DTN News - SINGAPORE DEFENSE NEWS: Singapore Seeks F-15SG Pilot Training In U.S. At Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB) - Worth $435 Million

DTN News - SINGAPORE DEFENSE NEWS: Singapore Seeks F-15SG Pilot Training In U.S. At Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB) - Worth $435 Million 
Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Defense Security Cooperation Agency ~ Transmittal No. 12-16
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 3, 2012: The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified U.S. Congress April 30 of a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Singapore of a possible sale of follow-on support and services for Singapore’s Continental United States (CONUS) detachment PEACE CARVIN V (F-15SG) based at Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB) for a five-year period. The estimated cost is $435 million. 

The Government of Singapore has requested a possible sale of follow-on support and services for Singapore’s Continental United States (CONUS) detachment PEACE CARVIN V (F-15SG) based at Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB) for a five-year period. MDE includes: 40 GBU-10 PAVEWAY II Laser Guided Bomb Units, 40 MXU-651/B Air Foil Groups, 84 GBU-12 PAVEWAY II Laser Guided Bomb Units, 84 MXU-650/Bs Air Foil Groups, 124 MAU-169L/Bs Guidance Control Units, and 3 P5 Combat Training System Pods. Also included: commercial vehicles, publications and technical documentation, tactics manuals and academic instruction, clothing and individual equipment, execution and support of CONUS exercise deployments, airlift and aerial refueling, support equipment, spare and repair parts, repair and return, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $435 million. 

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been, and continues to be, an important force for economic progress in Southeast Asia. 

Singapore needs this training and munitions to support its F-15 aircraft. This program will enable Singapore to develop mission-ready and experienced pilots to support its current and future F-15 aircraft inventory. The well-established pilot proficiency training program at Mountain Home Air Force Base will support professional interaction and enhance operational interoperability with U.S. forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. 

There is no prime contractor involved in this proposed sale. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government and contractor representatives to Singapore. 

There will be no adverse impact on the U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded. 

Media/Public Contact:   
Charles Taylor (703) 601-3859 
Paul Ebner (703) 601-3670 

*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Defense Security Cooperation Agency ~ Transmittal No. 12-16
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
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DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Singapore Army To Equip 6 Units With Mini-UAV

DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Singapore Army To Equip 6 Units With Mini-UAV

Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources MoD Ministry of Defence Singapore Dt. Nov. 29, 2010

(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada / SINGAPORE - November 30, 2010: By end-2010, six Army units will get the Skyblade III mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system which improves situational awareness and the flow of information during operations. Designed to be lightweight and portable, it will provide the units with enhanced reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities.

"With the Skyblade III mini-UAV, scout teams can now better assist commanders in decision-making by providing more timely information.For example, they can report terrain conditions and the presence of opposition forces in real-time," said Senior Lieutenant Colonel (SLTC) Ong Chee Boon, Deputy Group Head, General Staff, on 25 Nov at the Murai Urban Training Facility.

The system comprises a Mini Operating Console (MOC) and the mini-UAV itself, which are packed into two backpacks. These packs - which weigh roughly 20kg each - will be carried by two soldiers into the field. Requiring only 20 minutes to set up and launch, each mini-UAV sortie can last up to an hour, after which it will require fresh batteries.

While carrying the packs is hardly a walk in the park, the operational advantages the Skyblade III brings to the table far out-strips its heft. Equipped with cameras for day and night use, the Skyblade III streams the visual data it collects instantly to its controller on the ground. This information is then analysed by the operators before it is reported to higher headquarters (see infographic).

With its operating range of 8km, having the Skyblade III also means a higher chance of survival for the scout teams that operate them. "In the past, we had to get very close to opposing forces in order to gather information. With the Skyblade III, my team can be further away from hostile territory, yet still give accurate reports to my commanders," said 3rd Sergeant (3SG) Quek Jian Liang, a Scout Team Commander in the 3rd Singapore Infantry Regiment (3 SIR).

