145 Appointed as Senior Military Experts

Mr Heng delivering his speech at the 28th Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony (SMEAC).

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How (right) presenting the Sword of Honour to ME4 Yoga Keshnen S/O Yogindean (left) at the 28th SMEAC.

Family of ME4 Fion Lim Jia Hui, a Naval Engineer from the Republic of Singapore Navy, affixing her new rank epaulettes on her.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How officiated at the 28th Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony at Temasek Club this evening. A total of 145 service personnel, comprising 18 from the Singapore Army, 19 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, 26 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, 81 from the Digital and Intelligence Service, and one from Joint were appointed as Senior Military Experts (MEs) during the ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Heng highlighted the importance of MEs and the deep expertise they can bring to SAF to bolster the development of new capabilities and overcome emerging threats. He said, “With the successful implementation of the Military Domain Experts Scheme, the SAF is now better positioned to navigate the complex and technologically-driven security environment. It is vital that the SAF continues to attract passionate, dedicated and competent Military Experts equipped with the necessary skills to bolster our capabilities. This includes talented mid-career professionals, who bring with them a wealth of industrial experience to the SAF.”

Mr Heng also emphasised the crucial role that MEs play in enhancing the SAF’s operations through innovation and encouraged the MEs as they move on to the next stage of their careers. He said, “As Senior Military Experts, you are the leaders and innovators who will drive the development and adaptation of cutting-edge technologies for the SAF. Your role is pivotal in sharpening our warfighting edge and ensuring that we remain technologically equipped and adept at countering the threats of not only today, but those of tomorrow.”

The appointment ceremony marked the completion of the Military Domain Experts Course, which trained the MEs to assume roles in the SAF where in-depth expertise in areas such as engineering, intelligence, military medicine and cybersecurity is required. The course developed and honed the Senior MEs’ leadership competency, military domain knowledge and specialised skills. The newly appointed Senior MEs will move on to assume leadership or staff appointments in their professional areas.

Also present at the ceremony was Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, senior SAF officers as well as families and friends of the graduates.

Speech by Senior Minister of State For Defence Mr Heng Chee How for the 28/24 SAF Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony on 24 Jan 2025