BEST UNITS IN THE SINGAPORE ARMED FORCES 2004
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The ArmyÂ’s 1st Commando Battalion, the Republic of Singapore Air ForceÂ’s 149 Squadron and the Republic of Singapore NavyÂ’s RSS Vengeance have won the Best Combat Unit, the Best Fighter Squadron and the Best Ship awards respectively this year. In addition, 11 NS units were also recognized for their outstanding performances during the work year. President S R Nathan and Minister for Defence, Rear-Admiral (NS) Teo Chee Hean will present the awards to the winners on 1 Jul 04 during the SAF Day Parade at SAFTI Military Institute.
The annual Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Best Unit and Best NS Competition, introduced in 1969 and 1993 respectively, recognise units that have distinguished themselves in the areas of combat readiness, operational proficiency and administrative excellence.
The annual competition seeks to enhance the combat readiness of SAF units and its formations whilst at the same time promote esprit de corps and camaraderie among its soldiers.
The Army
This is the 18th time that 1st Commando Battalion has won the coveted SAF Best Combat Unit award. Considered one of the SAFÂ’s elite units, the unit is trained for strike missions, reconnaissance missions and anti-terrorist action. 1st Commando Battalion is currently commanded by Major (MAJ) Ang Soon Leong
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF)
Winning the Best Fighter Squadron award for the fourth time is the RSAF's 149 Squadron, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Foo Jeong Nan. 149 Squadron operates the F-5S/T Tiger and its primary role is in air defence and interception missions.
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)
This is the first time that RSS Vengeance has won the coveted Best Ship Award. Commissioned on 25 May 91, RSS Vengeance is from the RSNÂ’s 188 Squadron and is currently commanded by MAJ Lee Weang Foo. The 62-metre long Missile Corvette is built for surface, air and sub-surface warfare. With a crew of fifty, its mission is to protect Singapore's sea lines of communications and provide seaward defence.
NS Units
Five of the 11 winners have won the award for the first time. They are: 583rd Guards Battalion, 566th Singapore Infantry Regiment (566 SIR), 424th Singapore Armour Regiment, 278th Singapore Artillery and 328th Singapore Combat Engineers. Two units, the 6th Direct Support Medical Battalion (6 DS Med Bn) and the 6th Signal Battalion, have won the award nine times. The other winners of the Best NS units include: 652 SIR, 657 SIR, 596 SIR and 543 SIR. The NS units were assessed on their overall operational readiness during field proficiency tests, mobilisation exercises, as well as the individual marksmanship and physical proficiency tests.
--iMindef -
Commandos go through one of the toughest training regime in the SAF, and are considered among the SAFÂ’s elite troopers. They are trained for specialized operations to strike at key targets, reconnaissance missions and anti-terrorist action.
The missions they undertake tend to fall into two categories, namely strike and reconnaissance:
Strike missions entail offensive actions that will see the Commandos engaging in fire fights with the enemy. A typical strike mission will see the Commandos aggressively infiltrating into the enemyÂ’s depth to destroy key targets that will help tilt the balance in favour of the SAF. Apart from tangible damage to the enemy installations and equipment, their incursions often lower the enemyÂ’s morale.
Reconnaissance missions require Commandos to operate in small teams behind enemy lines to gather information, often for extended periods of time. Very often, Commandos are expected to live off the land and to make do with whatever they find or catch.
First to go into action, and last to be out, Commandos are adept at using a wide variety of weapons, from knives to anti-tank weapons. Courage, tenacity, stealth and determination to overcome adversity are hallmarks of the Commandos.
1st CDO Bn has won the Best Unit Competition a record 18 times. This achievement can be attributed to the CommandosÂ’ tenacity and indomitable fighting spirit.
--iMindef -
The RSN Best Ship Competition is an annual event to encourage ships in the RSN to strive for excellence when carrying out their tasks.
In Workyear 2003/2004, RSS VENGEANCE was awarded both the Best Ship Award and Operational Excellence Award (for superior readiness) in the RSN Best Ship Competition.
