Singapore to acquire 4 new maritime patrol aircraft

[SINGAPORE] Singapore will acquire four Boeing P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the first phase of the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) refresh of the country’s maritime security capabilities, the Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday (Sept 10).

Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing informed US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth of this decision during a meeting at the Pentagon.

Chan is making his introductory visit to the US from Sep 9 to 13.

The acquisition is to strengthen the SAF’s maritime situation awareness and ability to counter sub-surface threats, Mindef said in a news release.

The aircraft will replace the existing Fokker 50s, which have been in service since 1993.

In March, then Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen announced plans to procure two new submarines, and new infantry fighting vehicles with anti-drone capabilities, as well as replace Singapore’s maritime patrol aircraft in the coming years.

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“On the 20 F-35 aircraft that Singapore has acquired, Chan noted that production has commenced and is on track for delivery from end-2026,” Mindef said.

During their meeting, Chan thanked Hegseth for the US’ longstanding support of the SAF’s training in the country, the ministry added.

They reaffirmed the “excellent and longstanding bilateral defence relationship, and mutually beneficial partnership between Singapore and the US”.

According to a transcript released by the Department of War, Hegseth told Chan that the US is “proud that more than a thousand of your warriors train in our country each year”.

“And as you know and I hope our friends in the press know, Singapore has been an anchor of US friendship and presence in the region,” said Hegseth, who also congratulated the Republic on its 60th anniversary of independence.

Chan reiterated Singapore’s support for the US’ continued engagement in the Asia-Pacific, in line with the 1990 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was renewed in 2019 by President Donald Trump and then Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Both sides also exchanged views on security developments in the region.

In addition, Chan and Hegseth welcomed closer collaboration, such as through joint research and development, to deal with emerging threats.

“We also look forward to advancing our force posture discussions and providing best-in-class equipment and training for our forces,” said Hegseth.

“This partnership underpins regional stability and security, and advances President Trump’s vision of peace through strength.”

During his visit to Washington, Mr Chan will also meet Deputy National Security Adviser Andy Baker, US Secretary of Air Force Troy Meink and US Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, as well as members of Congress. THE STRAITS TIMES