Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Associate Professor (A/P) Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim inspected the 60th Specialist Cadet Graduation Parade at Pasir Laba Camp this evening. A total of 950 graduands comprising 784 from the Singapore Army, 89 from the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), 5 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), and 72 from the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), graduated as Specialists and Military Experts of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

Addressing the graduands at the parade, A/P Faishal highlighted the importance for the SAF to continuously bolster operational readiness to respond swiftly to a spectrum of needs amid many uncertainties in the global security landscape. He said, “Over the years, the SAF has undergone significant transformation and made continuous investment to address evolving security threats. Today, the SAF is a modern and capable defence force, well-trained and equipped with advanced warfighting doctrines and arsenal. In the coming years, the SAF is set to operate new capabilities such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, Invincible-class submarines, Multi-Role Combat Vessels and Next-Generation Howitzers. With the establishment of the Digital and Intelligence Service two years ago, the SAF will be better able to defend Singapore against digital threats and operate as a networked and integrated force. These advancements will bolster the SAF's operational readiness and effectiveness in safeguarding Singapore's security.”

A/P Faishal also reminded graduands of the important role they play as leaders. He said, “Despite its impressive weaponry and technology, it would do us well to remember that the strength of the SAF resides fundamentally in the strength and character of our people. It is the collective commitment, resilience and will to fight in our people that assures us that Singapore can remain safe and secure. As leaders in the SAF, it is essential that you possess the mental fortitude to persevere through difficult times, the gumption to make hard decisions when needed, and ability to rally and inspire people when the going gets tough.”

The graduation parade marked the completion of the 22-week Specialist Cadet Course for graduands from the Singapore Army, the RSN, the RSAF and the DIS, where they trained under rigorous and realistic conditions to sharpen their respective vocation expertise. The newly graduated Specialists and Military Experts will go on to assume command, training and staff appointments in the SAF. Present at the parade were senior SAF commanders, as well as families and friends of the graduands.