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New Straits Times
08-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Singapore Navy to use unmanned mine-hunting ships from 2027
SINGAPORE: The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will roll out a new fleet of unmanned vessels from 2027 to detect and neutralise underwater mines, as part of its efforts to modernise naval capabilities and secure vital maritime routes. According to The Straits Times, the unmanned mine countermeasure (MCM) systems will be supplied by local technology and engineering firm ST Engineering, which announced on May 7 that it had secured contracts from the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) to deliver the new capabilities. The suite of systems comprises MCM unmanned surface vessels (USVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and command and control (C2) infrastructure. The RSN's Bedok-class MCM vessels, which have been in service since 1995, will remain operational during the transition period, with the new unmanned systems intended to gradually replace them. ST Engineering said the unmanned systems will be equipped with advanced sensors and secure communication networks, allowing operators to detect and neutralise naval mines from a safe distance. Data will be transmitted in real time to the C2 Centre, where missions can be monitored and controlled remotely, either from shore or a mothership, it said. Mindef, in a separate statement on May 7, said the MCM USVs will carry key payloads such as towed synthetic aperture sonars to detect mines and remotely controlled mine neutralisation systems. The USVs will also feature autonomous navigation systems that incorporate a locally developed collision detection and avoidance algorithm, enabling them to operate safely in the busy Singapore Strait. "Scheduled for progressive delivery from 2027 onwards, these capabilities will enhance the RSN's ability to respond to evolving maritime security threats," said Mindef. ST Engineering said it will also supply a simulation system to train navy personnel in a safe, controlled environment. The system will enable operators to practise decision-making and execute a range of MCM scenarios, said its president of digital systems, Low Jin Phang. Low said the new suite of MCM unmanned systems builds on the success of the maritime security (Marsec) USVs, which have been patrolling Singapore's waters since January 2025, complementing manned vessels such as littoral mission ships. Three Marsec USVs have been delivered, with a fourth set to join the fleet later this year. "We aim to push the boundaries of USVs and AUVs for MCM operations by integrating artificial intelligence, enabling real-time data analysis for faster, more informed decisions," said Low. Underwater mines have long posed a threat to maritime nations like Singapore, as they are relatively inexpensive to deploy but can severely disrupt military and commercial shipping. The threat landscape has evolved to include improvised explosive devices, which can be easily deployed by terrorist groups. Navies worldwide are increasingly turning to unmanned systems to mitigate such risks, with the US Navy deploying Knifefish unmanned underwater vehicles to detect and classify naval mines in both shallow and deep waters. The RSN's four Bedok-class MCM vessels underwent a midlife upgrade in 2014 to enhance their mine detection and disposal capabilities. In 2021, the RSN successfully demonstrated that USVs could remotely detect and neutralise underwater threats, reportedly achieving a world-first capability.
