PM LEE VISITS RSAF'S F-15SG FIGHTER DETACHMENT IN US

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong visited the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF's) Peace Carvin V (PC V) F-15SG fighter detachment at the Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) in Idaho, United States (US), on 11 Jul. This is his first time visiting the detachment.

During the visit, which was hosted by Chief of Air Force Major-General (MG) Ng Chee Meng, Mr Lee toured the detachment's facilities and interacted with RSAF personnel and their families who are based at MHAFB. These personnel are currently training to acquire the competencies to operate and maintain the F-15SGs.

The F-15SG is ranked as one of the world's most capable multi-role fighter aircraft as it is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and a sophisticated integrated sensor suite. In October 2008, the RSAF's PC V F-15SG fighter detachment was established as part of the United States Air Force's 428th Fighter Squadron, and will continue to operate at the MHAFB for the next 25 years since it was established.

Mr Lee's visit to MHAFB took place as part of his official trip to the United States from 8 to 14 Jul (Singapore time), where he attended the 28th Sun Valley Conference in Idaho from 8 to 10 Jul. The conference is an annual one that gathers important political figures and personalities from sectors such as the media, culture and sports.

During PM's absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean will be the Acting Prime Minister.