FEBRUARY 1, 2013 — The Singapore Ministry of Defense (MINDEF) has signed a contract with Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd. for the design and construction of eight new naval vessels to replace the existing Fearless-class Patrol Vessels (pictured left) in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The Fearless-class vessels will reach the end of their operational lifespan in 2020 after being in service for more than 20 years.

The new vessels will be equipped with enhanced combat systems and integrated communications suite that enable the RSN to undertake a wide range of maritime security operations and carry out its mission of safeguarding Singapore's vital sea lines of communications more effectively.

The first vessel is expected to be delivered in 2016 and all eight vessels will be fully operational by 2020.

Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd. says that its marine arm, Singapore Technologies Marine Ltd (ST Marine), will build the eight vessels at its Singapore Benoi Shipyard. Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited (ST Electronics), the Group's electronics arm, will supply the core combat systems and combat system integration solutions. ST Marine will carry out the platform system integration as the lead system integrator.

Design of the vessels will commence immediately and the delivery of these vessels is expected to be from 2016 onwards.

"We are honored to be awarded this contract by MINDEF, which reflects the excellent partnership between MINDEF and ST Engineering. It also demonstrates our continuing efforts and commitment to develop indigenous capability to better support MINDEF in the area of design, construction, operations and support," said N.G. Sing Chan, President, ST Marine.