For the first time, scale models of Singapore’s new Multirole Combat Vessel (MRCV) have been publicly displayed. ST Engineering, the builder of the MRCVs, and Saab, the vessel’s designer, showcased their respective models at IMDEX Asia 2025, a naval exhibition held in Singapore from May 6-8, Naval News reported.

Although ST Engineering remained tight-lipped on the finer details of the six-ship class optimised as motherships for unmanned systems, the scale models offered valuable insights. The hull design features twin superstructures with an integrated forward mast and a raised midsection deck capable of hosting mission modules.

Saab Kockums’ Lars Kaddik confirmed that the integrated mast, made of carbon fibre composite, will be supplied by Saab—similar to those used in the Littoral Mission Vessels (LMVs) delivered between 2017 and 2020. The mast includes four active electronically scanned array radar panels. Carbon fibre composite offers multiple advantages: it is up to 50% lighter than steel, resists corrosion, enhances stealth, and provides insulation. Despite its benefits, each mast still weighs around 60 tonnes and will be shipped from Sweden in flatpack form for assembly by ST Engineering in Singapore.

Forward on the ship is a 76mm Leonardo naval gun in STRALES configuration, positioned ahead of 4×8-cell vertical launch systems intended to house a mix of Aster and VL MICA NG missiles from MBDA. While the models did not display Blue Spear anti-ship missiles, they are expected to be part of the vessel’s arsenal. A bulbous bow implies sonar capability, while two diagonally positioned remote-controlled weapon stations are placed above the hangar. Each ship will also carry two multirole acoustic stabilised systems from Sitep Italia for non-lethal defence. The electro-optical/infrared suite and decoy launchers will be provided by Safran, while Thales will supply the SeaFire multifunction radar. also used on France’s FDI frigates.

At the stern, a large flight deck and hangar can accommodate a helicopter the size of a Super Puma. Below lies a dual stern ramp system enabling launch and recovery of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and rigid-hulled inflatable boats, with a larger version of the system used on LMVs, tailored to the VENUS 19 USVs.

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has already deployed MARSEC USVs, though newer unmanned systems are expected to be integrated into the MRCVs upon their commissioning. According to Naval News, each MRCV will measure 150 metres in length, have a beam of 21.04 metres, a draught of 5.7 metres, and a full load displacement of 8,400 tonnes. Powered by an integrated full electric propulsion (IFEP) system using GE Vernova electric motors and M.A.N. diesel engines, the vessels can reach speeds up to 24 knots. This future-proof propulsion setup is designed to accommodate high-energy systems like directed energy weapons.

Each vessel will support up to 160 personnel, though actual operating crews are expected to be leaner, comprising operators for both unmanned systems and helicopters. As previously stated by the RSN, these ships will serve as “motherships” for unmanned platforms across air, surface, and sub-sea domains.

Construction milestones are already underway. Steel for the first vessel was cut on March 8, 2024 at ST Engineering’s Gul shipyard, and its keel was laid in October. The second ship’s steel was cut on April 24. The lead ship is expected to be launched later this year, entering service in 2028. During a recent visit to ST Engineering’s Benoi shipyard, the first hull was seen to be nearly complete, with only the stern section remaining.

The Ministry of Defence awarded ST Engineering the design and construction contract on March 27. Saab, in collaboration with Denmark’s Odense Maritime Technology (OMT), provided the basic design—distinct from ST Engineering’s own Vanguard-class concept.

Incorporating features from the LMV programme, such as an integrated command centre that combines bridge, engineering, and combat roles, the MRCV is also expected to include a bespoke combat management system and artificial intelligence tools developed by ST Engineering for the RSN’s operational needs.

Singapore’s RSN continues to rank among the world’s most advanced navies in adopting autonomous and unmanned technologies. According to ST Engineering, the MRCVs will exploit the "multiplier effect" of digital technologies to enable quicker and more efficient operations, ultimately replacing the current fleet of six 595-tonne Victory-class missile corvettes.