Major Shaitan Singh
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The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) revealed a new stealth vessel ahead of Singapore’s golden jubilee parade scheduled for 9 August.
A prototype of the 22m-long Specialised Marine Craft (SMC), designed and manufactured by ST Marine, was displayed on a trailer. The vessel is manned by a crew of four, and is equipped with an OTO Melara Hitrole 12.7mm naval turret in addition to electro-optical equipment and communication systems.
According to Maj Lee Pui Yau, an SMC commander, the SMC concept started as early as 2003, was operationalised in 2009 and has since undergone numerous trials and tests to fit RSN requirements. The 40-tonne aluminium hull vessel is powered by two Hamilton waterjets and capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots up to 200nm.
Despite being able to carry additional payload at the rear, Lee said there were no plans to do so since it may compromise the SMC’s speed and agility. Sitting only 2m above the waterline and with a draught of 1.2m, the SMC features an angled hull and enclosed compartments suggesting a degree of stealth.
Currently, three SMCs are operational and the navy is looking to have five more enter service in the next two years. They will work alongside Fearless-class patrol vessels, and eventually Independence-class littoral mission vessels for force protection and base defence.
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