Written Reply by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen to Parliamentary Question on Regional Security and Development of the SAF

Mr Nicholas Fang: To ask the Minister for Defence if the changing regional security environment will require any modifications to the development and 3G transformation of the Singapore Armed Forces.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: The SAF embarked on its 3rd Generation transformation in the early 2000s, to build a more capable force that could address a wider range of threats. The new SAF would use technology to have better command and control, strike with more precision and use more unmanned systems. The SAF has succeeded in this transformation and stand ready to respond to foreseeable threats. This includes the threats of terrorism, piracy, natural disasters and cyber-threats.

The SAF has also re-organised itself to be more responsive and potent. This includes the set up of the Island Defence Task Force, Maritime Security Task Force and Special Operations Task Force. We will work closely with Homefront and other Government agencies like the Maritime and Port Authority and Singapore Customs, to help to keep Singapore safe. Most recently, we have also set up the National Maritime Security System to protect the sea lines of communication and territorial waters around Singapore. The SAF will be vigiliant and continue to improve itself to defend Singapore and its interests.