AIR FORCE NEWS

AFN MANAGEMENT FEATURED WRITERS COMMITTEE r Dar en T eing in Air Force News Team for the past nine months Chairman P an LC Bgave me the opportunity to witness many facets of COL Koh Ee Wen

our Air Force and the dedicated airmen and women who

contribute selflessly to our nation’s air defence 24/7. After

Members

witnessing the aerial display during Airshow 18,

LTC Lily Foo I was imbued with a renewed sense of purpose in carrying

out my duties to showcase the tenacity and diligence of

LTC Koh Boon Tih

LTC Cecilia Ong our Air Force through my photographs. We are One Force, LTC Tan Giam Above All! LTC Michael Wong MAJ Tan Chuan Yeong ng Qiya efore enlisting, I used to think that the Air Force is all P S n C g Babout fighter aircraft and pilots. Being in the Air Force Ms Heng Ai Buay L News Team changed my perspective as I have seen airmen

Ms Loh Seok Chen

and women of various vocations work tirelessly and without

complaint, from the controllers to the engineers, the aircrew

Editors to the Ground-Based Air Defence personnel. All of them

LTC Melvyn Tan have played a part in maintaining the high standard of

operational capability and readiness and I look forward to

LTC Charles Chua

sharing my experiences through Air Force News. Assistant Editor Ms Ng Yun Wen

Staff Writers & Photographers LCP Bradley Gerard LCP Sng Qiyang LCP Darren Tan PTE Edward Sim PTE Andy Tay REC Bryan Wong TABLE OF CONTENTS

RSAF50 Photo Contest 3

RSAF50 Announcement 4

Singapore Airshow 18 6

Exercise Forging Sabre 14 Like us on Facebook! Facebook.com/TheRSAF Follow us on Twitter & Instagram! Insight: RSAF50-Themed F-15SG 18 @TheRSAF | #TheRSAF Share your RSAF50 Moments with us! Happenings in the RSAF 19 #RSAF50 We Value Your Feedback! Awards & Ceremonies 25 If you have any feedback or comments about Air Force News, please email [email protected] My Air Force Story 28

The opinions and views herein are those expressed by the writers and do not necessarily Developing Our People 30 reflect the official views of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) or the Ministry of Changes in Appointments 31 Defence. The materials in Air Force News are not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the RSAF. Sneak Peek 31

2 photo by: CPL (NS) bon koh want to be featured in the next issue of air force news? send in your rsaf50-related photos to [email protected] and stand a chance to win some rsaf50 memorabilia! R S A F 5 0 Announcement

STORY Bradley Gerard DESIGN Qiyang Sng

he RSAF celebrates 50 years of commitment and dedication Tin safeguarding Singapore’s skies this year with the theme of ‘Our Home, Above All’. In 1968, the RSAF started off as the Singapore Air Defence Command (SADC), before being formally inaugurated as the RSAF on 1 April 1975. From beginning with only two Cessna aircraft on loan from the Singapore Flying Club, the RSAF has now amassed scores of aircraft, ground assets and systems in its effort to constantly evolve to meet newer challenges and threats to national defence. During the RSAF50 Media Conference on 17 Jan 18, COS-AS, BG Kelvin Khong announced several events lined up for RSAF50: RSAF50@ 18 draws a massive Celebrating a double birthday bash crowd Following the nation’s birthday, over the weekend of 11 Held from 6 to 11 Feb 18, Singapore Airshow 18 (SA18) and 12 Aug 18, families will be able to have a fun day out kick started the RSAF50 celebrations throughout the at the Marina Barrage by catching a commemorative year. President Halimah Yacob officially launched the RSAF50 aerial flypast comprising more than 20 RSAF celebrations on 7 Feb at SA18 by unveiling the RSAF50- flying assets, as well as aerial displays by the F-15SG and themed F-15SG fighter aircraft, and contributed a photo F-16C/D fighter aircraft and Apache attack helicopter, at to the RSAF50 Mural. Members of the public also had the the RSAF50@Marina Barrage event. opportunity to visit the RSAF Pavilion and enjoy static and aerial displays of RSAF assets.

Airmen and women to walk the ground at the Capping off the celebrations with a final parade Heartlands On 1 Sep 18, to mark 50 years of steadfast dedication to The RSAF will bring their RSAF50 celebrations to the nation’s air defence, the RSAF50 Parade will be held Singaporeans at five Heartlands locations from March at . It will feature a parade march-past, to May 2018 – , , , a mobile column, and a Salute-to-the-Nation flypast. and East. Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen Prime Minister, , will be the Guest- will officially launch RSAF50@Heartlands during its first of-Honour at the event, and will unveil the completed exhibition at Toa Payoh. The public will be able to catch RSAF50 Mural, concluding the momentous year. interactive exhibits, static displays of RSAF assets and special highlights unique to each Heartland location, such as live helicopter operations at RSAF50@Sembawang.

As we begin RSAF50, a few of our servicemen and ME3 Suresh Maniam women past and present look back on their stories of how On Boxing Day, 2004, a devastating they were shaped by the RSAF into what they are today. tsunami occurred off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, causing widespread LTC (RET) Leo Tin Boon destruction to the surrounding regions. In 1971, LTC (RET) Leo, one of the ME3 Suresh arrived in Banda Aceh to pioneer helicopter pilots that trained oversee the operations of the Mobile Air under the SADC, was deployed in the Traffic Control Tower, set up to facilitate RSAF's first Humanitarian Aid and more efficient air trafic control operations. “Having the Disaster Relief operation to aid in flood opportunity to become involved in the tsunami relief effort relief efforts in Kuantan, flying the was a blessing and rewarding in more ways than I can Alouette III helicopter to deliver food express. The enormous support provided by the RSAF was supplies to villages and towns that were a real stepping stone for the people to start rebuilding their cut off from food and medical aid. LTC (RET) Leo said, home again.” “Whether in the past, present or the future, I hope that the focus of our airmen and women is to know that their duty of defending the nation is the very reason for them to be LTC Christine Sim joining the force.” Within two days of the same tsunami, LTC Christine Sim, a Super Puma MAJ (NS) Mark Lim helicopter Pilot, was on board the RSN’s As a Weapon Systems Officer, MAJ Landing Ship Tank to aid in relief efforts. (NS) Lim flew in the F-16D+ fighter Her mission was to fly aid supplies from aircraft that was scrambled in response Banda Aceh into the affected regions to intercept an Australian-registered like Meulaboh province. Speaking about Cessna aircraft that was headed towards the mission, LTC Sim, who has flown Singapore without an approved flight over 20 missions plan. Looking back on the incident, MAJ to date, said, “Though we flew from sunrise to sunset, (NS) Lim said, “I think this incident demonstrated the the smiles we got from the survivors when they saw our RSAF’s ever-readiness to respond to such situations, and helicopters arriving with aid supplies were most gratifying. also the importance of the SAF in being vigilant 24/7 to It motivated us to keep going every day, knowing that safeguard our homeland. For us, the professionalism and we were bringing some comfort and relief to the affected all the training that we have gone through paid off.” Indonesians in Meulaboh.”

