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With its second combat ship already in production, Singapore is reinforcing its commitment to shipbuilding.
The Republic of Singapore Navy is advancing its modernization program with the start of construction of the second Ship Multi-Function Combat Vehicle (MRCV), at the Benoi Shipyard, reinforcing its strategy of operating a highly technological fleet, with a reduced crew and a focus on autonomous systems.
The MRCVs are expected to begin delivery from 2028, replacing the Victory-class corvettes currently in operation.
Benoi Shipyard accelerates production and meets naval schedule
The announcement of the start of construction was made by the company responsible itself, through a publication on LinkedIn:
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“Steel was cut for the second Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) at our Benoi Shipyard last week, marking another important milestone for the Republic of Singapore Navy’s next-generation fleet!”
The schedule is being met with precision, demonstrating the efficiency of the Singaporean shipbuilder. The first ship was laid seven months after construction began in March 2024.
Republic of Singapore Navy invests in state-of-the-art vessels
The series of six MRCVs was ordered by the Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) from ST Engineering, with the basic design developed in partnership with Sweden's Saab and Denmark's Odense Maritime Technology (OMT).
With an estimated displacement of 8.000 tonnes and a lean crew of approximately 80 sailors, the combat ships represent a strategic turning point for the Republic of Singapore Navy.
In addition, the vessels will stand out for their role as “mother ships” for drones and unmanned systems, capable of carrying out multiple missions — from maritime patrol and surveillance to tactical operations in times of conflict.
State-of-the-art embedded systems in new MRCVs
Despite the secrecy surrounding full specifications, information obtained during the IMDEX trade show reveals that the combat ships will be equipped with:
- SeaFire multifunctional radar (Thales)
- Leonardo 76mm STRALES naval gun
- Anti-aircraft missiles VL MICA NG and Aster B1 NT (MBDA)
- Electro-optical/IR system PASEO XLR (Safran)
- NGDS countermeasure system (Safran)
- Blue Spear anti-ship missiles (ST Engineering/IAI)
Technological innovation transforms the shipyard and the Navy
In addition to advances in ships, Benoi Shipyard has been modernized with technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, 5G digital connectivity and smart manufacturing tools, as detailed by the company:
“We will support the construction of MRCVs more productively through the use of automation, AI, 5G digital infrastructure and unmanned technologies at our Gul Yard smart shipyard.”
MRCVs mark a new era for Singapore’s maritime defence
The MRCV construction programme aims not only to replace ageing vessels, but also to adapt the Republic of Singapore Navy to new operational realities: reduced availability of human resources, increasing asymmetric threats and the growing demand for rapid responses to regional incidents.
Source: Air & Naval Defense