Elaborating on the Skyblade III's edge, LTC Willy Lock, Commanding Officer 3 SIR, said: "The advantages are twofold: During an assault, we are able to see much further afield, and in defence, we are able to plan counter-manoeuvres much earlier because the scout teams are able to detect the presence of opposing forces much earlier." When cyberpioneer spoke to LTC Lock, his unit was in the midst of conducting defensive operations as part of a larger training exercise.

Apart from operational advantages, the Skyblade III's developers - researchers from DSO National Laboratories - were also mindful about usability. The result: an easy to control mini-UAV with a virtually foolproof launching system.

The Skyblade III can be launched either by hand or through bungee-assistance. The latter launch technique has the mini-UAV sitting on launching rails while connected to a slingshot-like rig. Once triggered, the rig powers the mini-UAV into the air and mechanically disconnects when the Skyblade III is safely airborne. To land, the mini-UAV performs a deep stall and an airbag is deployed from its belly which cushions the impact from landing.

According to SLTC Ong, the bungee launch technique has a stellar track record, with an unblemished success rate.

Developed in collaboration with DSO and made by ST Aerospace, the Skyblade III was developed indigenously and is a product of the cooperation between the Army and its defence industry partners.

The mini-UAV project was initiated in 2002 with the first prototype - the Skyblade I - being tested in Exercise Thunder Warrior (New Zealand) and Exercise Wallaby (Australia) a year later. While the Skyblade was still being developed, commercially available mini-UAVs such as the Birdeye 410 and Skylark were used to shape the tactics and procedures for the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) operations. This is why the SAF was able to bring the mini-UAV capability to units within a short time frame, said SLTC Ong. The six army units which will receive the SB III operational capability are: the 40th Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (40 SAR), 41 SAR, 2 SIR, 3 SIR, 3rd Singapore Infantry Brigade, and the 4th Singapore Armoured Brigade. Work to bring the Skyblade III advanced capabilities to the battalion scouts and Brigade Reconnaissance Surveillance Targeting Acquisition Teams within these units started in 2009. By end-2010, they are expected to be operationalised on the system. To date, 44 Skyblade III operators have been trained.

*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News, contact: dtnnews@ymail.com

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DTN News: Singapore And US Conduct Annual Maritime Exercise

DTN News: Singapore And US Conduct Annual Maritime Exercise

Source: DTN News / MINDEF - Singapore

(NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - July 8, 2010: The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), the United States Navy (USN) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) are participating in the 16th Singapore-US Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise from 5 to 19 Jul 2010. The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral (RADM) Joseph Leong, and the USN Commander Logistics Group Western Pacific, RADM Nora Tyson, officiated at the opening ceremony of the exercise at Changi Naval Base this morning.

Exercise CARAT 2010 will focus on honing maritime capabilities such as competencies in anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, as well as maritime air operations. This year's exercise will feature a MISTRAL missile firing by the RSN Landing Ship Tank RSS Persistence against air drone targets. Submariners from the RSN and the USN will be operating together in a submarine tracking exercise.

The SAF will be participating with nine ships, including frigates and missile corvettes; a submarine and 12 aircraft, including fighters and maritime patrol aircraft. The USN and USCG will be participating with five ships, including destroyers; a submarine, and four aircraft comprising helicopters and early warning aircraft. A total of 1,400 personnel from both countries are also involved in this year's exercise.

Conducted since 1995, this series of annual bilateral maritime exercises aims to enhance interoperability and professional cooperation between the participating forces of Singapore and the US. Commander Destroyer Squadron 31 USN Captain Richard Clemmons said: "Working with the RSN allows us a unique opportunity to cultivate relationships with a highly capable partner in this region.

This Exercise CARAT marks 16 successful years with Singapore and I'm certain that this year's exercise will be rewarding both in terms of training as well as in the personal relationships we continue to nurture."

