detection and tracking.
The Navy Medical Service's (NMS') Damage Control Surgery (DCS) capability has been gradually put in place on board frigates since 2011, which was demonstrated in the navy open house. Other parts in the DCS process - which is emergency life- and limb-saving surgery to stabilise a casualty's condition before he or she is transferred to hospitals for further medical care - include the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
"Most people know about the new classes of ships, like the Formidable-class frigates, but (what they might not know is that) we... are also developing our medical and surgical capabilities to support these vessels, which may sail at great distances from Singapore," said Major (MAJ) (Dr) David Law, Head of the Medical Doctrine and Training Branch (MDTB) in NMS.
"(With the enhanced medical capabilities), we are able to maintain the medical support to protect the lives and health of our servicemen." He explained that, to overcome space limitations in ships, the NMS had used existing medical spaces on board to set up the operating theatre and ICU. For example, by draping sheets across tables and installing other fittings such as operating theatre lights into place, the frigates' medical centres can quickly double up as operating theatres.
Through retro-fitting, the NMS also made use of non-medical spaces on board the ships. In just two hours, a four-man team can clean and convert the dining area into an ICU - equipped with ventilators and patient monitors - for post-surgical care and patient observation for up to four patients.
There are some photos from a blogger's preview of the event, here, and here (great set of pixs by xtemujin). There are also a blogger's comments (Chinese Junk aka David Boey) on the details on upgrades to RSS Tenacious and the inclusion of a Thales STING-EO Mk2 FCR on bridge roof and a new multi-function optronic system mounted on the mast of the ship (it is one of two Formidable-class vessels having its systems upgraded for future counter piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden). The Thales STING-EO Mk2 FCR allows the direct control of the A-gun and offers support functions such as sector search (with automatic target detection), missile launch detection, projectile position measuring during gun fire and kill assessment support. Facilities for calibration, tilt and alignment corrections are also provided. I believe (but I could be wrong - because ST also has its own EO product-line) the new multi-function optronic system is supplied by Sagem (Safran) and is called EOMS NG. EOMS NG combines infrared search and track (IRST) with electro-optical gun fire control in a single unit that is a 3-axis stabilized system. The system offers passive panoramic surveillance (area adjustable from -20° to +60°) with automatic threat detection and tracking.
The Navy Medical Service's (NMS') Damage Control Surgery (DCS) capability has been gradually put in place on board frigates since 2011, which was demonstrated in the navy open house. Other parts in the DCS process - which is emergency life- and limb-saving surgery to stabilise a casualty's condition before he or she is transferred to hospitals for further medical care - include the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
"Most people know about the new classes of ships, like the Formidable-class frigates, but (what they might not know is that) we... are also developing our medical and surgical capabilities to support these vessels, which may sail at great distances from Singapore," said Major (MAJ) (Dr) David Law, Head of the Medical Doctrine and Training Branch (MDTB) in NMS.
"(With the enhanced medical capabilities), we are able to maintain the medical support to protect the lives and health of our servicemen." He explained that, to overcome space limitations in ships, the NMS had used existing medical spaces on board to set up the operating theatre and ICU. For example, by draping sheets across tables and installing other fittings such as operating theatre lights into place, the frigates' medical centres can quickly double up as operating theatres.
Through retro-fitting, the NMS also made use of non-medical spaces on board the ships. In just two hours, a four-man team can clean and convert the dining area into an ICU - equipped with ventilators and patient monitors - for post-surgical care and patient observation for up to four patients.
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In other Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV) news, on 4 June 2013, Norwegian Deck Machinery (NDM) has announced that they have signed a contract with ST Marine in Singapore for the supply of equipment for eight (8) vessels being built. The vessels will be built at ST Marine’s Singapore Benoi Yard and are expected to be delivered from 2016 onwards. The equipment is a stern slip Launch and Recovery System (LRS) which will deploy and recover crafts from the ship. The system is tailor-made for these vessels and has been developed in close cooperation with ST Marine. h/t to DEFENSE STUDIES
In 2009, Singapore's Mindef paid close a million dollars to Navatek Ltd to develop better designs for the 9-m and 16-m Venus hull forms in use and testing today). Navatek Ltd, if you remember is the same US company that supplied the 11-m USV hull form to the USN for the LCS. This stern slip LRS must be designed to cater both to normal RHIBs and the Venus USV hull form.
