Speech by Senior Minister of State for Finance and Transport, Mr Chee Hong Tat at the 55/2022 Specialist Cadet Course Graduation Parade on 18 May 2023

Graduands of the 55/2022 Specialist Cadet Course,

Parents and loved ones of our Graduands,

Men and women of the Singapore Armed Forces,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Introduction

I would like to first extend my heartiest congratulations to all graduands on your successful completion of the Specialist Cadet Course. The past 22 weeks have been rigorous and challenging, but you have displayed strength and proven your mettle with dedication and commitment. Today marks a significant milestone in your national service journey, as you have earned the right to join the ranks of Specialists and Military Experts in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Emerging threats in the security landscape

Amidst an evolving security landscape today, Singapore faces new security challenges and threats that are increasingly complex and multifaceted. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war shows that the risks of armed conflict via conventional warfare remain real and relevant. It also reminds us that when peace and national security are threatened, we must be ready to defend Singapore and fight our own battles.

As our world becomes more intricately connected with the acceleration of technology, threat actors have similarly shifted to the digital frontier. From cyber-attacks, data breaches to other forms of malicious online attacks, these threats seek to undermine our stability and will continue to grow in scale and sophistication.

Building a capable and future-ready SAF

For these reasons, it is necessary that the SAF continues to build its capabilities and people to tackle present and future challenges. The Digital and Intelligence Service that was inaugurated last year will see the establishment of a digital ops-tech centre and a digital range to better defend Singapore in the digital battlefield. At the conventional front, the SAF continues to upgrade its capabilities across Services, such as the acquisition of the F-35Bs for the Air Force, four Invincible-class submarines for the Navy, and introduction of the next-generation Howitzer and Armoured Tracked Carrier for the Army. The SAF has endeavoured in its transformation efforts to strike faster and harder, and to stay ahead of an ever-changing threat landscape.

To enhance training realism and effectiveness, the SAF has invested heavily in training infrastructures such as the SAFTI City – an instrumented and smart training facility equipped with battlefield effects simulators and interactive targets, which will open progressively from 2024. The SAF is also enhancing its training overseas to allow our troops to train for larger-scale and integrated operations that cannot be replicated locally. As we move forward post-pandemic, the SAF has also resumed overseas training in various countries to further sharpen its operational capabilities.

Leading with Pride

As we continue to upgrade our hardware and strengthen our defence capabilities, an equally important element that forms the backbone of the SAF is our people. The strength of the SAF is drawn from the collective will and commitment of our national servicemen to the defence and security of Singapore. To all graduands standing on the parade square today, you are entrusted with the duty to lead the men and women under your charge, and defend Singapore's peace and security. Lead through your values and actions, and set high standards for your team. Inspire those under your charge, and create an environment for your people to reach their full potential. Be your team's pillar of strength to plough through hardship and adversities. You will need to make difficult decisions at times, but do so with the best interests of your team, and lead with empathy. You have been given the opportunity to serve your country in a meaningful way, and I trust that you will discharge your duties with discipline and distinction.

Closing

Today is a celebration of their hard work that has brought them here today. I would like to also take this opportunity to thank the family, loved ones and trainers who have supported our graduands in every step of their journey thus far. We are only able to continue the course of defending Singapore and our way of life with their unwavering support.

Congratulations to all graduands once again, and I wish you all the best in your new leadership journey ahead.

With Pride We Lead!

Thank you.

More Resources

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