DTN News: The Guards, An Elite Combatant With Smashing Stalwart Bush Basher - The Light Strike Vehicle LSV From Singapore Armed Forces

DTN News: The Guards, An Elite Combatant With Smashing Stalwart Bush Basher - The Light Strike Vehicle LSV From Singapore Armed Forces

Source: DTN News By Roger Smith

(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 30, 2010: In the Singapore Armed Forces, the Guards are an elite infantry formation specializing in rapid deployment. Guards are known as elite heliborne troopers. They are well trained in heliborne operations and specialist combat skills that give them an added combat edge. They are proficient in heli-rappelling, heli-landing, and other specialised skills that allow them to carry out heliborne operations in various terrain, day and night. They are specially trained thus earning them the respect and status in the Singapore Armed Forces. The formation traces its roots back to the 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and has been actively involved in several National and Army Day events since the establishment of the modern Guards unit.

As an elite formation, the brigade is called to fight in certain areas, such as urban locations with FIBUA (Fighting in Built Up Areas) and FOFO (Fighting On Fortified Objectives) tactics. Trained in amphibious warfare, Guards units may also be tasked to seize important objectives such as airfields, beach heads, depots as well as enemy strongholds, thereby establishing a foothold for the rest of the army. In the continually evolving 3rd Generation SAF, the spectrum of Operations that the Guards formation are involved in has been extended to include non-war related operations (OOTW - Operations Other Than War) such as HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response) Operations as well as PSOs (Peace Support Operations). As evident in the recent disasters such as the Asian Tsunami Disaster of 2004, the Guards formation has been at the forefront of providing a quick response platform to humanitarian operations. This is entrenched and complementary to the Guards Formation's role as a quick reactionary force. However it must be noted that the Guards Formation's role is integral and complimentary to the role of the other formations in such peace-time theatres of operations. The Guards formation is also called upon to react to counter-terrorism operations such as the recent Mas Salamat escape in which the active Guards Battalion was activated to cordon and assist in the search for the fugitive suspect.

The Guards utilize all small arms known to be in use with the Singaporean army, such as the SAR-21 assault rifle family, the Ultimax 100 Mark 3 LMG, FN MAG, M203, and the Matador anti-tank rocket launcher.

Apart from the helicopters, the Guards also utilize The Light Strike Vehicle (LSV), a lightweight vehicle that is extremely mobile and agile procured by the Army to replace the jeeps which formerly carried their 106 mm recoilless guns. Manufactured in Australia based on an American design, the vehicle is able to access difficult terrain, and provide greater mobility and added firepower to the Guardsmen and Infantry soldiers. Weighing 1,500 kg, the LSV can be rapidly deployed by slinging it underneath a helicopter and inserting it into enemy territory. The LSV, which functions with an automatic gear, can go to more places than normal wheeled vehicles; for example, cross-country, going into closed terrain, capable of pushing down small brush and trees. Even in muddy areas the LSV is able to negotiate the conditions better than other vehicles like Jeeps and Land Rovers. In 2008, the Guards formation began to utilize the PLUV (Protected Light Utility Vehicle) which is an armoured version of the Ford Everest, the Ford Everest is also a replacement vehicle for the aging Land Rovers.

The LSV actually allows for different weapon configurations. It can be mounted with other weapon systems such as the 40 mm Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL) or the advanced Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM). The latest addition to the LSV armament is the Israeli SPIKE ATGM, giving the Guards the capability to destroy tanks at a 4 km range. Fitting the LSV with an Infra-Red adaptor gives it night vision capabilities as well.

The LSV, which can move at a maximum speed of 110 km/h, significantly enhances the mobility of the foot soldiers. The soldiers can now bring heavier and better firepower systems into operations. With the help of the Light Strike Vehicle, the Guardsmen are able to move faster than ever before, and with more potent firepower.

