21-7-2023 (SINGAPORE) The first of four Type 218SG submarines, specifically designed to meet Singapore’s requirements, has arrived in the Republic and is set to undergo local sea trials before being fully operational.
According to the Ministry of Defence (Mindef), the submarine, named Impeccable, was received on Thursday by seamen from the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) in a ceremony held at Changi Naval Base. The event was attended by Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat, senior officers, and submariners.
Impeccable, part of the Invincible-class submarines, was launched in Kiel, Germany on December 13, 2022. The class consists of four submarines tailored to operate in Singapore’s shallow and busy tropical waters, making them ideal replacements for the current Archer-class and Challenger-class submarines, which were built between the 1960s and 1980s.
The new diesel-electric submarines are equipped with features suitable for their operational environment, including an X-type rudder layout for improved responsiveness, specialized pipes capable of handling corrosive and salty water, and ergonomics optimized for a Singaporean crew whose height ranges from 160cm to 185cm.
Mindef emphasized that the induction of these submarines into the RSN will significantly enhance its capability to safeguard Singapore and protect its vital sea lines of communication.
The Invincible, the first submarine to be completed, was launched back in 2019. Originally scheduled for delivery to Singapore in 2021, its delivery date was later revised to 2023 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is currently in Germany, supporting the training of RSN submariners.
The other two submarines, Illustrious and Inimitable, are progressing well in their project development in Germany, as confirmed by Mindef.
