Strengthening Total Defence: Women Get a Glimpse into National Service

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad giving an opening address to the participants at the Women's Boot Camp (WBC).

57 participants took part in the Women’s Boot Camp (WBC) held at Maju Camp from 7 to 8 December 2024. In its fifth edition, the boot camp aims to give women a glimpse of National Servicemen’s training through participation in a series of modified iconic Basic Military Training activities. Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad was the Guest of Honour at the WBC.

During the boot camp, the women will learn to handle the Singapore Assault Rifle - 21st Century (SAR 21), try out the Standard Obstacle Course, consume combat rations and complete a 2-kilometre route march. Participants will also experience outfield conditions by sleeping in tents and receive an orientation on the Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle and Belrex Protected Combat Support Vehicle during the boot camp.

To emphasise the significance of Total Defence (TD) and that everyone plays a part in Singapore’s TD, the programme includes a TD Table-Top Exercise. Through the exercise, participants will discuss the impact of current key issues affecting Singapore and explore how individuals, communities, and businesses can better prepare for crises and disruptions. They will also pledge their support for TD.

Addressing the participants, Mr Zaqy emphasised how strong support for National Service (NS) and TD is fundamental to Singapore's defence and hoped they will become strong advocates of TD and play a key role in safeguarding Singapore’s peace and security.

The WBC is part of the Defence Immersion Programme (DIP). In December 2023, the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) Family and Community Council, supported by the Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps, the Singapore Army, Republic of Singapore Navy, Republic of Singapore Air Force, and the Digital and Intelligence Service, expanded the WBC into a full DIP, offering participants a deeper experience across the various services within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). This year’s DIP also includes unit visits to Paya Lebar Air Base and Changi Naval Base. The enhanced initiative aims to provide women with a clearer understanding of the SAF's capabilities and how they can contribute more significantly to support TD and NS.

Camp participants trying out the Standard Obstacle Course (SOC).

Group photo of Mr Zaqy and camp participants at WBC.