The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is portrayed and widely known as a coherent and credible military, ready to take on any threat to the nation. Ensuring that the SAF remains a notch above the rest are organisations such as the Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA).
By Azhar Jalil
DSTA manages a multi-disciplinary, multi-industry portfolio that spans the full spectrum of defence technology. The organisation is also behind defence acquisitions as well as development of defence systems for Singapore...
Often working behind the scenes, the statutory board has recently been thrust into the limelight with a slew of technology upgrades to the SAF. From advanced stealth frigates to pixelated camouflage uniforms, the agency plays a key role in keeping the SAF on the cutting edge.
To this extent, DSTA recently introduced the Advanced Combat Man System (ACMS). Comprising various sensors and communication devices, the system augments infantrymen by enhancing their ability to operate across various scenarios.
The system, one of just a few of its kind in the world, further establishes the competence of the SAF, boosting its evolution into a Third Generation fighting force.
Enhancing capabilities
One of the men behind the ACMS is Chua Chee Seng. A diploma-holder from Singapore Polytechnic, he later graduated from the Nanyang Technological University with an Honours degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. A career at DSTA was a natural choice for him.
“DSTA offered me opportunities which allowed me to be involved in project management besides handling the technical aspects in an engineering job,” said the 28-year-old.
As an Engineer in the Land Systems, Chee Seng’s work revolves around project management. Explained Chee Seng, “I have to understand the technical problems faced by the SAF and explore means of leveraging technology to provide them with engineering solutions and enhance the defence capabilities.”
Citing his involvement in the ACMS as an example, he said, “My responsibilities include ensuring the various systems within the ACMS are well-integrated and able to perform their designated functions.”
While a typical day for a DSTA Engineer involves meetings and discussions, he also participates in field trials to test the systems. As with any occupation, challenges exist. For Chee Seng, he finds that tight schedules and timelines are his biggest hurdles.
“I’ve learnt to manage my time properly and to multi-task. Approaching challenges with a calm rational mind helps a great deal as well,” Chee Seng said confidently.
Mastering technology
In the defence industry, no one can afford to cut corners. While “Fast, Cheap, Good” would apply to consumer products, this mantra does not hold water when it comes to defence.
Chee Seng emphasised, “Finding a solution that not only fits the SAF’s requirements but in the most cost-effective and efficient manner possible is the challenge. And there is no one rule that applies to all.”
DSTA is always seeking new means to improve the capabilities of Singapore’s defence forces. The need to keep ahead is even more critical given the defence industry’s dynamism. Mastery of technology gives the upper hand in today’s battlefield, making constant upgrading an absolute necessity.
Investing in people
On its part, DSTA ensures that its employees keep abreast of the latest developments. “We attend upgrading courses, seminars and conferences to keep ourselves up-to-date with the latest happenings in science and technology,” said Chee Seng.
“DSTA is very supportive in this aspect. In-house courses are also conducted by our colleagues to share their experiences and expertise. The working environment is conducive for a young engineer as there are many platforms available to learn the ropes and develop essential life-skills,” quipped Chee Seng.
Acknowledging that human capital is a key resource, DSTA invests heavily in its employees. For those keen on increasing their technical competency, the agency offers members specialised postgraduate scholarships.
Members also have opportunities to travel overseas. Chee Seng has been sent to the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom and France—a long list considering he has only been with DSTA for two and a half years.
One trip left a particularly deep impression on him. “I went to the United States to visit an exhibition that showcased a wide range of technology and electronic products, some of which haven’t even been released. It was truly an eye-opener and reminded me that technology advances at such an amazing speed.”
Cutting-edge defence
For Chee Seng, the pace of the industry is an impetus for him to constantly perform. “I take pride and care when evaluating systems to ensure that they fulfill the SAF’s requirements. Knowing what is available in the market helps us come up with better engineering solutions,” he elaborated.
Apart from dogged determination and a thirst for knowledge, a desire to contribute to the nation is a must-have for building a successful career at DSTA.
“It is definitely fulfilling to be part of the community, knowing that your work serves to sharpen Singapore’s technological edge in defence,” said Chee Seng, clearly satisfied with his role in honing the SAF into a formidable fighting force.
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