The Singapore Navy – Pushing Boundaries to Deliver Capabilities to Keep Singapore and Singaporeans Safe

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad at the controls of the Combatant Craft Large.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad visited the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) at Changi Naval Base (CNB) today. Hosted by the Chief of Navy, Rear-Admiral Sean Wat, Mr Zaqy was briefed on how the RSN is strengthening its capabilities to safeguard Singapore's waters and secure our sea lines of communication against a broad spectrum of maritime security threats.

As part of his visit, Mr Zaqy was updated on the progress of the RSN's transformation journey, especially in the area of unmanned technology and systems. He sailed on board the Naval Diving Unit's Combatant Craft Large (CCL) and witnessed a demonstration on how maritime security operations are conducted by the Maritime Security Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV). Mr Zaqy interacted with RSN servicemen, including Full-time National Servicemen from the USV Squadron, who are involved in the operationalisation of these capabilities.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Zaqy expressed confidence in the RSN's efforts to continuously push boundaries to develop capabilities to secure Singapore's waters against maritime threats. He said, "Unmanned technologies will be a big part of the SAF going forward and the Navy has worked with the larger defence technology community to develop indigenous unmanned systems designed for our unique operating environment and requirements. I am also glad to know that the RSN had undertaken several initiatives to maximise the deployment of NSFs and NSmen. The RSN has been deliberate about designing systems to be intuitive, so that it can be easily operated by NSFs and NSmen. These will provide new, meaningful and exciting avenues for NSFs and NSmen to contribute to our maritime defence".

Lieutenant Colonel Tan Kailing, Commanding Officer Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) Squadron (left) briefing Mr Zaqy (middle) on the capabilities of the USV in the conduct of maritime security operations.

Mr Zaqy (right) engaging RSN personnel, including Full-time National Servicemen from the USV Squadron.