DAY AT SEA ON BOARD PROTECTOR

Just four months fresh out the yard, Maritime Security and Response Vessel (MSRV) Protector, is taking on her duties in safeguarding Singapore's waters.

She is one of four Sentinel-class MSRVs refurbished from the Republic of Singapore Navy's former Patrol Vessels (PVs).

The MSRVs were equipped with a range of calibrated capabilities to provide more options in responding to maritime incidents. These include an improved audio warning system, a fender system and modular ballistics protection as well as less-lethal capabilities like extended range grenade launchers.

MSRV Protector and MSRV Bastion – the last two to leave the yard – were officially operationalised in a ceremony on 20 Jan.

Sat, 0700H

While most are still slumbering in bed, the crew of MSRV Protector report to Changi Naval Base to get their ship ready to sail.

There is much to do to ensure she is in tip-top shape before she heads out to sea – personnel conduct their system checks, oil their machines and load rounds into their guns.

With a small crew of 30 sailing, everyone chips in to help.

0800H

With the system checks done, the crew conduct a silent colours ceremony as the ship's ensign is raised.

The ropes are released and MSRV Protector slips off from the wharf.

Soon, the bridge breaks into a flurry of activity – assisted by the bridge crew, the Officer of the Watch (OOW) gives direction to the Coxswain at the helms, who steers the ship with steady hands.

With many merchant vessels plying the waters along the Singapore Straits, it takes careful coordination to ensure the ship sails off smoothly.

At the bridge wing, Commanding Officer Major (MAJ) Lim Jun Long watches over his crew.

"The experience has been a steep yet enjoyable one," he said, on his crew's journey from shipyard to sea. "We are defending the sovereignty of Singapore's territorial waters…so we have to train hard to be prepared to deal against real time threats."

"For example, there has been a recent spate of attempted sea robbery incidents. This brings purpose to the mission of our Flotilla and inspires us 'Sentinels' to serve at the frontline," added MAJ Lim, who used to serve on board the PV.

1110H

As MSRV Protector nears the waters off Horsburgh Lighthouse, she gets ready to guard the surrounding waters.

1500H

The ship plays out a simulated small boat threat to test the readiness of their crew and equipment.

This includes the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD), which allows them to project verbal warnings both in the day and at night.

"We use the LRAD to deter an imminent threat. Our first means of tackling the threat will be using the LRAD to give a warning siren, followed by a warning text," explained Weapon System Operator Military Expert (ME) 1 Marcus Tan.

"If the small boat still doesn't comply, we will use our weapons to counter, such as firing warning shots with our General-Purpose Machine Gun."

1800H

After a long day at sea, there is only one thing on everyone's minds: Dinner.

The crew break for their meals while they can, with some packing food aside for those still standing watch.

2200H

Night falls – some crew rest while others take on the night watch at the bridge and Combat Information Centre (CIC).

The crew is trained for such overnight duties to safeguard Singapore's waters 24/7, said MAJ Lim. "We have conducted night sorties and spent numerous hours honing the skillsets of individuals as well as the team."

Sun, 1100H

Another day passes peacefully out at sea. MSRV Protector sails out of her area of operations, headed to her next destination – the South China Sea.

As part of the Maritime Security and Response Flotilla (MSRF) that was stood up on 26 Jan 2021, the MSRVs provide the RSN with more options in responding to maritime incidents and protecting Singapore's territorial waters.

They will be replaced by new purpose-built vessels, to be operated by the MSRF from 2026.

1400H

Excitement is in the air as the crew report to the bridge wing. They have been training hard on shore and it is time for their Extended Range Grenade Launcher (XRGL) live firing out at sea.

The MSRV is the first in the Navy to introduce the use of the XRGL – a less-lethal means of dealing with maritime security threats.

Weapon Control Systems Supervisor ME2 Christine Boey said: "There are a lot of factors different from shore that will affect our firing: challenges like sea state, the manoeuvre of our ship and the wind condition out at sea."

The gunners successfully fire their rounds, shooting at the target from different ranges.

This teamwork was especially evident when the crew sailed out for their first A-Gun acceptance firing in August last year, he said.

"We trained hard for it and by the time we sailed back, it was past midnight and we had to start cleaning the guns. Even through everyone was tired, I started seeing people coming out to the foxcle to help, and everyone had a smile on their faces.

"That's when I saw that we really became a family – even though we're tired, we still work together to achieve a common outcome."