Singapore to add two more submarines to fleet as it hikes defence spending
The first pair of Type 218SG, the RSS Invincible and RSS Impeccable, were commissioned in September 2024. (Photo: Mindef)
Singapore’s army and navy look set to benefit from increases in the country’s defence budget, with submarines and IFVs on the shopping list.
The Singapore Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has announced it will acquire two more submarines to complement its four Types 218SG Invincible-class submarines as it looks to increase operation tempo and strengthen its position within the maritime domain.
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) commissioned the first pair of Type 218SG, the RSS Invincible and RSS Impeccable, in September 2024, and the remaining two Illustrious and Inimitable will be operational by 2028.
“Four submarines are not optimal for a fleet,” remarked Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen at the committee of supply debate. “Submarines are subjected to more rigorous and frequent
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US turns to allies to tackle navy shipbuilding backlog]()
US turns to allies to tackle navy shipbuilding backlog
A White House memorandum acknowledges US Navy shipbuilding backlogs and a weakened industrial base, opening a formal path for South Korean and Japanese yards to help rebuild capacity.
-
![US Navy’s $275 billion BBGN plan hinges on shipyard transformation]()
US Navy’s $275 billion BBGN plan hinges on shipyard transformation
The US Navy’s planned nuclear-powered warship carries a US$275 billion price tag, but the greater story lies in the industrial overhaul needed to build it, from AI-enabled design to digital twins and modular construction.
-
![Industry sees opportunity in Australia’s shift to networked undersea warfare]()
Industry sees opportunity in Australia’s shift to networked undersea warfare
Australia’s new defence innovation strategy indicates a shift from platform-centric to network-centric undersea warfare, with Ocius and Anduril Industries pointing to fast-growing opportunities for local industry.
-
![Asia-Pacific emerges as the largest export market for US-made USVs]()
Asia-Pacific emerges as the largest export market for US-made USVs
Asian customers have placed one of the largest known international purchases of US-built uncrewed surface vessels, highlighting accelerating regional demand for autonomous maritime capabilities and distributed naval operations.
