“The project provides work for highly skilled engineers, shipbuilders and many other specialists. It preserves expertise we need in Germany. And it demonstrates what our maritime industry is capable of: quality, reliability and innovation. It also sends a broader message: security cooperation with trusted partners also strengthens not only our security, but also our industrial base,” said German Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius.

“Developing and building the first vessel of a new class is always a special challenge. Sentinel reflects the considerable design and engineering effort of our teams and the excellent cooperation with the Republic of Singapore Navy and DSTA. We are very proud to see her reach this important milestone today,” said Harald Fassmer.

Built for Demanding Maritime Security Operations

Sentinel is the first of four advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) purpose-built to meet Singapore’s evolving maritime security requirements. Developed to address the growing complexity and broader scope of maritime operations, the new vessels represent a significant enhancement of Singapore’s maritime security capabilities.

Designed by Fassmer as an evolution of its proven OPV 80 platform and tailored to Singapore’s specific operational requirements, the vessels combine a mature design pedigree with enhanced mission capabilities. With a suite of scalable response capabilities, the OPVs are equipped to manage a wide range of maritime incidents in a measured, effective, and proportionate manner. Building upon the operational roles of the Sentinel-class Maritime Security and Response Vessels (MSRVs), the new OPVs provide greater operational flexibility and endurance, strengthening Singapore’s ability to safeguard its territorial waters and maritime interests.

The vessels are also engineered for seamless interoperability with Singapore´s navy fleet as well as assets from other government agencies, including the Police Coast Guard and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. This enhanced cross-agency integration enables coordinated operations across a broad spectrum of maritime security missions, supporting a unified national approach to maritime safety, security, and response operations.

As the lead vessel of its class, Sentinel marks an important milestone in strengthening Singapore’s maritime defence and security architecture.

Next Phase: Sea Trials

As the next step, Sentinel will undergo a series of platform integration and acceptance testing, followed by sea trials to validate the ship’s systems and performance prior to its departure for Singapore.

The remaining vessels of the programme are already under construction.