Fact Sheet: Frigates and Naval Helicopters

The frigates are the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) principal combatant, equipped with a wide-range of sensor and weapon systems. With their comprehensive communications suite, the frigates are able to connect with units at sea and ashore, as well as RSAF aircraft operating in the maritime theatre. The ships' greater endurance and sustainability also enable the RSN to better safeguard Singapore’s sea lanes and the security of her surrounding waters.

With the frigate, the task force at sea is able to link up effectively with their sensors and shooters through the SAF's Integrated Knowledge-based Command and Control network (IKC2 system). This gives the task force a good level of awareness and speeds up their decision-making cycle, allowing them to stay ahead of adversaries. Sophisticated sensors such as the Multi-Function Radar enable the frigates to maintain air surveillance, while advanced weaponry like the Aster surface-to-air missiles allow the ships to provide effective air defence over a large area.

The capabilities of the frigate have been further enhanced with the integration of the Sikorsky S-70B Naval Helicopters. The naval helicopters come with state-of-the-art avionics, sensors and sense-making systems. They play an essential role in the Anti-Surface and Anti-Submarine dimensions of warfare, and with the longer range and wider reach of the helicopters, it allows the frigate to sense faster, see and shoot further. The capabilities provided by the frigate and naval helicopter will enhance the maritime force-level awareness and mission effectiveness of the RSN.

Formidable Class Frigates

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