Senior Minister of State for Defence: RSAF Stands Ready 24/7 to Safeguard Singapore's Skies

Senior Minister of State Mr Zaqy Mohamad (second from left) interacting with Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) personnel at the flight line.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad visited the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Air Combat Command (ACC) at 142 SQN, Paya Lebar Air Base this morning. Hosted by Commander ACC, Colonel Chan Ching Hao, Mr Zaqy was briefed on the roles and operational capabilities of ACC. During the visit, he took a flight on board the F-15SG fighter jet, where he witnessed how the RSAF conducts training to safeguard Singapore's skies. Mr Zaqy also interacted with RSAF aircrew and ground crew, and thanked them for their dedication and commitment to Singapore's defence.

Speaking at the end of the visit, Mr Zaqy expressed his confidence in the RSAF's ability to safeguard Singapore's skies. "I was able to witness the professionalism, competency and teamwork of our airmen and women, and am heartened by their commitment to protect Singapore and safeguard our skies," he said. "It is important that the RSAF continues to conduct live flying daily and undergo quality training in order to maintain the high level of operational readiness, even amidst the COVID-19 situation. I am confident that the RSAF stands ready 24/7 to ensure the security of our skies."

ACC operates the RSAF's transport and fighter aircraft. The fleet of F-15SG and F-16 fighter jets stands ready 24/7 to defend Singapore's skies. On separate occasions in 2018 and 2019, the RSAF responded successfully to alleged bomb threats aboard civil airliners, where RSAF fighter jets escorted these civil airliners to land safely at Changi Airport.

Mr Zaqy receiving a brief on the RSAF operations and the 142 SQN.