To lay the foundation for the Next Gen Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), the Defence Technology Community, which includes the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), DSO National Laboratories and Future Systems and Technology Directorate, are continually evolving to better exploit advancements in technology, respond to changing threats, and support the needs of the SAF. Their latest defence technology initiatives include the following:

Defence Science and Technology Agency Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Lab

The DSTA Labs has been expanded to include an Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Lab. The Lab provides a dedicated and collaborative environment for DSTA engineers to harness emerging technologies in data analytics, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. It facilitates their efforts to experiment, prototype their ideas and develop tools in these frontier domains through a cross-disciplinary approach to innovation. An example of a project leveraging the data analytics function of the Lab is the integration of data from multiple sources across Singapore, such as cameras and ground sensors from various agencies to enhance counter-terrorism operations and detection of potential threats.

Robotics Lab in DSO National Laboratories

The Robotics Laboratory will be a one-stop facility that allows defence engineers to come together to work on prototyping, integration, simulation and testing of systems prior to field trials for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The design and facilities of the laboratory promotes the exchange of ideas and concepts within MINDEF’s multidisciplinary team, resulting in innovation solutions that combine the best ideas from different domains. An example would be the unmanned ground-to-air teaming capability, where DSO engineers and scientists are exploring how to make Unmanned Ground Vehicles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles work seamlessly as a team, without heavy reliance on human operators.

The Robotics Laboratory will be set up in April 2017.

Inaugural Singapore Defence Technology Summit 

The Singapore Defence Technology Summit will be a global platform for thought leaders from governments, industries, academia and think tanks from around the world to discuss the implications and opportunities of technology advancements for defence and security. The Defence Technology Community (DTC) will be organising the Summit and will collaborate with other government agencies, such as the Economic Development Board, A*STAR, National Research Foundation, Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech) and Cyber Security Agency of Singapore to leverage their rich networks of global partners. The Summit will enable the DTC to strengthen and expand relations and partnerships with leading defence technology establishments globally, to increase access to more ideas and innovations.

The inaugural Singapore Defence Technology Summit will take place in early 2018 and will likely be held on a biennial basis.