DTN News: India, Singapore Armed Forces Joint Military Excercise In Central India

DTN News: India, Singapore Armed Forces Joint Military Excercise In Central India Source: DTN News (NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - March 28, 2010: The Singapore Armed Forces and Indian Army participated in a bilateral armour exercise in central India Saturday morning. Codenamed "Bold Kurukshetra", the exercise was witnessed by Minister of State for Defence, Koo Tsai Kee. MINDEF said Associate Prof Koo observed a live—firing exercise between the two armed forces, who interact regularly through policy dialogues, visits and courses. This is the sixth collaboration in the month—long exercise. MINDEF said the visit also underscores the warm defence relations between the two countries. "The SAF and the Indian Army have been working together on bilateral army exercises since April 2005," Assoc Prof Koo said. "We appreciate the opportunity to train and exercise with the Indian Armed Forces. The successful conclusion of Exercise Bold Kurushektra 2010 demonstrates the capabilities and professionalism of both armies.

DTN News: Singapore To Field 135 Terrex 8x8 Infantry Combat Vehicles

DTN News: Singapore To Field 135 Terrex 8x8 Infantry Combat Vehicles *Source: DTN News / Defense Media (NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - November 9, 2009: Singapore is fielding the new 8x8 Terrex Infantry Combat Vehicle. The Singaporeans are planning to field at least 135 vehicles, expected to be fielded with all infantry and guards battalions by February 2010. The new vehicle was developed by Singapore Technologies Kinetics and is optimized for urban warfare.The 24-tonne Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) is the latest Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) acquisition, under the island state's ambitious 3rd Generation fighting force scheme. In recent years the Singaporean army transformed its capabilities with the introduction of new systems, including the Leopard IIA4 tanks, acquired from Germany in 2006 and the Bionix III tracked infantry combat vehicle, fielded a year earlier. Terrex was developed under collaboration between Turkey and Singapore. It can carry up to 13 soldiers, inclusive of its driver and commander. The vehicle is equipped with 8x8 independent suspension system and large off-road tyres which enhance mobility over various types of terrain. It can travel at speeds of up to 105 kmh. The vehicle is equipped with remotely operated weapon station, manufactured in country. It is protected by a modular armor system, which can be enhanced with add-on armor protection suite to provide all-round protection against conventional threats. The Terrex ICV is also designed to withstand mine blasts. It is fitted with the Battlefield Management System (BMS), facilitating full situational awareness capability for the crew and integration with other combat systems including infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, artillery platforms, attack helicopters and fighter aircraft. The vehicle will also employ a new acoustic Weapon Detection System (WDS) to spot enemy fire sources. (the system can be seen in the photo above, on the aft of the vehicle, just above the ramp door) Threat and target information could be shared with other friendly forces via the BMS network. The Terrex BMS also supports the dismounted soldiers carrying the Singapore Army new breed of infantry combat suites. Supporting and interfacing with the Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS) the vehicular BMS will constantly update infantry troops on enemy movement and location. With a better picture of the operating environment and key battlefield information provided by BMS, soldiers can call for support from air and land forces to coordinate maneuvers and deliver precision fire on enemy targets.

DTN News: Singapore Unveils New Infantry Combat Vehicle Designed For Urban Warfare

DTN News: Singapore Unveils New Infantry Combat Vehicle Designed For Urban Warfare / Networked Infantry Carrier Vehicle Gives SAF Sharper Edge In Urban Warfare *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media

(NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - September 6, 2009: Fully-armoured and equipped with the latest combat technology, the 24-tonne Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) is the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) latest acquisition as it advances to become a 3rd Generation fighting force.

Fitted with the Battlefield Management System (BMS), the Terrex ICV is networked to other air and land assets such as infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, artillery platforms, attack helicopters and fighter aircraft.

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has chosen the Terrex infantry carrier vehicle (ICV), a mine-resistant vehicle that supports enhanced communication between land and air troops in urban warfare. The ICV, which is designed to withstand mine blasts, will provide air and land surveillance, and locate enemy targets through an all-round camera equipment and navigation system. The vehicle's battlefield management system enables accurate information to be exchanged with other SAF forces, which helps accurately coordinate attacks on targets by air and on land. The vehicle also features all-round camera surveillance, enhanced firepower and a weapon detection system to locate enemy fire. The SAF plans to acquire at least 150 vehicles and will train its infantry troops on the Terrex ICVs in February 2010.

