SENIOR MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE CONFIDENT OF SAF'S READINESS

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is a capable and competent force that is ready to respond to contingencies.

Senior Minister of State for Defence Ong Ye Kung said this after his visit to the Army's Standby Force at Amoy Quee Camp on 26 Nov.

"There is a high level of efficiency and proficiency. The young men are highly motivated," said Mr Ong. He saw how soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment responded quickly to an activation exercise.

About 500 soldiers were involved in the exercise. The men assembled on the parade square with their weapons and equipment within minutes of being activated.

They are part of a larger homeland security system that places various active SAF units on standby throughout the year. The Army's Standby Force comprises units from various vocations, including armour and artillery units, with capabilities such as the Leopard 2SG Main Battle Tanks and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).

Mr Ong said the equipment used now was "much better" than what he had when he was doing National Service, adding: "There is more technology involved now and our soldiers are better equipped." For example, he saw the quick ammunition-loading device that allows soldiers to fill a rifle magazine quickly.

He noted that, although Singapore had enjoyed a long period of peace and stability, the SAF remained vigilant. He said: "Since 2001, we've been upping our vigilance, especially over our key installations, such as Changi Airport and Jurong Island."

Mr Ong also noted that the SAF had been involved in large-scale national security exercises, like the recent Exercise Highcrest. The SAF had also sent its soldiers to support multinational operations, such as the fight against ISIS.

"We have capabilities that have been tested on the ground, and we stand ready (for contingencies)," he said.

During the visit, Mr Ong observed the soldiers doing weapon drills on the General Purpose Machine Gun, Section Assault Weapon and M110 sniper rifle. He also saw fire movement and breaching drills.

At the end of the visit, Mr Ong said he was "confident that the SAF stands ready for any contingency and (is) ready to protect the country".