MINDEF has signed a contract with Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd for the design and construction of eight new naval vessels to replace the existing Fearless-class Patrol Vessels (PVs) in the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The PVs will reach the end of their operational lifespan in 2020 after being in service for more than 20 years. 

The new vessels will be equipped with enhanced combat systems and integrated communications suite that enable the RSN to undertake a wide range of maritime security operations and carry out its mission of safeguarding Singapore’s vital sea lines of communications more effectively.

The first vessel is expected to be delivered in 2016 and all eight vessels will be fully operational by 2020.