Written Reply by Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Updated Timeline for RSAF Operations to be moved from Paya Lebar Air Base to Tengah Air Base

Ms Yeo Wan Ling: To ask the Minister for Defence what is the status and updated timeline for the move of the RSAF operations from Paya Lebar Air Base to Tengah Air Base.

Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen:

MINDEF had previously announced that the relocation of Paya Lebar Air Base (PLAB) would likely occur about 2030 or beyond and only after the Changi Air Base (CAB) East and Tengah Air Base have been expanded to house the existing assets at PLAB. Specifically for CAB East, the works there would also need to align with other development works including the building of additional runways for Singapore Changi Airport.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction sector severely and caused some project delays with regard to the works at both Changi and Tengah Air Bases. Despite these disruptions, the current assessment is that barring further disruptions, the relocation of PLAB can still occur within previously projected timelines.

Site surveys and preliminary designs of the expanded air bases have been completed. The current focus is on the land preparation works that include the realignment of roads and the construction of facilities at Tengah Air Base and Changi Air Base will commence thereafter.