Singapore: ST Engineering today launched the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s first Victory-class Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV), Victory, at its Benoi Yard. The launch ceremony was officiated by Chan Chun Sing, Singapore’s Minister for Defence. MRCV Victory is the first of six MRCVs to be built by ST Engineering under a detailed design and construction contract awarded by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in 2023.
“The launch of MRCV Victory demonstrates the strength of our close collaboration,” said Mervyn Tan, President, Defence & Public Security, ST Engineering. “Through our partnership with the Republic of Singapore Navy and the Defence Science and Technology Agency, we have set the foundation for the successful delivery of future-ready first-of-class naval platforms that will strengthen Singapore’s maritime defence.”
MRCV Victory is a demonstration of the Group’s engineering depth across multiple domains – from detailed design and shipbuilding to the implementation of critical cyber-secured communication networks to the complex integration of multiple weapons systems. This complex undertaking reinforced ST Engineering’s position as a trusted partner capable of delivering advanced, multi-domain defence innovations for Singapore and beyond.
Measuring 150 metres in length, the MRCV is designed to serve as a “mothership” for unmanned systems, enabling seamless operability across air, surface and subsurface domains. Incorporating state-of-the-art systems, the Victory-class MRCV supports a wide range of missions from maritime security and surveillance to high-intensity combat operations.
“Our extensive experience in turnkey naval shipbuilding gives us the capabilities to deliver large, complex vessels like the MRCV. Being the first of its class, MRCV Victory requires advanced engineering and design precision execution across every stage of construction, a level of expertise that is evident in the launch of the vessel today,” said Tan Leong Peng, President, Marine, ST Engineering.
Setting a benchmark for next-generation naval vessels
Leveraging 3D modelling and digital twinning, the vessel design was tested and refined virtually before actual construction began. The use of virtualisation technologies reduced the need for costly physical prototypes, minimised design rework, cut down material waste and shortened the delivery time required to deliver a mothership that is optimised to meet the Navy’s needs. The model-based approach in the development of the Victory-class MRCV has set a new engineering benchmark in the design of advanced naval vessels.
After the launch, MRCV Victory will be transferred from Benoi Yard to Gul Yard, where it will undergo further outfitting, integration and sea trials. ST Engineering is on track to deliver the fleet of MRCVs to the RSN progressively from 2028 onwards.
ST Engineering continues to invest in the automation and transformation of its two shipyards into an integrated smart hub. With smart yard management systems, automated panel lines, robotic welding and predictive maintenance capabilities, these enhancements will strengthen project coordination, improve resource allocation and drive overall productivity. The expanded capacity and better infrastructure at the two yards will enable ST Engineering to take on larger and more complex projects to meet the SAF’s evolving maritime defence needs.