"With the Terrex ICV, we can better bring all the SAF's combat resources to sustain and support the infantryman at the sharp end of the fight," said Colonel (COL) Lim Hock Yu, Chief Infantry Officer and Commanding Officer, 9th Division/Infantry (9 Div/Inf). Purpose-built for urban warfare, the Terrex ICV will be instrumental in overcoming some of the challenges that infantrymen face when fighting in built-up areas.

In urban environments, soldiers have decreased situational awareness, poor intelligence on the enemies' movement and location, amongst other things. In particular, they are vulnerable to ambush," explained COL Lim.

To increase situational awareness for infantry troops, the BMS-enabled Terrex ICV will interface with the Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS) to constantly update infantry troops on enemy movement and location. With a better picture of the operating environment and key battlefield information provided by BMS, soldiers can call for support from air and land forces to coordinate manoeuvres and deliver precision fire on enemy targets.

The ACMS is basically personnel gear retrofitted with an array of sensors, portable computers and smart weaponry that links the wearer to other friendly forces and assets. In addition to providing battlefield information, the Terrex ICV can also hunt for the enemy.

The Weapon Detection System (WDS) on board determines the location of enemy fire by computing sound data gathered by an array of microphones on the vehicle. This information is then shared with other friendly forces via the BMS network.

"The Terrex ICV and BMS connects all the combat power of the SAF so that the soldier in the field is fully linked to other friendly forces. At the same time, it gives the soldier all the information he needs to make decisions and for commanders to direct the battle," said Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Oh Beng Soon, Senior Project Officer, 9 Div/Inf.

Developed by Singapore Technologies Kinetics for the SAF, the Terrex ICV can carry up to 13 soldiers, inclusive of its driver and commander, at speeds of up to 105kmh on normal terrain. It will be launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean on 5 Sep at Pasir Laba Camp during the Army Open House from 3 to 7 Sep.

The SAF will acquire at least 135 Terrex ICVs.From Feb next year, all active infantry and guards battalions will begin training to operate from the vehicle.

Fact Sheet: Networking the Third-Generation Infantry

The introduction of the Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) marks a significant milestone in the 3rd Generation Army's transformation efforts as it enhances the Army's fighting and networking capabilities. The Terrex ICV provides infantry forces with enhanced protection, mobility and firepower, and also networks soldiers and air and land weapon platforms, thus facilitating the delivery of information, and fires in the battlefield.

The key features of the Terrex ICV are:

a) Enhanced Networking Capabilities:

The Terrex ICV is equipped with the Battlefield Management System (BMS) which allows it to connect with other air and land platforms, such as infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, artillery, attack helicopters and fighter aircraft, as well as soldiers equipped with the Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS).

With enhanced situational awareness and transmission of key battlefield information provided by the BMS, soldiers can call for support from air and land forces to execute manoeuvres and deliver precision fires on enemy targets.

b) Enhanced Protection:

The Terrex ICV provides enhanced protection for infantry forces. It is designed with a modular protection system, which can be fortified with an add-on armour protection suite to provide all-round protection against conventional threats.

The Terrex ICV is also designed to withstand mine blasts.

c) Enhanced Firepower and Enemy Weapon Detection:

The Terrex ICV is equipped with a fully stabilised Remote Controlled Weapon System (RCWS) that is capable of providing direct precision fires to support infantry forces. The Terrex ICV also has a weapon detection system (WDS) which detects and locates enemy fire. The data collected by the WDS on the origin of the enemy fire is shared with other friendly forces via the BMS network to facilitate the engagement of enemy troops.

d) Enhanced Mobility:

The Terrex ICV has an independent suspension system and large off-road tyres which enhance mobility over various types of terrain. The SAF will begin training all active infantry and guards battalions on the Terrex ICV from February next year.