5 he Singapore Airshow is Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, connecting global aviation Tstakeholders to key opportunities that drive change and shape the future. Since its inception, the biennial Airshow has provided a platform for the RSAF to RSAF50@ showcase its capabilities and assets. With Singapore Airshow 18 (SA18) coinciding with the RSAF’s golden jubilee, it provided a perfect opportunity for the RSAF Singapore to display its achievements and milestones in the past 50 years. Held at Exhibition Centre (CEC) from STORY & DESIGN 18 6 to 11 Feb 18, visitors had a chance to dive into the QiyangAirshow Sng history of the RSAF through the immersive exhibits in the RSAF Pavilion, as well as view the RSAF’s aircraft and weapon systems on static display up close.

6 Launch Day he sunlit clouds drifted across The launch was witnessed by Minister "To all the airmen and the clear blue skies, hinting for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen; Second Tthe start of a good day ahead. As Minister for Defence, Mr Ong Ye women who have made the gentle rays of the morning sun Kung; Senior Minister of State for the RSAF’s success shone down on the crowd, the Defence, Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin possible, I thank you for edge of the large blue tent fluttered Osman; Permanent Secretary for with the wind, heightening the Defence, Mr Chan Yeng Kit; CDF, your professionalism audience’s anticipation of President LG Perry Lim; CAF, MG Mervyn and unwavering Halimah Yacob’s launch of RSAF50 Tan; CNV, RADM Lew Chuen Hong; commitment." celebrations at SA18 on 7 Feb 18. former Chiefs of Air Force; Chiefs of foreign Air Forces and invited foreign - President Halimah During the launch, President officials. Halimah said in her keynote address, “This year marks an important After the unveiling ceremony, milestone for the RSAF. I would President Halimah toured the static like to congratulate the RSAF on its displays and RSAF Pavilion where success and achievements over the she interacted with the past and past 50 years. To all the airmen and present airmen and women of the women who have made the RSAF’s RSAF. She thanked pioneers of the success possible, I thank you for your RSAF for laying the foundation to professionalism and unwavering develop the RSAF to what it is today. commitment.” President Halimah also contributed a As three F-15SG fighter aircraft photo for a commemorative RSAF50 soared through the skies in a Mural that will feature a montage symbolic flypast that kick-started the of 50,000 photos contributed by RSAF’s golden jubilee celebrations, Singaporeans during the various the blue tarp curtains dropped to RSAF50 celebratory events unveil the RSAF50-themed F-15SG throughout the year. fighter aircraft. The RSAF50- themed F-15SG fighter aircraft is specially designed and painted to commemorate the RSAF’s 50th anniversary. The paint scheme incorporates the RSAF50 logo on the top and the tails of the F-15SG. The past and present roundels of the RSAF are also painted on the tails of the F-15SG to symbolise the RSAF’s growth and transformation over these 50 years.

7 Aerial Displays The RSAF Aerial Display Team’s routine included 15 When it comes to Airshows, the most highly anticipated manoeuvres, six of which were never before seen. They segment is the aerobatic displays executed by the also showcased the RSAF50-themed F-15SG fighter aircrew, performing gravity-defying stunts in their aircraft as part of their aerobatic displays. One of the highly manoeuvrable aircraft. Visitors were certainly manoeuvres was the 3-ship Dedication Pass, which is not disappointed as they were treated to breath-taking dedicated to the past and present airmen and women of flying displays which included the Indonesian Air Force’s the RSAF, including those who have left us in the line of Jupiter Aerobatic Team’s KT-1B, the U.S Air Force’s F-16, duty. Their mesmerizing routine ended with the Golden the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s Sukhoi Su-30MKM, Salute as a tribute to the nation, in which the three fighter the Royal Thai Air Force’s JAS-39 C/D Gripen, and of aircraft released flares, and broke off in a bomb-burst course, our very own RSAF’s integrated aerial display formation at high altitude. team. “We planned to do 15 manoeuvres For the duration of the Airshow, the aerial display teams in 15 minutes, and trying to execute flaunted manoeuvres that dazzled the crowd. The RSAF’s one manoeuvre per minute was very integrated aerial display team, comprising a F-15SG challenging. We had less time to train so fighter aircraft and two F-16C fighter aircraft for the we were under a lot of pressure, but we still first time, performed 15 exhilarating manoeuvres that wanted to put up a good show,” said MAJ required high degrees of precision and coordination Chang Haw Ning, team lead of the Aerial amongst the aircrew of the three aircraft. Display Team.

