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Singapore completes littoral mission vessel program with commissioning of final three ships

Photo: Singapore defense ministry

The Republic of Singapore Navy commissioned its final three littoral mission vessels (LMV) at the Tuas Naval Base on January 31.

The commissioning of RSS Fortitude, RSS Dauntless and RSS Fearless marks the completion of the navy’s Independence-class vessel acquisition program. All of the 80-meter vessels were inducted into service within four and a half years of the launch of the first LMV.

A total of eight LMVs will safeguard Singapore’s waters, protect its sea lines of communication and contribute to regional peace and security.

LMVs are replacing the ageing Fearless-class patrol vessels, which have been in service for more than 20 years. The LMVs have participated in inter-agency operations, such as security operations for the DPRK-US Singapore Summit, and the recent rescue efforts of the merchant vessel Hoyu when it caught fire in November 2019. In addition, the LMVs were involved in overseas exercises, such as the inaugural ASEAN Multilateral Naval exercise in Thailand in 2017, as well as local exercises such as exercise Highcrest.

The vessels are equipped with a 12-cell vertical launch system for MBDA-made MICA missiles, an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid gun, two Hitrole 12.7 mm remote-controlled weapon stations. They also feature a helicopter deck capable of accommodating one medium-lift helicopter.