Straits Times
07-05-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
S'pore Navy to replace mine-hunting vessels with unmanned systems from 2027
SINGAPORE – The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will begin operating a new fleet of unmanned systems from 2027 to detect and neutralise underwater mines, the latest in moves to modernise the Republic's naval capabilities and protect its vital sea lines. The new systems will be supplied by local technology and engineering firm ST Engineering, which announced on May 7 that it had been awarded Mindef contracts to deliver the suite of Mine Countermeasure (MCM) unmanned systems. The new capabilities include MCM Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and Command and Control (C2) infrastructure. Designed to operate in tandem, these systems will replace the Navy's Bedok-class MCM vessels, which will remain operational during the transition. The unmanned systems are intended to enhance the RSN's ability to identify and neutralise naval mines while keeping personnel at a safe distance, said ST Engineering. They will be equipped with advanced sensors and secure communications networks to transmit real-time data to the C2 Centre, where operators can monitor and control missions remotely, either from shore or a mothership. In a separate release on May 7, the Ministry of Defence said the MCM USVs will carry key payloads such as Towed Synthetic Aperture Sonars (TSAS) to detect mines, as well as systems to neutralise mines and weapons that are controlled remotely. The USVs will also feature autonomous navigation systems, which incorporate a locally developed collision detection and avoidance algorithm that allow the vessels to operate safely in the busy traffic of the Singapore Strait. 'Planned for progressive delivery from 2027 onwards, the acquisition of these capabilities will enhance the Republic of Singapore Navy's ability to respond to evolving maritime security threats,' said Mindef. ST Engineering added that it would also supply a highly realistic simulation system to allow navy personnel to train in a safe environment. The system will help users hone their operational skills by practising decision-making and carrying out a range of MCM scenarios safely, it said. The firm's president of digital systems Low Jin Phang said the suite of MCM unmanned systems builds on its success in delivering the Maritime Security (Marsec) USVs for the navy. The Marsec USVs have been patrolling Singapore's waters since January 2025, complementing manned ships such as the Littoral Mission Vessels and providing the RSN with greater operational flexibility. Three Marsec USVs have been delivered, with a fourth scheduled to join the fleet later this year. 'We aim to push the boundaries of USVs and AUVs for MCM operations with artificial intelligence, enabling real-time data analysis for faster, more informed decisions,' said Mr Low. Underwater mines have long been a challenge for maritime nations like Singapore, as they are inexpensive, relatively easy to deploy, and can disrupt both military and commercial traffic. The dangers have evolved to include improvised explosive devices that can be easily deployed by terrorists. The unmanned systems are intended to enhance the Navy's ability to identify and neutralise naval mines while keeping personnel at a safe distance. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Navies have increasingly turned to unmanned MCM systems to reduce the risk to personnel while improving the efficiency of mine-clearing operations. They include the United States, which operates the Knifefish unmanned underwater vehicle that is designed to detect and classify naval mines in deep and shallow waters without endangering divers or crewed vessels. Singapore's four Bedok-class MCM vessels, all commissioned in 1995, received a midlife upgrade in 2014 to augment its mine detection and disposal capabilities. In 2021, the navy proved that USVs it was testing could successfully identify and neutralise an underwater threat remotely, with the validation reportedly a world-first capability. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
EDGE Group, ST Engineering partner to advance UAE's Sirb Programme
ST Engineering has been appointed as a strategic international partner for the UAE's Sirb Programme Abu Dhabi, UAE – As prime contractor for the UAE Space Agency's prestigious Sirb Programme, EDGE Group has partnered with ST Engineering, a global technology, defence, and engineering group, to accelerate the development of the UAE's sovereign synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite capabilities. A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed by Waleid Al Mesmari, President, Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster, EDGE and Low Jin Phang, President, Digital Systems, ST Engineering in the presence of His Excellency Eng. