RSN’s first two Invincible-class submarines are now fully operational

They are 70 metres in length and can stay submerged for 50 per cent longer than their predecessors. They even have eight torpedo tubes capable of firing Heavy Weight Torpedoes.

What are these lethal forces? They are none other than the Republic of Singapore Navy’s (RSN)’s Invincible-class submarines – RSS Impeccable and RSS Invincible – which are now fully operational.  

The submarines were commissioned at RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base on 24 Sep by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. He was joined by Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, as well as the lady sponsors of the Invincible-class submarines – Dr Ivy Ng, Mdm Ho Ching, and Ms Teo Swee Lian. 

“Over the years, our submariners gained the experience and expertise to build more robust capabilities.

“Today, we stand confident, not just to procure new build submarines, but also to customise them to meet our specific requirements,” said Mr Wong during his speech at the ceremony.

He added that the Invincible-class submarines are fitted with advanced technology, allowing for leaner tools and better maneuverability in Singapore’s congested waters: “They are quieter, more durable and better armed than anything we’ve had before.”

As the Invincible-class submariners were built by German manufacturers, Mr Wong also emphasised that this project exemplifies the strong ties between Germany and Singapore.

“I look forward to more meaningful defence exchanges and closer collaborations in the future.” 

Exceeding their predecessors

As national defence is a long-term business, these Invincible-class submarines are the culmination of planning and work that started in the 2000s, in which the submarines are custom-made for Singapore needs.

In a speech made by Minister of Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen during the Committee of Supply Debates earlier this year, he said: “Submarines are a hefty investment… but rest assured that our submarines will silently and stealthily protect the waters around us.”

“This submarine programme was custom-made for the RSN. Previously, we ordered used submarines, adapted for our use.”

The Invincible-class submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art capabilities, such as high levels of automation, significant payload capacity, enhanced underwater endurance and optimised ergonomics.

They are fast when surfaced – travelling at 10 knots (about 18.5km/h) – and even faster underwater – at 15 knots (about 27.7km/h). These submarines can stay submerged 50 per cent longer than the older Archer-class submarines and navigate through Singapore’s waters better. 

Colonel (COL) Fong Chi Onn, Commander of the 7th Flotilla, shared that following the commissioning of the Invincible-class submarines, the RSN will begin the decommissioning of the older submarines within the next few months.

Joining the RSN’s existing fleet of submarines, ships and units, both RSS Invincible and RSS Impeccable will safeguard Singapore’s sea lines of communication and contribute to regional peace and security.

“For the past 25 years, we have been operating very good second-hand submarines.”

“This time round, we have taken all that we’ve learned over the past years of operations to customise a submarine specific to our unique operational requirements (and) specifically for Singapore’s warm tropical and saltier waters,” said the 45-year-old.

The submarine crew

As one of the pioneer female submariners of her crew, Captain (CPT) Loh Jia Yi said that the strong support and camaraderie of the submarine flotilla has enabled her to integrate well into the community.

The customisation of the Invincible-class submarines also accommodates to female submariners’ needs.

“The new submarines are designed with dedicated female bunking and toilets. This enables us to maintain a degree of privacy and hygiene while serving with our crew members on board,” explained the 26-year-old Assistant Operations Officer of RSS Invincible.

At the moment, there are four qualified female submariners – one of whom is CPT Loh. There are also two others currently in training.  They are a mix of combat officers and engineering officers, and the RSN is looking to bring in more female experts. 

“My motivation comes from a sense of responsibility to lay the groundwork well for the female submariners who come after us,” said CPT Loh. 

“We have to play an active role in transitioning and communicating with our current crew members.” 

Strengthening the Navy’s capabilities in the water

Head Capability Development at the Naval Systems Programme Centre from the Defence Science and Technology Agency Melvin Dong, 36,  revealed that these submarines were selected after a rigorous evaluation process involving proposals from established submarine users around the world. 

“We identified the Type 218SG (submarines) as the most cost-effective solution that will suit our operational needs. The crew is equipped with an enhanced situation awareness, and it also allows us to operate with the same number of crew (as the older submarines) despite it being much bigger and capable,” he added.   

The remaining two Invincible-class submarines, Illustrious and Inimitable, are progressing well in Germany. They will be operational by 2028 and eventually replace the RSN’s Challenger- and Archer-class submarines.

COL Fong predicts that the Invincible-class submarines will be operating in Singapore for at least another 30 years, before the RSN considers the next class of submarines.