RENEWAL OF OUR LEADERSHIP - MINDEF Singapore
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ISSUE 251/2018 RENEWAL OF OUR LEADERSHIP THE ARMY ABROAD: - EX PANZER STRIKE - EX COBRA GOLD - EX LIGHTNING STRIKE ARMY DRAGON BOAT REGATTA 2018 INNOVATION ENABLERS FOR OUR ARMY
Editorial Board Designers
COL Tan Tiong Keat CPL Teo Zhi Guang
SLTC Cheong Yunn Shaur PTE Cyril Tang
MAJ Joefrey Lee Writers/Photographers
CWO Teo See Keong CPL Tan Jit Jenn
SLTC (RET) James Suresh CPL Benjamin Lim
MAJ (NS) Sebastian Sim CPL Ashley Seek
Hd New Media Section LCP Marcus Teo
MAJ Lee Jia Hui LCP Shawn Cheow
LCP Sean Seah
Asst Mgr (New Media) PTE Isaac Ong
Joseph Wang
REC Goh Gen Sheng
Dy Hd Army Media Section REC Teo Hao Yu
CPT Soon Wei Lun REC Joel Tan
Assistant Editors Contributors
Aloysius Lum PIONEER
48 SAR
Lee Xiang Rong
HQ GUARDS
CPL Timothy See
2 SIR
LCP Brandon Kit
1 AMB
CSSCOM
Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance
Army News would like to thank CPL Bryan Tan for his service
and contributions during his stint in Army News.
ISSUE 251/2018
Guest Editor
Speaks
AChiefswelcomes
part of our leadership renewal, the Singapore Army
our new Chief of Army, BG Goh Si Hou, and new
of Defence Force, MG Melvyn Ong in March 2018 (pages RENEWAL OF OUR LEADERSHIP
THE ARMY ABROAD:
12 to 13). We also saw Commander 6th Singapore Division
- EX PANZER STRIKE
- EX COBRA GOLD
- EX LIGHTNING STRIKE
Change of Command (page 11) as well as the Change of
ARMY DRAGON BOAT REGATTA 2018
INNOVATION ENABLERS FOR OUR ARMY
Appointment for Formation Sergeant Majors of the Singapore Artillery and Army Medical
Services Formations (page 10). Cover Photo CPL Benjamin Lim
As we renew our leadership, the Army also constantly adapts to new trends and leverage ARMY NEWS
(Suggestions and Feedback)
on technology to improve our effectiveness and efficiency. One such example was the 5 Depot Road, #08-10
setting up of the Integrated Forward Maintenance Hub at Sungei Gedong Camp (page 20) Tower B, Defence Technology Towers,
and the Unmanned Watch Tower (page 21). Going one step further, the Army has also set Singapore 109681
Tel : 6277 0382/ 6277 0383
up innovation enablers through a rapid prototyping and testing lab as well as a mobile app Fax : 6277 0381
innovation zone (page 22). Have something you wish to
share with us?
The Army continues to enhance our readiness through overseas exercises such as Exercise If you have any articles to contribute or suggestions about
Panzer Strike in Germany and Exercise Lightning Strike in the United States of America. our newsletter, contact us at :
We also participated in a Multinational Exercise Cobra Gold (pages 16 to 17) in Thailand. armynews@defence.gov.sg
Visit us online!
Lastly, catch all the action as we bring to you highlights from the Army Dragon Boat Read Army News on the internet at
http://www.army.gov.sg
Regatta 2018 (pages 14 to 15).
Follow us!
The Singapore Army
JOSEPH WANG @oursingaporearmy
Guest Editor of Army News
CONTENTS
07 11
22
14
16
What’s Up Features
04 01/18 Basic Military Training Graduation Parade 14 Army Dragon Boat Regatta 2018
04 108/17 Officer Cadet Course Commissioning Parade 16 The Army Abroad: Ex Panzer Strike, Ex Cobra Gold and Ex Lightning Strike
05 01/18 SAFVC Formation Patch Presentation Parade 20 Integrated Forward Maintenance Hub
05 01/18 Joint Leadership Course Graduation Ceremony 21 Enhancing the SAF’s Protection of Installation Operations -
06 Signal Formation 52nd Anniversary Unmanned Watch Tower
06 6 AMB Heritage Road Relay 22 Innovation Enablers for Our Army
07 The Singapore Artillery: Trooping of Regimental Colours People
& Men of Steel Challenge 23 Recognising Our People
08 CSSCOM MSER Challenge
08 Army Safety Day Seminar Arsenal
09 SSPP and Employers’ Visit: Sungei Gedong Camp 28 Terrex
10 Singapore Artillery Formation Sergeant Major
Change Of Appointment Parade Health & Fitness
10 Army Medical Service Formation Sergeant Major Change Of 30 The Science of Training for the Army Half Marathon
Appointment Ceremony
11 Commander 6 DIV Change of Command Parade Lifestyle
12 Renewal Of Our Leadership 32 Book Out Makan: Clementi Camp
WHAT’S UP
01/18 BASIC MILITARY TRAINING
GRADUATION PARADE
||Written LCP Brandon Kit and REC Goh Gen Sheng
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim
A fter weeks of arduous training, around 3,192 recruits from the 01/18 batch
marched onto the parade square of Pasir Laba Camp on 10 and 11 March after
successfully completing their Basic Military Training. With the tossing of their jockey
caps, these recruits celebrated the end of one phase and the start of another. Family
and loved ones were present to witness this momentous occasion and show their
heartfelt support for the soldiers, as they matured from boys to men. Then Chief of
Army, MG Melvyn Ong was present at the graduation parade on Saturday morning
to congratulate and give words of encouragement to the recruits as they embarked
on the next chapter of their National Service journey. The Singapore Army wishes
the newly-graduated recruits the very best in their future appointments and duties
as they move on to their next phase of National Service.
EXCEL THROUGH BASICS! n
108/17 OFFICER CADET COURSE
COMMISSIONING PARADE
||Written LCP Brandon Kit
|Photography PTE Cyril Tang
O n 17 March, the rain did not deter the 160 officer cadets as they marched out
of one phase of their NS journey, ready to move on to another. During the
affixing of the officer rank epaulettes, the graduating cadets and their parents
could not have been any prouder as they celebrated the completion of the 38
weeks of rigorous training. Minister for Communications and Information,
Dr Yaacob Ibrahim and then Chief of Army, MG Melvyn Ong were present to
witness this momentous occasion. The Singapore Army would like to extend our
heartiest congratulations to the newly-commissioned officers, and wish them
all the best in their future appointments!