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Senior Advisor, EDGE, Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, EDGE, and Ravinder Singh, Chairman, ST Engineering. The signing formalised the parties' collaboration to advance the Sirb Programme – a national initiative led by the UAE Space Agency aimed at significantly enhancing the UAE's Radar Earth Observation capabilities. This milestone marks an important step forward in strengthening innovation and technological leadership in the sector. His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: 'Our collaboration with FADA and the local industrial consortium marks a pivotal step in expanding UAE's private space sector. The enablement of the private sector is fundamental to our efforts in executing the Sirb programme and cultivating a dynamic, competitive commercial space industry. Empowering the private sector by expanding local, regional, and international cooperation and partnerships is an investment in the future and sustainability of the national space sector.' Waleid Al Mesmari, President, Space & Cyber Technologies, EDGE Group, said: 'This partnership marks another critical milestone in the UAE's space journey. As prime contractor for the UAE Space Agency's Sirb Programme, EDGE is committed to advancing sovereign space capabilities in alignment with the UAE's National Space Strategy. Partnering with ST Engineering as the Strategic International Partner enables us to accelerate the programme's development and foster a self-sustaining space sector that drives national innovation.' Low Jin Phang, President, Digital Systems, ST Engineering, said: 'This partnership is a testament to our capabilities in satellite systems and our standing as a trusted international partner. With the success of TeLEOS-1 and TeLEOS-2, we bring proven expertise in integrating optical and SAR satellites and we are well positioned to advance the Sirb Programme, enabling the capture of high-resolution Earth observation images in all conditions. We are excited about this partnership and look forward to working with EDGE Group to drive the programme's success. Under this partnership, ST Engineering work closely with EDGE to deliver a single-polarisation SAR satellite and ground segment, along with the transfer of technical expertise for the SAR payload. This partnership reflects the shared commitment of both ST Engineering and EDGE Group to advancing the UAE's leadership in high resolution satellite imaging, autonomous space systems, and sovereign satellite development. Attendees of IDEX 2025 can visit EDGE and its portfolio of companies at indoor stand C20 in Hall 5 and outdoor stand CP-270 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre until 21 February 2025. About EDGE Launched in November 2019, the UAE's EDGE is one of the world's leading advanced technology groups, established to develop agile, bold and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond, and to be a catalyst for change and transformation. It is dedicated to bringing breakthrough innovations, products, and services to market with greater speed and efficiency, to position the UAE as a leading global hub for future industries, and to creating clear paths within the sector for the next generation of highly skilled talent to thrive. With a focus on the adoption of 4IR technologies, EDGE is driving the development of sovereign capabilities for global export and for the preservation of national security, working with front-line operators, international partners, and adopting advanced technologies such as autonomous capabilities, cyber-physical systems, advanced propulsion systems, robotics and smart materials. EDGE converges R&D, emerging technologies, digital transformation, and commercial market innovations with military capabilities to develop disruptive solutions tailored to the specific requirements of its customers. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, EDGE consolidates more than 35 entities into six core clusters: Platforms & Systems, Missiles & Weapons, Space & Cyber Technologies, Trading & Mission Support, Technology & Innovation, and Homeland Security. For more information, visit For media enquiries, please contact: EDGE Group Press Office media@ About UAE Space Agency: The UAE Space Agency is a federal agency that was created under Federal Law by Decree No. 1 of 2014, to be responsible for all the projects, activities, and programs related to outer space. The UAE Space Agency aims to organise, regulate, and support the space sector in the country, support the sustainable national economy, and promote the UAE's position on the regional and global space map. The UAE Space Agency is responsible for proposing policies, strategies, legislation, and plans related to the space sector, offering guidance for national space programmes, developing and attracting national capabilities, supporting research and development projects, and granting permits for space activities. The Agency also leads many projects and initiatives, including the Space Economic Zones Program, to support startups and SMEs and strengthen the national space economy, the Space Data Center, the Geo-Spatial Analytics Platform, the Space Analytics and Solutions (SAS) Program, the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) Hope Probe, and the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the first mission of its kind to study seven asteroids in the main asteroid belt.
