Air Marshal Robert Chipman was conferred the prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) for his contributions to strengthening defence ties between Singapore and Australia, during a ceremony at the Ministry of Defence.
Air Marshal (AM) Robert Chipman, Vice Chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and former Chief of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) was honored with Singapore’s prestigious Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)] today. The award, presented by Singapore’s Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, was conferred by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam during an investiture ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence in Singapore.
AM Chipman received the award in recognition of his significant contributions to enhancing the long-standing and close defence relationship between Singapore and Australia. During his tenure as Chief of the RAAF, AM Chipman played a pivotal role in supporting the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s (RSAF) training initiatives in Australia. Notably, the 30th anniversary of the RSAF’s flight training detachment at RAAF Base Pearce was marked in October 2023 under his leadership. His continued support was instrumental in ensuring the RSAF’s operational readiness and expanding its training opportunities in Australia.
Under AM Chipman’s leadership, both the RAAF and RSAF engaged in regular high-level exchanges, including bilateral and multilateral exercises such as Exercise Churinga and Exercise Pitch Black. These interactions have strengthened the cooperation and rapport between the two air forces, fostering a deeper bilateral defence relationship. AM Chipman emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “Australia and Singapore share a deep and enduring defence relationship and strategic partnership. I am honoured to receive the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) and look forward to our two countries continuing to work together to strengthen regional security.”
During his visit to Singapore from 7 to 9 October 2024, AM Chipman inspected a Guard of Honour, held discussions with Dr Ng and Chief of Air Force Major-General Kelvin Fan, and co-chaired the 10th ADF-Singapore Armed Forces Annual Staff Talks. He also delivered a lecture as part of the Distinguished Speakers’ Programme at the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College.
Source: MINDEF
