Address by RADM (NS) Teo Chee Hean, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence at the Ground-Breaking Ceremony for Changi Naval Base

10 Jan 1998

RADM (NS) Teo Chee Hean, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence

INVESTING FOR OUR SECURITY

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

This ground-breaking ceremony for the Republic of Navy’s newest and largest base marks the opening of another new frontier in the development of the Navy. Changi Naval Base will be equipped with state-of-the-art operational, training and support facilities. When it eventually materialises on this vacant reclaimed land it will stand as an icon of our commitment to the defence of Singapore’s security and the protection of our maritime interests. The strategic location of Changi Naval Base at the eastern end of Singapore will, together with Tuas Naval Base at the western end of our island, enhance the protection of Singapore’s territorial waters and help ensure unimpeded navigation in the SLOCs which are among the most vital waterways for international trade and our lifelines.

Long-Term Planning and Preparedness

The RSN has come far since its birth 30 years ago. Today she is a modern and balanced maritime force, capable of carrying out her vital missions. The RSN has been well served by adopting the principle of long-term strategic planning, of looking "beyond the horizon", and anticipating and adapting to an ever-changing environment.

Always looking ahead; always vigilant and prepared; planning for all contingencies. These are cardinal principles in our defence policy. Building up and maintaining a credible defence force which can ensure Singapore’s security is a continuous effort which requires long-term vision, long-term planning and long-term investment. Only such a sustained commitment can assure Singaporeans of a peaceful and secure environment for our continued growth and for us to continue to enjoy a high quality of life.

CNB Role and Facilities

The RSN’s attainment of its present commendable level of operational capability and readiness can, in part, be attributed to the modern platforms and equipment the Navy has brought into her orbat, supported by excellent logistics and infrastructure. Changi Naval Base, with its advanced facilities, will play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s capability and operational readiness. Compared to Brani Naval Base which it replaces, Changi Naval Base will have twice the land area and five times the berthing space and deeper waters. Information technology will be exploited extensively. There will also be extensive use of mechanisation and automation technology to enhance operational efficiency, reduce the need for manpower and allow for more efficient land use. The new Changi Naval Base together with Tuas Naval Base will provide enough capacity and room for new facilities to meet the Navy’s requirements well into the 21st Century.

The new base will also be the site of the Changi Naval Training Base, which will house the RSN’s Training Command and its three principal institutes specialising in maritime warfare, naval technology and marine engineering. The heavy investment we put into the training of the men and women of the RSN ensures that our most valuable resources are optimally employed. The RSN’s operational capability and readiness depend critically on its people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to extend my best wishes to the Republic of Singapore Navy, the Land and Estates Organisation, and the Project Consultants. They have the important task of ensuring that the new Changi Naval Base will be up to playing its key role in meeting the RSN’s mission of defending Singapore and protecting our seas.

News Release:

- Singapore Navy Breaks New Ground (Document No: MINDEF_19980110001.pdf)