Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, accompanied by Chief of Artillery Colonel Tan Chong Lee, affixing the Artillery formation emblem onto the HIMARS at the ceremony. |
Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at a ceremony to
mark the commissioning of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System
(HIMARS) and operationalisation of the first HIMARS Battery at Khatib
Camp this afternoon.
During the ceremony, Dr Ng witnessed a
demonstration of the deployment and operation of the HIMARS as part of a
networked force that included other land platforms.
Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen interacting with the gunners from Bravo battery, 23 SA. |
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr Ng highlighted the
significance of the event to the Artillery and the transformation
journey of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). He said, "The successful
induction of the HIMARS reflects well on the ability of the SAF to
respond decisively to new challenges and changing circumstances in the
operational environment."
Commending the gunners of 23 SA for their
competency and professionalism, Dr Ng noted that while advancements in
technology has enhanced the SAF's capabilities and reduced the reliance
on manpower, heavier responsibility now rests on the servicemen. He
said, "It is ultimately the professionalism and commitment of our people
that will translate the latest weapon systems into effective
capabilities."
The SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010 and conducted
its inaugural battery live firing in November 2010 in Fort Sill,
Oklahoma, USA. The HIMARS, which will be operated by Bravo battery, 23
SA, provides artillery forces with precision fire power, enhanced
mobility and advanced networking capabilities.
Also present at the ceremony were Minister of State for Defence Mr
Lawrence Wong, Chief of Army Major-General Ravinder Singh and other
senior officers from the SAF.
Mindef
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