Living in a submarine might seem like an adventure to many, but for Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Phang Chun Chieh from the Singapore Navy, it's a challeng
Living in a submarine might seem like an adventure to many, but for Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Phang Chun Chieh from the Singapore Navy, it’s a challenging reality. Following the launch of Singapore’s two new Invincible-class submarines — the Impeccable and Illustrious — in Germany on Dec 13, LTC Phang shared with AsiaOne what it’s really like to serve in the ‘silent service’.
“Work and life on board a submarine is no walk in the park,” LTC Phang explained. Submariners must endure cramped quarters, and since the vessel lacks windows, the only way to distinguish between day and night is through the artificial lighting on board. To join the submarine service, candidates must pass rigorous tests to prove they have the mental and physical resilience required for the demanding environment.
Over the last 18 months, LTC Phang and his crew have been in Germany training on how to operate these advanced submarines. As the commanding officer-designate for the Impeccable, his role includes overseeing his crew’s training, both onshore and at sea. However, with the Covid-19 pandemic delaying their deployment, LTC Phang and his team had to accelerate their learning to complete their training within a shorter timeframe.
Describing the training as “fast-paced and intense,” LTC Phang revealed that they underwent both technical and combat systems training with the manufacturers and the German Navy Submarine Training Centre. Their German counterparts were helpful in sharing their expertise, strengthening the bond between the two navies.
18 Months Away from Family
LTC Phang’s assignment in Germany came with personal sacrifices — 18 months away from his wife and their eight-year-old twin sons, who remained in Singapore. “As a husband and father, it’s definitely not easy,” he admitted. He expressed deep appreciation for his wife, who has managed her job, household responsibilities, and childcare in his absence.
To stay connected with his family, LTC Phang sets aside time for video calls on weekends. Although it doesn’t lessen how much he misses them, he said the calls help him feel involved in important family milestones.
On Tuesday, LTC Phang was finally reunited with his family at the launch ceremony in Germany. “It’s like coming full circle,” he said, describing the moment as particularly meaningful since his family could witness the culmination of his crew’s hard work.
However, the reunion will be brief, as LTC Phang and his crew have a final phase of training to complete in the coming months.
The launch of the Impeccable and Illustrious took place at the ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems headquarters in Kiel, Germany, where the submarines were constructed in collaboration with Singapore authorities. The ceremony was officiated by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, with Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen and other dignitaries in attendance.
These Invincible-class submarines boast advanced features, including an X-shaped stern rudder for precise maneuvers and propulsion systems powered by fuel cell technology. After completing sea trials in 2023, these custom-designed submarines will be ready to patrol Singapore waters.
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