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On 18 Jan 2015, MV Swift Rescue returned to Changi Naval Base, after 20 days in the Indonesian-led multinational search operations for AirAsia plane (QZ8501). Following the recovery of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders by Indonesian authorities, MV Swift Rescue located the main fuselage of the aircraft prior to its return to Singapore. The return of MV Swift Rescue marks the end of the SAF's 22-day deployment where more than 400 personnel, two C-130 aircraft, two Super Puma helicopters, five navy ships, (Victory-class Missile Corvette RSS Valour, Formidable-class Frigate RSS Supreme, Endurance-class Landing Ship Tank RSS Persistence, Bedok-class Mine Countermeasure Vessel RSS Kallang, and MV Swift Rescue) and a 6-man Autonomous Underwater Vehicle team, assisted in the search operations.
On the same day, two Challenger-class submarines, RSS Challenger and RSS Centurion, were also retired from service. These submarines have served the RSN well since 1997. In recognition of RSS Challenger's role as the RSN’s first submarine and training platform, the STC has been named RSS Challenger. In December 2013, German shipbuilder Thyssen announced that Singapore’s navy had contracted two Type 218SG U-boats and these two new German u-boats will replace RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain in 2020 to keep Singapore's submarine fleet at 4 strong.
The retirement of the two Challenger-class submarines is part of the long term defence procurement and replacement cycle announced (eg. the 2 Type 218SGs, the 8 LMVs & the Joint Multi-Mission Ship). In the late 2020s, the Joint Multi-Mission Ship (JMMS) flying a mix of F-35Bs, attack helicopters, and supported by a fleet of four G550 Early Warning & Control aircraft, five MPAs, six A330 MRTTs and 40 F-15SGs would enable the SAF as a IKC2 force to control the SLOC within 1,000 km of Singapore (see 'Singapore Quietly Expanding Fighter Force'). On 6 March 2015, the Defence Minister stated in the Committee of Supply Debate in Parliament that starting from next year, the Navy will replace its Patrol Vessels with new Littoral Mission Vessels (LMVs), while the Army will have Protected Response Vehicles in place of the V200 vehicles. The Air Force's Super Puma helicopters, which have served for almost 30 years, will also see replacements done over the next decade.
As I have noted before, the shallowness of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore is a force multiplier in that it effectively eliminates the submarine threat (in certain constrained areas), except at either end, enhancing the preparation of the battlespace for limited sea control. It then becomes a matter of fleet opposed defence of the two connected straits: strike, and counter-strike warfare with an enemy that is forced to fight in two dimensions instead of three.
On 11 Mar 2015, Singapore saw the formal launch of the Submarine Training Centre (STC). The STC is a one-stop training facility that enhances training realism, effectiveness and efficiency, and is able to meet all operational training and qualification requirements for the submariners. The STC also features simulators where both individual and team training can be conducted in a safe environment incorporating realistic scenarios.
On the same day, two Challenger-class submarines, RSS Challenger and RSS Centurion, were also retired from service. These submarines have served the RSN well since 1997. In recognition of RSS Challenger's role as the RSN’s first submarine and training platform, the STC has been named RSS Challenger. In December 2013, German shipbuilder Thyssen announced that Singapore’s navy had contracted two Type 218SG U-boats and these two new German u-boats will replace RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain in 2020 to keep Singapore's submarine fleet at 4 strong.