8 Static Displays The spectacular aerial displays were not the only highlights of RSAF50@SA18; visitors also had the chance to view the RSAF static displays, which included the F-15SG and “The Air Force’s F-16C/D fighter aircraft, AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, AS332 Super Puma, CH-47 Chinook and S-70B Seahawk 50 years of stellar helicopters, Hermes 450 and Heron 1 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, C-130 transport aircraft and G550 Airborne achievements are Early Warning aircraft, Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby (SPYDER), RBS-70 and I-HAWK Ground-Based Air the shared fruits Defence systems, Multi-Mission Radar and Mounted- Portable Search and Target Acquisition Radar. of our labour that When asked about his confidence in belongs to everyone the RSAF’s capabilities after viewing the static displays, Shanmuagam Surya, a in our Air Force Temasek Polytechnic student majoring in Aerospace Engineering, said, “I’ve family.” always been very confident of the RSAF’s capabilities because since young, I’ve been - CAF, MG Mervyn Tan following updates on what’s going on with the Air Force and my confidence in the RSAF’s capabilities to defend Singapore has definitely gone up after today.” 9 Public Days RSAF50@SA18 attracted nearly 80,000 visitors of all ages for the public days on 10 to 11 Feb 18. People of different nationalities and ages had the chance to marvel at the wide range of military and commercial aircraft, and were also given the opportunities to sit in the cockpits of the aircraft static displays.

Despite the sweltering sun that blazed across the whole of CEC, it did not deter visitors from waiting in line to get up close and personal with the RSAF’s static displays.

“Aside from the static displays, we have an RSAF50 Exhibition that will show our journey over the past 50 years. We hope that through RSAF50@SA18, we will connect even better with Singaporeans,” said COMD Air Power Generation Command, BG Gan Siow Huang, who is also the Organising Chairperson of RSAF50@SA18 and Heartlands.

The RSAF Pavilion also allowed visitors to enjoy an immersive experience consisting of realistic simulators and exhibits, in addition to the RSAF50 Mural.

10 There were also interactive booths that provided visual stories of how the RSAF grew from a First Generation to a Third Generation Air Force, and how much it has achieved in the past 50 years, overcoming trials and tribulations to become one of the leading air forces in the region.

On 3 Feb 18, the RSAF also organized a Family Day at SA18, whereby our RSAF personnel and their families could view the spectacles of the Airshow. It was also an opportunity for families of RSAF personnel to better understand what they do on a day-to-day basis, and appreciate the hard work and effort they put in to ensure that the Singapore skies remain safe.

In his opening address, MG Tan thanked the RSAF and their loved ones for their support and dedication. He said, “The Air Force’s 50 years of stellar achievements are the shared fruits of our labour that belongs to everyone in our Air Force family. The support of our parents, the support of our spouses, and the support of our children will continue to be the cornerstone of the success of the RSAF for the past and the future.”

Visitors getting a chance to go on a Super Puma familiarisation flight during the SA18 public days

CAF; Chief of Staff of (USAF), General (GEN) David L. Goldfein, RSAF and USAF personnel at RSAF50@SA18 during GEN Goldfein's introductory visit to Singapore

11 Trade Days During the trade days held from 9 to 10 Feb 18, students from various schools and tertiary institutions also attended RSAF50@SA18 as part of the Singapore Airshow Aero Campus Initiative, which aims to educate young students about the operational duties that the RSAF executes on a daily basis.

Showing the students around the static displays was a memorable experience for MAJ Chong Weiqu, an Apache attack helicopter pilot from 120 SQN. “Other than looking at the machines itself, they get to interact with the human side on how we employ these machines and how we actually use them in the wider SAF to support our troops, so we are fighting as one force: our Air Force and the rest of the services.”

12 Behind-the-Scenes The success of RSAF50@SA18 boiled down to the hours of hard work and dedication from the RSAF's airmen and women to ensure that everything ran smoothly. From practicing for aerobatic manoeuvres to late nights spent towing the aircraft into static display areas, the aircrew and personnel worked endlessly and professionally to achieve mission success.

PTE Alston Lai from 163 SQN said, “It doesn’t matter whether you are a back end storeman or a frontline fighter pilot, to all RSAF airmen and women, thank you for your service. I am honoured to be part of the Air Force and to be your comrade.”

13 STORY Darren Tan DESIGN Qiyang Sng

ver the skies of Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR), two Heron 1 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) tracked the ground movements from above. The Heron 1 UAV was Oable to accurately pinpoint the locations of the four targets despite them being concealed in a cluster of similar-looking targets. Subsequently, the information was relayed back to the Command Post (CP), where they designated the appropriate platform to conduct the strike. Before long, the sizzling roars of the F-15SG fighter aircraft tore through the skies as it launched a succession of four 2000 pound Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) onto the hostile targets, leaving behind a trail of smoke below that spelt mission success.

14 Exercise Forging Sabre (XFS) is a biennial large-scale integrated strike exercise involving sense and strike assets from the RSAF and Army. Held from 28 Nov to 13 Dec 17 in Arizona, USA, XFS 17 is the sixth instalment in the series that began in 2005, involving about 750 active and NS personnel from the RSAF and Army.

XFS 17 saw the multi-faceted participation of the RSAF, which includes ten F-15SG fighter aircraft, ten F-16C/D fighter aircraft, six Apache attack helicopters, three Chinook helicopters and three Heron 1 UAVs. XFS 17 also featured the use of advanced munitions, such as the JDAM, Laser JDAMs, Laser Guided Bombs, and Hellfire missiles to destroy static and moving targets in day and night scenarios at BMGR, a training area approximately 20 times the size of Singapore.

Out-sense Out-smart Sensors scan the battlefield, to collect timely and accurate The CP acts as the nerve centre of the exercise. In the information on enemy targets. Sensors used during XFS CP, commanders and battle staff from the RSAF and 17 include the Heron 1 UAV, STrike ObserveRs Mission SAF sit and work together, analysing the information (STORM) teams and Commando detachments. The that is picked up and sent back by the sensors. Using the Heron 1 UAV is a single engine system equipped with Command and Control (C2) system, the information advanced avionics and detection capabilities. It is able to will be fused together to create a comprehensive real relay timely and accurate intelligence of the battlefield time situation picture. The commanders will be aware of from the air to allow quicker and sharper decision the situation in the battlefield and will be able to swiftly making back at the CP. On the ground, the STORM identify and deploy the most suitable assets as a response. teams and Commando detachments can also locate and The C2 system has been evolving through the years. At observe enemy targets. Together, these sensors provide XFS 17, the newly upgraded C2 system had the ability comprehensive and persistent coverage of the battlefield, to perform more accurate and rapid battle damage and supports the CP to rapidly direct a wide range of assessment using new video analytics technology. On strike assets to engage any target. top of that, the C2 system is now able to overlay the video footage on the map while providing geographical information, enabling the commanders to have a better understanding of the situation and to assign the most suitable asset for the strike.

