MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

Singapore's defence policy is peace through strength and readiness. Without a strong SAF, we have no basis for economic growth or prosperity, for preserving our own way of life, or for guaranteeing a long term future. MINDEF will ensure that the SAF always remains capable of defending Singapore.

Our doctrine of Total Defence encompasses the entire population, and every aspect of defence: military, civil, economic, social and psychological. In the next five years, MINDEF will focus on raising operational efficiency, using technology for military purposes, coping wth smaller National Service intakes, and strengthening Total Defence.

Efficiency and Readiness

Because defence is expensive, MINDEF must scrutinize closely every dollar spent. New equipment will cost more to operate. We will have to achieve savings without sacrificing military readiness or endangering soldiers' lives. The PRIDE movement - Productivity In Daily Effort - will be complemented by a sustained cost reduction programme. Manpower Resources

The SAF is beginning to feel the effects of the low birth rates in the 60's and 70's. Fewer young men are now available each year for National Service than was the case in the 1970s. MINDEF will have to improve the training, deployment and use of regulars, reservists and full-time National Servicemen. We will have to be more conscious of productivity, use more civilians and SAF women in non-combat assignments, and contract out more jobs to the private sector.

MINDEF will build a new SAFTI Military Institute for officer training. The new SAFTI will be a national institution, embodying excellence in the training of the SAF officer corps at all levels.

Technology

The SAF cannot expect to win in combat through sheer numbers. Instead, our troops must be well trained, well led, and well equipped, and must make full use of technology.

To save money, wherever possible instead of buying new equipment, we will refurbish and upgrade existing equipment to extend their service lives and improve their capabilities, as we are doing with AMX-13 tanks and A-4 Skyhawk aircraft.

Exploiting technology requires good engineers, scientists, technicians and mechanics. We will recruit more such people, upgrade their skills and knowledge, and build up the defence technology team.

Total Defence

Many Singaporeans have taken part in civil defence exercises. We are also making progress in social and psychological defence, and in making the economy more adaptable and resistant to external pressures and shocks.

We have practised mobilising civil resources like heavy vehicles, vessels and aircraft. The public has responded with understanding and cooperation. The next step will be to conduct open mobilizations of civil resources, and to practise taking over essential establishments like hospitals and large vehicle workshops. Regional Security

Singapore has a vital interest in a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia. We will contribute our part to regional security.

Our defence relations with our ASEAN partners are based on mutual trust and respect. We will strengthen them through regular bilateral military exercises and frequent exchanges between the armed services.

Singapore belongs to the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA), together with Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. The FPDA contributes to the peace and stability of the region. A key component of the FPDA is the Integrated Air Defence system (IADS). To strengthen FPDA, Singapore will assign a second fighter squadron to IADS.

GOH CHOK TONG First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence