Second Minister for Defence Mr Ong Ye Kung officiated at the 13th Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Senior Military Experts Appointment Ceremony (SMEAC) at Temasek Club this evening, where 117 servicemen and servicewomen were appointed as Senior Military Experts. The graduating cohort comprised 20 from the Singapore Army, 24 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, 62 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force and 11 from Joint.

At the ceremony, Mr Ong spoke about the importance of standing together amidst challenging times, citing the broad spectrum of security threats faced by Singapore, ranging from cyber-attacks to extremist terrorism. Noting that the security climate is growing increasingly complex and uncertain, Mr Ong called on the newly-appointed Senior Military Experts to contribute their expertise and know-how towards innovation so that the SAF can continue to be adaptable and operationally ready. He said, "The capabilities of the SAF therefore need to evolve as circumstances and the nature of threats and challenges change. We have to remain a strong and credible force that gives confidence to Singaporeans. The Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) is a key component of the SAF's response… Over the years, the scheme has enabled us to build a range of deep expertise across our Services."

Mr Ong congratulated the newly-appointed Senior Military Experts, and thanked their families and loved ones for their support towards the graduands. Mr Ong also underscored the need for a strong Military Expert Corps, which is integral to the SAF. He said, "All of you are here today because you have worked hard and demonstrated dedication and professionalism. Going forward, the SAF will entrust you with heavier responsibilities, and I am confident all of you will rise up to the challenge and demands. With all your efforts, we will build an SAF of tomorrow that is stronger, better, and that we can be very proud of."

The SMEAC marked the completion of the Military Domain Experts Course, which trains Military Experts to assume roles in the SAF where in-depth expertise in areas such as engineering, intelligence and military medicine is required. The training conducted during the course developed and honed the Military Experts' leadership competency, military domain knowledge and specialised skills. The newly-appointed Senior Military Experts will move on to assume command or staff appointments in their professional areas.

Also present at the ceremony was Chief of Air Force Major-General Mervyn Tan, senior SAF officers as well as families and friends of the graduands.