DTN News: Singapore TODAY August 15, 2009 ~ Singapore Participates In Naval Exercise Against Terrorism

DTN News: Singapore TODAY August 15, 2009 ~ Singapore Participates In Naval Exercise Against Terrorism

*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - August 15, 2009: The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) is participating in the Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) exercise, together with the United States Navy (USN) and navies from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. Held from August 14 to 20, SEACAT, which was first held in 2002, is a series of annual exercises by the USN and navies of Southeast Asian countries to enhance maritime information—sharing and the coordination of maritime security responses. As part of the exercise, ships transiting through Singapore waters will be tracked. Other drills include the boarding of US civil resource ships participating in the exercise as merchant vessels suspected of terrorist activities. Personnel from the RSN’s Maritime Security Task Force, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority will be taking part in the exercise. Also with them are the RSN patrol vessels, Accompanying Sea Security Teams (ASSeTs), Police Coast Guard patrol boats and maritime patrol aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

DTN News: Singapore's 3rd-Generation Armed Forces Taking Shape

DTN News: Singapore's 3rd-Generation Armed Forces Taking Shape

*Sources: DTN News / Singapore Ministry of Defence; issued July 2, 2009 (NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - July 3, 2009: It has been five years since the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) embarked on its 3rd Generation journey, and the key building blocks are all in place.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean shared this with the media during an interview on 26 Jun, ahead of SAF day celebrations on 1 Jul. "You can now see the shape of this 3rd Generation SAF," he added.

The Special Operations Task Force will see the Special Operations Force, the Naval Diving Unit and other SAF combat forces integrated to leverage their cross-domain capabilities and expertise in response to a spectrum of security threats. -- PHOTO: MINDEF

Highlighting the three key elements of this transformation, Mr Teo said the SAF is now a modernised, networked force, capable of carrying out a wider spectrum of operations, and manned by committed people.

Commenting on the SAF's evolution into a modernised force, he cited examples of its upgrading of second-hand equipment, such as the recently launched RSS Archer submarine, and the replacement of its E2C early warning aircraft and SW1 armoured tanks with G550 AEW aircraft and Leopard 2A4 tanks respectively.

Other recent additions to the SAF's arsenal include the Formidable-class stealth frigates, the Hermes 450 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF's) first F15SG fighters.

The SAF's edge lies in the networked capabilities of these machines, which provide more speed, precision, mobility and combat power. "They are able to exchange information with one another and...call upon the total capabilities of the SAF," said Mr Teo, who witnessed UAVs, artillery systems, Apache helicopters and F-16s operating as one integrated force during Exercise Wallaby in Australia last year.

Complemented by such hardware, the SAF is now capable of carrying out a wider spectrum of operations, which include contributions to multinational anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden, and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.

A Landing Ship Tank (LST) with two Super Pumas on board, was deployed to the Gulf of Aden in April this year, while various medical, construction and engineering teams have been sent to the Oruzgan and Bamiyan provinces in Afghanistan since 2007.

These missions have been good operational experiences for servicemen, said Mr Teo. Although such deployments are not without risks, he expressed his confidence that all SAF servicemen are well-trained to handle such situations.

To mitigate risks like rocket attacks in Afghanistan, the SAF is prepared to contribute UAVs for surveillance and a Weapon Locating Radar to provide early warning. Re-organisation within the SAF has helped widen its scope of operations. A UAV Command, formed through the RSAF's revamp in 2007 from a geographically-based structure into five distinct commands, "reflects...the operations we expect the 3rd Generation SAF to undertake," said Mr Teo.

The SAF has also undertaken a multi-Service and multi-agency approach, with the formation of Island Defence Headquarters in 2001 and Maritime Security Task Force in January this year. This July, the SAF will unveil a Special Operations Task Force, combining all the special operations forces in the SAF, "so that they can work together much more cohesively...and much more effectively," Mr Teo said.

As the SAF transforms, people who are committed and capable of handling the SAF's current and future capabilities and operations are needed. The rising importance of small unit leaders, coinciding with more well-educated, able young people serving National Service, "enables us to give them more meaningful things to do, and draw upon their capabilities to build a much more capable SAF," he said.

