Innovation with a mission

With the complexity of the maritime security domain and its ever-evolving threats, there was a need to sense-make and keep track of everything out on the seafront speedily.

To solve this issue, a team of defence engineers and scientists worked closely with the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) to create the National Maritime Security System (NMSS). The system uses artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to provide an integrated maritime situation picture.

This allows maritime agencies to monitor more than 1,500 commercial shipping vessels in Singapore waters, which in turn enables national agencies to detect and monitor maritime security threats and coordinate operational responses.

Head Capability Development (C4I Development) Wong Rong Fah, who led the team delivering the NMSS, said the system provides an advantage in profiling and identifying threats by providing early warnings on potential maritime threats.

"Typically, operators spend a lot of time making sense of the data manually. With the NMSS, we can automatically link all related information," explained the defence engineer.

Since joining Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) in 2000, Mr Wong has been actively involved in the development of Command and Control systems for the SAF. His most recent projects include work in the field of data analytics, and he counts the NMSS as one of his greater achievements.

"Whenever I see the NMSS being using in actual daily operations, I feel proud to be a defence engineer and also heartened that I have a competent team working with me to make the NMSS capability possible," he mused.

When asked what it takes to be a defence engineer, he cited a curious mind, great perseverance, and an in-depth understanding of science and technology.

Innovation also plays a huge part in DSTA's culture. Earlier this year, a new lab was specially set up for defence engineers to experiment and focus on AI and data analytics. When harnessed appropriately, these two areas can be used to exploit advancements in technology, respond to changing threats and support the needs of the Ministry of Defence and the SAF through real-time information.

From the development of innovative tech solutions to breaking new ground in technology, there is always a sense of pride and excitement seeing projects coming to fruition.

Said Mr Wong: "As a defence engineer, there is a sense of achievement in seeing our efforts in experimentation, prototyping and design, culminate in the delivery of a system that is able to enhance the operational efficiency of the SAF."