The Republic of Singapore Navy has celebrated a major milestone with the launch of its first next-generation Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV), the RSS Victory (88), at ST Engineering’s Benoi Shipyard. This vessel is the lead ship of a six-ship fleet designed to replace the current Victory-class missile corvettes, while maintaining their storied names and pennant numbers to commemorate their service heritage.
Following its ceremonial launch, RSS Victory will proceed through outfitting, systems integration, and rigorous sea trials before joining the operational fleet. The MRCV is designed to serve as a mothership for uncrewed aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles, significantly enhancing the RSN’s surveillance, strike, and networked warfare capabilities.
The MRCV program, awarded to ST Engineering in March 2023, involves the construction of six vessels—Victory, Valour, Vigilance, Valiant, Vigour, and Vengeance—in partnership with the Defence Technology Community, comprising DSTA, DSO, and local defense industry collaborators. According to officials, the MRCV is Singapore’s largest and most advanced warship, measuring 150 meters in length, 21 meters in beam, and displacing 8,000 tonnes.
Powered for extended blue-water operations, the ship can sail over 7,000 nautical miles, sustain speeds above 22 knots, and remain at sea for more than 21 days. It features a DSTA-developed combat management system, Thales radar, Safran electro-optical sensors, and a diverse armament suite including Aster and Mica VL surface-to-air missiles, STRALES 76mm gun, and MK30-C remote weapon systems. Designed for a crew of fewer than 100, the MRCV leverages advanced automation and modular mission systems, capable of supporting up to eight containerized mission modules for combat, humanitarian, or disaster relief operations. Its high-voltage electrical grid and lightweight composite superstructure ensure readiness for future power-intensive technologies and efficient operations.