Mid East Info
20-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
EDGE Group, ST Engineering Partner to Advance UAE's Sirb Programme - Middle East Business News and Information
EDGE's space-focused entity FADA and ST Engineering partner to advance SAR satellite development and national space expertise ST Engineering has been appointed as a strategic international partner for the UAE's Sirb Programme. Abu Dhabi, UAE:February 2025 – As prime contractor for the UAE Space Agency's prestigious Sirb Programme, EDGE Group has partnered with ST Engineering, a global technology, defence, and engineering group, to accelerate the development of the UAE's sovereign synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite capabilities. A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed by Waleid Al Mesmari, President, Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster, EDGE and Low Jin Phang, President, Digital Systems, ST Engineering in the presence of His Excellency Eng. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Senior Advisor, EDGE, Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, EDGE, and Ravinder Singh, Chairman, ST Engineering. The signing formalised the parties' collaboration to advance the Sirb Programme – a national initiative led by the UAE Space Agency aimed at significantly enhancing the UAE's Radar Earth Observation capabilities. This milestone marks an important step forward in strengthening innovation and technological leadership in the sector. His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: 'Our collaboration with FADA and the local industrial consortium marks a pivotal step in expanding UAE's private space sector. The enablement of the private sector is fundamental to our efforts in executing the Sirb programme and cultivating a dynamic, competitive commercial space industry. Empowering the private sector by expanding local, regional, and international cooperation and partnerships is an investment in the future and sustainability of the national space sector.' Waleid Al Mesmari, President, Space & Cyber Technologies, EDGE Group, said: 'This partnership marks another critical milestone in the UAE's space journey. As prime contractor for the UAE Space Agency's Sirb Programme, EDGE is committed to advancing sovereign space capabilities in alignment with the UAE's National Space Strategy. Partnering with ST Engineering as the Strategic International Partner enables us to accelerate the programme's development and foster a self-sustaining space sector that drives national innovation.' Low Jin Phang, President, Digital Systems, ST Engineering, said: 'This partnership is a testament to our capabilities in satellite systems and our standing as a trusted international partner. With the success of TeLEOS-1 and TeLEOS-2, we bring proven expertise in integrating optical and SAR satellites and we are well positioned to advance the Sirb Programme, enabling the capture of high-resolution Earth observation images in all conditions. We are excited about this partnership and look forward to working with EDGE Group to drive the programme's success. Under this partnership, ST Engineering work closely with EDGE to deliver a single-polarisation SAR satellite and ground segment, along with the transfer of technical expertise for the SAR payload. This partnership reflects the shared commitment of both ST Engineering and EDGE Group to advancing the UAE's leadership in high resolution satellite imaging, autonomous space systems, and sovereign satellite development. Attendees of IDEX 2025 can visit EDGE and its portfolio of companies at indoor stand C20 in Hall 5 and outdoor stand CP-270 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre until 21 February 2025. About EDGE: Launched in November 2019, the UAE's EDGE is one of the world's leading advanced technology groups, established to develop agile, bold and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond, and to be a catalyst for change and transformation. It is dedicated to bringing breakthrough innovations, products, and services to market with greater speed and efficiency, to position the UAE as a leading global hub for future industries, and to creating clear paths within the sector for the next generation of highly skilled talent to thrive. With a focus on the adoption of 4IR technologies, EDGE is driving the development of sovereign capabilities for global export and for the preservation of national security, working with front-line operators, international partners, and adopting advanced technologies such as autonomous capabilities, cyber-physical systems, advanced propulsion systems, robotics and smart materials. EDGE converges R&D, emerging technologies, digital transformation, and commercial market innovations with military capabilities to develop disruptive solutions tailored to the specific requirements of its customers. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, EDGE consolidates more than 35 entities into six core clusters: Platforms & Systems, Missiles & Weapons, Space & Cyber Technologies, Trading & Mission Support, Technology & Innovation, and Homeland Security. About UAE Space Agency: The UAE Space Agency is a federal agency that was created under Federal Law by Decree No. 1 of 2014, to be responsible for all the projects, activities, and programs related to outer space. The UAE Space Agency aims to organise, regulate, and support the space sector in the country, support the sustainable national economy, and promote the UAE's position on the regional and global space map. The UAE Space Agency is responsible for proposing policies, strategies, legislation, and plans related to the space sector, offering guidance for national space programmes, developing and attracting national capabilities, supporting research and development projects, and granting permits for space activities. The Agency also leads many projects and initiatives, including the Space Economic Zones Program, to support startups and SMEs and strengthen the national space economy, the Space Data Center, the Geo-Spatial Analytics Platform, the Space Analytics and Solutions (SAS) Program, the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) Hope Probe, and the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the first mission of its kind to study seven asteroids in the main asteroid belt.
