In a significant ceremony overseen by Senior Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Heng Chee How, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) celebrated a pivotal moment—achieving Full Operational Capability (FOC) for the advanced Aster 30 Medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile (MSAM) system. The noteworthy event unfolded at the RSAF's Air Defence and Operations Command, precisely at 163 Squadron in Lim Chu Kang Camp II.
Mr. Heng, joined by respected leaders including Permanent Secretary (Defence) Mr. Chan Heng Kee and Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, played a key role in unveiling a commemorative plaque signifying the system's FOC status. In expressing gratitude, Mr. Heng acknowledged the unwavering commitment of personnel from RSAF, the Defence Technology Community (DTC), and the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) to Singapore's defense.
The Aster 30 Missile System, part of a Franco-Italian family of all-weather, vertical launch surface-to-air missiles, stands as a significant leap in air defense technology. Developed by Eurosam, a consortium comprising MBDA France, MBDA Italy, and Thales, the system comprises two versions – the short-medium range Aster 15 and the long-range Aster 30.
Mr. Heng underscored the strategic importance of the Aster 30 system in enhancing RSAF's operational readiness. Given Singapore's geographical constraints, the system's ability to intercept a broad range of modern air threats, including combat aircraft, helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and precision-guided munitions, is particularly vital.
The RSAF, entrusted with the responsibility of defending Singapore's skies, received commendations from Mr. Heng for its exemplary service over the past 55 years. He expressed confidence in the RSAF's capability to uphold the trust placed in it, especially during challenging times. The ceremony also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the 9 Air Engineering and Logistics Group, the Defence Technology Community, and the Defence Science and Technology Agency in conjunction with the 163 Squadron.
Since August 2020, the Aster 30 missile system has been at the forefront of 24/7 air defense operations. As an integral part of the Island Air Defence (IAD) system, the Aster 30 is seamlessly integrated with advanced sensors, shooters, and command and control systems, providing Singapore with a multi-layered, networked, and intelligent air defense capability.
This versatile Ground Based Air Defense system is designed to counter a wide spectrum of air threats, from fighters and helicopters to UAVs and precision-guided munitions. Notably, it boasts the capability to intercept air threats at a greater distance than its predecessor, the I-HAWK. The system's ability to draw on information from other sensors in the IAD network allows for effective and timely counteraction against air threats.
The attainment of Full Operational Capability for the Aster 30 Missile System represents a historic achievement for the Republic of Singapore Air Force. The integration of this advanced system into the Island Air Defence network underscores the RSAF's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Singapore's airspace.
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