Formidable-class

Summary

Description

The Formidable-class frigates are a class of multi-role stealth frigates operated by the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), representing enhanced versions of the French Navy's La Fayette-class frigate. These ships, which form the First Flotilla of the RSN, were planned as a replacement for the aging Sea Wolf-class missile gunboats, a process that began in the mid-1990s. The contract was awarded to DCNS (now Naval Group) in March 2000, with a technology transfer arrangement that included building the first of six frigates in France and the remaining five in Singapore by Singapore Technologies Marine.

These frigates incorporate radar cross-section reduction features to lower their visibility, thus improving their stealth capabilities. Their design involves inclined hull sides and bulwarks and the concealment of the ship boats and replenishment-at-sea equipment behind low radar cross-section curtains. They are equipped with the Thales Herakles multi-function radar and the DCNS Sylver vertical launch system for 32 cells, with a mix of Aster 15 and 30 missiles. As integral parts of Singapore's Integrated Knowledge-based Command and Control network, they feature an advanced Combat Management System that integrates all onboard sensors and weapon systems to establish a comprehensive operational picture and conduct rapid data transfer.

Armament on the Formidable-class includes Boeing Harpoon missiles and an Oto Melara 76 mm gun for surface warfare, as well as an active low-frequency towed sonar and EuroTorp A244/S Mod 3 lightweight torpedoes for anti-submarine operations. The ships are also set to be equipped with the Blue Spear surface-to-surface missile systems for enhanced beyond-line-of-sight and sea-land attack capabilities. The frigates operate with the Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopters, which are equipped for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare.

The ships have been significantly operational, with RSS Formidable participating in exercises like Exercise Malabar with various navies. Other notable activities included RSS Intrepid's live firing of the Aster missile in 2008, RSS Steadfast's participation in RIMPAC, and RSS Supreme's involvement in the search for AirAsia Flight QZ8501. The RSN has also been active in anti-piracy operations, with deployments in the Gulf of Aden. In 2021, RSS Intrepid undertook an exercise with the UK's Carrier Strike Group. Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence Singapore has announced plans to upgrade the frigates with better armaments and systems to ensure the ships remain effective and current.

Technical specifications

Photo of Formidable class