Yeap. We were once under the occupation of Japanese Expeditionary forces back in WW2. Back then, we were still a crown colony of England, and didn't really have a say in our defence policies. We assumed that our colonial masters would protect us. Well, they tried.
It was unfortunate though, that despite the best intelligence made available to the Brits then, they still felt that Singapore would not be attacked, and Imperial Japan would not dare. They felt that Singapore was an impregnable fortress.
Well, we all know how that sad story ended. British, Australian, and NZ forces surrendered to a smaller but more fiercesome and well trained Japanese army. Who could blame them? It was not their country to die for. It was mostly the local militias that fought to the last man.
It was a hard lesson to learn. That defence was in our own hands. The older generation of Singaporeans still remember the cruel treatment by the Japanese soldiers and the feared kempeitai. Rapes, massacres and starvation. The cost of losing a war is simply too great.
We are a small country, in a vulnerable position. Lack of depth, lack of resources. Yet we are one of the world's busiest port and trading centre. To lose another war where we are now, would probably destroy us altogether this time. With a small population, we have a small army, air force and navy. The only way we can form an effective deterrent is with a techonologically superior, well trained, and determined fighting force.
Technology as a force multiplier is evident throughout the entire SAF force structure. From the F-16C/D's electronic warfare systems, integrated battle command and control infrastructure, down to our logistics management systems.
The next step we are moving into would be the use of unmanned combat vehicles, in the air, land and sea, to further supplement our combat forces.
In short, Singapore takes no chances in our defence purchases and policies. The equipment we buy, must be able to fit in, and contribute significantly to our defence. We have only ONE chance at defending ourselves against any aggressor, and we cannot fail.
