Reply to Media Queries on Army's Installation of In-Vehicle Cameras in SAF Wheeled Vehicles

In response to media queries on Army's installation of in-vehicle cameras in SAF wheeled vehicles, the following reply was issued:

The safety of our servicemen is of paramount importance to the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). As part of the SAF's continuous efforts to enhance safety for transport operators, SAF Headquarters Transport had explored and evaluated a series of safety initiatives. These included the establishment of a Safety Branch and a Military Transport Safety Review Panel made up of land transport and road safety experts, as well as equipment enhancements such as the installation of the reverse audible warning system, seat belts and in-vehicle cameras for SAF wheeled vehicles. In order not to compromise daily operational and training requirements, the evaluated initiatives were implemented in phases.

The trials concluded that transport safety could be raised by enhancing driver operating habits through the use of in-vehicle camera recordings. The camera recordings provide direct feedback to the individuals and their supervisors on driving behaviour. These facilitate the conduct of debriefs and accident investigations, and some could be converted into case studies for safety education. We believe that consistent emphasis on good driving behaviour and the cutting down on the undesirable habits would bring about safer and more responsible transport operators.

The installation of in-vehicle cameras in all active SAF wheeled vehicles will be implemented progressively and is targeted to complete within the next two to three years.

Colonel Tay Yong Meng
Chief Transport Officer