Factsheet - Frigate Programme
INTRODUCTION
In March 2000, MINDEF signed a contract with Direction des
Constructions Navales (DCN) of France for the construction of six
frigates for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). Under the
technology transfer arrangement, DCN will design and build the
first ship while the remaining five will be built locally by
Singapore Technologies Marine. The six new frigates will replace
the RSN's Missile Gunboats which would have been in service for
more than 30 years.
STATUS OF FORMIDABLE - First of Class
After completing her construction in Lorient, Formidable underwent
a series of intensive platform trials in the waters of France from
the end of last year. Upon successful completion of sea trials, she
departed Lorient in May 05 and made a 12,000 nautical mile voyage
through challenging sea conditions in the Atlantic and Indian
Oceans to arrive in Changi Naval Base on 8 Jul 05. Formidable's
platform and navigational systems are operational and the crew has
completed their shore training and initial work-up training at sea.
The ship is currently undergoing Combat Systems checkout,
integration and testing. She is expected to be fully operational in
2007.
