Shift In Focus To Underwater Search Operations - RSS Valour Returns To Singapore

RSS Valour returning to Tuas Naval Base after being deployed for eight days in search operations for AirAsia plane (QZ8501).

Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) ship Victory-class missile corvette RSS Valour has returned to Tuas Naval Base this afternoon, after having been deployed for eight days in the Indonesian-led multinational search operations for AirAsia plane (QZ8501).

Receiving RSS Valour at Tuas Naval Base was Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) Lai Chung Han and other senior officers from the RSN. RADM Lai expressed his gratitude to the servicemen deployed and commended their professionalism. "Our people have given their all and their best during the multinational search operation. They have worked tirelessly amidst challenging weather conditions and I want to commend them for their dedication and commitment. I also want to thank their loved ones for their unwavering support." he said.

With the shift in focus to search efforts underwater, RSS Supreme will depart for Singapore this evening for replenishment after assisting in search operations for more than a week. To date, the SAF has deployed more than 400 personnel, two RSAF C-130 aircraft, two Super Puma helicopters, five navy ships and a 6-man Autonomous Underwater Vehicle team. RSS Persistence, RSS Kallang, MV Swift Rescue and the 6-man Autonomous Underwater Vehicle team will continue search efforts in the Java Sea.

Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) Lai Chung Han (third from left) speaking to servicemen onboard RSS Valour.