In May, new human resource schemes were rolled out, including the extension of officers' retirement age from 45 to 50, more opportunities for personal and professional development of Warrant Officers, and the introduction of a new 3rd Warrant Officer rank. Besides reflecting the desire of some officers to stay longer in the SAF, such initiatives also "recognise the capabilities of the type of people that we want to take in for the Warrant Officer Corps to be the backbone of the SAF," shared Mr Teo.

Also, the introduction of a Military Domain Experts Scheme in May reflects the SAF's need for competencies in specific areas of engineering, technical and intelligence. Under this scheme, regulars can experience progression and continuous learning till they are 60.

Acknowledging that the SAF still has some way to go before its transformation is complete, Mr Teo concluded: "It's not finished yet...but you can now see the shape of this 3rd Generation SAF. There's still much work to be done over several more years." The SAF will continue to look at new technologies and new capabilities "which allow us to do things better - more effectively, more efficiently, more cost-effectively."

DTN News: ST Engineering's Electronics Arm Awarded Contract for Advanced Combat Man System

DTN News: ST Engineering's Electronics Arm Awarded Contract for Advanced Combat Man System *Source: ST Engineering (NSI News Source Info) SINGAPORE - June 9, 2009: ST Engineering yesterday June 8, announced that its electronics arm, ST Electronics, has been awarded a contract to provide the Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS) to the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The project which is worth over S$100m will commence immediately and is expected to be completed by 2012.The Singapore Armed Forces' Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS) is part of the SAF's move to integrate into 3G to progressively provide tactical units with network capabilities. Key Components *Personal Radio - The radio enables soldiers to share information, in the form of data and voice, with other soldiers. It has a built-in Global Positioning System (GPS) that helps the soldier's command headquarters to track his location and that of friendly forces. *Communication Keypad - This portable keypad, designed for easy data input, also has hotkey buttons such "On-Contact" and "Call-For-Medic" to enable quick updates of the team's status to the command headquarters, and request assistance from nearby forces at the push of a button. *Portable Computer - The brain of the ACMS, the portable computer processes data collected by sensors, GPS, other ACMSs and user input to provide real-time information updates on the battlefield. *Head-mounted display (HMD) - The HMD can switch its displays from a digital map to satellite images of the terrain to videos captured by the various sensors. Through the HMD, soldiers can see locations of targets and friendly forces which are plotted on the digital map. *Weapon Interactor - The section commander will also have an additional camera attached to his SAR 21, so that he can capture and send back images to the command headquarters through the quick buttons on the handguard. The sensor also allows him to survey and fire around corners without exposing himself. In addition to the ACMS, soldiers are equipped with remote sensors such as a surveillance ball, a remote-control surveillance car and a key-hole sensor.* The award of this contract is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year. The ACMS is a 3rd Generation Networked Warrior system fully equipped with advanced C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence) and network capabilities. The ACMS is a joint development effort that started in 1998 among the Defence Science and Technology Agency, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and ST Electronics with the support of Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) in the area of weapon sub-system. It features innovations from ST Electronics and ST Kinetics. For this contract, ST Kinetics is a subcontractor to ST Electronics. The development of the ACMS focuses on two key areas - to ensure seamless integration of individual soldier's capabilities and to integrate the soldier as part of a network-centric force. As part of the design of the ACMS, key elements such as the weight of the systems, Man-Machine Interface and the networked and interoperable capability of the ACMS with other systems are defined as some of the requirements for its development. This system aims at improving the situational awareness, mobility, command and control, lethality and survivability of the soldier, resulting in a quantum leap in his fighting capabilities. The introduction of the ACMS is a part of SAF's 3rd Generation Transformation to progressively provide tactical units with network capabilities, which are vital for ensuring mission success. The ACMS allows section commanders and team leaders to become a part of a larger network that is able to tap into the wider resources of the battalion and call for more responsive and precise fire support. These sections function not only as fighting units but also as ground sensors, tracking the positions of various forces and feeding images and information back to the command headquarters for enhanced command and control of the battlefield. "With our strong electronics systems expertise, ST Electronics is committed to delivering solutions that aim to enhance the fighting effectiveness and capabilities of our soldiers," said SEAH Moon Ming, Deputy CEO, ST Engineering & President, ST Electronics. ST Electronics (Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited), the electronics arm of ST Engineering, delivers innovative system solutions to government, commercial, defence, and industrial customers worldwide. ST Engineering (Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd) is an integrated engineering group providing solutions and services in the aerospace, electronics, land systems and marine sectors. Headquartered in Singapore, the Group reported revenue of $5.34b in FY2008 and ranks among the largest companies listed on the Singapore Exchange. ST Engineering has more than 19,000 employees worldwide, and over 100 subsidiaries and associated companies in 24 countries and 42 cities.

