Singapore’s Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) is set to bolster the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) with the acquisition of a new armored combat vehicle, the Titan, as part of its S$23.4 billion defense budget for FY 2025. Although not officially named, the Titan is widely believed to be the Terrex S5, the latest in ST Engineering’s Terrex (8×8) family of armored fighting vehicles (AFVs).
The Terrex S5 was first revealed by ST Engineering in July 2024 as “ready for production” after two years of development. Designed as a family of multi-role combat and support vehicles, the S5 designation stands for Smartness, Superiority, Sustainability, Survivability, and Serviceability—a reflection of its advanced capabilities.
At 35,000 kg (77,160 lbs), the Terrex S5 is powered by a 711 hp Caterpillar turbocharged engine, with an optional hybrid-electric drive for increased operational flexibility. Its independent suspension system features powered steering on the front two axles, and the vehicle has a range of 1,000 km. In hybrid mode, it can operate in near-total silence for up to 50 km, offering a critical advantage in stealth operations.
The vehicle also boasts an integrated electronic architecture that connects its subsystems, crew, and dismounted infantry in real-time. This digital backbone mirrors the Hunter Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV), also developed by ST Engineering, ensuring compatibility and operational synergy within the SAF’s armored fleet.
The Terrex S5 features state-of-the-art electronic displays, intuitive controls, and fully networked sensors, enabling a shared battlefield picture between the driver, commander, and embarked troops. Its battle management system integrates:
- Advanced electro-optics, including 360-degree perimeter cameras, high-resolution day and thermal imaging, and automated target detection.
- Fire control systems capable of panoramic surveillance and auto-tracking targets, even on the move.
- Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities, allowing integration with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for reconnaissance and battlefield coordination.
- ST Engineering’s New Generation Power Processor, which enables intelligent power management to optimize vehicle performance in combat.
The Terrex S5 is designed as a multi-mission platform, with its initial variant being an Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV). This variant accommodates ten fully equipped troops in addition to its two-man crew. The vehicle has an impressive payload capacity of 13,000 kg (28,600 lbs), allowing for various mission-specific equipment and weapons configurations.
The ICV variant has been displayed with an unmanned weapon station featuring:
- Mk 44 Bushmaster 30mm autocannon (dual-feed)
- 7.62mm coaxial machine gun
Both weapon systems are already in use on the Hunter AFV, ensuring logistics and training continuity within the SAF.
Additionally, the vehicle can be equipped with anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), providing enhanced lethality against armored threats. The fire support variant is expected to be equipped with a 120mm mortar system, expanding its battlefield utility.
The Terrex S5/Titan offers advanced ballistic and mine protection, designed to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and heavy direct fire. It can also be fitted with an active protection system (APS) to intercept incoming threats before impact.
ST Engineering has also developed an amphibious variant, enhancing the SAF’s ability to operate in diverse environments, particularly in the maritime-heavy Southeast Asian region.
Singapore has long prioritized technological superiority in its defense strategy due to its limited manpower and small land area. The Terrex S5/Titan aligns with this approach, offering:
- Enhanced mobility and operational range, allowing SAF units to respond rapidly across urban and rural terrain.
- Seamless integration with existing platforms, leveraging a common electronic and digital architecture.
- Reduced crew workload, thanks to automation and intelligent power management.
While ST Engineering has not disclosed a formal production timeline, analysts believe the SAF has played a significant role in the vehicle’s development, given its close collaboration with the company on previous projects like the Hunter AFV. This suggests that the Titan/Terrex S5 is already well along in its testing and validation phase.
With increasing regional security challenges, the addition of the Titan strengthens Singapore’s ability to defend its interests. The S$23.4 billion defense budget signals the government’s continued commitment to modernizing the SAF, ensuring it remains among the most advanced armed forces in the region.
As the Terrex S5 enters production, its performance in future SAF exercises will be closely watched. Whether it will be exported to international markets—like its predecessor, the Terrex 2—remains to be seen.
The Titan/Terrex S5 represents a significant leap in Singapore’s armored warfare capabilities, reinforcing its position as a technologically advanced military power in Asia.
