MINDEF has signed a contract with ST Engineering to acquire a suite of new Unmanned Mine Counter-Measure capabilities, including Mine Counter-Measure Unmanned Surface Vessels (MCM USVs), Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and Command & Control (C2) Infrastructures, to replace the existing Bedok-class Mine Counter-Measure Vessels.

The MCM USV is expected to employ key payloads such as Towed Synthetic Aperture Sonars (TSAS), Mine Neutraliser Systems and Remote Weapon Systems. Leveraging insights gained from operating the Maritime Security USVs, the MCM USVs will also be equipped with autonomous navigation systems, which includes an indigenously developed Collision Detection and Collision Avoidance (CDCA) algorithm that enables the vessel to navigate and operate in the busy traffic in the Singapore Strait. 

Planned for progressive delivery from 2027 onwards, the acquisition of these capabilities will enhance the Republic of Singapore Navy’s ability to respond to evolving maritime security threats. These capabilities will progressively replace the Bedok-class Mine Countermeasure Vessels which continue to remain operational.