Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at the inauguration of the Digital and Intelligence Service’s (DIS) Defence Cyber Command (DCCOM) and SAF C4 & Digitalisation Command (SAFC4DC) this afternoon.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr Ng highlighted how the set up of both the DIS and its two new Commands are timely, and how the DIS must enhance the SAF’s defence capabilities amidst an exponential growth of digital opportunities and threats.  “The SAF must step up to this challenge to protect our digital backbone and critical IT infrastructures…We have seen an alarming increase in the frequency, sophistication and scale of cyber threats. Cyber threat actors have refined their methods, used advanced techniques – they also use AI, zero-day exploits and ransomware to target critical infrastructure in healthcare, energy and government sectors,” he said. “At the same time, the SAF can harness digital technologies to help us in our mission. We have already begun to tap on Cloud computing, 5G and AI systems…The DIS’ job is to guide the SAF in applying the right tools for the appropriate task.”

In addition to the partnership between the DIS and Whole-of-Government, Dr Ng spoke on how Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) can contribute their expertise and skillsets through key advisory and technical appointments in the DIS, and how the DIS must continue to partner the industry to take advantage of latest commercial developments and increase the resilience of our digital systems nationally. “As the cyber threats and SAF’s capabilities grow, many more NSmen step forward to build our digital defence of Singapore. The DIS must partner the private sector to keep up with rapid innovation in cybersecurity and digital technologies. The IT cycle is very fast-moving, and we have to gain access to cutting-edge solutions and operational insights,” he said. “All these tie-ups will better position the SAF to deal with rapid product cycles, inherent in this sector.”

Dr Ng also commended the personnel of the two Commands, and reminded them on their commitment to their missions. He said, “Today’s inauguration of the SAFC4DC and DCCOM is a positive and important step for the DIS and the SAF…To the appointed leaders, men and women of these two Commands, recognise that Singaporeans have placed a heavy responsibility on you. Shoulder this responsibility with professionalism and dedication to fulfil your missions.” As part of the event, Dr Ng unveiled the new logos of DCCOM and SAFC4DC, and engaged with personnel from the two Commands.

Also present at the inauguration of DCCOM and SAFC4DC were Chief of Defence Force Vice-Admiral Aaron Beng, Permanent Secretary (Defence Development) Mr Melvyn Ong, and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Singapore Armed Forces, and Government and industry partners.