PURCHASE OF F16 FIGHTER PLANES

Mr J.B. Jeyaretnam asked the Minister of Defence and Second Minister for Health whether the Ministry proposes to purchase F-16 Fighters now and if so why these Fighters are considered necessary for the defence of Singapore and what the cost to the taxpayer will be for the purchase of these planes.

Mr Goh Chok Tong: The Ministry of Defence has to work many years ahead of requirements. New aircraft take 3-4 years to deliver, and another 2 years of training to attain operational status. We must continually maintain our air defence capability to ensure Singapore's security in a world of constant turmoil. The F16 is one of the aircraft being considered by our Air Force for the late 1980's and 1990's. Presently we do not have the actual cost data for such aircraft. attached - PSLE RESULTS (1981-1983), GCE 'O' LEVEL RESULTS (1980-1982) (Cols. 395 - 396) Table - A COMPARISON OF CTV LICENCE FEE IN SELECTED COUNTRIES (Cols. 397 - 398)