TO LEAD, TO EXCEL, TO OVERCOME! n
4 | ARMY NEWS
WHAT’S UP
01/18 SAFVC FORMATION PATCH
PRESENTATION PARADE
||Written CPL Ashley Seek and REC Joel Tan
|Photography CPL Tan Jit Jenn
O n 7 April, over 70 Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps (SAFVC)
Volunteers (SVs) from the 01/18 cohort completed their 2-week Basic
Training (BT). Commander SAFVC COL Ong Kok Wui formally welcomed the SVs
into the Corps as the SVs received the SAFVC Formation patch in a simple parade
at Maju Camp. Introduced in October 2014, the SAFVC is a uniformed volunteer
scheme that provides an opportunity for more Singaporeans and Permanent
Residents to contribute to National Defence, show support for National Service,
and deepen their understanding and ownership of National Defence. A total of
10 BTs have been conducted with more than 600 SVs trained, supported by very
dedicated trainers. The SVs have been deployed for duties across the Army, Navy
and Air Force. We would like to thank the SVs for stepping forward to play their
part for National Defence!
STEADFAST AND VIGILANT! n
01/18 JOINT LEADERSHIP COURSE
GRADUATION CEREMONY
||Written CPL Timothy See and REC Teo Hao Yu
|Photography PTE Cyril Tang
O n the evening of 19 April at The Chevrons, 151 servicemen across the three
services from the Singapore Armed Forces gathered together to celebrate
their graduation from the 01/18 Joint Leadership Course. Present as Guest-
of-Honour for the occasion was Chief of Army, BG Goh Si Hou. The graduation
ceremony marked the end of the course which served to hone and develop the
leadership skills of the participants.
The Singapore Army offers our heartiest congratulations to the Warrant Officers
and Military Experts on their successful graduation! We wish you all the very CWO Tamizh Kannan (Left), Commanding Officer SAFWOS Leadership School, receiving the torch
best in all of your future endeavours in your new appointments. n from ME2 Ronnie Ong, ME2 Kenneth Tho and 3WO Ross Li in the symbolic handing and taking
over of the torch back to SAFWOS Leadership School
ARMY NEWS | 5
WHAT’S UP
SIGNAL FORMATION 52ND Scan to watch video
ANNIVERSARY
||Written LCP Marcus Teo
|Photography CPL Teo Zhi Guang
O n 1 March, the Signal Formation celebrated its 52nd anniversary at Stagmont
Camp - the Home of Signals. The festivities began with a cadence run,
followed by the signature Signal Road Relay and ended with an action-packed
Tug-of-War competition. It was also a day for Signallers to remember the Signal
Formation’s humble beginnings, and reaffirm their commitment to their role as
the Voice of the Battlefield.
We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the Signal Formation for
achieving this milestone.
SPEED THROUGH SKILL! n
6 AMB HERITAGE ROAD RELAY
||Written CPL Timothy See and REC Joel Tan
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim
O n 1 March, servicemen from the 6th Army Maintenance Base (6 AMB)
participated in a 12km heritage road relay. The relay was one of the three
components of the unit’s 40th anniversary celebration: ‘Cherish’. The theme for
6 AMB anniversary celebration was "Together We Can Make A Difference:
Contribute, Cherish, Celebrate".
The relay brought the participants all the way back to the origin of the unit's home,
kicking off at Seletar East Camp and concluding at Nee Soon Driclad Centre (NSDC),
6 AMB's current home. The Singapore Army congratulates 6 AMB on hitting this
important milestone and wishes them all the best for many years to come!
The runners, led by ME4 Saravanan, Base Sergeant Major, arriving
WE CAN! n at the Nee Soon Driclad Centre to thunderous applause
6 | ARMY NEWS
WHAT’S UP
THE SINGAPORE ARTILLERY: Scan to watch video
TROOPING OF REGIMENTAL COLOURS & MEN OF STEEL CHALLENGE
||Written LCP Brandon Kit
|Photography LCP Shawn Cheow
T he oldest arm in the SAF, the Singapore Artillery, witnessed the Trooping
of its Regimental Colours on 2 March, during its 130th anniversary parade.
In the SAF, Colours are the symbol of the spirit of a regiment, for they bear
the battle honours and badges granted to the regiment in commemoration
of the gallant deeds performed by its members from the time it was raised.
The Colours also help to promote cohesion, esprit de corps and instil in the
men of the unit a sense of pride and loyalty. The Singapore Artillery 130th
anniversary artefact was also unveiled after the parade to commemorate the
130th anniversary of the Formation. The artefact is moulded from smelted
Artillery equipment that has served the Artillery well over the years, serving
as a strong reminder of the Formation's rich heritage and its pioneers' hard work.
In conjunction with the celebration of the Singapore Artillery’s 130th
anniversary, the Men of Steel challenge was held on 13 February. The The unveiling of the Artillery’s 130th anniversary artefact!
challenge saw its participants take part in a road relay interspersed with four
components, projectile lift, tyre drag, push-ups and sit-ups, and it culminated
with a tyre flipping competition. The challenge saw participants executing
a whopping 130 repetitions each in the push-ups and sit-ups components.
With the number of push-ups and sit-ups increasing as the Singapore
Artillery moves from year to year, it is a testament to the continual growth
and progress of the formation. In the words of our first Defence Minister, Dr
Goh Keng Swee, “The tempering of steel is a lengthy process and men of steel
you must be; anything less has no place in the Singapore Artillery.” Pushing
past their physical and psychological limits in a series of gruelling tasks
during this year’s Men of Steel challenge, our Gunners attested to how they
are indeed Men of Steel.
IN ORIENTE PRIMUS! n The soldiers taking part in the tyre flip competition Scan to watch video
Chief Artillery Officer, COL Michael Ma taking part in the Officer and WOSpec partnership relay alongside other senior
commanders from Singapore Artillery Formation, symbolising the close partnership between Officers and WOSpecs
ARMY NEWS | 7
BG Lam (Right) presenting the championship trophy to the winning team
WHAT’S UP
CSSCOM MSER CHALLENGE
||Written CPL Ashley Seek
|Photography LCP Shawn Cheow
O n 29 March, units from Combat Service
Support Command (CSSCOM) came together to
challenge each other in the Main Supply Evacuation
Route (MSER) Challenge 2018 at Kranji Camp III.
The event brought together logisticians within and
outside CSSCOM as well as our defence partners
in a range of sports activities to build cohesion
and foster the CSS spirit. Present at this event was
Commander CSSCOM, BG Lam Sheau Kai. Despite
the competition, it was heartwarming to witness
the sportsmanship across the various units.
ONE HEART, ONE MIND, ONE CSS! n
ARMY SAFETY DAY SEMINAR
||Written LCP Marcus Teo
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim
O n 13 April, Our Army held its annual Army Safety Day Seminar (ASDS) 2018 at Leaders Hall,
Pasir Laba Camp. The Army Safety Day is designated for Our Army to take a pause in training
and to dedicate time for leaders and commanders to emphasise the importance of safety in our
operations and training. The seminar was hosted by Head Army Safety Inspectorate (ASI), and the
Guest-of-Honour was Chief of Army (COA), BG Goh Si Hou, who presented the COA Safety Awards
to units which displayed outstanding standards of safety. He was accompanied by Sergeant
Major of the Army, CWO Teo See Keong. 940 participants consisting of leaders, commanders
and members of the safety fraternity attended the seminar. The theme of ASDS 2018 is: ‘Trust,
Ownership, Purpose: Building and Sustaining a Strong Safety Culture’.
