January 22, 2026 (WASHINGTON & SINGAPORE) – The United States has approved a major potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Singapore valued at approximately $2.3 billion, marking a significant step in deepening defense cooperation between the two strategic partners. The deal includes up to four Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, eight MK 54 lightweight torpedoes, and a broad array of mission systems, sensors, support equipment, and training services.
The Boeing P-8A Poseidon — a long-range, multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft based on the Boeing 737 platform — is optimized for anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, maritime surveillance, and search-and-rescue missions. Singapore’s request to acquire these aircraft is part of a broader modernization effort to replace its ageing fleet of Fokker 50 maritime patrol aircraft and enhance its maritime domain awareness.
In addition to the aircraft and torpedoes, the proposed sale’s extensive package includes advanced radar and electro-optical/infrared systems, missile warning and countermeasure technologies, tactical mission software, spare parts, training devices, and long-term technical and logistical support. Most lightweight torpedo hardware in the package is expected to come from existing U.S. Navy inventory.
“The proposed sale will improve Singapore’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible maritime force capable of deterring adversaries and participating in U.S. allied operations,” said the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency in its announcement.
The U.S. State Department’s notification to Congress kicks off a mandatory review period before the sale can be finalized — a standard step in the Foreign Military Sales process. Singapore was the first Southeast Asian nation to select the P-8A for maritime patrol, reflecting its strategic priorities in safeguarding critical sea lanes and enhancing cooperation with U.S. and allied forces.
Defense analysts note that this proposed sale not only strengthens Singapore’s maritime defense posture but also reinforces interoperability with U.S. naval and air forces amidst evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