Out-shoot The SAF’s integrated strike capability employs a full range of assets and weapons to effectively destroy different types of enemy forces. Multiple moving enemy targets, such as tanks and multiple launch rocket systems can be destroyed by the laser guided bombs carried by the F-15SG and F-16C/D fighter aircraft or AH-64D Apache attack helicopter using radar-guided missiles. The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) can fire M31 unitary rockets simultaneously at targets, such as enemy air defence and surveillance systems. The F-15SG fighter aircraft, apart from carrying laser bombs, is able to launch the Guided Bomb Unit-31 (GBU-31), a 2000 pound JDAM which is a GPS-guided precision munition that is capable of accurately targeting and destroying large or heavily fortified structures, such as enemy CPs and buildings. XFS17 is also the first time a live GBU-31 JDAM was dropped on the target.

15 The sixth iteration of XFS saw the first integrated participation of the Heron 1 UAV and the HIMARS, to provide a wide area of coverage over the battlefield. With the Heron 1 UAV’s ability to conduct area surveillance over the battlefield, it is able to collect timely and accurate information on the enemy targets. Thereafter, the crucial information is relayed to the HIMARS. This sense and strike combination is highly versatile as it can reduce collateral damage, thus allowing it to be highly effective even in urban areas.

LTA Joshua Lim, an Apache attack helicopter pilot from Peace Vanguard detachment commented about the importance of having the Heron 1 UAV to provide a real- time bird's eye view over the battlefield. “It is important because the Apache attack helicopters will not be able to see as far as our other assets. Therefore, they will act as our eyes and relay the information on the target to us and we will provide weapons on the target.”

"With limited air and land space in Singapore, we need overseas exercises like this for our airmen and soldiers to hone their skills and maintain a high level of operational readiness." - CAF, MG Mervyn Tan

16 COMD Air Combat Command and Co-Exercise Director, BG Tommy Tan, shared about the significance of the integrated strike exercise. He said, “These missions involve picking up ‘pop-up’ targets that may be moving, tracking them continuously and making dynamic adjustments to ongoing strike plans to destroy the targets…At XFS 17, these missions are carried out in a realistic and challenging environment which strengthens our operational capabilities.”

"In this year’s exercise, we are deploying the GBU-31, a 2000 pound highly explosive Joint Direct Attack Munition by the F-15s. We are also deploying the HIMARS mobile command post that provides a very tightly-knit C2 to command the HIMARS firing outfield,” said Exercise Air Director, COL Liew Boon Ping.

LTA Yip Di Hao, a Weapon Systems Officer (Fighter) from PC V Detachment, remarked about the experience he gained throughout this exercise. “Actually this is my first time participating in XFS and flying in Arizona, it is a different airspace for sure and there are a lot of different ground targets to conduct military training. It is definitely a good experience to be flying here and dropping live bombs for the first time.”

CDF and CAF Visit XFS 17 CDF, LG Perry Lim, and CAF, MG Mervyn Tan visited personnel deployed for XFS 17 during the Exercise. During their visit, they witnessed an integrated strike mission and interacted with exercise participants. MG Tan noted, “What we have accomplished in this exercise is testament to the professionalism and commitment of our servicemen and women, from both the Air Force and the Army. With limited air and land space in Singapore, we need overseas exercises like this for our airmen and soldiers to hone their skills and maintain a high level of operational readiness. I am grateful to our United States partners for providing us with this important opportunity. The success of Exercise Forging Sabre gives us a lot of confidence that the SAF is ready to defend Singapore.”

17 insight: rsaf50-themed f-15sg STORY Bradley Gerard DESIGN Qiyang Sng

he RSAF50-themed F-15SG fighter aircraft is specially designed and painted to commemorate the RSAF's 50th anniversary. The Tpaint scheme incorporates the RSAF50 logo on the top and the tails of the F-15SG. The aircraft adopts a predominately blue colour scheme to symbolise the skies above our home which we defend above all.

The past and present When the Singapore In 1974, a yin-yang In 1990, a new roundel roundels of the RSAF Air Defence Command symbol within a stylised that echoed the RSAF’s are painted on the was formed in 1968, it "S", was adopted to reflect unity of purpose was tails of the RSAF50 inherited the roundel of the SADC's coming launched to coincide with F-15SG to symbolise the , which of age, and was used Singapore’s 25th year of the RSAF's growth and comprised a red circle and till 1990. This design independence. It depicted transformation over these a blue outer ring. To reflect was adopted from the a Lion Head, Singapore’s 50 years. that Singapore's air defence winning entry of a public national symbol, was now in our own competition held in late surrounded by a bold red hands, the outer ring was 1973 for a new design for ring, which denotes the changed to red: Singapore’s the SADC's emblem. RSAF’s role in upholding national colour. Singapore’s sovereignty, peace, and security. 18 HAPPENINGS IN THE RSAF

MINDEF Internship Programme 06 December 2017 n 6 Dec 17, 109 students from various junior colleges and polytechnics participated in the OMINDEF Internship Programme (MIP) held at and Camp. The programme gave the students a better understanding of the RSAF's operations and career opportunities in the organisation.

The programme started with a talk by MAJ Paul Cheng, Head Air Force Recruitment Centre, where he gave the students an introduction to the RSAF. The students then had an interaction session with COS- AS, BG Kelvin Khong and other RSAF commanders, As part of the MIP, the students visited a hangar where who shared their experiences with the students, giving they learnt about the RSAF’s engineering capabilities them a deeper understanding of the RSAF. at various booths. They also viewed a static display of the Chinook helicopter and took a familiarisation Ler Wei Qiang, a participant from St Andrew’s Junior flight on board a Super Puma helicopter. To further College, said, "Before I came to MIP, I didn’t know that the students’ understanding of the various vocations, people who wear spectacles are still able to become pilots, one group of students visited 165 SQN, 6 and 9 DA so knowing that actually sparked some interest for me in Bn to view the Ground-Based Air Defence SPYDER the pilot vocation. I am geared towards being a transport and RBS-70 systems, while another group visited the pilot because working as a team is something that will control tower at 206 SQN to learn about Air Traffic really help me develop communication skills and I find Control operations. working in such a big aircraft to be very interesting."

