Singapore Navy Launches Multi-Role Combat Vessel & Command Ship

The Republic of Singapore Navy has launched Valour, the second of six planned Victory-class Multi-Role Combat Vessels, during a ceremony at ST Engineering’s Benoi Shipyard.

The Victory-class MRCV is designed to function as a mothership for unmanned aerial, surface, and underwater systems during naval operations. Operating with command ship capabilities, the vessel is equipped with advanced sensors, weapon systems, and network integration. Designed with advanced automation, the ship can operate safely and effectively with a smaller crew size compared to warships of similar dimensions and operational capability.

Following its launch, Valour will undergo outfitting, platform and combat systems integration, and acceptance trials, while a pioneer crew begins training to operationalise the vessel. The fleet of MRCVs will be delivered progressively from 2028 onwards. The project is being developed through a partnership across Singapore’s Defence Technology Community, including DSTA, DSO National Laboratories, ST Engineering, and other industry partners.

The launch ceremony was officiated by Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs Mr K Shanmugam, with his spouse acting as the Lady Sponsor to officially launch the vessel. The event was attended by Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing, Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, Chief Defence Scientist Mr Tan Peng Yam, Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat, and senior defence officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Singapore Armed Forces, and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Shanmugam highlighted the strategic operational necessity of the new class of vessel, “It is a fundamental national priority for us to keep our maritime approaches secure, open and free. In fact, it’s a matter of survival. The MRCV strengthens our Navy’s ability to help us fulfil this mission,” he said. “The future security environment continues to evolve. We will not be able to predict every challenge that we will face. But we can build platforms that can adapt and respond to a wide range of scenarios, and evolve alongside those challenges.”