Women's Boot Camp reflects growing community support for NS

Minister of State (MOS) for Defence Mr Desmond Choo taking a group photo with the Women’s Boot Camp 2025 (WBC25) participants.

Mr Choo addressing the WBC25 participants at the closing ceremony.

WBC25 participants using our Singapore Assault Rifle – 21st Century (SAR 21) equipped with Tactical Engagement System (TES) training equipment, as they engage in a “capture-the-objective” battle.

VADM Beng taking a group photo with the WBC25 participants.

201 women participated in the Women’s Boot Camp (WBC) 2025 held at Maju Camp and Nee Soon Camp from 21 to 23 November. In its sixth edition, the boot camp aims to provide women a glimpse of National Servicemen’s training through a series of modified military training activities.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Minister of State for Defence Mr Desmond Choo highlighted that strong support for National Service and Total Defence (TD) remains essential to Singapore’s security and resilience. He said that everyone can play their part in contributing to defence, and recognised the combined efforts of the organisers, trainers, and volunteers from past runs of the WBC in making the camp a success. He encouraged participants to continue playing an active role in strengthening community preparedness and supporting Singapore’s defence efforts. He said, “The impetus for the Women’s Boot Camp is a clear and important one, which is that the defence of Singapore is a collective responsibility, meaning everyone in Singapore understands the threats that we face, knowing what to do and helping to strengthen the defence of the country.”

Speaking on the interactions he had with the participants, Mr Choo added, “I was very impressed by the participants’ sense of camaraderie, and that is what is important, that our people come together, have a shared sense of responsibility, knowing that everyone can do the part for TD. We hope that they can take this first-hand experience to go back to their communities, to explain to employers and companies – to send a strong message of support to the National Servicemen who put in two years of their life, and many years of National Service after that.”

During the boot camp, participants experienced handling the SAR 21 rifle through the Individual Marksmanship Trainer and participated in a simulated two-sided “battle” using the Tactical Engagement System. In addition to overcoming the Standard Obstacle Course, WBC participants also had the opportunity to experience two new activities. They participated in medical simulation training, witnessed a demonstration of medical treatment under simulated battlefield conditions, and rode in the Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicle.

Participants also took part in a TD table-top exercise, designed to strengthen their understanding of how TD concepts may be applied in everyday settings. Through the discussions, the participants discussed practical steps that individuals, communities and workplaces could take to be ready for major disruptions. The programme was supported by TD Ambassadors who were participants of past boot camps, and it shows how women can play their part in Singapore’s defence. One of the participants, Ms Siti Khadijah binte Mohamed Fawzi, shared her reflections on the programme. She said, “I realised that defence is a shared responsibility. Whether in uniform or as civilians, we all have a part to play in keeping our nation secure and united. I would encourage other women to give WBC a try. It is a valuable opportunity to understand and appreciate the sacrifices our servicemen and women make for the nation.”