Singapore Hosts Intelligence Chiefs Pow-Wow

Singapore Hosts Intelligence Chiefs Pow-Wow

(NSI News Source Info) February 21, 2009: Singapore Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean played host to the second Asia-Pacific Intelligence Chiefs Conference (APICC) Feb. 18-20 at the Sheraton Towers Hotel. The conference is co-hosted by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the U.S. Pacific Command. APICC is an informal forum for military intelligence chiefs from the Asia-Pacific region to discuss intelligence challenges. Gordon MacKay, left, speaks to Singapore's Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean before a plenary session at the Shangri-la Dialogue Asia security summit in Singapore. The theme for this year's conference is "Sharing Expertise in Managing Transnational Security Issues," a press release said. The first conference was held in 2007 in Kuala Lumpur. The conference focused on "enhanced information-sharing among the Asia-Pacific nations on counterterrorism, maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief." Intelligence officials included representatives from Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. During the opening ceremony, Teo said that "intelligence and information sharing is an important aspect of international cooperation" and emphasized that by sharing diverse perspectives and experiences, such exchanges help to build understanding and "lay the foundation for our countries and armed forces to work together in response to any future crises." He stressed that in today's complex security landscape "our armed forces and intelligence professionals need to cooperate in the sharing of information, knowledge and expertise" as this was "crucial for a collective understanding of the challenges faced, and to enable relevant and coordinated responses by the stakeholders." Teo said the economic crisis would compound problems in the areas of terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, piracy, natural disasters and pandemics. "These hardships will create additional social and political stresses, and, if not managed properly, could lead to greater friction and tensions. We saw this in our region here in southeast Asia in the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis," he said. Only by international cooperation can problems be kept from spinning out of control. He said three broad principles would help regional actors survive this coming crisis. "First, achieving regional security is the collective responsibility of all stakeholder countries. Second, our cooperative approach should be open and inclusive, engaging responsible international organizations and extra-regional stakeholders that can play a constructive role. And third, such cooperation must take place in a framework of respect for international law, regional norms and national sovereignty, recognizing the diversity of the Asia-Pacific region." As an example, Teo pointed to Singapore's creation of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) in 2006 with 14 member countries. "The ReCAAP Informational Sharing Centre has helped to provide more accurate reports of incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the region, as well as facilitated the sharing of best practices among countries," he said. "Similarly, the Information Fusion Centre, to be located at the Changi Command and Control Centre in Singapore, will enhance information-sharing on the sea situation in our region and beyond, thereby promoting international and regional maritime security cooperation." Teo also pointed to the Mumbai attacks as a latest example of a "string of terrorist attacks" and a "grim reminder that terrorism remains a common and persistent threat." Teo said good intelligence cooperation in information exchange, early warning and capacity building are the foundations to fighting terrorism. "Countering the regional Jemaah Islamiyah network, whose tentacles spread across several countries in our region, including Singapore, would not have been possible without good intelligence exchange and close regional cooperation," he said. "Good intelligence exchange and concerted action has also allowed the JI network to be disrupted, potential attacks thwarted and key personalities arrested."