Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How officiated at the 26th Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony at Temasek Club this evening. A total of 122 service personnel, comprising 24 from the Singapore Army, 18 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, 32 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force and 48 from the Digital and Intelligence Service were appointed as Senior Military Experts (MEs) in this graduating cohort.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Heng emphasised the importance of a strong and capable SAF amidst a challenging security environment. Referencing recent ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, he said, 'The security environment today is increasingly uncertain and challenging… they are a harsh reminder that armed conflict is not inconceivable even in today's context… In Singapore, while we are grateful to have enjoyed peace since our independence, we must never be lulled into a false sense of security. For Singapore to remain peaceful and secure, a strong and ready SAF is an imperative.

Mr Heng also highlighted the important role that MEs play in enabling the SAF to build the expertise needed and how the ME scheme has evolved to stay ahead of the dynamic security environment. He said, 'Today's conflicts have shown that warfare will be increasingly sophisticated and hybrid in nature, where military and non-military instruments can strategically and effectively undermine the solidarity and resilience of nations… The (MDES) scheme continues to progress and advance to ensure that we can continuously build the necessary competencies within the SAF to counter evolving hybrid security threats.'

The appointment ceremony marked the completion of the Military Domain Experts Course, which trains MEs to assume roles in the SAF where in-depth expertise in areas such as engineering, intelligence, military medicine and cybersecurity is required. The course developed and honed the MEs' leadership competency, military domain knowledge and specialised skills. The newly appointed Senior MEs will move on to assume leadership or staff appointments in their professional areas.

Also present at the ceremony was Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, service chiefs, senior SAF officers as well as families and friends of the graduands.