Singapore navy launches first close-to-shore patrol ship

Littoral-y speaking: The new ‘RSS Independence’ docked at Changi Naval Base in Singapore. — AFP

SINGAPORE: Singapore navy’s first-of-class Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV) RSS Independence is now fully operational to safeguard the country’s waters, protect its sea lines of communication and contribute to regional peace and security.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong commissioned the vessel at Changi Naval Base yesterday at an event marking the Singapore navy’s 50th anniversary.