SAF MUST REMAIN VIGILANT & EVOLVE CAPABILITIES TO DEFEND AGAINST TERRORISM: PRESIDENT TAN

In light of four terror attacks that happened this month alone - in Egypt, Sweden, Russia and France - it is crucial that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) continues to evolve its capabilities to ensure the nation's continued prosperity and safety.

President Tony Tan Keng Yam made this observation on 26 Apr, during a visit to SAF soldiers patrolling Jurong Island.

He viewed equipment used by the troops, including a mobile long-range acoustic device and a hand-held target acquisition system.

"What I have seen of the SAF's capabilities today is very encouraging because the SAF is making use of technology in order to supplement their needs and to enhance the capability and effectiveness of their manpower," said Dr Tan after the visit.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of National Service (NS), and the president interacted with Operationally Ready Servicemen (NSmen) from 823rd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (823 SIR) who were deployed there as part of the Island Defence Task Force (IDTF).

Under the IDTF, the SAF works closely with Home Team agencies to protect vital installations such as Jurong Island, Changi Airport and Sembawang Wharves.

It is a "very demanding operation" which involves round-the-clock patrols with no respite, Dr Tan said.

Praising their commitment in keeping the country safe, he added: "I'm very heartened by their dedication. I know that it involves sacrifice, not only on their part but also from their loved ones."

Commanding Officer (CO) of 823 SIR Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) (NS) Darren Tan is proud that his unit has never wavered from their NS duties, despite personal and career commitments.

"I'm very privileged to be the CO because I've learned a lot from each and every individual It's more than just coming in year by year, it's a 24/7 thing and you never stop being an NSman," said LTC (NS) Tan, who has led the unit for nine years.

"For 823 SIR, the X-factor would be the camaraderie; we do not believe in doing things we have to but because we want to."

1st Sergeant (NS) Harris Kay shared similar sentiments on the solidarity among the unit, saying that it makes coming back to In-Camp Training (ICT) easier.

Said the Platoon Sergeant: "We thought that our ICTs would be relaxing, but I'm happy that even though it is tough, the men have bonded well and carry out our tasks efficiently."