Top 5 myths about the SAF's latest weapon - the iPad!

Hey guys, we got quite tickled by the online buzz (and confusion) about the introduction of tablet computers to the SAF, so we decided to create this list of top 5 myths about our "latest weapon".

1."It's all about the iPad"

Everyone thinks we're going into iPads big time, but nope, it's not about the brand or OS. In fact, we're trying out other handheld devices too, like the Samsung Galaxy tablets. Whatever best meets our training and ops requirements gets our vote! We've had to customise equipment for the SAF because of specialised needs, but as far as possible, we try to buy off-the-shelf products because that's cheaper than building one from scratch.

2. The iPad is the SAF soldier's latest weapon

Weapon's not the right word to describe how these tablet computers would be used. Our soldiers won't be fighting with them in the field cos' these devices are meant for training purposes. And in case you're wondering, the soldiers don't get to keep them or bring them home.The SAF has been using laptops for training purposes since 2009 and like many schools out there, it's natural to move on to tablet computers packed with apps and info. Way more portable and effective, especially for young tech-savvy soldiers!

3. iPads make soldiers soft and spoilt!

Our soldiers will be getting just as much dirt, grime and physical action with or without the iPads or other tablet computers. "Clocking" iPad hours won't replace good ol' trench digging or hands-on SAR-21 technical handling lessons. No amount of "Angry Birds" training can cure a bobo shooter either. But one thing for sure is that it's way more interesting using an iPad to learn, OTOT, than going through a bunch of lecture notes. And the faster the soldiers "digest" their notes, the more push-ups they can do to get those biceps pumping. Ha...

4. Yay! I can bring my iPad and iPhone4 into camp loh!

Sorry to disappoint, but I don't think the MPs are gonna let you bring your "lifestyle devices" and camera phones into camps even if you show them the "SAF's latest weapon - the iPad" newspaper clipping. Stricter rules apply to personal devices that are brought in and out of camp and back into your homes, as compared to these training-specific devices, which will be used in SAF camps and training areas only. So please, continue to leave your image-capturing devices at home or you'll get some MP breathing down your neck.

5. Join military, get an iPad 2!

Seriously, if you're joining the Army just to get an iPad 2, I don't know what to say.

Since we're at this, you should check out Mr Brown's take on iPads in the SAF (www.mrbrownshow.com/2011/06/30/the-mrbrown-show-the-ipad-army/).

Warning: Don't fall off your chair!

Acronym Check:

OS - Operating System

SAR-21 - Singapore Assault Rifle 21

OTOT - Own Time, Own Target

MP - Military Policemen

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