Singapore Army

Singapore Army
source
Unit name	Singapore Army
Dates	1965–present
Country	Singapore
Branch	Singapore Armed Forces
Type	Army
Role	Land warfare
Garrison	Ministry of Defence
Garrison label	Headquarters
Motto	Yang Pertama dan Utama, (The First and Foremost)

Singapore Army. As the land service branch of the Singapore Armed Forces, it is responsible for the nation's land-based defence and security. Formed upon Singapore's independence, it has evolved into a modern, technologically advanced force. The army operates under the Ministry of Defence (Singapore) and is a key component of the country's Total Defence strategy.

History

The formation of the Singapore Army was concurrent with the establishment of the Singapore Armed Forces after separation from Malaysia in 1965. Initial development was aided by a military advisory group from Israel, known as the Mossad-assisted Operation Cedar. Early milestones included the establishment of the first infantry battalions and the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute (SAFTI). The 1970s and 1980s saw significant expansion and professionalization, influenced by doctrines from the United States Armed Forces and other Western militaries. Key historical events that shaped its development include the aftermath of the Konfrontasi and regional security concerns during the Cold War.

Organisation

The Singapore Army is organised into several active formations and units under the command of Headquarters Army. The primary combined arms formations are the 3rd Division, 6th Division, and the 9th Division/Infantry. The 2nd People's Defence Force commands the Army Deployment Force and oversees National Service units. Key operational commands include the Army Intelligence Command and the Special Operations Task Force, which encompasses elite units like the Commando Formation and the Special Operations Force. Support is provided by the Army Combat Service and Combat Service Support Command.

Equipment

The army's inventory features a mix of indigenous and imported modern weaponry. Its main battle tank fleet consists of the German-designed Leopard 2SG. The primary infantry fighting vehicle is the locally developed Bionix II, while other armored vehicles include the Terrex and the Bronco All-Terrain Tracked Carrier. Artillery systems include the SSPH Primus self-propelled howitzer and the HIMARS rocket system. Infantry weapons are predominantly from ST Engineering, such as the SAR 21 assault rifle, alongside support from systems like the Spike anti-tank guided missile and the RBS 70 surface-to-air missile.

Training and doctrine

Basic military training for recruits is conducted at the Basic Military Training Centre on Pulau Tekong. Officer cadets train at the Officer Cadet School. The army's doctrine emphasizes a high-tech, integrated approach to warfare, often described as a "third generation" force. This involves the concept of an integrated Knowledge-based Command and Control system, enabling network-centric operations. Large-scale exercises like Exercise Wallaby in Australia and Exercise Thunder Warrior test combined arms manoeuvres. Training also includes joint exercises with foreign partners such as the United States Pacific Command and the Australian Defence Force.

Personnel

Personnel strength is maintained through a compulsory National Service system for male citizens, with a small corps of regulars. Conscripts serve a two-year period before being assigned to Operationally Ready National Service units. Career soldiers can pursue various vocations and specializations, with opportunities for advanced training at institutions like the SAF Warrant Officer School. The army also includes a small number of women in regular service. Leadership is drawn from graduates of the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College and other professional military education programs.

Deployments and operations

While primarily focused on homeland defence, the Singapore Army has participated in international peace support and humanitarian operations. It has contributed forces to United Nations missions, including the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia and the United Nations Mission in East Timor. Regionally, it has provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief following events like the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami and the 2013 Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. The army also maintains a continuous training presence at the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute (Overseas) in locations like Mawai and Brisbane.