DSTA commemorates its 20th anniversary

Its science, tech capabilities even more essential now: DPM Heng

The book chronicles DSTA's transformation, innovations and contributions in the last two decades. PHOTO: HENG SWEE KEAT/FACEBOOK

A strong science and technology core will be even more critical to Singapore and its armed forces as the country navigates an increasingly complex world with fast-evolving threats, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said yesterday.

Technology such as automation, robotics and artificial intelligence will change not only the way people live and work, but also how the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) fights and operates, he said at a ceremony to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).

"The next 20 years will likely be even more exciting than the last. We are in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the pace of change has quickened since Covid-19," he told senior defence officials at the event at the DSTA Integrated Complex in Depot Road, as well as more than 3,000 DSTA staff and guests who tuned in virtually.

Mr Heng, who is also Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies and Minister for Finance, also launched a commemorative book titled Ordinary People Extraordinary Passion.

It chronicles DSTA's transformation, innovations and contributions in the last two decades.

These include building the highly networked Island Air Defence System, the army's Hunter Armoured Fighting Vehicle, and the navy's littoral mission vessels that are customised to Singapore's needs.

Established in 2000, DSTA is a statutory board under the Defence Ministry that makes use of science and technology. It provides technological and engineering support for Singapore's defence and security.

In his speech, Mr Heng said DSTA has grown by leaps and bounds since its birth. "You have built a range of deep expertise - from our air, naval and land systems, to C3 (command, control and communications) and cyber security."

Locally designed platforms such as the Hunter and the littoral mission vessels are testament to DSTA's ability to translate technology and plans into reality, he added. "These capabilities have kept our fighting capabilities ahead of the curve."

Mr Heng recounted that science and technology have been instrumental in building Singapore's defence capabilities. When the British forces withdrew from Singapore in the 1970s, the country had only two infantry regiments, two seaworthy wooden ships and two borrowed Cessna aircraft, he said.

"Through the ingenuity and dedication of our defence community, the SAF has grown from these humble beginnings into an advanced and capable fighting force."

Mr Heng lauded DSTA's contributions, including towards national efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.

It helped to develop temperature self-check systems and mobile swabbing stations, and tapped its networks to procure emergency healthcare supplies amid global supply chain uncertainties, he said.

"Time and again, the men and women of DSTA have gone beyond the call of duty in times of crisis," he added, noting that it developed thermal scanners during the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in 2003.

He said what made the agency extraordinary was not just its range of deep expertise, but also its extensive network of partnerships.

It has strengthened such partnerships through hosting events such as the Singapore Defence Technology Summit, for instance, and through collaborations with global companies such as Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Boeing, Samsung and IBM.

"These collaborations keep DSTA at the forefront of technology. The presence of so many of you here online is a testament of the strength of that relationship," said Mr Heng.

DSTA chief executive Tan Peng Yam said that to achieve its mission, the agency has adopted the strategy of investing in and harnessing its people to their fullest potential.

"We place great emphasis on our shared purpose as well as creating meaningful work and a vibrant environment for everyone to collaborate, innovate and grow."

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 29, 2020, with the headline DSTA commemorates its 20th anniversary. Subscribe