Singapore launches seventh littoral mission vessel ‘Dauntless’

The Singapore Navy’s seventh littoral mission vessel (LMV) – the future RSS Dauntless – was launched at ST Engineering’s Benoi Shipyard in a ceremony on August 18.

Minister for finance Heng Swee Keat officiated the launching ceremony.

“Naming this LMV Dauntless aptly reflects the RSN’s determined spirit to overcome all adversity without fear, capturing also the attributes of our founding generation,” Heng commented. “The Dauntless spirit will continue to guide the RSN in innovating and constantly improving itself, to safeguard Singapore.”

LMV Dauntless is the seventh of overall eight vessels in the class that will be built for the Singaporean Navy. Three LMVs – RSS Independence, RSS Sovereignty, and RSS Unity – were commissioned in 2017. Two previously launched LMVs – Justice and Indomitable – will be commissioned later this year. Fortitude, the sixth LMV, is presently undergoing sea trials.

The 80-meter vessels displace 1,250 tonnes and are 2.5 times larger than the Fearless-class patrol vessels they are replacing.

The network-centric ships possess advanced radars and sensors, as well as a 360 degree out-of-window view and improved sense-making systems to enhance situational awareness and accelerate decision-making.

All eight vessels are expected to be operational by 2020.