Launching of the Republic of Singapore’s First Type 218SG Submarine
• First Type 218SG submarine named Invincible at launching ceremony
• DSTA and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems dive into additive manufacturing for
submarines
One of the most advanced diesel-electric submarines in the world was launched on
18 February at the thyssenkrupp Marine Systems’ shipyard in Kiel. The boat is named
Invincible. This marks another important milestone in the ongoing submarine program for
the Republic of Singapore. Prof. Ivy Ng, wife of Dr. Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Defence of the
Republic of Singapore, named the boat in the presence of high-level representatives from
the Singapore government and Navy, as well as high-ranking German officials. In addition
to representatives from thyssenkrupp, there were also representatives from suppliers in
attendance for the ceremony. After construction and outfitting is completed, Invincible will
undergo intensive testing before being handed over in 2021.
Dr. Ng Eng Hen, Minister of Defence for the Republic of Singapore: “These new submarines
are the products of years of experience and deep expertise from both Germany and
Singapore. They are a testament to our warm and growing defence ties with Germany.
Closely collaborating with our Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), the RSN
oversaw the design of the submarines, before jointly developing them with thyssenkrupp
Marine Systems. I am heartened by the cooperation and efforts of the Singaporean and
German industries.”
Dr. Rolf Wirtz, CEO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems: “We are proud to be able to take this
important step in the life of a boat together with our Singaporean partners. This first boat of
the Type 218SG will mark a next generation of submarines. They will possess an extensive
range of vital capabilities and therewith become a highly capable strategic asset for
Singapore and its Navy.”
Invincible is the first in a series of four boats of the Type 218SG. The contract for the first
two submarines was signed in 2013 and the contract for the second batch in 2017. After
handing over the Invincible in 2021, the second submarine is scheduled to be delivered in
2022. The third and fourth submarines are scheduled to follow from 2024 onwards.
The boats have the design of a low-signature submarine with air independent propulsion –
enabling them to stay submerged for a longer period – and numerous tailor-made solutions
and new technologies.
DSTA and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems dive into additive manufacturing for submarines
Prior to the launch of the Republic of Singapore Navy’s first Invincible-class submarine,
Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and thyssenkrupp Marine
Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Kiel to collaborate on new
technologies such as additive manufacturing and data analytics for naval applications.
Under the agreement, DSTA and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems will explore the use of
additive manufacturing as an innovative, cost-effective method for producing submarine
spare parts. Both parties will work together on the design, engineering, and qualification of
additive manufactured components, which could be tested and trialled on Singapore
submarines.
Mr Tan Peng Yam, Chief Executive of DSTA: “In this age of rapid change, collaboration is
key to exploit novel technologies. We are excited to combine our expertise with
thyssenkrupp Marine Systems in additive manufacturing.”
Dr Rolf Wirtz, CEO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems: “This initiative is a prime example of
our understanding of innovation: We are engineering. tomorrow. together. The MOU allows
us to test parts manufactured in Kiel with additive manufacturing under real conditions.
This is a great asset for us.”
Key data for the Type 218SG Submarine
Length over all: approx. 70 m
Displacement: approx. 2,000 t
Complement: 28
Propulsion: Diesel-electric plus AIP