The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) launched its new frigate RSS Steadfast on Friday.

Addressing the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan called the launch of RSS Steadfast a key milestone in the growth and capability development of not just the RSN, but of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

"Defense scientists and operational users were brought together to define requirements and to identify promising technologies that would meet our unique operational demands," said Tan.

Equipped with state-of-the-art command and control systems, sensors, precision weapons as well as naval helicopters, the new frigate will integrate seamlessly with other SAF assets so as to enhance its battle space awareness and mission success.

According to the frigate program started by the Ministry of Defense a decade ago, Singapore will acquire several more frigates in the coming years, which are expected to play a significant role in the SAF's future war-fighting system.

Among the frigates to be acquired, the first-of-class RSS Formidable will undergo its platform acceptance trials in France next month while the other five are in various stages of construction.

Source: Xinhua