The retirement of the two Challenger-class submarines is part of the long term defence procurement and replacement cycle announced (eg. the 2 Type 218SGs, the 8 LMVs & the Joint Multi-Mission Ship). In the late 2020s, the Joint Multi-Mission Ship (JMMS) flying a mix of F-35Bs, attack helicopters, and supported by a fleet of four G550 Early Warning & Control aircraft, five MPAs, six A330 MRTTs and 40 F-15SGs would enable the SAF as a IKC2 force to control the SLOC within 1,000 km of Singapore (see 'Singapore Quietly Expanding Fighter Force'). On 6 March 2015, the Defence Minister stated in the Committee of Supply Debate in Parliament that starting from next year, the Navy will replace its Patrol Vessels with new Littoral Mission Vessels (LMVs), while the Army will have Protected Response Vehicles in place of the V200 vehicles. The Air Force's Super Puma helicopters, which have served for almost 30 years, will also see replacements done over the next decade.
As I have noted before, the shallowness of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore is a force multiplier in that it effectively eliminates the submarine threat (in certain constrained areas), except at either end, enhancing the preparation of the battlespace for limited sea control. It then becomes a matter of fleet opposed defence of the two connected straits: strike, and counter-strike warfare with an enemy that is forced to fight in two dimensions instead of three.
With a 2015 defence budget of S$13.12 billion (US$9.5 billion), an increase by 5.7% in nominal terms for Fiscal Year (FY) 2015, the JMMS is a great platform for a small city-state like Singapore to not only defend the Singapore Strait, but to a lesser extent, to enable the Singapore Navy to carry the fight to the enemy up to 1,000 km from Singapore for sea denial --- which explains Singapore's two Type 218SGs and two Archer Class Submarines.
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1000km...that would include the opening where the Malacca Straits lead into the Indian Ocean, as well as the Sunda Straits further south, a good part of the Java Sea (roughly the area where QZ8501 went down) and up to the lower tip of southern Vietnam.
That's a lot of area that's covered!
That's a lot of area that's covered!
IMHO RSAF's 123 Squadron only has 6 (ASW configured) Seahawks + 2 Seahawks, and could easily be expanded to 16 to 20 helicopters of the same type without the need for the Defence Minister to explain to Parliament.
MEDAL complements the mission planning, evaluation and command and control of mine countermeasure missions and allows the JMSDF to interoperate with the US Navy. AgustaWestland also modified the aircraft's automatic flight control system for coupled towing patterns with the AN/AQS-24A. On the other hand and as another option, in October 2014, the US Navy has also demonstrated that the Mine Hunting Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MHU) can be used in tandem with the AN/AQS-24A Mine Detecting Sensor System in the Arabian Gulf. Mine hunting and lane clearing are core mission sets of the RSN, in particular to protect against a blockade 1,000 km away from Singapore.The question is whether, it will be an added mission for our helicopters in the RSAF's 125 or 126 Squadrons.
To understand one potential consideration for the Super Puma replacement project, see page 27, figure 2.4 on this 2001 article on Naval Mine Warfare: Operational and Technical Challenges for Naval Forces and read up on the Japanese use of the MCH-101 Airborne Mine Countermeasures Helicopter including the Mine Warfare and Environmental Decision Aids Library (MEDAL) software system.
MEDAL complements the mission planning, evaluation and command and control of mine countermeasure missions and allows the JMSDF to interoperate with the US Navy. AgustaWestland also modified the aircraft's automatic flight control system for coupled towing patterns with the AN/AQS-24A. On the other hand and as another option, in October 2014, the US Navy has also demonstrated that the Mine Hunting Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MHU) can be used in tandem with the AN/AQS-24A Mine Detecting Sensor System in the Arabian Gulf. Mine hunting and lane clearing are core mission sets of the RSN, in particular to protect against a blockade 1,000 km away from Singapore.The question is whether, it will be an added mission for our helicopters in the RSAF's 125 or 126 Squadrons.
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SGMilitary
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Aside to that, are there further details on RSN LMV & Type 218SG.
Are the LMV built for stealth?
Are two Type 218SG sufficient now that 2 Challenger are retired from service.
Are the 8 S-70B sufficient for the RSN?
There have been continuos modernization from regional navies of late.
How will RSN respond to the region developments?
