More than just a duty

An Air Defence Weapons Specialist in 6th Divisional Air Defence Artillery Battalion (6 DA Bn), 3rd Sergeant (3SG) Muhammad Syazwan Bin Irwan plays a vital role in safeguarding Singapore’s skies.

The 23-year-old Full-time National Serviceman (NSF) operates the Portable Search and Target Acquisition Radar (PSTAR), which provides the air picture required to detect and respond to potential threats.

Read on for more of his National Service (NS) experiences, in the first of the “Why We Serve” series!

What do you find most meaningful about your role?

There are many operations going on behind the scenes to keep Singapore safe while the rest of us go about our daily lives.

As an Air Defence Weapons Specialist, my responsibilities involve operating the PSTAR to detect, monitor, and track potential aerial threats, providing crucial situational awareness for effective decision-making.

My role requires discipline, precision and close teamwork, as even a small lapse can impact the effectiveness of our overall air defence.

What I find most meaningful is knowing that our work contributes directly to safeguarding Singapore and our people.

What are your favourite memories during your NS journey?

One of my most memorable moments was a navigation exercise during my Specialist Cadet Training. Operating in the forest was particularly challenging, especially when navigating in the dark.

While each of us had to remain focused on our roles, success ultimately depended on how well we worked together – constantly communicating and encouraging one another when fatigue set in.

I vividly remember the sense of accomplishment after locating one of the more challenging checkpoints.

That moment reminded me that when a team stays united and works towards a common goal, even the most demanding challenges become achievable.

More recently, our battalion conducted an outfield deployment exercise, during which we deployed and operated our PSTAR to provide early warning of aerial threats to the RBS 70.

During the exercise, we had to work closely as a team to swiftly deploy the PSTAR. Following the successful deployment, we maintained constant situational awareness to support the RBS 70 units.

This exercise allowed me to better appreciate how our training and individual roles contribute to the larger mission of defending Singapore’s skies.

It also put our daily training into practice in a realistic operational environment, testing our resilience and adaptability amid unpredictable weather and long operational hours.

More importantly, it reminded me that while our time as NSFs is limited, we play a meaningful role in safeguarding our skies and keeping Singapore safe.

Were there any significant projects that you’ve participated in?

Beyond my operational role, I was given the opportunity to be part of the National Day Parade (NDP) 2026 Special Functions Sub-Committee, Parade and Ceremony.

My role involved coordinating with the Singapore Traffic Police and Special Functions cue team to ensure the safe, timely, and seamless movement of VIP motorcades during the parade.

The opportunity pushed me beyond my comfort zone, sharpened my ability to perform under pressure, and strengthened my confidence in communicating with others.

I have learnt that small actions, such as delivering clear instructions, can have a significant impact on the overall outcome.

With consistent practice and the guidance of my commanders and teammates, I became more effective in carrying out my responsibilities.

Do you have any words of encouragement for your fellow NSFs?

NS is more than just a duty to the nation – it is an opportunity to challenge ourselves, build character, and grow into better individuals.

These two years will not be easy, but the lessons we learn and memories we create will stay with us for life.

More importantly, we should give our best to protect the country we love, so that when we look back, we can be proud to have contributed to something greater than ourselves.