Commissioned on 25 May 91, RSS Vengeance is from the RSNÂ’s 188 Squadron and is currently commanded by MAJ Lee Weang Foo. The 62-metre long Missile Corvette is built for surface, air and sub-surface warfare. With a crew of fifty, its mission is to protect Singapore's sea lines of communications and provide seaward defence.
--iMindef
RSS VENGEANCE has demonstrated her readiness through a series of operational taskings, exercises and inspections. The shipÂ’s aim is to maintain a high level of readiness and to have an effective team of crew that can be counted on to accomplish all tasking assigned to the ship at all times. In addition, the ship has achieved a zero-accident record over the past three years.
The ship is also the best UWMS unit in 188 Squadron. The three Work Improvement Teams onboard have undertaken numerous projects, which has in a cost-savings of nearly $70,000 -
149 Squadron, formed on 1 Jun 1985, is one of RSAFÂ’s air interceptor squadrons.
The Squadron operates the F-5S/T Tiger, a highly manoeuvrable, supersonic fighter aircraft in RSAFÂ’s inventory. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, the aircraft are capable of carrying out Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground missions. In Air-to-Air operations, it is employed to patrol and maintain the sovereignty of SingaporeÂ’s airspace. In Air-to-Ground missions, the F-5S/T aircraft are capable of strategic interdiction, battlefield air interdiction and close air support.
In work year 03/04, the Squadron participated in several major exercises such as Major ADEX, which involved the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) countries. In addition, the Squadron also participated in other exercises such as Cope Tiger and Commando Sling.
The Squadron achieved an unprecedented zero non-conformance record during the work year 03/04. This first ever achievement by any Squadron is one of the reasons why 149 Squadron clinched the best fighter Squadron award for the 4th time since its formation.
The Shikra is 149 Squadron’s adopted mascot. Swift and fearless, the small yet aggressive falcon strikes her prey with lightning speed and deadly attacks. The Squadron’s “Steadfast” motto parallels the Shikra’s assertive and bold nature when its home is disturbed.
--iMindef -
328 SCE is a field engineer battalion that has the capabilities to overcome man-made and natural obstacles for manoeuvre of combat forces.
Among its capabilities is the Combat Engineer Tractor (CET) which provides earth moving capability including dozing, levelling, spreading and filling, as well as lifting and recovery functions. It is operated by a two-man crew and has a rocket-propelled anchor to aid in climbing slopes of up to 45 degrees.
Also in its arsenal is the AMX-13 SM1-Launched Bridge (SLB), which can overcome gaps of 14 meters and can be deployed within 15 minutes with just a two-man crew.
--iMindef -
The commandos wld naturally have an edge over the rest of the units, due to more rigorous selection and quality of their intake. The objectives and training requirements also differ from the rest of the combat units, and they can be partially considered the "elite" of the SAF..... so why are they even allowed to participate in this exercise and pose unfair competition ??? This is sth I can't understand .... pretty meaningless and not comparing apple 2 apple if u ask me ...
Can see from the record that the competition is skewed in their favor and is pretty much theirs to hold onto unless there's some major screw up like the recent unfortunate incidents ... 
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that's where u r not entirely right - the BUC includes many other aspects, including logistics, administration, manpower, and so on, not only training and operational readiness.Originally posted by Aulf:The commandos wld naturally have an edge over the rest of the units, due to more rigorous selection and quality of their intake. The objectives and training requirements also differ from the rest of the combat units, and they can be partially considered the "elite" of the SAF..... so why are they even allowed to participate in this exercise and pose unfair competition ??? This is sth I can't understand .... pretty meaningless and not comparing apple 2 apple if u ask me ... Can see from the record that the competition is skewed in their favor and is pretty much theirs to hold onto unless there's some major screw up like the recent unfortunate incidents ... -
I noe ... but they have already got an unfair advantage already ....Originally posted by wuming78:that's where u r not entirely right - the BUC includes many other aspects, including logistics, administration, manpower, and so on, not only training and operational readiness.
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The competition shouldn't include the commando., they're the elite.
