NEW SAF URBAN OPS TRAINING FACILITY

The modern army is expected to be operationally proficient in both natural and urban environments.

A new urban operations training facility will help the SAF to achieve this.

The facility is "the first of its kind in the region", said Brigadier-General (BG) Chan Chun Sing, Commander Singapore 9th Division/Chief Infantry Officer.

Speaking at the ground-laying ceremony of the Lim Chu Kang training facility on 10 Jan, BG Chan revealed that the facility would have a large array of electronic sensors to assist in exercises.

According to the Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA), these sensors will be compatible with the current Tactical Engagement System (TES), which uses electronics mounted on weapons and worn on soldiers, to register hits and misses. The sensors will also allow commanders to track the movement of individual troops.

Other notable features to enhance training realism include battlefield effects simulators to simulate blasts, pressure and flashes. Electronic targets with 'shoot-back capability' will also be included in the facility.

In order to maximise training value, a six-storey After Action Review tower will be constructed in the middle of the facility, which measures 1.5 by 2 kilometres.

Commanders can debrief their men on-site, aided by playback of footage from the numerous video cameras around the training facility.

The tower will also serve as an observation post, and will be the tallest building on the grounds.

The project is expected to be completed by 2010.