Saab and Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) have signed an expanded memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration on the exploration of underwater technologies.
The agreement was signed on 20 November 2024 at the Sweden–Singapore Royal Business Forum in connection with the first Swedish state visit to Singapore.
The expanded MoU builds upon a previous agreement signed in 2023 that focused on long-term supportability, people development and smart technologies.
With the updated scope, DSTA and Saab will jointly explore cutting-edge underwater solutions aimed at building and safeguarding capabilities for enhanced maritime security and resilience. The parties will conduct joint studies of operational concepts and emerging technologies.
“This expanded MoU builds upon the fruitful co-operation between Saab and DSTA in the naval domain and reflects our shared commitment to underwater technology innovation,” Anders Carp, Saab’s deputy CEO, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Together, we will leverage our expertise to strengthen maritime security.”
“Collaborating with an industry leader like Saab enables DSTA to push the boundaries of what’s possible in underwater defence technology,” added Roy Chan, DSTA’s deputy chief executive (operations). “Through this expanded MoU we will build on our existing partnership to co-develop advanced solutions that not only meet evolving security demands but also position Singapore at the forefront of maritime resilience and innovation.”
The MoU with Saab is one of a number of collaborative agreements DSTA has signed with Western defence organisations focused on naval technology. At the Euronaval 2024 exhibition in Paris at the beginning of November DSTA signed two accords: a programme arrangement (PA) with Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to co-develop and procure next-generation batteries for maritime platforms and to facilitate expert dialogues on additively manufacturing components for submarines, underwater platforms and underwater technologies; and an MoU with France’s Safran Electronics & Defense to drive innovation in defence capabilities through improved performance, availability and sustainability of platforms operated by the Singapore Armed Forces.