It means that when the commando lose the best unit title, they're no better than the infantry unit. -
a parallel between RI students intake and tat of Beatty Sec school studentsOriginally posted by Aulf:The commandos wld naturally have an edge over the rest of the units, due to more rigorous selection and quality of their intake. The objectives and training requirements also differ from the rest of the combat units, and they can be partially considered the "elite" of the SAF..... so why are they even allowed to participate in this exercise and pose unfair competition ??? This is sth I can't understand .... pretty meaningless and not comparing apple 2 apple if u ask me ... Can see from the record that the competition is skewed in their favor and is pretty much theirs to hold onto unless there's some major screw up like the recent unfortunate incidents ... -
1st Commando Battalion
Commandos go through one of the toughest training regime in the SAF, and are considered among the SAFÂ’s elite troopers. They are trained for specialized operations to strike at key targets, reconnaissance missions and anti-terrorist action.
The missions they undertake tend to fall into two categories, namely strike and reconnaissance:
Strike missions entail offensive actions that will see the Commandos engaging in fire fights with the enemy. A typical strike mission will see the Commandos aggressively infiltrating into the enemyÂ’s depth to destroy key targets that will help tilt the balance in favour of the SAF. Apart from tangible damage to the enemy installations and equipment, their incursions often lower the enemyÂ’s morale.
Reconnaissance missions require Commandos to operate in small teams behind enemy lines to gather information, often for extended periods of time. Very often, Commandos are expected to live off the land and to make do with whatever they find or catch.
First to go into action, and last to be out, Commandos are adept at using a wide variety of weapons, from knives to anti-tank weapons. Courage, tenacity, stealth and determination to overcome adversity are hallmarks of the Commandos.
1st CDO Bn has won the Best Unit Competition a record 18 times. This achievement can be attributed to the CommandosÂ’ tenacity and indomitable fighting spirit.
The famous red beret of the SAF commandos. Worn with pride and confidence.
Commandos go through one of the toughest training regime in the SAF, and are considered among the SAFÂ’s elite troopers.
Commandos strike mostly under the cover of darkness and employ various means to get to their target undetected.
--SAF Day 2004 Website -
the CO looks like NSF leh... now LTC leh
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33 yrs old nia...power siaOriginally posted by Taufiq:the CO looks like NSF leh... now LTC leh -
hannor... confirm high flyer...Originally posted by sgboy2004:33 yrs old nia...power sia
must be Major at 27
maybe COL at 40? -
RSS Vengeance
RSN Best Ship Competition is an annual event to encourage ships in the RSN to strive for excellence when carrying out their tasks.
In Workyear 2003/2004, RSS VENGEANCE was awarded both the Best Ship Award and Operational Excellence Award (for superior readiness) in the RSN Best Ship Competition.
Commissioned on 25 May 91, RSS Vengeance is from the RSN’s 188 Squadron and is currently commanded by MAJ Lee Weang Foo. The 62-metre long Missile Corvette is built for surface, air and sub-surface warfare. With a crew of fifty, its mission is to protect Singapore's sea lines of communications and provide seaward defence.
RSS VENGEANCE has demonstrated her readiness through a series of operational taskings, exercises and inspections. The ship’s aim is to maintain a high level of readiness and to have an effective team of crew that can be counted on to accomplish all tasking assigned to the ship at all times. In addition, the ship has achieved a zero-accident record over the past three years.
The ship is also the best UWMS unit in 188 Squadron. The three Work Improvement Teams onboard have undertaken numerous projects, which has in a cost-savings of nearly $70,000.
The 62-metre long Missile Corvette is built for surface, air and sub-surface warfare
RSS Vengeance has demonstrated her readiness through a series of operational taskings, exercises and inspections.
-- SAF Day Website -
149 Squadron
149 Squadron, formed on 1 Jun 1985, is one of RSAF’s air interceptor squadrons.
The Squadron operates the F-5S/T Tiger, a highly manoeuvrable, supersonic fighter aircraft in RSAF’s inventory. Equipped with state-of the art avionics, the aircraft are capable of carrying out Air-to Air and Air-to-Ground missions. In Air-to-Air operations, it is employed to patrol and maintain the sovereignty of Singapore’s airspace. In Air-to-Ground missions, the F-5S/T aircraft are capable of strategic interdiction, battlefield air interdiction and close air support.
