RSS STEADFAST LAUNCHED

RSS Steadfast, the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) third frigate, was launched by Mrs Tony Tan Keng Yam, wife of Deputy Prime Minister and Co-ordinating Minister for Security and Defence, Dr Tony Tan, on 28 Jan.

Equipped with advanced sensors and weapon systems, and possessing enhanced anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, RSS Steadfast is the second locally built frigate.

Dr Tan called this launch, "a key milestone" in the RSN's frigate programme, and said that the acquisition of the new frigates underscores the Ministry Of Defence's effort to invest in the transformation of the RSN.

Dr Tan revealed that planning for the programme started a decade ago, when defence scientists and operational users came together to define their requirements and identify promising technologies that would meet the SAF's operational demands.

"The RSN's new frigates will be the embodiment of daring dreams and unfailing commitment," said Dr Tan.

"By exploiting cutting-edge military technologies such as stealth, network, sensor and guidance technologies, the frigates will be equipped with state-of-the-art command and control systems, sensors, precision weapons as well as naval helicopters," he added.

The new frigates will play an important role in the SAF's future war-fighting system. Dr Tan said that in addition to dealing with conventional maritime war fighting challenges, the frigates can be deployed for other contingencies should the need arises.

With their combat and extended endurance capabilities, the frigates will also play an active role in exercises and operations with friendly navies, added Dr Tan.

RSS Steadfast is the third in a series of six frigates currently being constructed. The first of its class, RSS Formidable, will undergo her Platform Acceptance Trials in France next month.

The frigates are expected to come into service from 2007 onwards.