Host
Arthur Taylor
Podcast Content
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Singapore, once a British colony, surrendered to the Japanese in World War II. Today, Singapore observes Total Defence Day on 17 May 1997. The Singapore Civil Defence Force was established in 1998 and is responsible for the safety and security of Singaporeans. A wide public warning system is used by the SCDF to alert citizens of imminent danger or emergency situations using sirens on local radio stations and system sirens. This warning system was first tested on 15 February 1998 with a message signal broadcast island-wide. The Singapore Armed Forces is also responsible for defending the island nation against any threats of war and serves as a deterrent against hostile nations.
It is considered one of the strongest armed forces in Asia, and the Singapore government has implemented a total defence capability to ensure its security. This concept involves military defence as well as collective defence, which involves maintaining a strong defence budget and other resources to protect our country from external threats. The Singapore Armed Forces consists of three main branches: the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Each branch is equipped with modern armaments and training for day-to-day operations. It also plays an important role in maintaining good relations with other countries in the ASEAN region by participating in joint exercises and conferences. The SAF also works closely with the government to ensure that resources are allocated properly for its needs and activities. With such a strong Singapore Armed Forces, our country is able to deter aggression from hostile nations and maintain security within our borders.
Singapore has been actively participating in 12 military forums and jet detachments with the United States. This includes deploying advanced fighter jets that resemble a quasi-alliance. Moreover, Singapore and the United States share a mutual defence treaty to ensure our security relationship is strong. This includes the proliferation of cybersecurity, science and technology cooperation, cybersecurity counterterrorism, security military preparedness, and counter proliferation preparedness. We also work closely with the US on border security which is essential for our Lion City's safety. Thus, we can be sure that we have strong defence capabilities to protect our nation from any external threats and aggression.
Singapore has been able to strengthen its air defence with the help of advanced American weapons systems and platforms. This enabled Singapore to develop closer defence relations with the United States, which in turn provided Singapore with advanced weapon platforms and capabilities to meet threats from its neighbours. The American weapon platforms were also instrumental in helping Singapore develop its military edge and enhance its early warning systems. In addition, the United States also provided Singapore with equipment and training on their 2C Airborne systems, which enable it to detect threats at an early stage and take necessary precautionary measures accordingly.
Singapore has long relied on the support of western powers to ensure its national security. Its defence strategy is based on deterrence diplomacy, which involves the use of military forces, along with diplomatic and economic measures, to deter potential aggressors. The major western powers have cited military deterrence as a key component in Singapore’s defence strategy and have supported its development by providing advanced military technology, armaments and intelligence.
The Singapore Police Force has also been given a special role in the nation's defence. With the capability readiness and readiness system, it is tasked with ensuring Singapore’s commitments to peacekeeping and protecting its citizens in times of crisis. The nation has developed a standby arrangements to deploy forces for peacekeeping missions when needed, and to serve as a peacekeeping force for other nations. Through these efforts, Singapore understands our population needs and the importance of world peace. It is committed to developing a robust military capability that can be used for stand-by arrangements and in international peacekeeping efforts. The government also understands the need for effective police forces that can monitor local security threats and provide assistance when needed.
To this end, Singapore has created a National Defence Act which requires all male Singapore citizens and permanent residents to undergo national service. This is done as a signifying concerted effort towards safeguarding progress in the nation’s capital area, and provides an accurate picture of the same upward direction that Singapore is headed in. The arrows of the bubble point towards a common objective, with all Singapore citizens being provided with equal opportunities for advancement and protection.
Singapore's active government and its recognition as a military defence force have enabled it to carry out a wide range of defence outreach programs, such as military sales, government sales and total defence. These programmes aim at inoculating the public with knowledge regarding foreign military sales cases and to ensure that all questions raised by members of the public are answered promptly.