In his keynote address, BG Goh spoke about his reflections on the previous work year. He urged his
fellow commanders to follow the ‘Trust, Ownership, Purpose’ framework as a guide in whatever BG Goh delivering his keynote address
they seek to accomplish. He said, “We trust our commanders to do the right things on the
ground . . . We purposefully enforce safety by taking ownership of our men like we would for
our brothers and children . . . We continue to be purposeful in strengthening our safety system,
to train realistically but safely.”
Head ASI, COL Tong Yi Chuen spoke on three safety focus areas for the coming work year. “First,
we’ll need to continue to strengthen our tribe, and by tribe, I mean everyone in our Army. ASI
will continue to work with the formations and divisions to develop leading indicators and
intermediate intervening measures at the formation level . . . Second, innovation. We could do
more in leveraging innovation to improve safety . . . Third, collaborating with our partners. Our
Army’s safety system does not exist on its own. In the coming work year, ASI will continue to work
with the SAF Safety and Systems Review Directorate, and our other services safety inspectorates
to share and cross-coordinate best practices. We will also continue to engage the External Review
Panel for SAF Safety to benchmark our safety management system to industry.” n COL Tong delivering his opening address
8 | ARMY NEWS
WHAT’S UP
SSPP & EMPLOYERS’ VISIT: Scan to watch video
SUNGEI GEDONG CAMP
||Written CPL Ashley Seek
|Photography CPL Teo Zhi Guang and PIONEER
180 students from NUS High School and 82 students from ITE College East were in
for a treat on 22 March as 42nd Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (42
SAR) and 3rd SAF Transport Battalion (3 SAF TPT Bn) hosted their visit to Sungei
Gedong Camp as part of the SAF-Schools Partnership Programme (SSPP).
In the middle of their tour, the students even managed to get a chance to board
a 5-tonner and experience the feel of an Army vehicle. It was only when they
dismounted the 5-tonners did they realise that they were in for a treat. After
being guided to their seats, the students were then able to witness first hand
the firepower and mobility of our armoured vehicles: 42 SAR had put together
a demonstration to show the capabilities of our combat vehicles and superb
coordination!
Introducing the students to various small arms
The next day, over 150 employers were also invited to Sungei Gedong camp for
an Army Visit. These employers are a strong supporting force behind the NSmen
in their companies, which allow them to do their NS duty.
Various static displays were set up to showcase Our Army platforms and
equipment, and the visitors also visited the Armour Simulation Centre to have
a hands-on experience with the simulator, including tank-driving and shooting
simulators.
We would like to thank all the students and employers who came for the visit and
Employers being shown the ins-and-outs of an armoured vehicle
hope that you have a better understanding of the ins-and-outs of Our Army. n
Learning more about the communication systems used by Our Army An employer having a hands-on experience in the Belrex
ARMY NEWS | 9
WHAT’S UP
SINGAPORE ARTILLERY FORMATION SERGEANT MAJOR
CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT PARADE
||Written CPL Timothy See & REC Teo Hao Yu
|Photography PTE Isaac Ong
O n the evening of 3 April, soldiers of the Singapore Artillery Formation
witnessed the Change of Appointment Parade of their Formation Sergeant
Major (FSM) at the Home of the Gunners, Khatib Camp. At the parade,
many guests witnessed outgoing FSM, SWO Lim Sin Soon handing over his
appointment to MWO Goh Soon Meng. Present as Witnessing Officer for the
parade was Chief Artillery Officer, COL Michael Ma.
The Singapore Army would like to thank SWO Lim for his dedicated and
steadfast service. We wish both SWO Lim and MWO Goh the very best for their
new appointments.
IN ORIENTE PRIMUS! n
The parade giving 3 cheers for SWO Lim (Right)
ARMY MEDICAL SERVICE FORMATION SERGEANT MAJOR
CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT CEREMONY
||Written REC Joel Tan
|Photography PTE Cyril Tang
O n 23 April, servicemen of the Army Medical Services witnessed the Change
of Appointment Ceremony of their Formation Sergeant Major (FSM) at the
Singapore Armed Forces Medical Corps Auditorium, Nee Soon Camp. At the
ceremony, many guests witnessed outgoing FSM, ME4 Koh Ping Wah handing
over his appointment to ME3 Timothy Zachary Rajah. Present as Witnessing
Officer for the ceremony was Chief Army Medical Officer, COL (Dr) Lo Hong Yee.
The Singapore Army would like to thank ME4 Koh Ping Wah for his dedicated
and steadfast service. We wish both ME4 Koh and ME3 Timothy the very best for
their new appointments.
LIFE FIRST n COL (Dr) Lo (Left) presenting the appreciation plaque to ME4 Koh (Right)
10 | ARMY NEWSWHAT’S UP
The symbolic handing over of the Command Symbol from BG Goh(Left) to COL Leung(Right)
COMMANDER
6 DIV CHANGE
OF COMMAND
PARADE
||Written CPL Timothy See
|Photography CPL Teo Zhi Guang
O n the evening of 14 March at Mandai Hill Camp,
we witnessed the 6th Singapore Division (6
DIV) Change of Command Parade, where outgoing
Commander 6 DIV, BG Goh Si Hou handed over his
appointment to COL Leung Shing Tai. The Witnessing BG Goh bidding farewell to the soldiers of 6 DIV
Officer for the parade was then Chief of Army, MG
Melvyn Ong. In his farewell address, BG Goh thanked
the many soldiers of 6 DIV, sharing, “My time in
6 DIV has now come to an end. Sometimes the
most beautiful memories in life tend to be fleeting
and transient, but they uplift our spirits and touch
our hearts. I may be leaving, but experience tells
me, nothing builds ownership and identity like
command.”
We at the Singapore Army would like to thank BG
Goh for his numerous contributions and steadfast
service to the division, and welcome COL Leung
to the Cobra family. We wish them both the very Former Commander 6 DIV, BG Goh (Center) walking down the line of passage
best in their new appointments and their future
endeavours.
