Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at the 2nd People's Defence Force (2PDF Command)'s 50th anniversary parade this evening. As part of the parade which was held at Clementi Camp, Dr Ng also commissioned the Army's new Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicle (PRV).

In his speech, Dr Ng hailed the commissioning of the Peacekeeper as a significant modernisation milestone as it replaces the Army's ageing fleet of V200s which have been in use since 1970. He said, "The Peacekeeper has greater mobility and more precise firepower with a remote-controlled weapon station." He added that servicemen would also be better protected against dangerous threats.

Dr Ng also underscored the need for 2 PDF Command to remain ready and relevant against security challenges such as threats from extremist groups and self-radicalised individuals. Dr Ng said, "In Singapore too, we have people who have been radicalised. 2PDF must continue to update its doctrine, tactics and equipment to meet these new challenges."

The Peacekeeper, which was jointly developed by the Army and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), is designed to support servicemen carrying out island defence operations. It is equipped with a Remote Control Weapon System, allowing the Peacekeeper's crew to operate the weapons systems mounted on it from within the vehicle, and thermal imaging to support ground forces with direct and precise firepower. It features five types of differential locking systems for better traction, and a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) to protect the vehicle against pressure leaks or punctures. The system also reduces vibration and shocks as the vehicle moves.

At the parade, Dr Ng also interacted with pioneer servicemen who had served in 2 PDF Command over the last 50 years. Chief of Army, Major-General Perry Lim, senior Singapore Armed Forces officers and senior officials from DSTA were also present.