24-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) officially commissioned its first two Invincible-class submarines, the Invincible and the Impeccable. This momentous occasion marks a significant leap forward in Singapore’s maritime defence capabilities and underscores the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its waters and regional stability.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong presided over the commissioning ceremony, which was attended by a cadre of high-ranking officials including Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean, Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, and other senior figures from the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
The introduction of these cutting-edge submarines represents a watershed moment for the RSN. Designed specifically for Singapore’s unique maritime environment, characterised by shallow and congested tropical waters, these vessels boast an impressive array of advanced features. The Ministry of Defence highlighted their state-of-the-art capabilities, including high levels of automation, substantial payload capacity, enhanced underwater endurance, and ergonomic optimisation.
These new additions will complement the RSN’s existing fleet, significantly enhancing the navy’s ability to conduct a wide spectrum of operations. Their primary missions will include safeguarding Singapore’s territorial waters, protecting vital sea lines of communication, and contributing to regional peace and security.
The Invincible-class submarine programme is part of a larger modernisation effort, with two more vessels, the Illustrious and the Inimitable, currently under development in Germany. These are expected to join the Singaporean fleet by 2028, further bolstering the nation’s naval capabilities.
In his address at the ceremony, Prime Minister Wong reflected on Singapore’s submarine journey, acknowledging the challenges faced in the early days. “When we started out, we faced a steep learning curve. We began cautiously, procuring second-hand submarines from Sweden, and learning the craft from our Swedish friends,” he remarked. Wong emphasised how this cautious approach has evolved into a sophisticated programme, with Singapore now able to procure and customise new-build submarines to meet its specific operational requirements.
The prime minister highlighted the advanced technology incorporated into the Invincible-class submarines, which allows for leaner crews and improved manoeuvrability in Singapore’s congested waters. “They are quieter, more durable and better armed than anything we’ve had before,” Wong stated, underscoring the significant leap in capabilities these vessels represent.
Colonel Fong Chi Onn, commander of the seventh Flotilla fleet, provided further insights into the naval modernisation process. He revealed plans to decommission some of the older Challenger-class submarines, which have served the RSN well but are now approaching 60 years of age. Colonel Fong emphasised the superior endurance of the Invincible-class submarines, boasting about 50 per cent more operational stamina compared to their predecessors.
A notable feature of the new submarines is their accommodation for female submariners, marking a progressive step towards gender inclusivity in Singapore’s naval forces. Captain Loh Jia Yi, one of the pioneer female submariners, described the new vessels as a “primary enabler” for women to join the crew, citing dedicated female bunking and toilet facilities.
Captain Loh, who joined the navy out of a strong calling for public service, shared her journey and the sense of responsibility she feels as one of the first female submariners. “I think a lot of my motivation comes from this sense of responsibility, knowing that when we play an active part in making sure that we set the foundations right, that we are an active part of how we integrate,” she said. Currently, there are four qualified female submariners, with two more in training.