SWIFT AND DEADLY! n
ARMY NEWS | 11
Welcoming newly-appointed Commander 6 DIV, COL Leung(Center)WHAT’S UP
RENEWAL OF OUR LEADERSHIP
CHIEF OF ARMY AND CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE COC
||Written LCP Marcus Teo and LCP Brandon Kit
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim, CPL Teo Zhi Guang, LCP Shawn Cheow and PTE Cyril Tang
I n March, we witnessed the successful Change of Command for our Chief of Army and Chief of Defence Force at parades held at Pasir Laba
Camp and SAFTI Military Institute respectively. Scan to watch video
MG Melvyn Ong handing over command of our Army to BG Goh Si Hou LG Perry Lim handing over command of the SAF to MG Melvyn Ong
The Singapore Army welcomed its new Chief of Army (COA) as MG Melvyn Ong Similarly, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) welcomed MG Melvyn Ong as its CDF
Su Kiat handed over the Symbol of Command to BG Goh Si Hou at a Change of at a Change of Command Parade on 23 March. Witnessed by Minister for Defence
Command Parade held on 21 March. At the parade, MG Melvyn Ong reviewed Dr Ng Eng Hen, our former COA, MG Melvyn Ong, received the command symbol
the Guard of Honour contingents comprising soldiers from the Commando and from the outgoing CDF, LG Perry Lim. At the parade, LG Perry Lim also reviewed
Guards Formations as well as 10 supporting contingents from across the Army’s the Guard of Honour and the 14 marching contingents formed by soldiers from
different Formations. The parade was witnessed by then Chief of Defence Force the Army, Navy, Air Force and the C4I Community.
(CDF), LG Perry Lim Cheng Yeow.
BG Goh Si Hou taking his oath as our new COA MG Melvyn Ong taking his oath as our new CDF
Outgoing COA, MG Melvyn Ong , reviewing the parade Outgoing CDF, LG Perry Lim, reviewing the paradeOUR NEW LEADERS
MG MELVYN ONG, CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE
Our CDF, MG Melvyn Ong, joined the SAF in 1994, and had held several key appointments, including Chief Guards
Officer, Commander 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and Head Joint Plans and Transformation Department. As
COA, MG Melvyn Ong steered the “Army Ready, Soldier Strong” efforts and strengthened the Army’s operational
readiness and homeland security capabilities against terrorism. MG Melvyn Ong also maximised soldier
performance, and enhanced National Service (NS) training and experience. As Chief Guards Officer, he led the
establishment of the Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Centre (Changi
RHCC). As Commander 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade, MG Melvyn Ong led the SAF contingent that assisted
in earthquake-relief operations alongside the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) following a 6.3-magnitude
earthquake in Christchurch in 2011. As Head of the Joint Plans and Transformation Department, MG Melvyn Ong
led the SAF’s transformation efforts in the domains of new operational concepts, future capabilities, organisational
restructuring and resource optimisation. MG Melvyn Ong was also the Head of the Personnel Development Branch
in G1-Army during the formation of the SAF HR Schemes.
BG GOH SI HOU, CHIEF OF ARMY
Our COA, BG Goh Si Hou, joined the SAF in 1997. As Commander 6th Singapore Division, he oversaw the
development of the new Combined Arms Training Centre to strengthen the Army’s training system, and led the
Division through key Army exercises and bilateral training with foreign partners. As Assistant Chief of General
Staff (Plans), he charted the long-term transformation plans for the Army to meet emerging security threats and
NS resource challenges through force restructuring and new operational concepts. In his earlier appointments in
MINDEF, BG Goh led the implementation of new military career schemes to enhance recruitment and retention
for the SAF. He also headed a project office supporting the Committee to Strengthen National Service, which led
to initiatives such as the formation of the SAF Volunteer Corps.
MG MELVYN ONG SU KIAT
At his farewell speech to the Army during the parade, MG Ong shared on the Army’s motto ‘Army Ready,
Soldier Strong’, saying that “These are not just mere words on a parchment. These words have been etched into
our minds and manifested in decisive actions. That is why we staged the largest mobilisation and equipping
exercise that the Army has seen in the last ten years to sharpen our operational readiness... Launched
the Island Defence Training Institute to better prepare our soldiers for homeland security operations…
Established the Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance because we believe that there’s a better way, a
more scientific and a more data-driven approach to building strong soldiers and strong units… Made plans
to revamp the SAFTI training area that you’ll see in the next couple of years into ‘SAFTI City’ – a realistic dense
urban environment to train the Next-Generation Army… And we did all this, together.”
LG PERRY LIM CHENG YEOW
In his farewell speech, LG Perry Lim emphasised how the continual advancement of the SAF through the
years was only made possible by the work of each and every serviceman and woman, both past and present.
“This modern and capable SAF was not achieved over a decade or two decades. It took the vision, leadership,
professionalism, diligence and stewardship of three generations of servicemen and women for the SAF to be
in this position. I am therefore very pleased to be part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the SAF, Army, RSN
and (this year) the RSAF during my time as CDF, to pay tribute to our pioneers who started this journey and
laid a strong foundation for the SAF, and to the many servicemen and women who came before us and made
the SAF stronger with each passing year.” At the end of his speech, LG Perry Lim then spoke of how it had truly
been a great honour and immense privilege to be given the opportunity to lead the SAF as the CDF, thanking
all for their support, encouragement and friendship.
The Singapore Army would like to express our appreciation to LG Perry Lim for an outstanding job done as CDF, and welcome BG Goh Si Hou as our new Chief of Army
and MG Melvyn Ong as our new Chief of Defence Force! n
ARMY NEWS | 13FEATURE
ARMY DRAGON BOAT
REGATTA 2018
||Written LCP Brandon Kit
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim and PTE Cyril Tang B eyond the individual, it is only when all the athletes on board move in unison
that a dragon boat is at its fastest. Similarly, it is the collective strength of each
and every soldier that makes Our Army ready.
The fourth iteration of the Army’s Dragon Boat Regatta saw around 1,200 soldiers
from 42 teams paddling their hearts out on 20 April, at Marina Bay Reservoir near
the Passion Wave Building, as teams battled for the coveted title of champion
in either the “Shark” or “Orca” category. The pressure was on 10th Command,
Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence Battalion (10 C4I Bn) and
Headquarters 9th Singapore Division/ Infantry as they looked to defend their
title, both 2-time champions of the “Shark” and “Orca” categories respectively.
One could tell this competition was not taken lightly by any team. Even when
teams weren’t heard practising the timing of their strokes and rows, they were
seen doing pep talks, cheers or warm-ups. Most teams found a way to train for
the competition on weekdays on top of their training in camp, with some even
training “in secret” on weekends.
The Commandos put on a dominant display, winning both categories. HQ Commando reclaimed their title in the “Orca” category while 1st Commando Battalion also
did so in the “Shark” category, besting 10 C4I Bn’s timing by 0.185 seconds in a nail-biting finish.