In work year 03/04, the Squadron participated in several major exercises such as Major ADEX, which involved the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) countries. In addition, the Squadron also participated in other exercises such as Cope Tiger and Commando Sling.
The Squadron achieved an unprecedented zero non-conformance record during the work year 03/04. This first ever achievement by any Squadron is one of the reasons why 149 Squadron clinched the best fighter Squadron award for the 4th time since its formation.
The Shikra is 149 Squadron’s adopted mascot. Swift and fearless, the small yet aggressive falcon strikes her prey with lightning speed and deadly attacks. The Squadron’s “Steadfast” motto parallels the Shikra’s assertive and bold nature when it’s home is disturbed.
The fighting Shikras celebrating their 4th win since the formation
of 149 squadron.
-- SAF Day Website -
The commandos got tanks and APCs to maintain? No.Originally posted by wuming78:that's where u r not entirely right - the BUC includes many other aspects, including logistics, administration, manpower, and so on, not only training and operational readiness.
Do they have to assume 2 multiple roles eg.armour and infantry? Nah, don't think so.
Logistics, administration, manpower and so on for commandoes and armour can compare? Not a chance. -
My thoughts exactly ...Originally posted by sgboy2004:a parallel between RI students intake and tat of Beatty Sec school students -
Why i think Cdo can win so many best unit award is because the way they are structured gives them an advantage.
They are a self-sustaining unit.
Meaning, their unit support and logistics are done by themselves and they need not rely on other units for support.
They got their own camp, run and managed by Cdo as opposed by other units who rely on their CCO. THis way, they got their own drivers, MT line, stores, etc.
They train their own commanders (exception of OCS) from scratch, unlike other units where their commanders are trained from BMTC/Sispec BSLC.
These are just few factors that makes the difference and being self-sustaining means being able to make their operation close-knit and well coordinated.
And of course, 1Cdo are a bunch of very motivated ppl. -
guess wat ...some of the commondos are specky..
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you sure they dun have CCO? I think it not call CCO but still act like one.Originally posted by Ponders:Why i think Cdo can win so many best unit award is because the way they are structured gives them an advantage.
They are a self-sustaining unit.
Meaning, their unit support and logistics are done by themselves and they need not rely on other units for support.
They got their own camp, run and managed by Cdo as opposed by other units who rely on their CCO. THis way, they got their own drivers, MT line, stores, etc.
They train their own commanders (exception of OCS) from scratch, unlike other units where their commanders are trained from BMTC/Sispec BSLC.
These are just few factors that makes the difference and being self-sustaining means being able to make their operation close-knit and well coordinated.
And of course, 1Cdo are a bunch of very motivated ppl. -
Well, it comes down to the competition being for the best combat unit, not the best infantry, armour or Guards unit. With such a vague classification, there's no grounds for calling it an unfair comparison - sorry, Aulf!
As Temujin, in a rare moment of astuteness, notes, Cdo is expected to win the competition. If they win, it's just another day. if they lose, it's a disgrace. It's a double-edged sword, IMHO. -
No worries man .... juz think that the cdo have an inherent advantage in terms of combat readiness and fitness bvo the qualty of their intake and training ...Originally posted by Gedanken:Well, it comes down to the competition being for the best combat unit, not the best infantry, armour or Guards unit. With such a vague classification, there's no grounds for calling it an unfair comparison - sorry, Aulf!
As Temujin, in a rare moment of astuteness, notes, Cdo is expected to win the competition. If they win, it's just another day. if they lose, it's a disgrace. It's a double-edged sword, IMHO.
I suppose there's also a best Cdo competition within the cdo units ... maybe the Cdos, Guards, NDU etc. shld org a competition amongst themselves .. sort of an "elite" force type of competition .... -
elite competition? hm.. smacks of elitism.Originally posted by Aulf:No worries man .... juz think that the cdo have an inherent advantage in terms of combat readiness and fitness bvo the qualty of their intake and training ...
I suppose there's also a best Cdo competition within the cdo units ... maybe the Cdos, Guards, NDU etc. shld org a competition amongst themselves .. sort of an "elite" force type of competition ....
anyway there is only one cdo unit - 1 cdo -
Congrats to all!!!