Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has announced the signing of a contract with Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) for the acquisition of two additional Type 218SG submarines, increasing the Republic of Singapore Navy’s total number of Invincible-class submarines to six.
TKMS press release
On May 7, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) signed a contract for the construction of two additional Type 218SG submarines. This order further increases thyssenkrupp Marine Systems’ record order book, which currently stands at around €16 billion. The positive market development in the marine sector also continues.
Oliver Burkhard, CEO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, emphasizes: “The order expansion underscores the generally positive market situation in naval shipbuilding and gives us the opportunity to further expand our very well-filled order book. We are also proud that Singapore has once again placed its trust in us, as our partnership goes far beyond the production of submarines. We feel deeply connected to the country and contribute to the security and defense capabilities of our customer’s country with our products.”
Production within existing capacity
According to thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, the order extension can be handled within existing capacities in Germany, despite high capacity utilization until the 2040s. In December 2024, the company received major orders worth billions, including four additional Type 212CD submarines for the German Navy, the new Polarstern research icebreaker, and funding for the project launch of the new F127 frigate generation.
Highest technical requirements
thyssenkrupp Marine Systems is also focusing on the highest technical requirements for the order extension from Singapore. The design of the Type 218SG submarine is designed to minimize its signature. The air-independent propulsion system also enables the boats to remain underwater for longer periods. Following the “Invincible”, “Impeccable”, “Illustrious”, and “Inimitable”, a total of six submarines will now be built for Singapore.
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Naval News comments:
On March 2025, Singaporean Defense Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen announced plans to procure two more Invincible-class submarines during the Committee of Supply debate in Parliament in addition to the four currently planned to be operational by 2028.
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has commissioned the first two of its four Invincible-class submarines on September 2024. The final vessel which has been launched on April last year should be handed over later on this year.
Displacing 2,200 tons (submerged), these submarine will have a speed in excess of 15 knots underwater. They are 70 meters long and 6.3 meters in diameter. Their armament will be deployed from 8 533mm torpedo tubes. Type 218SG are based on TKMS Type 214, with elements from the Type 212A (such as the X ruder section).