More than just a chance to compete, the Army Dragon Boat Regatta serves as a platform for our soldiers to build their fitness and endurance as well as strengthen
their teamwork and cohesion within teams. On top of that with soldiers from different formations, battalions and units coming together, it reminds us that while the
Army is made up of many separate entities, we are, at the end of the day, one big family. n
ARMY NEWS | 15FEATURE
THE ARMY ABROAD
EXERCISE PANZER STRIKE 2018
Photos contributed by: 48 SAR
O n 22 March, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) concluded a bilateral live-firing
exercise with the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) at the Oberlausitz
Military Training Area (OMTA), Germany, as part of Exercise Panzer Strike (XPS)
2018. The bilateral live-firing exercise involved 220 soldiers from 3rd Company,
48th Battalion Singapore Armoured Regiment (48 SAR), and their German
Army counterparts comprising of men from a tank battalion of the 10th Panzer
Division. This year's XPS is the tenth in the series, and it underscores the warm
and growing defence ties between Singapore and Germany. The valuable training
space provided by the OMTA, which is a quarter of the size of Singapore, allows the
Singapore Army to train more efficiently by enabling the simultaneous execution
of up to four armour units' live-firing exercises. n The Platoon Commander giving some pep talk to his platoon before the live firing exercise
Leopard 2SG Main Battle Tanks rolling out!
EXERCISE COBRA
GOLD 2018
Photos contributed by: HQ Guards
H eld from 13 to 23 February, the Singapore
Armed Forces (SAF) participated in Exercise
Cobra Gold in U-Tapao Airbase, Thailand. Co-
hosted by the Royal Thai Armed Forces and the
United States Pacific Command (US PACOM), the
exercise also saw participation from the Indonesian
National Defence Forces, Japan Self-Defense Forces,
Malaysian Armed Forces and Republic of Korea
Armed Forces. The 53-member SAF delegation
led by Chief Guards Officer, Colonel Seet Uei Lim,
undertook various roles within the Multinational
Combined Task Force (CTF) setup, alongside their
counterparts from the other participating nations.
A team of combat engineers also constructed a
community hall and activity centre for a school in
Thailand as part of the multinational Engineering
Civic Action Program. This year's Exercise Cobra Gold
features the inaugural Humanitarian Assistance and
Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise which comprises of
a table-top exercise (TTX), a health symposium for
participants to share from recent HADR operations,
as well as a field training exercise component. n COL Seet (Left), the Asst CTF Comd, giving his guidance after chairing a meetingEXERCISE LIGHTNING STRIKE 2018
Photos contributed by: 2 SIR
FLewis-McChord
rom 16 to 24 April, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the United States
(US) Army took part in Exercise Lightning Strike (XLS) 2018 at Joint Base
(JBLM), Washington. XLS is an annual bilateral exercise between
the Singapore and US Army, held in Singapore and the US on a rotational basis,
allowing both armies to share tactics, techniques and procedures. It is also
a hallmark of the excellent ties between both armies. This year’s exercise is
eleventh in the series, involving more than 280 personnel from the 2nd Battalion,
Singapore Infantry Regiment (2 SIR) and 4-23 Infantry Battalion from the US
Army. Soldiers from both armies trained together to strengthen interoperability
in urban operations. XLS has enhanced the professionalism, personal rapport and
interoperability between both armed forces, as well as reaffirmed the excellent
and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and the US. n Soldiers from the Singapore and US Army performing an integrated battalion assault on
an urban objective
Group photo taken at the end of the integrated battalion assault and marking the
SAF soldiers conducted a SAR 21 familiarisation shoot for the US soldiers completion of XLS
MAJ (Dr) Teo in the field training exercise component Our combat engineers cementing the support beam, together with soldiers from the Royal
together with counterparts from other nations Thai Navy, for building the community hall and activity centre
A group photo of the representatives from participating nations at the opening ceremony for the HADR Health Symposium
ARMY NEWS | 17FEATURE
ARMY INNOVATION
MG Ong officiating the launch of the iFMH@SGC
Integrated Forward Maintenance Hub
||Written LCP Marcus Teo
|Photography LCP Shawn Cheow & 1 AMB
O n 15 March, then Chief of Army MG Melvyn Ong officiated the launch of the
Integrated Forward Maintenance Hub at Sungei Gedong Camp (iFMH@SGC),
together with President of ST Kinetics Dr Lee Shiang Long, Chief Maintenance
and Engineering Officer ME6 Tan Mu Yen as well as President, Defence Business
Group at ST Kinetics Mr Tung Yui Fai. Also in attendance were then Chief of Army
(Designate) BG Goh Si Hou, Chief of Staff - General Staff BG Siew Kum Wong,
Commander Combat Service Support Command BG Lam Sheau Kai and Chief
Armour Officer COL Yew Chee Leung. MG Ong being shown a smart inventory system to support maintenance operations
iFMH@SGC is the manifestation of a strategic collaboration between Maintenance
and Engineering Support (MES) and ST Kinetics Ltd (STK) with the aim to
holistically strengthen the overall maintenance support for tracked vehicles in
SGC. It involves three key areas: namely the Forward Technical Support Office, the
Forward Spares Support Warehouse and the Forward Depot-Level Maintenance
Workshop. Not only will this collaboration improve maintenance efficiency and
shorten the turn-around-time for vehicles, it also yields innovative hardware such
as the Independent Spares Retrieval and Exchange System (iSPARES), similar to
SingPost’s POPstation, that allows selected spares to be posted and collected 24/7
by our technicians. Various innovations, such as the Automated Purging System
for Electro-Optics and BIONIX ground hop kit were also showcased at this event. n MG Ong being briefed on the Forward Depot-Level Maintenance Workshop
MG Ong being introduced to the ground hop process using
the in-house developed BIONIX ground hop kit MG Ong trying his hand at using the iSPARES
20 | ARMY NEWSFEATURE
Enhancing the SAF’s Protection of Installation Operations-
Unmanned Watch Tower
||Written LCP Brandon Kit
|Photography CPL Teo Zhi Guang
W ith rapidly evolving threats growing around the world, the Singapore
Armed Forces too, has to adapt to keep up with the times. Currently, the SAF
performs coastal surveillance at certain key installations to detect any intrusions
from the sea through the deployment of soldiers on observation towers. As
part of the SAF’s effort to leverage on technology, the Unmanned Watch Tower
(UWT) will be introduced to enhance the SAF’s Protection of Installation (POI)
operations. Once operational, the number of soldiers required for POI operations
on Jurong Island can be reduced by up to 30 percent.
The UWT will enhance the SAF’s coastal surveillance capabilities in both day
and night conditions whilst optimising manpower resources. DSO National Soldiers performing surveillance duties remotely at the command centre
through the UWT technology
Laboratories designed and built the UWT with the video analytics for target
detection. To support 24/7 coastal surveillance operations, engineers from the
Defence Science and Technology Agency integrated the various surveillance and
sensor feeds such that they can be monitored remotely at the command centre.