19 happenings in the RSAF

Exercise Cope Tiger 18 Exercise Cope Tiger is an annual trilateral exercise involving the three Air Forces to enhance Opening Ceremony interoperability and promote mutual understanding. The exercise will be conducted in two phases - the 15 December 2017 Command Post Exercise (CPX) phase followed by the Field Training Exercise (FTX) phase. The CPX n 15 Dec 17, COS-AS, BG Kelvin Khong; Chief phase was held in Singapore from 6 to 7 Dec 17, while Oof the Air Staff Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), the FTX phase will be conducted at Korat Air Base, Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Wanchai Nushkasem Thailand, from 12 to 22 March 2018. There was also a and Air National Guard Assistant to Commander Final Planning Conference (FPC) that was held from Pacific Air Forces, MG James Eifert, co-officiated 12 to 14 Dec 17 at the Multinational Operations and the Exercise Cope Tiger Opening Ceremony at Paya Exercises Centre, Changi Naval Base where planners Lebar Air Base. Personnel from the RSAF, RTAF and from the three nations came together to discuss and United States Air Force were also present during the finalise the planning details for the Exercise. ceremony.

ACC 10th Anniversary 27 December 2017 n 27 Dec 17, Air Combat Command (ACC) celebrated its 10th Anniversary at Marina OBarrage. The celebration commenced with an opening speech by the Guest-of-Honour, COMD ACC, BG Tommy Tan, where he expressed appreciation and acknowledged the hard work of the ACC personnel. Following that, a cake cutting ceremony was held commemorate the milestone. After the run, ACC along with the launch of the ACC 10th Anniversary personnel were treated to refreshments and a band Commemorative Book, which was smoothly performance from The Weavers, which consisted delivered by a drone. entirely of members from 121 SQN.

To cultivate a strong cohesive culture as well as to Concluding the event, BG Tan presented the RSAF mark the 10th Anniversary of ACC, a 10-kilometre Sports Colours Award as well as the awards for the run themed ‘ACC 10Nacity Run’, was organised to 10-kilometer run to the winners.

20 HAPPENINGS IN THE RSAF

CAF Visit to standby units CAF, MG Mervyn Tan, visited 1 Medical SQN (1MS); 606 SQN; Base Command Post and 125 SQN at 31 December 2017 Sembawang Air Base, and 3 DA Bn at Chong Pang Camp, where he was briefed on the recent operations hile Singapore was preparing to usher in of each unit. Interaction sessions were held with the New Year on 31 Dec 17, several RSAF personnel from the respective units where MG WSQNs across the island were on duty to ensure that Tan took the opportunity to thank them for their Singapore’s skies remained safe. commitment to Singapore’s defence.

CAF NEW YEAR

RECEPTION During the reception, MG Tan interacted with RSAF 06 January 2018 personnel and their family members, and expressed his gratitude for their contributions and unwavering n 6 Jan 18, CAF, MG Mervyn Tan, hosted a New support. Year Reception for senior RSAF personnel at the OAir Force Museum. The event was held in recognition “I would like to thank the spouses and family members of the efforts by RSAF personnel in contributing for your support. As a husband and father, I know to mission success over the last year. Minister for how important this support is in allowing us to give Education (Schools) and Second Minister for our best in serving the nation. I would like all of us to Transport, Mr Ng Chee Meng; CDF, LG Perry Lim; take this moment to thank our families and show our and former Air Force Chiefs were also present at the appreciation for their sacrifices as an Air Force spouse event. and an Air Force family member,” said MG Tan.

21 happenings in the rsaf

Head AFI (HAFI), COL Philip Chionh, started the forum with a safety review, where he provided an in- depth analysis of safety issues over the past quarter. 04/17 Caf quarterly After COL Chionh's presentation, two case studies were shared, which generated discussions about the safety forum organisation's safety culture. Participants of the CQSF 10 January 2018 were also invited to share their views on the case studies and safety experiences with one another.

he 04/17 CAF Quarterly Safety Forum (CQSF) During the forum, CAF, MG Mervyn Tan, and Twas held at (West) on 10 Jan Formation Commanders Conference members 18. Organised by the Air Force Inspectorate (AFI), also shared their insight on how safety standards in the forum raises awareness of safety issues within the the RSAF can be ensured through professionalism, RSAF. discipline and vigilance.

Delivering the opening address at the dinner, MG Tan thanked the retired personnel for their years of dedication to the RSAF. “On behalf of our Air Force, let me thank you for your invaluable service. You have played an important role in the success of our Air Force and the safety of our nation,” he said. MG Tan also expressed his gratitude to their spouses, “Without your support and understanding throughout these years, our airmen would not have been able to give their best to the Air Force.” nd 22 RSAF One of the retirees who attended was LTC (RET) Maran, an Air Warfare Officer (Command, Control and Communications), who served in the RSAF for Appreciation Dinner 24 years. LTC (RET) Maran shared, "Team Excellence 18 January 2018 is one core value I feel defines our unique Air Force. We constantly strive to be a high-performing team; we work n 18 Jan 18, the 22nd RSAF Appreciation Dinner as a system, as a team, as a tribe. We are self-critical and was organised to show appreciation for the we have a common goal of achieving high standards. Ocontributions of retired RSAF personnel. Held at Paya The whole is greater than the sum of its parts; it is not Lebar Officers’ Mess, CAF, MG Mervyn Tan, graced about individuals, it is about people working together, the dinner reception as the Guest-of-Honour. as a community."

