Key defence initiatives rolled out by MINDEF this year

26 Décembre 2014 , Rédigé par ileridefense Publié dans #Asie

By Leong Wai Kit, Channel NewsAsia

POSTED: 25 Dec 2014 20:43

Several initiatives were rolled out by the Defence Ministry in the past year, to ensure the armed forces remain strong and credible.

SINGAPORE: Several initiatives were rolled out by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in the past year to ensure Singapore's armed forces remain strong and credible. These included beefing up ties in the region, helping servicemen manage their fitness, and leveraging technology to boost training.

Regionally, the Defence Ministry looked at ways to boost Singapore's security and tie-ups. One was the setting up of a regional centre in Changi to help countries during a disaster.

The Regional Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief - Coordination Centre (RHCC) started operations in September. MINDEF said the centre was on standby during the recent Typhoon Hagupit in the Philippines and is set to be fully operational towards end-2015.

It said the RHCC's success is contingent on the support of partner militaries and other stakeholders. Thus far, France has cross-accredited its International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre in support of the RHCC, while Laos has provided the centre with military contact points for disaster relief.

MINDEF was also in talks with other regional and extra-regional militaries on working together to boost regional capacity for disaster relief through the RHCC.

On home ground, changes are on track to keep NSmen fit. From April, the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) format will be revamped - one-minute push-ups and sit-ups will be introduced, while the current pull-up and standing broad jump stations scrapped.

Mindef is fine-tuning details before rolling out the new format, in the second quarter of 2015.

NSmen can also fully stretch their time - to balance work and training.

The IPT-in-the-Park trial was launched in September 2014. This is a voluntary, 10-session programme to train NSmen for their physical proficiency tests. Instead of training in camp, NSmen can do so at one of five selected parks across the island.

Mindef says many NSmen are warming up to these flexible arrangements. Most of the changes stem from recommendations made by the Committee to Strengthen National Service. The committee was formed in March 2013. It held a series of talks to collate views and feedback on national service. Its recommendations were accepted by the government in June 2014.

One main recommendation is the setting up of the SAF Volunteer Corps.

The scheme allows women, Permanent Residents and new citizens to contribute to national defence. Volunteers must be aged between 18 and 45 years old and will undergo medical screening and an interview to assess their suitability.

So far, more than 700 applications have been received for the programme. Those selected will be enlisted in March 2015.

Other initiatives include the NS Home Awards which kicked in, in September where NSmen receive money to help with their housing, healthcare and education needs. About $15,000 is given when he completes full-time National Service, and at the mid and end points of his reservist cycle.

Mindef is also using technology to boost training capabilities.

The newly-launched (Dec 1, 2014) indoor Airborne Trooper Training Facility allows for the safe and effective training of soldiers. It uses technology to simulate different wind speeds and landing conditions.

On a smaller scale, technology is handy, as Mindef looks at using wearable devices to track an NSman's fitness and training progress.

- CNA/al

Source : Channel News Asia (Singapour)

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/key-defence-initiatives/1549350.html#cxrecs_s

Relayé par H.G