The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has decommissioned its last Challenger-class submarines, the RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain.
They will be replaced by the new Invincible-class submarines, which formally entered into service in September.
At the official ceremony held in RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base, Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat officiated the launch of the new Submarine Training School, aiming to provide a safe and efficient learning environment using advanced technology and simulators.
Challenger-Class Vessels
The recently decommissioned submarines were former Sjoormen-class vessels under the Royal Swedish Navy.
They were acquired and refurbished in the 1990s in line with Singapore’s strategy to develop its submarine capabilities and expertise in underwater operations.
The RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain were commissioned on July 22, 2000, and August 24, 2002, respectively.
Each submarine measures 51 meters (167 feet) in length and has a beam of 6.1 meters (20 feet). They are equipped with heavyweight torpedoes and can accommodate a crew of 28 personnel.
With a displacement of 1,130 tons, the submarines can cruise at a speed of 10 knots (11.5 miles/18.5 kilometers per hour) on the surface.
When submerged, they can achieve a speed of 16 knots (18.4 miles/29.6 kilometers per hour).
“RSS Conqueror and RSS Chieftain’s achievements are a testament to the unwavering resolve and courage of the RSN’s pioneer submariners, who laid strong foundations for the growth of 7th Flotilla and the RSN into a world-class submarine operating force,” said Fleet Commander RADM Kwon Hon Chung.
