The Singapore Armed Forces plans to procure two new submarines and introduce a counter-drone military vehicle, maritime patrol aircraft, and other defense assets.
Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen announced this at The Committee of Supply 2025 parliamentary session as Singapore is “living in turbulent times” and mentioned how “the war in Ukraine highlights the vulnerability of smaller states to larger powers and how we need to be prepared.”
Singapore has a projected defense expenditure of approximately 23.4 billion Singaporean dollars ($17.4 billion), 12.4 percent higher than in 2024 as the country is catching up on projects delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Assuming the absence of major conflicts and economic uncertainty, the budget is expected to gradually decrease by the next fiscal year and stay within 3 percent of GDP in the next 10 years.
In addition to defense acquisitions, Ng emphasized the importance of the country’s self-reliance while strengthening security partnerships with Indonesia, Malaysia, the US, and China.
With these moves, Ng stated: “We are not a threat to anyone and wish all to be friends. But as the saying goes, strong fences, and I would add, defences, make good neighbours.”
Sea: Submarines, Combat Vessel
Singapore is set to operate a fleet of four Invincible-class attack submarines from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems by 2028, replacing its aging Challenger-class and Archer-class submarines.
However, Ng pointed out that a couple more of the Type 218SG diesel-electric submarines are needed for an optimal fleet, as these vessels undergo “more rigorous and frequent maintenance cycles with stringent checks,” leading to reduced operational times.
He cited his Southeast Asian neighbors as examples of countries with navies operating more than four submarines, with Indonesia ordering two submarines from Naval Group last year to expand its fleet of four and Vietnam operating six Russian-made attack submarines.
Moreover, the Singaporean Navy is set to launch its inaugural multi-role combat vessel later this year, described as “not one ship but a mothership with unmanned platforms,” with enhanced size, range, sensors, and combat systems.
Air: Aircraft
The island country has been evaluating the Boeing P-8A and Airbus C295 as potential replacement options for its Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft, in service since 1993.
Meanwhile, the defense minister confirmed the country’s purchase of an additional eight F-35A fighter jets from Lockheed Martin, which was announced last year.
Land: ‘Titan’ IFV, HIMARS
The Singaporean defense minister announced that the army will operate a new wheeled infantry fighting vehicle called the “Titan.”
It will feature counter-drone capabilities and upgraded firepower with a 30-millimeter cannon as a remote weapon system.
Lastly, Singapore’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is scheduled for upgrades “with more capable rockets.”