Are the LMV built for stealth?
Are two Type 218SG sufficient now that 2 Challenger are retired from service.
Are the 8 S-70B sufficient for the RSN?
There have been continuos modernization from regional navies of late.
How will RSN respond to the region developments?
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My opinion is that Singapore's main concern will not be its immediate neighbours but other countries and events taking place in the South China Sea.
With regards to Singapore's neighbours, Malaysia and Indonesia are getting new assets but it should be noted that both the RMN and TNI-AL are overstretched as it is and the new assets are intended not only to replace existing assets [long overdue] but also improve the ability of both services to meet their vast operational, peacetime commitments.
It would also take some time before those new assets (and their assigned personnel) are fully familiarized and versed with the capabilities of their new acquisitions. I agree that the larger regional tensions are more pressing but I doubt the RSN will be actively intervening in them. SCS is simply not our business.
Pressure, I think, will come from ASEAN to deal with volatility within the region. Economic power and diplomacy are Singapore's go to foreign policy tools. The RSN's job is simply to safeguard the shipping that is the basis of Singapore's economic power. Though not as publicized as the Somali fellows, piracy remains an issue in the Strait of Malacca.
While it is a "near zero" incidence, remove those multi-national assets and the incidence will probably rise. That, I believe, is going to continue to be the RSN's bread and butter for regional operations since it very directly relates to the national and regional economic stability.
Not sure if they still contribute to the anti-piracy force off Somalia. Anyone got word on it?
Very true but if things turn hot there it might affect Singapore and as much as Singapore would want to stay out of it; it might have no choice.
The ASEAN Summit will take place in Malaysia next week and it will be interesting to see if ASEAN issues a statement or declaration on the reclamiation being conducted by China in the Spratlys.
It will probably done quietly in backrooms. Singapore, at least, prefers to maintain the facade of neutrality and work behind the scenes. And you're correct that SCS may be a hint of future issues. However, as much as China may rattle its sabres, it won't push to the point of war with US allies. It's strongman diplomacy coupled with economic pressure which China is employing as a means of flexing its muscles and testing to see how much it can get away with.
It mirrors, in some ways, the gunboat diplomacy of western imperial powers in the region. None of that excuses the behavior but, from my reading of it, the Chinese are playing it pretty coolly.
None of their opposition have been able to form a united front against them due to competing claims. The way China doesn't compromise smacks of the old haughty dynastic way of looking down on every other country in Asia as people who want to be Chinese. So, I agree it's something for Singapore and the SAF to watch but unless an actual outcome can be predicted, it's very hard to plan for every possible scenario.
It mirrors, in some ways, the gunboat diplomacy of western imperial powers in the region. None of that excuses the behavior but, from my reading of it, the Chinese are playing it pretty coolly.
None of their opposition have been able to form a united front against them due to competing claims. The way China doesn't compromise smacks of the old haughty dynastic way of looking down on every other country in Asia as people who want to be Chinese. So, I agree it's something for Singapore and the SAF to watch but unless an actual outcome can be predicted, it's very hard to plan for every possible scenario.
Rsn 218sg
First steel has been cut for the future RSN 218SG
TKMS starts construction of Singapore's Type 218SG submarines - IHS Jane's 360
Derived from the Type 214, not much detail is available on this type, not too bad for a 2 year turn around from concept/contract to first steel being cut.
Will be interesting how this project impacts on what TKMS is putting forward for Sea 1000 for the RAN, would imagine TKMS will be running this story for what it is worth in Aus, can;t really say it is just a paper design anymore
Cheers
First steel has been cut for the future RSN 218SG
TKMS starts construction of Singapore's Type 218SG submarines - IHS Jane's 360
Derived from the Type 214, not much detail is available on this type, not too bad for a 2 year turn around from concept/contract to first steel being cut.
Will be interesting how this project impacts on what TKMS is putting forward for Sea 1000 for the RAN, would imagine TKMS will be running this story for what it is worth in Aus, can;t really say it is just a paper design anymore
Cheers