22 happenings in the rsaf

TAB and SBAB Community Outreach Programme 06 & 27 January 2018

engah Air Base (TAB) held a Community Outreach Programme (COP) on 6 Jan 18, Tattended by Grassroots Leaders and residents from Pioneer and Constituencies. The visit was hosted by COMD TAB, COL David Lim. On 27 Jan 18, Sembawang Air Base (SBAB) also held a COP, attended by Grassroots Leaders and residents from Sembawang, , Canberra, Chong Pang and Gambas constituencies, and residents from Sree Narayana Mission Home. SBAB personnel and their family members also attended the programme. The visit was hosted by COMD SBAB, SLTC Kevin Wee. Each COP was attended by more than 300 participants During the SBAB COP, the Grassroots Leaders and who had the opportunity to better understand the residents were briefed about the base by SLTC Wee. RSAF's operations. TAB showed off their fire-fighting capabilities with a demonstration by the fire tenders, and engaged the During the TAB COP, the Grassroots Leaders and Grassroots Leaders and residents with interactive residents were briefed about the base by COL Lim, booths. Attendees were also introduced to various before viewing various static displays such as the static displays such as the Super Puma helicopter and G-550 Transport Aircraft and the F-16C/D fighter the Chinook helicopter. The Grassroots Leaders and aircraft, a Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation/ residents also viewed a CPR/AED demonstration as Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) well as a military working dog attack and obedience demonstration as well as a military working dog demonstration. attack and obedience demonstration. Subsequently, TAB and SBAB personnel engaged the Grassroots Leaders and residents, and explained about the RSAF’s operations, as well as the various noise abatement measures undertaken by the RSAF to minimise the disturbance caused by local flying.

The event enabled members of the public to have a deeper understanding of the important role that the RSAF has in the 24/7 defence of Singapore and the need for local flying operations.

23 happenings in the rsaf ADOc 11th Anniversary 02 February 2018

An Uphill Run from the Gombak 800m Track to HQ ADOC was organised to promote healthy and competitive interaction amongst the ADOC units. LG Lim and COMD ADOC, COL Gaurav Keerthi, participated in the competitive run together with ADOC personnel. After the run, LG Lim officially n 2 Feb 18, Air Defence and Operations opened and toured the ADOC heritage room, Command (ADOC) celebrated its 11th “Journey”. OAnniversary. The event served as a platform to foster esprit de corps and provided an avenue for the COL Gaurav also presented the Commander ADOC Command to come together in recognition of the Challenge Shield Award to Air Defence Group which hard work and dedication of ADOC personnel over emerged victorious for the competitive run, as well as the past year. CDF, LG Perry Lim, was the Guest-of- individual medals for the winners of the competitive Honour. run. Singapore Aerospace Technology and Engineering Conference 07 February 2018

he Singapore Aerospace Technology and Engineering Conference (SATEC) 18 was held at TSuntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre on 7 Feb 18. Held biennially, SATEC is a premier aviation conference jointly organised by Air Engineering and Logistics Department and Singapore Institute of Aerospace Engineers, in conjunction with Singapore Airshow. SATEC serves as a platform for defence SATEC 18 also witnessed the mutual military officials, engineers, industry and academia leaders airworthiness authority recognition certificate to exchange views and present their research on new exchange ceremony between Head Air Engineering advances in the areas of aerospace technology and & Logistics, ME8 Francis Cheong and the Director engineering. of the French State Aviation Safety Directorate, MG Eric Labourdette. The ceremony not only represents In his keynote address, Guest-of-Honour, Permanent the complete and satisfactory assessment of both Secretary (Defence Development), Mr Neo Kian organisations’ airworthiness regulatory standards and Hong, said, “The industry faces increasing pressure of processes, but also marks a further strengthening of shorter development cycle, and demand for efficiency our nations’ ties in the field of military cooperation. and cost effectiveness. Even with new demands to enhance our defence capabilities, the Singapore Armed The conference provides an excellent avenue for the Forces is mindful to keep the defence budget within our RSAF to be kept abreast of the latest development in GDP growth rates.” the industry.

24 HAPPENINGS IN THE RSAF SAF sends Humanitarian Aid to Taiwan 09 February 2018

strong earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale hit Hualien, Taiwan on 6 Feb 18. Hundreds Aof casualties were recorded in the aftermath of the collapse of several sizable buildings. It also left buildings tilted at sheer angles, rendering them unsafe to live in, and affected residents had to seek refuge in shelters when their houses were destroyed.

On 9 Feb 18, the RSAF airlifted humanitarian aid worth $135,000 on a C-130 transport aircraft to Taiwan to provide relief to victims of the earthquake in Hualien. The relief package, comprising tents, blankets, medical supplies, food items and dynamo lights were donated by the SAF.

The aid supplies were handed over to Director of Ops, 5th Wing Command, COL Hu Chung-Hua, by the SAF Mission Commander, COMD Transport Group, COL Zakir Hamid.

awards & ceremonies

19th AFAC 02 February 2018

he 19th Air Force Advanced Course (AFAC) was conducted from 2 Jan to 2 Feb 18 at Air Force TOfficers' Advanced School (AFAS) in SAFTI military Institute. A total of 31 RSAF Officers graduated from the course.

COS-AS, BG Kelvin Khong, graced the end-of-course ceremony as the Guest-of-Honour. The Top Graduate of the course was CPT Huang Davin from AOD, and the Distinguished Graduates were CPT James Yong Dun Jie from JOD and CPT Koh Byron Jevan from 203 SQN.

25 awards & ceremonies

14th Senior Military Experts Appointment Ceremony 13 December 2017 he 14th Senior Military Experts (MEs) Appointment Ceremony was held on 13 Dec 17 Tat Temasek Club. Senior Minister of State for Defence, Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, officiated the ceremony where 99 servicemen and servicewomen were appointed as Senior Military Experts, of whom 25 were from the RSAF. CDF, LG Perry Lim and Director Military Intelligence / Chief Command and Control, Communications, Computer and Intelligence (C4I), BG Ong Tze-Ch’in, were also present at the ceremony.

Dr Maliki and LG Lim, presented both swords and appointment certificates to the graduands.

ME4A Ye Junrong, an Air Force Engineer from Air Engineering and Logistics Department, spoke about his learning journey. “One of the challenges I faced during the course was going in without any knowledge of Aeronautical Engineering, while most of my coursemates had such a background. I managed to overcome this challenge with help from my coursemates and by putting in hard work to catch up with the rest of them.”

