Singapore Technologies Engineering announced that it has been awarded contracts by MINDEF to deliver a suite of Mine Countermeasure (MCM) Unmanned Systems for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). The suite of MCM Unmanned Systems will comprise a fleet of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV) and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV), alongside a Command & Control (C2) Centre, all of which will be engineered to work in tandem to detect and eliminate underwater mines.
Additionally, ST Engineering will provide a high-fidelity simulation system for users to hone their operational skills, allowing them to practise decision-making, refine operational techniques and execute dynamic MCM scenarios safely.
“The suite of MCM Unmanned Systems epitomises our capabilities in unmanned technology and our ability to provide strategic value in mission-critical applications,” said Low Jin Phang, President, Digital Systems, ST Engineering. “Building on our success in delivering the Maritime Security Unmanned Surface Vessels for the RSN, we aim to push the boundaries of USVs and AUVs for MCM operations with AI, enabling real-time data analysis for faster, more informed decisions. We are excited to take this forward and remain committed to supporting MINDEF with cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and mission success.”
Designed to operate in unison, both the USV and AUV will be integrated with advanced sensors to detect and classify mines. Real-time data from the USV and AUV will be transmitted to the C2 Centre through a secure communications network, also to be developed by ST Engineering, enabling quick assessments and faster decision-making. The USV will also be integrated with advanced payloads to identify and neutralise the mines. The C2 Centre will act as the operational hub, remotely monitoring and controlling the USV and AUV from shore or the mothership, ensuring safety by maintaining a safe distance during the MCM operation. The suite of MCM Unmanned Systems will be progressively delivered from 2027.
For Editorial Inquiries Contact:
Editor Kym Bergmann at kym.bergmann@venturamedia.net
For Advertising Inquiries Contact:
Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at simon.hadfield@venturamedia.net
Maybe we can contract our MCM requirements out to Singapore?
Interesting image, that of the underwater explosive test on the RAN inshore minehunter. The plan to build six MHIs and purchase three Hunt class coastal minehunters saw the end excuse by Defence/Government that the MHIs failed as a coastal minehunter so they scrapped the MHIs and spent a billion on the Huon/Gaeta/Osprey class (now down to two platforms).
Brian, the MHIs were never designed to be Coastal Hunters. They were a good design and were good ships. The biggest problem they faced was the backward thinking of the R.A.N. The official reason for their demise was they were unsuitable for coastal mine hunting. Considering they were never designed to for coastal operations and were officially designated Mine Hunter Inshore this should not have been a surprise. The R.A.N has a long and undistinguished history of resistance to innovative ideas. The Arafura is a case in point. The sooner the antiquated thinkers are moved on the better.