The Singapore Air Force is reviewing maritime safety requirements

The Fokker-50 aircraft of the Air Force of the Republic of Singapore. (Janes / Patrick Allen)

The Air Force of the Republic of Singapore (RSAF) has upgraded its fleet of Fokker-50 naval patrol aircraft (MPA) and is working with the Navy of the Republic of Singapore (RSN) to revise the country’s security requirements in the maritime region.

This was stated by the head of the RSAF, Major General Kelvin Hong in a written answer to questions that were sent to the service on the eve of the Singapore Airshow 2022.

RSAF operates a fleet of five Fokker-50 gliders in a naval patrol configuration, while four more aircraft have been tuned for common functions. The aircraft was first delivered in 1993, and all gliders were created based on the 121st RSAF Squadron.

When operated as a naval patrol aircraft the Fokker-50 typically consists of two pilots and a head of cargo with RSAF and three system operators with RSN. At the same time, options for public transport aircraft can accommodate up to 39 fully equipped paratroopers or 21 casualties on stretchers with two accompanying medics.