Chief Defence Scientist Mr Tan Peng Yam (third from left) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Innovation Cooperation with the US Director of Defense Innovation Unit and Senior Adviser to the Secretary of Defense Mr Douglas A. Beck (Second from left).

Secretary Austin and Dr. Ng Eng Hen discuss strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and sign an MOU on defense innovation.

United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III visited Singapore to attend the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) and met with Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen at the Shangri-La Hotel this afternoon. Secretary Austin also called on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong earlier in the day.

During the meeting, Dr. Ng and Secretary Austin reaffirmed the strong bilateral defense relationship between Singapore and the US. They discussed ways to enhance defense cooperation and expressed mutual appreciation for each country’s support in defense training and technology. Specifically, Dr. Ng acknowledged the US’s support for the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) training in the US and the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s (RSAF) acquisition of F-35 aircraft. They also discussed geopolitical developments and regional security, emphasizing the importance of US engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.

Secretary Austin (left) called on Dr Ng (right) this afternoon on the sidelines of the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue.

Before the meeting, Dr. Ng and Secretary Austin witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Defense Innovation Cooperation. Signed by Chief Defence Scientist Mr. Tan Peng Yam and Director of the Defense Innovation Unit Mr. Douglas A. Beck, the MOU aims to leverage commercial and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomy, to address operational challenges for both militaries. The agreement focuses on innovative solutions for contemporary security issues, such as counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) and maritime security technologies.

Dr. Ng highlighted the significance of the MOU, stating, “Emerging and dual-use technologies are rapidly evolving, and defense establishments need to find ways to better harness these commercial technologies at the speed of relevance. This MOU is a significant step for Singapore and the US in strengthening our respective defense ecosystems, particularly the commercial space, to adopt innovative solutions for our armed forces.”

Secretary Austin’s visit underscores the robust and beneficial defense partnership between Singapore and the US. He is scheduled to speak at a plenary session titled “United States’ Strategic Partnerships in the Indo-Pacific” on June 1, 2024, during the 21st SLD.

Source – MINDEF