Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented the Defence Technology Prize (DTP) to two individuals and five teams at the DTP award ceremony held at the DSO National Laboratories this afternoon. Among them are individuals and teams from Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) agencies -- including the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and DSO, defence industry, academic and research institutes.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Dr Ng commended the dedication, hard work and perseverance of the defence engineers and scientists in delivering breakthroughs and achievements for the Defence Technology Community (DTC). In emphasising how the DTC has been successful and effective in contributing to the defence needs for Singapore, Dr Ng applauded the expertise and professionalism of the DTC family and said, "when (businessmen) submit tenders or write specifications for the Ministry of Defence to DSTA and DSO, they do so with extra care and honesty".

Dr Ng also reaffirmed the Singapore Government's commitment to invest in budding engineers and referred to the various scholarships offered to attract more engineering talents to join the public service. He commended the steely resolve among senior and experienced scientists and engineers in solving difficult problems, and urged that the "culture of innovation and daring continues into the next generation".

Established in 1989, the DTP is awarded annually to individuals and teams that have made significant technological contributions to the defence capability of Singapore. The DTP also serves to foster technological innovation and encourage breakthroughs in defence science and technology.