Singapore navy launches first Sentinel-class offshore patrol vessel in Germany
The Republic of Singapore Navy has launched Sentinel, the first of four new Sentinel-class offshore patrol vessels, at a ceremony in Germany. Built by Fassmer under a MINDEF contract, the 2,700-tonne vessels will replace existing Maritime Security and Response Vessels and be progressively delivered
The Republic of Singapore Navy has launched its first Sentinel-class offshore patrol vessel, named Sentinel, at a ceremony at the Fassmer shipyard in Berne, Germany on Thursday (Oct 1). Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing officiated the launch, which was also attended by German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and senior defence officials from both countries.
Sentinel is the first of four offshore patrol vessels ordered by Singapore's Ministry of Defence to meet the increased demands of maritime security operations. The vessels are being built by German shipbuilder Fassmer under a contract signed by MINDEF, and will replace the existing Sentinel-class Maritime Security and Response Vessels (MSRVs), which are refurbished ex-Fearless class patrol vessels that entered service from 2021. The new vessels will be progressively delivered from 2028, with the MSRVs remaining in service until the offshore patrol vessels are fully operationalised.
Each vessel has a displacement of 2,700 tonnes, measures 94.85m long and 15.2m wide, and has a baseline crew of about 40. It can travel in excess of 23 knots (over 42kmh) and has an endurance of more than 4,000 nautical miles. The vessels are fitted with white hulls and red racing stripes, in line with maritime security agencies worldwide, and will fly the state marine ensign.
The offshore patrol vessels are equipped with weapons including the STRALES 76mm guided gun and the RAFAEL 30mm remotely-controlled weapon system, as well as sensors such as navigation and fire control radars and 360-degree navigation cameras. They also carry a Sitep Italia laser dazzler, acoustic hailing device, less-lethal grenade launcher and water cannon system. Key operational spaces have ballistic protection for crew safety.
The vessels are designed for high manoeuvrability in Singapore's congested waters and feature a stern-launch and recovery system for manned and unmanned craft, even in challenging sea conditions. A combined diesel-electric or diesel propulsion system allows them to operate efficiently at low speeds for long patrols or at high speed for rapid response. The modular design means they can be reconfigured for evolving mission requirements over time.
MINDEF said the new vessels will interoperate with other government agencies such as the Police Coast Guard and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore for a range of maritime security missions. Mr Chan noted the project symbolised the deep relationship between Singapore and Germany, adding: "Behind all these uncertainties – and having to manage all these uncertainties, what remains unchanged is the need for us to look for partners whom we can trust, and are reliable even in the toughest of times."
The remaining three offshore patrol vessels – Guardian, Protector and Bastion – are under construction. Following launch, Sentinel will undergo platform acceptance and sea trials before departing for Singapore.
