5-2-2025 (SINGAPORE) Singapore’s Navy has successfully demonstrated its cutting-edge unmanned surface vessel (USV) technology, marking a new era in maritime security operations along one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors.
During a demonstration on Tuesday, observers witnessed the MARSEC USV—a 16.9-metre autonomous vessel—smoothly intercepting a suspicious speedboat in the Singapore Strait. The grey-hulled vessel, weighing 30 tonnes, showcased its advanced capabilities by independently navigating through dense maritime traffic to investigate the target vessel.
This breakthrough in autonomous maritime security comes as Singapore adapts to demographic challenges, with three such vessels already operational and a fourth scheduled to join the fleet this year. The USVs can maintain speeds exceeding 25 knots and operate continuously for up to 36 hours, providing enhanced surveillance capabilities in Singapore’s territorial waters.
“This represents a significant milestone in our maritime security infrastructure,” said a Navy spokesperson. “These vessels allow us to maintain constant vigilance whilst reducing risks to our personnel.”
The development journey began in 2004, when initial attempts with commercial solutions revealed limitations in Singapore’s uniquely crowded waters. This led to a collaborative effort between the Navy, Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), and Defence Science Organisation (DSO) to develop a bespoke autonomous navigation system.
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The result is a sophisticated collision detection and avoidance algorithm specifically designed for Singapore’s maritime environment. The system employs 360-degree cameras, GPS, and radar technology to make real-time navigation decisions based on international maritime regulations.
Perhaps most notably, the MARSEC USV can be operated by just two personnel from a shore-based control station. The Navy plans to staff these operations primarily with full-time National Service personnel and operationally ready National Servicemen, addressing manpower constraints while maintaining operational effectiveness.
This technological advancement allows conventional warships, such as littoral mission vessels, to be redeployed for more complex operations, whilst the USVs maintain persistent surveillance in the strategically crucial Singapore Strait.