Being a redeployable system, the UWT can be deployed anywhere on-demand to
enhance the SAF’s surveillance capability for homeland security operations. The
first UWT was operationalised in March 2018, and two additional systems will be
deployed by September 2018.
In his address to the media, COL Dinesh Vasu Dash, Commander, 2nd People’s
Defence Force, spoke of how the UWT will be able to improve the SAF’s operational
capabilities not only in the aspect of effectiveness but also in efficiency. “Beyond
effectiveness, efficiency can also be improved with the Unmanned Watch Tower
as one soldier is able to operate multiple sensors. When fully implemented, we
assess that the number of soldiers on surveillance duties will be reduced by up
to 30%. Most importantly, more soldiers can be eligible to do this role as security
troopers and have a meaningful way to contribute to the defence of our country.”n
ARMY NEWS | 21FEATURE
Innovation Enablers for
Our Army ||Written CPL Timothy See and REC Joel Tan
|Photography PTE Isaac Ong and CSSCOM
A n innovation is any development that creates value and brings about changes. An innovative idea can be developed and validated through prototypes and trials, which
if successful, will bring about enhancements to improve existing systems or processes.
In order to promote ground-up innovations for the Army, Maintenance and Engineering Support (MES) Formation and Signal Formation launched their innovation zones.
Known as the Ayer Rajah Camp (ARC) Lab and the Mobile App Innovation Zone respectively.
Besides harnessing innovations through prototyping and trials, a centralised procurement concept is also being studied by CSSCOM to strengthen the Army’s procurement.
Centrally located, this synergised procurement model aims to streamline the procurement process and achieve operation efficiency for Our Army. n
ARC Lab for Prototyping & Testing
The ARC lab, known as such amongst the Army Engineers from MES, is a prototyping and testing lab that serves as a physical space whereby the innovators can
develop the innovations and test them by rapid prototyping using subtractive or additive manufacturing, a process more commonly known as 3D Printing. This 3D
printing technology is utilised to develop prototypes that potentially can help improve administrative, training or operational requirements. The engineering facilities
in the lab allow for extensive electronic testing and failure analysis.
Mobile App Innovation Zone
The purpose of the Mobile App Innovation Zone is to create an environment that allows for rapid mobile app prototyping and secure mobile app deployment without
compromising the mainstream systems. It also allows users to initiate mobile app projects based on their requirements and concept as well as to validate and test the
mobile app so as to ensure positive user experience. Till date, 12 projects have been developed and trialled.
22 | ARMY NEWSPEOPLE
Recognising
Our People ||Written CPL Timothy See, LCP Marcus Teo and REC Goh Gen Sheng
|Photography CPL Benjamin Lim, CPL Teo Zhi Guang and PTE Cyril Tang
T ime and time again, there are many individuals within the Army who distinguish themselves in a plethora of ways. These efforts do not go unnoticed, and the
Singapore Army does its utmost to recognise the efforts of these extraordinary individuals. n
INNOVATION CHAMPION AWARD:
The Innovation Champion Award was awarded at the 2018 Army Workplan Seminar to individuals who embody the spirit of innovation,
actively promoting innovations within their workplace and spearheading the development of new ideas.
The off-grid power system, designed by ME2 Oh
Tiong Yaw was used as power sources for thermal
imagers to provide necessary power needed to act as
a suitable substitute for the diesel generator.
Ms Eilenia Tay spearheaded several innovative ideas
to reduce the ammunition expenditure for the SAF.
This included the creation of the Hybrid Pallet System
for 120mm Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding
Sabot (APFSDS) tank ammunition. The initiative itself
has resulted in around $640,000 in savings for the
SAF.
ME4A Joel Tan Rui Qin was responsible for the set-up
of Ayer Rajah Camp (ARC) Lab, a space for forensic
engineering, testing, prototyping and development
to provide engineering solutions for the Army.
ARMY NEWS | 23PEOPLE
STEWARDSHIP & RECRUITMENT :
The recipients of this award are the face and voice of their unit. They possess good public relation skills, reaching out to individuals and public organisations outside
of the Army. In a display of exemplary conduct, these individuals garnered much support for their units, be it in the form of fresh recruitment, or through bringing
in partners from external agencies and institutions.
As the organising chairman of the Combat Service Support (CSS) Green Besides regularly volunteering his time for recruitment efforts at the Basic
campaign, 3SG Benjamin Mak Jia Ming brought in speakers from different Military Training Centre, Specialist Cadet School, ITE/Poly Sponsorship
environmental agencies and tertiary institutions such as the National Fairs and active units, MSG Mohammed Farhan Bin Malik also conducted
Environmental Agency, Public Utilities Board and the Lee Kuan Yew School interviews for walk-in applications at the Army Recruitment Centre. He
of Public Policy, which greatly enhanced the outcomes of encouraging our engaged with the media team in the Army Deployment Force (ADF) to
personnel to be stewards in ensuring sustainable use of our resources. create a corporate video that is commended by many, and its impact is
3SG Mak also partnered other NSFs by organising TED (Technology, reflected in the increase in ADF applicants. He also makes an effort to
Entertainment, Design) talks for CSS personnel. develop ADF soldiers by including them in his recruitment efforts to share
their experiences and to engage the public.
LIFE-SAVING:
When it comes to saving a life, every second is precious, and swift decision-making is paramount. These award recipients have displayed exceptional acts of
heroism by going beyond the call of duty in a multitude of ways. They have displayed the results of their SAF training by responding decisively during critical
situations, ultimately resulting in them helping to preserve the lives of others.
On 15 Apr 2017, SV1 Rajendran Mathan Prasath responded to a notification During the final mission of his unit field exercise on 9 Aug 2017, 3SG
from the "MyResponder" mobile application and rushed to the scene where Muhammad Khirana Bin Hanafi observed a soldier having breathing
an elderly woman was unconscious. Detecting a weak pulse on her, he difficulties and in need of medical attention. He immediately activated
performed CPR immediately with the skills he learnt from his SAF Volunteer the medic to administer medical aid to the soldier. As the soldier was not
Corps Basic Training. After the arrival of the paramedics, he continued to responding to treatment and was losing consciousness, he decisively
assist them to secure the elderly woman onto the stretcher. SV1 Rajendran evacuated the soldier by piggy-backing him for a total of 800m to the
was subsequently presented the Public Spiritedness Award from the Medical Centre. The soldier was diagnosed with having an asthmatic
Singapore Civil Defence Force. reaction and was eventually stabilised.STAR SERVICE AWARD:
These award recipients work tirelessly behind the scenes every day to ensure Our Army functions well administratively. From reviewing of Physical Employment
Status (PES) and re-scheduling of medical appointments to tracking of service medals eligibility, there are a multitude of such administrations to be performed for
the servicemen, and it is only through the efforts of our service personnel that we can accomplish them. The Army Star Service Award is awarded to personnel for
their exemplary performance in service delivery.
