GPC-DFA VISITS AIR DEFENCE COMMAND

In its first visit of the year, members of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Defence and Foreign Affairs (GPC-DFA) and its Resource Panel took a closer look at the Air Defence and Operations Command (ADOC).

Hosted by Minister of State for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman at Lim Chu Kang Camp II on 22 Jan, the members learnt about ADOC and its role in defending Singapore's airspace.

During the visit, the members were briefed by Commander ADOC Brigadier-General Mervyn Tan on wide-ranging topics such as the technology used by ADOC over the years, its organisational structure and how realistic training has enabled the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) to safeguard Singapore's skies.

Speaking to cyberpioneer after the visit, Chairman GPC-DFA Dr Lim Wee Kiak said: "I'm happy to learn about the technological leaps that the Air Force has made."

"It gives me confidence (to see) that the men are dedicated and ensure that their skills are relevant."

After the brief, the members saw the Surface-to-Air PYthon 5 and DERby (SPYDER) Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) system being deployed. The SPYDER GBAD system is a state-of-art networked platform capable of taking out a variety of aerial threats including hostile aircraft and missiles.

The SPYDER GBAD system replaced the older Rapier Air Defence System used by the RSAF in 2011.

Commenting on the evolution of assets and defence spending, Dr Lim said: "Our defence budget is by no means small and it has been frequently criticised to say that perhaps we can spend a little bit less and spend more on social spending."

"But on the other hand, the public must also understand that security is the foundation for prosperity, progress and stability. Without that, there is nothing to talk about."

The GPC-DFA members also had the opportunity to try out the RBS-70 GBAD simulator. The RBS-70 is a man-portable, short-range GBAD system.

Members also met Full-time National Servicemen and Operationally Ready National Servicemen from ADOC during their visit.

Inaugurated in 2007, ADOC plans and executes the RSAF peacetime operations and air defence. It is also responsible for ensuring the development and operational readiness of the command and control forces as well as ground-based air defence units.