In his speech, Dr Maliki highlighted the importance of MEs in ensuring that the SAF is always operationally ready, through the deeper domain expertise that they bring to the SAF. He said, “The SAF looks to you for leadership in critical domains such as engineering, intelligence and cyber security. You give the SAF the cutting-edge capability and enable the SAF to be operationally-ready to achieve mission success, in our ever-changing threat environment.”

26 awards & ceremonies

36 Newly Commissioned Officers Join the RSAF 16 December 2017

n 16 Dec 17, 377 cadets across the SAF, of whom 36 were from the RSAF, were commissioned Oas Officers at SAFTI Military Institute. President Halimah Yacob was the Reviewing Officer for the parade.

Speaking at the parade, President Halimah highlighted the important role the Officers have in leading their men in a challenging security environment. She said, "As we celebrate the evolution of NS in Singapore, we 2LT Teo’s family affixing the Officer rank must also recognise that our security environment has epaulettes on him become increasingly complex, uncertain and volatile… As commissioned Officers of the SAF, the task to defend Singapore against the challenges and threats ahead will rest on your leadership. The SAF depends on you to lead by example, with conviction, compassion and confidence. Excel in everything that you do, so that you can train and guide your soldiers well."

The Sword-of-Honour recipient from the RSAF was 2LT (then OCT) Teo Yan Ze Brendan from the 31st Air Warfare Officer (Ground-Based Air Defence) Course. 2LT Teo said, “I felt that my times in OCS has been a good opportunity to learn more about myself, grow and improve. My motivation was to do my best in defending the nation during my time in national 2LT Teo receiving the Sword-of-Honour from service.” President Halimah

27 my air force story Pioneering Endless Possibilities

Pioneer helicopter pilot LTC (RET) Leo Tin Boon's passion for the RSAF knows no boundaries

Significant milestones I had a most fulfilling 32-year career in the RSAF where I had opportunities ranging from operational and instructional flying and command and staff tours. I most cherish the camaraderie Why I joined the Air Force developed over those decades, and I am glad that My childhood immersion in a military environment I could contribute to Singapore's military defence inspired me to a military career. Born and raised in capability at the infancy of our nationhood. So the former British Naval Base where my parents much was at stake in those crucial years. worked as domestic servants, I was impressed by the warships, the helicopters flying from HMS Our first goal in 1970 and 1971 was to build up and naval parades. the local Search and Rescue (SAR) capability by training pilots in SAR skills and techniques. We I chose the Air Force as my career choice for two were time-pressed in our preparation to take over reasons. Firstly, I was seeking an answer to a the SAR responsibility from the departing Royal burning question, “How do airplanes remain airborne Air Force (RAF) helicopters. Our helicopter when things heavier than air must fall to earth?” So, I pilots also had to double up as winch-operators set my ambition be a pilot to find that answer. and winchmen in those years until the helicopter crewman vocation was established in 1972. Secondly, the British Government’s January 1968 Promptly on 1 September 1971, our helicopters announcement of its hastened military withdrawal took over the SAR responsibility from the from the Far East by 1971 led to the formation of departing RAF. the Singapore Air Defence Command (SADC) in 1968. This development gave me the opportunity One of the most memorable rescue missions I to be a pilot and to contribute to our young nation’s flew was winching up an injured seaman from a security. I quickly responded to SADC’s pilot burning oil tanker in the high sea 70 miles east recruitment advertisement and was among those of Horsburg Lighthouse on 25 January 1972. The 31 eventually selected in June 1968 for the first ever billowing smoke that intermittently engulfed my pilot training programme. My training in France helicopter hovering over the ship’s forecastle made lasted a year and in January 1970, I returned as the winching efforts very difficult and it affected a qualified helicopter pilot and joined SADC’s the helicopter engine performance. We overcame Alouette Squadron operating the Alouette III these challenges and successfully brought the helicopters. casualty to the Singapore General Hospital. 28 my air force story

Showcasing our infant air arm to our nation Thoughts for the current generation was important. Consequently, we mounted the I wish to leave you, the current guardians of our first State Flag flypast at the 1970 National Day sky, these thoughts: Parade at the Padang. We trained rigorously in close formation flying and successfully carried out • Whatever your purpose of joining the Air Force a 3-helicopter flypast on 9 August 1970. The joy was, you have a critical role in our nation’s survival. of that first NDP flypast radiated from faces of Stay true to that purpose and commit yourself our pilots, technicians, air traffic controllers and wholly to your duty. beyond. • No matter how small your role is, you are like My first baptism of fire came in the January 1971 that single piece of a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle. Kuantan flood relief operations when we deployed Without you completing your task, the puzzle all available helicopters and pilots to Kuantan for cannot be completed. 11 days. We had to fly unaided in very marginal weather conditions and applied very low altitude • Lead and manage your team members well. Their piloting skills learnt from France. I can vividly morale is pivotal, and they are the very cornerstone remember flying five missions on my 21st birthday. for accomplishing your mission. You must also I am proud that we accomplished every mission include your support staff from the various assigned to us and in the course of that deployment vocations. Everyone plays a crucial role. inadvertently made history as RSAF's first Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) • Continue to improve and strive for better mission overseas. solutions. The world is dynamic, and change is continuous. Innovate and continue to pursue As we needed more pilots to operate our new, excellence. larger fleet of UH1-H helicopters, I conducted the first local Helicopter Pilot Course in 1975 while commanding 120 SQN. That event laid the foundation for local helicopter pilot training that exists till today.

At a macro level, I was fortunate to be one of the founding officers of Air Plans Department, HQ RSAF in 1990. That situation allowed me to propose the long-term helicopter ORBAT and Sembawang Air Base’s infrastructure development plans. I am thankful that those proposals have come to fruition today. I retired on 1 July 2000 as the longest serving RSAF pilot at that time and I’m delighted that I had enjoyed a most rewarding career and affectionate journey with the RSAF, knowing that my contributions would materialise into the RSAF it is today.