Ms Abital Ang Minhui, Assistant Manager, Course Management, SAF Ms Joyce Lee Soo Kim constantly ensures expediency in processing filing of
Ammunition Command, empathises with the needs of the trainees and service injuries, PES reviews, medical appointment changes and confirming
their families. In one instance, a serviceman was advised not to review eligibility of service medals. She also practises the "No Wrong Door" policy by
his PES status to re-serve BMT to meet his goal of entering OCS due to a identifying the relevant agencies that could resolve the issues that do not fall
limited service term left. Upon understanding the importance of the NSF's under her purview. In one instance, Ms Joyce assisted a serviceman to identify
goal from his parents. Abital went beyond her scope of work to follow up the correct procedures to effect the IPPT exemption due to his recent PES
on the necessary procedures. Through her effort, the serviceman attained downgrade. We commend her for her dedication to excellent service delivery.
his opportunity to re-serve BMT to meet his goal. It is noteworthy that he
achieved "Best Trainee" Award and the parents invited Abital to be part of the
award ceremony in recognition of her contribution.
TRAINING DEVELOPMENT:
In times of peace, one of the ways to constantly keep the edge of our Army honed and ready is through training. These individuals have all dedicated their time to
further the training methods of the Singapore Army by developing new and more efficient methods for training.
To recognise these individuals, the Singapore Army presented them with several awards, including the Letter of Commendations and the Army Learning Innovation
Award, at the Training Hub Workplan Seminar.
1WO Chu Chee Wei integrated Leadership & Values modules to develop 1WO Kang led a team to review the training syllabus in the formative months
leadership competencies through dragon-boating activities and facilitated of the Homeland Security Training Centre, ensuring relevancy of skills taught.
Artillery Institute's Instructor Preparatory Programme. His passion for
training and new pedagogies continually inspires junior instructors to "My focus was to enhance the soldiers’ confidence by equipping them with
enhance learning for their soldiers. the necessary competencies and strengthen interoperability of both the Army
and Home Team working together, hence augmenting each other during
"For my project, I believe leadership development is important to them operations." said 1WO Kang, explaining his motivations." It is critical for our
as they will eventually become commander upon graduation. It is my soldiers as well as members of the Home Team to know and understand each
responsibility to ensure they equip well with the necessary leadership skills, other's roles and capabilities while working together as a team."
ready to apply them when leading their men."
ARMY NEWS | 25PEOPLE
TRAINING EXCELLENCE:
Besides providing tough, safe and realistic training, Our Army trainers also often go the extra mile to understand and address ground concerns faced by the
soldiers during training. They see the importance of their role in shaping an operationally ready Singapore Army. These award recipients have consistently made
extra efforts to enhance training experience in their trainer role and had exceeded expectations and excelled during the training journey.
As a Rifle Company Trainer in ICTC, ITI, CPT Muhammad Azhar Bin Amin often As an ammo engineer instructor in School of Ammunition (SOA), SAF
put in additional time and effort to prepare training material and made effort Ammunition Command, DX6 Tan Cheng Kiat Jimmy developed a familiarisation
to establish a good rapport with his trainees. For his professionalism and training package for ammunition management under his own initiative when
commitment, he received the most positive feedback from the rotation trainer he realised that servicemen and women posted to Overseas Training Centres
appraisal and survey results. He also introduced new solutions and processes (OTCs) were not sufficiently trained to supervise the ammo technicians in their
which significantly reduced the time required for equipping during training daily tasks. The package was recently approved for implementation and would
and exercises. be incorporated as part of OTC preparation training. He was also instrumental
in establishing SOA as an Approved Training Organisation, and accrediting
the Supply Assistant (Ammo) course under the Work Skills Qualifications
framework.
As a course commander who trained Signal operators in Signal Institute, 2WO Posted to 38 SCE as an Armoured Engineer trainee after Basic Military Training,
Sathiaseelan put in much time and effort to engage his trainees to bring the 2LT (NS) Lim Jia Wei underwent the Engineer Pioneer Course and was awarded
best out of them, He would come in early to have breakfast with his trainees the Company Best upon the completion of this course. Due to his outstanding
and stay back in the evenings to coach those who were weaker in vocational performance and leadership qualities exhibited during his Company's first-year
knowledge or physical fitness. He was often cited by his trainees as a role evaluation exercise, he was nominated by his unit to cross-over to Specialist
model, and his efforts saw distinct improvements in the performance of his Cadet School, where he subsequently excelled and attained the Golden Bayonet
trainees. An example would be the most recent cohort whereby 18 of his 27 award. Upon returning to 38 SCE, he participated in his company's second-year
trainees made improvements in their IPPT results during a short 8 weeks; evaluation exercise and contributed significantly to help his company achieve
3 trainees upgraded from Silver to Gold, 12 trainees upgraded from Pass to REDCON 1. Thereafter, his unit nominated him again to cross over to Officer
Silver and 3 trainees upgraded from Fail to Pass. Cadet School. 2LT Lim also willingly extended his service by 9 months to meet
the minimum term of service upon completion of Engineer Officer Cadet Course.
His excellent performance again in the course saw him being awarded the
Sword of Merit.COA SAFETY AWARD:
As part of Army Safety Day (ASD) activities, the Chief of Army (COA) Safety Award was presented to units, training institutes, schools and centres in recognition of
their outstanding achievements in cultivating a strong safety culture and integrating safety in all unit activities.
LTC Mohamed Feroz, Commanding Officer, 1st LTC Lai Kit Loong, Commanding Officer, 11th
Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment (1 SIR) Command, Control, Communications, Computers,
and Intelligence Battalion (11 C4I Bn)
“The unit has empowered our soldiers to take charge of safety. In addition to
safety advocates, where soldiers remind their peers on safety matters during “We built on the mental model that training can be tough and safe, and that
training, we have started our Safety Hunt initiative akin to the commercial safety is an integral part of operations. I empower, educate and engage my
Escape room. This initiative helps educate and inform soldiers on safety issues soldiers so that as a culture, anyone can call for safety time-out when things
in a fun and interactive manner. Thus far, responses have been more positive are not going the right direction. I bestowed this trust on them. Examples
and more effective as compared to just giving safety lectures.” are reporting of near-miss, without fear of being reprimanded, for possible
safety breach so that learning and sharing take place between Formation
HQ, unit and to the last soldier in the battalion.”
ME6 Anthony Chor, Commanding Officer, 1st Army COL Liew Kok Keong, Commander Infantry Training
Maintenance Base (1 AMB) Institute (ITI)
“We are responsible for sustaining the operational effectiveness of our Army’s “ITI built a safety culture to last. Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and
tracked platforms, and safety is of utmost importance to us as our soldiers are everyone has to uphold ITI’s safety culture. We do not turn a blind eye to
required to operate heavy machinery and tools in the course of their daily work. unsafe practices, and this responsibility to enforce safety is not limited to
Hence, we not only strive for zero training incidents but zero workshop accidents training.”
too. Additionally, safety is a way of life in 1 AMB, and we take ownership of our
own safety. Even in our unit’s innovation efforts, safety is one of two key focus
areas for us as we constantly strive to enhance the safety of our maintenance
operations.”
