Formidable-class

The Formidable-class frigate is a multi-role derivative of the French La Fayette class, operated by the Republic of Singapore Navy. Development began in the mid-1990s to replace the Sea Wolf-class missile gunboats. In March 2000, the Singapore Ministry of Defence awarded the construction contract to DCNS. The program utilized a technology transfer arrangement where the lead ship was built in Lorient, France, and the subsequent five vessels were constructed locally by ST Engineering (Marine) in Benoi, Singapore. The class entered service between 2007 and 2009.

The design incorporates radar cross section reduction features, including inclined hull sides, bulwarks, and the concealment of ship boats and replenishment equipment behind low-RCS curtains. Unlike the La Fayette class, the Formidable class utilizes all-steel construction and a smaller superstructure with enclosed sensor mast technology. The vessels function as mobile operations centers within an integrated command and control network. A locally developed Combat Management System integrates onboard sensors and weaponry via a dual Fast Ethernet data transfer system. The ships utilize the Thales Herakles multi-function radar for three-dimensional surveillance and tracking, which is integrated with the Aster air defense system. Aviation facilities include a flight deck and hangar capable of supporting S-70B Seahawk naval helicopters.

The six vessels form the 185 Squadron of the Republic of Singapore Navy. Operational history includes participation in multilateral exercises such as Malabar 2007, RIMPAC 2008, and the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force’s 70th anniversary International Fleet Review in 2022. In 2021, the class conducted a passage exercise with the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group 21.

The class has been deployed for counter-piracy operations with Combined Task Force 151 in the Gulf of Aden, starting with RSS Intrepid in 2012 and followed by RSS Tenacious in 2014. The vessels have also contributed to regional search and rescue efforts, including the operations for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 and AirAsia Flight QZ8501 in 2014.

In 2023, a mid-life upgrade program was initiated to modernize subsystems, including the combat system, communications equipment, and armament. As part of this program, the Harpoon anti-ship missiles are scheduled for replacement by the Blue Spear surface-to-surface missile. ST Engineering and Naval Group are contracted to complete these upgrades by 2028.