Senior Minister of Defense Heng Chee Haw presided over the 26th Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Senior Military Specialist Appointment Ceremony at the Temasek Club this evening. At the graduation ceremony, a total of 122 military personnel were appointed as Senior Military Experts (MEs), including 24 from the Singapore Army, 18 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, 32 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, and 48 from the Digital Intelligence Agency. cohort.
At the ceremony, Mr Heng emphasized the importance of a strong and capable SAF in a challenging security environment. Referring to recent conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, he said: “Today’s security environment is increasingly uncertain and difficult…They mean that even in today’s circumstances armed conflict is not inconceivable. This is a harsh reminder that…In Singapore, we are grateful for the situation, and although we have enjoyed peace since independence, we must never be lulled into a false sense of security. A strong and responsive SAF is essential for Singapore to maintain peace and security.
Mr Heng also highlighted the important role ME plays in enabling SAFs to build the necessary expertise and how the ME scheme has evolved to stay ahead of the dynamic security environment. did. “Today’s conflicts demonstrate that warfare is becoming increasingly sophisticated and hybrid in nature, where military and non-military means strengthen national cohesion and resilience in strategic and effective ways,” he said. The MDES scheme continues to evolve, allowing us to continue building the capabilities needed within the SAF to counter evolving hybrid security threats.”
The appointment ceremony marked the completion of the Military Domain Specialist Course, which trains MEs for roles in the SAF, which require deep expertise in areas such as engineering, intelligence, military medicine and cyber security. This course developed and honed ME’s leadership abilities, military field knowledge, and professional skills. The newly appointed senior ME will assume leadership or staff appointments in their area of expertise.
The ceremony was also attended by the Chief of the Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Aaron Benn, service chiefs, senior SAF officers, and families and friends of the graduates.