OUTSTANDING UNIT SAFETY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Combat Units: 1 SIR, HQ Commando and Special Operations Force
Combat Support Units: 11 C4I Bn, 12 C4I Bn
Combat Service Support Units: 1 AMB, 6 AMB
Combat Schools & Institutes: ITI, Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) School 1, BMTC School 2
ARMY NEWS | 27ARSENAL
TERREX
||Written CPL Ashley Seek
Fandirstmobile
produced in 2006, the Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle represents a new class of wheeled vehicles that is network-centric, highly
and survivable. It also networks soldiers with other land and air weapon platforms, facilitating the delivery of information
fire in the battlefield. The platform offers great flexibility in adopting many protection solutions, weapon configurations and
vehicular customisations. Here are some things that make this weapon extremely versatile on the battlefield. n
Weapon Detection System (WDS)
Using only sound and shock waves, the WDS is able to detect and locate
the source of fire. The data is transferred to the Remote Controlled
Weapon System and BMS for engagement.
Interior: Battlefield Management System
(BMS) & Closed Hatch Driving System
The BMS takes information from both air and
land platforms and quickly disseminates it to
allies and as part of the driving system, three
LCD screens are built in for easier and safe
driving.TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Length: 7.79m
Width: 2.97m
Height: 2.46m
Seating Capacity: 11 troopers + 2 crew
Maximum Speed: 105km/h
Remote Control Weapon System: 7.62mm GPMG and 40mm Auto Grenade Launcher , 0.5’’ Heavy Machine Gun
Global Positioning System Sensors (GPS Sensor) & All Around Surveillance System
In addition to the GPS, low lux cameras are mounted to the front, sides and back of the vehicle to
enhance the viewing area for the driver. Infra-red light is also available on the front and back to
enhance movement in the dark. Additionally, a thermal imaging camera is mounted to the front
to detect heat waves.
Independent Suspension System
Allows for smooth transitions over normally
rocky or uneven terrains. This allows the Terrex
to climb up certain small slopes as well.
ARMY NEWS | 29HEALTH & FITNESS
THE SCIENCE OF TRAINING FOR
THE ARMY HALF MARATHON
||CONTRIBUTED BY
Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance
LTC (DR) Alexander Gorny REC Jarrett Tan
CPT (DR) Leong Wai Siang Soh Rui Yong
DR Edwin Chong
Editor's note: Dear readers, we are pushing back our article on the humble push-up to share tips on training
for the Army Half Marathon. We apologise for the delay.
Practical Tips From an
Exercise Scientist DR Edwin Chong
Resistance Training
Runners should aim to engage in two sessions of resistance training per week which is
typically enough to achieve a sufficient increase in strength during a 12-week period.
They are also advised to perform exercises with 2-3 sets of 4-10 repetition maximum
(ie the weight that only allows you to lift 4-10 repetitions) with approximately 2-3 min
of rest between sets.
Recovery
To maintain performance, runners commonly adopt recovery strategies such as
massage, active recovery, compression garments and hydrotherapy to accelerate their
recovery. Post-exercise cold water immersion is a popular form of hydrotherapy and
it has been shown to improve recovery and exercise performance during consecutive
days of intense training or competitions.
Training Mileage
Overtraining occurs when a runner experiences stress and physical trauma from exercise
faster than their body can repair the damage. To minimise the risk of non-functional
overtraining, injury and illness, it is recommended to increase weekly training mileage
by no more than 10% per week. However, if you are starting at single-digit weekly
mileage after a layoff, you can add more than 10% per week until you are close to your
normal training load.
Nutrition
There is substantial research to show that carbohydrate ingestion before exercise
improves prolonged endurance performance such as half marathon. Since muscle
glycogen is the dominant carbohydrate source for prolonged moderate intensity
exercise, having a higher initial muscle glycogen store will mean that you have more
energy reserve for running. Furthermore, consuming carbohydrate during your run will
enhance your performance and/or delay the onset of fatigue by providing sustained
blood glucose as energy for the extended run.Train Like a Professional
Athlete
Name: SOH RUI YONG
Weight: 64 KG
Height : 177 CM
Background: 8 YEARS FOR HALF MARATHON
Half marathon PB: 67 MIN 21 SEC
Training mileage per week Baseline:
120-130 KM PER WEEK
Peak: 160 KM
PRACTICAL TIPS FROM AN ELITE RUNNER
RECOVERY CROSS TRAINING
“I try to nap at lunchtime and eat lunch at my work desk to recover from “I have a specific plan that I adhere to, but this is best demonstrated in person.
morning training sessions and have enough energy for the evening sessions.” In general, I work on the core, posterior and anterior chain and strengthen
those neglected muscle groups.”
TRAINING
“Build up mileage slowly and gradually. More mileage is usually better, but one RACE TIPS
must be careful about fatigue level, illness, and injury risk as well.” “Be humble and patient and respect the full 21.1km distance. Many get too
carried away and go out way too fast and pay for it in the final stages. Also,
INJURY PREVENTION take all measures necessary to help manage the heat and humidity on race
“Do 1-2 hours of strength and conditioning a week to support the physical day… even if it means cutting holes in your singlet to keep cool!”
demands that come with running.”
Train Like an Amateur
Athlete
Name: ALEXANDER GORNY
Weight: 89 KG
Height: 188 CM
Background: 18 YEARS RUNNING, AQUATHLON
AND TRIATHLON
Half marathon PB: 1H 35 MIN
Training mileage per week Baseline: APPROX 20 KM
Peak: 30 KM
PRACTICAL TIPS FROM AN AMATEUR RUNNER
INJURY PREVENTION
NUTRITION “I make sure I stretch out all of my aches before I start a run. I also make sure I
“Don’t get ahead of yourself. You do not need to increase your calorie count end every long run with a dip in the pool just to cool down.”
drastically to cope with the added weekly load. You might benefit from 1-2 kg
weight loss.” CROSS TRAINING
“Apart from the occasional trip to the pool I make the best of any available
RECOVERY time to add on mileage before the race.”
“I would indulge myself with a mid-day nap after a long weekend run.”
RACE TIPS
TRAINING – “At steady-state I am already running up to 10km at one go. “Your performance at the race really comes down to the last 6km, so make
That still means I will need to progressively build up to 21km. I make sure to go sure you enjoy the build-up and really make sure you are comfortable for the
step-wise with an additional 2km each time until I hit about 18km.” first 15km. Take trust in your preparation and remember to always smile!”
ARMY NEWS | 31You can also read