My long journey started out with a quest for knowledge. Along the way, we laid many milestones as I discharged my duty to lead, to excel and to overcome. These outcomes were made possible by our belief that we had to safeguard our values and our way of life, and to defend our families and our homes amidst a sea of uncertainties. I am convinced that every generation of RSAF personnel is imbued with this commitment and is devoted to fulfil this duty. 29 DEVELOPING OUR PEOPLE Breaking new boundaries

ME4 Benjamin Ng shares his story on the importance, challenges and triumphs of little-known flight testing ME4 Ng conducting his first trial in Flight Test Centre, which involved both air- t the age of 16, ME4 Benjamin craft and ship assets ANg signed on with the RSAF under the Joint Polytechnic Diploma At the start of the course, he was flown to various countries and Scheme, and began serving as a first taught the fundamentals of made to evaluate the suitability of senior technician in 2007. His flight-testing, which included the an aircraft such as the CH47F (UK), aptitude and enthusiasm earned him incremental approach for safe conduct Lakota (US), Seahawk (US), against the opportunity to read Aerospace of flight trials. He explained, “The its assigned role such as Special Force Engineering in Imperial College golden rule for testing is to only vary and long-range humanitarian aid. London, United Kingdom under one parameter at a time. Varying two “One of the invaluable lessons I learnt the SAF Academic Scholarship or more parameters simultaneously during the course was the importance (Overseas) in 2010. He graduated with not only makes it difficult to determine of teamwork and the ability to bridge first class honours in 2014 and started trends but also creates a greater risk differences. Leveraging on each other’s work in Aerodynamics Branch, of unexpectedly meeting a ‘cliff edge’ strengths and overcoming weaknesses AELD. Subsequently, through a slew situation where a safe flight rapidly allowed us to achieve greater heights,” of interviews, he was selected to train changes to a potentially hazardous ME4 Ng reflected. as a Flight Test Engineer (FTE) at the one.” prestigious Empire Test Pilot School The real stuff. (ETPS) in United Kingdom amongst Furthermore, the course gave him a The first flight test trial ME4 Ng military experts around the world variety of opportunities to not only conducted after his ETPS graduation in 2017. Today, he is a qualified FTE fly various aircraft but also experience was to verify the safe operational working amongst fellow test pilots, cutting edge technology in various envelope of a ship and helicopter engineers, and technicians to plan countries as part of the curriculum. in both day and night conditions. and conduct flight test trials. “The academic modules during the In order to facilitate a smooth and course were reinforced with practical safe test conduct, weeks of rigorous Learn to test, test to learn. flights, totalling approximately 100 planning and preparation with Although flight testing is said to be the hours on various experimental and multiple stakeholders were required. cornerstone of aviation, it is relatively operational helicopter types. We In the execution phase, the highly unknown to the general public. “The assessed leading edge technology such dynamic environment demanded primary goal of flight testing is to as the mounted display technology close monitoring of trial parameters, gather data on a design, where certain in Netherlands, which used coloured weather and constant adaptation of aspects are not fully validated hence symbology to aid the pilot to land in test plan. After the trial, the work does requiring a trained test pilot and degraded visual environments, such as not stop as ME4 Ng will have to lead a FTE. Some practical examples include brownouts by swirling dust,” he said. team of engineers and pilots to analyse system and performance testing of the data collected and to conclude on the helicopters where new capabilities Finally, the skillsets were put to the each of the test objectives. such as weapon or hoisting systems are test in the final assessment termed introduced,” ME4 Ng said. the “Preview”, where teams were While flight-testing is not an easy feat, ME4 Ng looks forward to every trial, as there is a sense of accomplishment when new operational capabilities are tested and delivered to the frontline user. He shares, “Looking back, the course not only equips us with the knowledge and skillset but more importantly, nurtures us to become humble learners. The motto “Learn to test, test to learn’’ reminds me of how we should not be afraid to admit ME4 Ng (second from left) with his ETPS preview team comprising a British our lack of knowledge, but rather and Spanish test pilot and a Canadian test engineer, to evaluate the CH-47F acknowledge it, explore the unknown Chinoook helicopter for the long-range humanitarian aid role and seek to break new boundaries.” 30 CHanges in appointment

COMD TASG COC 03 January 2018

n 3 Jan 18, the command of Tactical Air Support Group (TASG) was handed over Ofrom COL Yap Kwee Chye to SLTC Maxmillion COMD ADG COC Goh at a Change-of-Command Ceremony held at 26 January 2018 Chong Pang Camp. The ceremony was witnessed by COMD Participation Command, BG Jonathan n 26 Jan 18, the command of Air Defence Tan. OGroup (ADG) was handed over from COL Koh Ee Wen to LTC Loh Woon Liang at a Change-of- Outgoing COMD TASG, COL Yap, joined the Command Parade held at Chong Pang Camp. The RSAF in 1990. Since then, he has held several parade was witnessed by Commander Air Defence command and staff appointments, including CO and Operations Command, COL Gaurav Keerthi. 105 SQN (then named Tactical Air Command Post SQN), and Branch Head in various branches Outgoing COMD ADG, COL Koh, joined the in Air Operations Department, Air Intelligence RSAF in 1997. Since then, COL Koh has held Department and Air Power Generation several command and staff appointments, including Command. CO 160 SQN and Branch Head in Air Manpower Department. Incoming COMD TASG, SLTC Goh, joined the RSAF in 1995. Since then, he held several Incoming COMD ADG, LTC Loh, joined the command and staff appointments, including RSAF in 1998. Prior to his appointment as COMD Detachment Commander of Peace Carvin II, and ADG, LTC Loh held several command and staff Branch Head in Air Operations Department and appointments, including CO 160 SQN and Branch Air Plans Department. Head in Joint Operations Department.

SNEAK PEEK: RSAF50@HEARTLANDS The RSAF will be bringing the RSAF50 celebrations into the Heartlands from March to May! Members of the public will be able to join in the festivities at five different Heartlands locations – Toa Payoh, Sembawang, Punggol, Bedok, and – where the RSAF will showcase exhibits, static displays, and demonstrations unique to each Heartlands location. Stay tuned for coverage on the exciting happenings at the first two locations, coming up in the next issue of Air Force News! heartlands