The Singapore Armed Forces is set to enhance its military capabilities by procuring two new submarines alongside the introduction of innovative defense assets, including a counter-drone military vehicle and maritime patrol aircraft. Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen made these announcements during the Committee of Supply 2025 parliamentary session, underscoring the need for preparedness as Singapore navigates “turbulent times.” He cited the ongoing war in Ukraine as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by smaller nations when confronted by larger powers.
The projected defense expenditure for Singapore is approximately 23.4 billion Singaporean dollars (around $17.4 billion), reflecting a notable 12.4 percent increase from the previous year. This surge in funding is aimed at catching up on defense projects that were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking ahead, barring any major conflicts or economic uncertainties, the defense budget is planned to gradually decrease over the next fiscal year, maintaining a consistent allocation that remains within 3 percent of the nation’s GDP over the next decade.
Ng emphasized the significance of bolstering Singapore’s self-reliance in defense while also reinforcing security partnerships, particularly with neighboring countries and major global powers such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, and China. He articulated a message of peace, stating, “We are not a threat to anyone and wish all to be friends,” while reiterating the importance of strong defenses to maintain harmonious international relationships.
On the maritime front, Singapore is poised to operate a fleet of four Invincible-class attack submarines, built by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, by 2028. These vessels will replace the aging Challenger-class and Archer-class submarines currently in service. However, Ng highlighted the necessity for an additional pair of Type 218SG diesel-electric submarines to ensure optimal fleet performance, due to the rigorous maintenance cycles and stringent checks these submarines require, which can compromise operational readiness. Ng pointedly referenced regional neighbors, noting that countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam operate larger submarines fleets, thus underlying the need for Singapore to enhance its naval capabilities.
The Singaporean Navy is also set to launch a groundbreaking multi-role combat vessel later this year. This vessel, described not merely as a ship but as a “mothership” equipped with unmanned platforms, promises enhanced specifications in size, range, sensors, and combat systems.
In terms of aerial defense, Singapore is currently evaluating new replacement options for its aging Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft, which have been in service since 1993. The possible candidates under consideration include the Boeing P-8A and the Airbus C295. Moreover, the defense minister confirmed plans to acquire an additional eight F-35A fighter jets from Lockheed Martin, a decision that was initially announced last year.
On the land defense front, a new wheeled infantry fighting vehicle named the “Titan” will soon be introduced into the army’s arsenal. This vehicle will incorporate counter-drone capabilities and will be equipped with an upgraded firepower system featuring a 30-millimeter cannon on a remote weapon platform. In addition, Singapore’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is slated for upgrades, aiming to incorporate more advanced rocket capabilities into its operations.
This comprehensive expansion and modernization of Singapore’s defense assets reflect the nation’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in the face of evolving regional and global security threats.
