The Republic of Singapore Navy has taken a significant step in maritime security with the deployment of its domestically manufactured unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for patrol missions in the strategically important Singapore Strait. The Ministry of Defence of Singapore announced that these vessels, known as MARSEC USVs, have been operating alongside crewed Independence-class littoral mission vessels since January.
The MARSEC USVs play a crucial role not only in routine patrols but also in the monitoring and investigation of suspicious maritime activity. They are equipped to remotely carry out high-risk missions, reflecting an advanced approach to naval security. This deployment follows extensive testing, where the autonomous vessels logged over one thousand hours of operational trials. Further experimentation is planned to enhance their capabilities, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of maritime security technology. Currently, three of these USVs are in active service, with an additional vessel expected to join the fleet later this year.
Engineered specifically for the challenges of modern maritime operations, the MARSEC USV was developed through a collaboration between the Singapore Navy, the Defence Science & Technology Agency, and DSO National Laboratories. The first unit of this innovative vessel entered service in 2023. Each USV is outfitted with several sophisticated components for enhanced operational effectiveness, including a searchlight, a strobe light, a siren, a long-range acoustics device, navigation radar, and GPS systems.
In terms of defensive capabilities, the Singaporean USV is armed with a 12.7-millimeter stabilized weapon system and a laser dazzler, tools aimed at disorienting suspicious targets and mitigating potential threats in the region. A standout feature of these USVs is their advanced collision detection and avoidance algorithm, designed to enhance their autonomous navigation. This technology has undergone rigorous testing, completing over 12 million kilometers of simulated travel without any reported collisions, showcasing its reliability and adherence to international maritime regulations.
The specifications of the MARSEC USV further underline its design efficiency and operational capabilities. The vessel measures 16.9 meters (55.44 feet) in length, has a beam of 5.9 meters (19.3 feet), and a displacement of 30 tonnes (66,138 pounds). It can achieve speeds exceeding 25 knots (46 kilometers or 28 miles per hour) and boasts an impressive endurance of over 36 hours at sea.
This strategic move underscores Singapore’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology to enhance its maritime defense posture, reflecting broader trends in military modernization and unmanned systems globally. The introduction of the MARSEC USVs is a notable addition to the naval capabilities of the Republic of Singapore, aimed at ensuring the safety and security of its maritime borders.
