To commemorate the commissioning of the first two Invincible-class submarines, a new orchid hybrid was named after them in a ceremony also held at Changi Naval Base.
In attendance at the ceremony were the lady sponsors of the Invincible-class submarines – Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s wife Mdm Ho Ching, Dr Ng’s wife Dr Ivy Ng, and Mr Teo’s sister Ms Teo Swee Lian.
Following a long-standing naval tradition, vessels are “sponsored” by a lady sponsor to bestow good luck over the vessel and all who sail on board.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Mr Wong said the submarines are an integral part of the naval force, adding that Singapore’s submarine journey was “not without its challenges”.
“When we started out, we faced a steep learning curve. We began cautiously, procuring second-hand submarines from Sweden, and learning the craft from our Swedish friends,” he added.
Over the years, Singapore’s submariners gained the experience and expertise to build more robust capabilities, said Mr Wong, who is also Minister for Finance.
Today, the navy has not only procured new-build submarines, but also customised them to meet Singapore’s specific operational requirements.
The Invincible-class submarines are fitted with advanced technology, which allow for leaner crews and better manoeuvrability in local congested waters.
“They are quieter, more durable and better armed than anything we’ve had before,” said Mr Wong.
“The RSN’s submarine journey typifies the SAF and Singapore’s approach towards improving ourselves.
“We invest with strategic intent. We do so steadily, and over the long-term to upgrade our capabilities, in our hardware and in our people.”
He added: “We work as a team, fitting new capabilities into the wider system, so that together, we can achieve a positive impact greater than the sum of our parts.”
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Wong also visited the Impeccable submarine where he was briefed on its systems and capabilities.
He also interacted with personnel from the two Invincible-class submarines, said MINDEF, adding that Mr Wong was hosted by Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat.
