GPC-DFA Visits the Air Defence and Operations Command

Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman and members of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Defence and Foreign Affairs interacting with SPYDER operators after the demonstration.

Members of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Defence and Foreign Affairs (GPC-DFA) and its Resource Panel visited the Air Defence and Operations Command (ADOC) at Lim Chu Kang Camp II this afternoon. The visit was hosted by Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman.

During the visit, members were briefed on the organisational structure of ADOC and its vital role in safeguarding Singapore's airspace. Commander ADOC Brigadier-General Mervyn Tan also shared how technology and rigorous training have enabled ADOC to maintain the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) readiness to meet evolving security challenges.

As part of the visit, the members witnessed a demonstration of the Surface-to-Air PYthon 5 and DERby (SPYDER) ground-based air defence (GBAD) system being deployed. The SPYDER GBAD system is capable of engaging a wide spectrum of aerial threats, including aircraft and missiles. GPC-DFA members also had the opportunity to try out the RBS-70 GBAD simulator. The RBS-70 is a man-portable, short-range GBAD system. Members also interacted with full-time National Servicemen and Operationally Ready National Servicemen from ADOC and learnt how they trained and maintained their technical competencies.

Sharing his thoughts at the end of the visit, Chairman GPC-DFA Dr Lim Wee Kiak said the visit highlighted the importance of having a well-resourced ADOC to ensure that the Singapore skies are safe. He added, "Our defence budget is by no means small and it has been frequently criticised to say that perhaps we can spend a little bit less and spend more on social spending. But on the other hand, the public must also understand that security is the foundation for prosperity, progress and stability. Without that, there is nothing to talk about."Inaugurated in 2007, ADOC plans and executes the RSAF peacetime operations and air defence. It is also responsible for ensuring the development and operational readiness of the command and control forces as well as ground-based air defence units.

Chairman of GPC-DFA Dr Lim Wee Kiak being briefed on how the SPYDER is deployed.

Deputy Chairman of GPC-DFA Ms Ellen Lee trying out the RBS-70 GBAD simulator.