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The "twin pillars" of defence technology in Singapore are the Defence Technology Group (DTG) of MINDEF, and Singapore Technologies (ST). Together, they help to build up the fighting capabilities of the SAF, and ensure the sustainability of the SAF's weapon systems and equipment.
Singapore's defence industry was set up to provide an in-country capability for self reliance and sustainability of essential defence materials and services. It is also a strategic element supporting the SAF in Total Defence. The local defence industry has three main roles: first, to meet the needs of the SAF by enhancing technological capabilities; second, to provide quality products and services at competitive prices to the SAF; and third, to contribute to Singapore's economy.
The local defence industry comprises mainly the Singapore Technologies (ST) group of companies, complemented by other defence contractors. ST has grown in technological sophistication in parallel with the rapid growth of the SAF, which is one of its largest customers. For the past two decades, ST has undertaken activities ranging from manufacturing of weapons and ammunitions to development of advanced weapon systems and upgrade of major naval, air and land fighting platforms. In recent years, the companies of the group have also undertaken more sophisticated upgrades (eg. AMX-13 tank, A-4 and F-5 aircraft, and M113 APC) and indigenous system integration & development of weapon systems (e.g. the Patrol Vessels, Infantry Fighting Vehicles, and FH88/2000 Howitzers). The local design and development of military hardware has further broadened and deepened the technological capability of the defence industry, and this has provided more responsive local support, better sustainability and reliable edge capability to the SAF.
Other than supporting the SAF, ST has leveraged on its core defence industrial capability to venture into the commercial sector. This helps to make its support more cost-effective with a larger base, and contributes in a significant and direct way to the industrialisation and economic growth of Singapore. The group will...