Second Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean has said Singapore's upgraded F-5S fighter squadrons have attained full operational capability and are ready to defend the skies of Singapore.
Rear-Admiral Teo said the squadrons now have all the necessary trained personnel, and improved aircraft and equipment to fulfil the complete range of missions assigned to them.
Rear-Admiral Teo, who is also the Minister for Education, was speaking at a ceremony for the fighter squadrons at the Paya Lebar Air Base.
Rear-Admiral Teo joined the commanding officer of 149 squadron Lieutenant-Colonel Bruno Cheong for a flight on the F-5S to get a first-hand experience of an intercept training mission. The upgraded F-5S is equipped with advanced avionics and a sophisticated weapons delivery system. These enhanced capabilities help the fighter aircraft engage targets with precision both in the air and on the ground.
Mindef says the attainment of full operational capability for the F-5S is a testimony to the local aerospace industry's technological expertise in fighter aircraft upgrade.
(taken from INtv ch5, 3/4/99)