This year’s drill features over 1,000 Singaporean personnel and advanced technologies, including upgraded F-16 jets and automated air-to-air refueling.
IDAHO: The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is pushing its operational capabilities to new heights during Exercise Forging Sabre, a biennial drill held at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, United States. With over 1,000 Singaporean personnel participating, the exercise highlights the SAF’s coordination across air, land, and digital forces, testing prized assets and state-of-the-art technologies.
During the exercise, troops on the ground conduct lasing operations to accurately pinpoint targets. These coordinates are then relayed to assets from the Singapore Army and Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), including Apache helicopters and F-15 fighter jets, for precise and coordinated strikes.
Enhanced Decision-Making Through Technology
For coordinated attacks, SAF deploys unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that provide vital intelligence from above. “We fly high and far, enabling us to relay comprehensive information back to the command post so commanders can make more informed decisions,” explained Major Ooi Liwen, a Heron 1 pilot from 119 Squadron.
This year’s exercise also marks the first participation of the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), further integrating advanced data and intelligence capabilities into SAF’s operations.
Upgraded Assets and New Capabilities
The exercise serves as a testing ground for upgraded F-16 fighters capable of striking further and detecting threats more effectively. These jets, integrated with advanced systems, can seamlessly share information with other aircraft and ground forces.
Additionally, the RSAF is trialing automated air-to-air refueling with the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for the first time. This innovation enables extended missions by allowing jets to refuel mid-air, reducing fatigue among crew members and improving operational efficiency.
“This automation allows the MRTT to deliver large quantities of fuel to multiple aircraft in a single mission safely and efficiently,” said Major Simeon Chen, an MRTT pilot from 112 Squadron.
Testing Autonomous Systems
The SAF is also experimenting with autonomous hardware to enhance precision and situational awareness. Robot dogs equipped with light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors are deployed to identify threats in enclosed spaces, while advanced drones provide detailed maps of uncharted areas.
“By leveraging satellite technology, soldiers and commanders gain real-time visualizations of target areas, enabling swift and accurate decision-making,” shared Captain Lim Ryan, who is part of the RSAF’s drone swarm project.
A Platform for Growth
Exercise Forging Sabre has evolved significantly since its inception in 2005. This year’s edition serves as a crucial platform for SAF to test its readiness and capabilities, particularly ahead of the Paris Olympics in 2024.
“We’ve integrated upgraded F-16s and autonomous tools to enhance our warfighting capabilities. This ensures our forces are prepared to defend Singapore’s skies and maintain a technological edge,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Tan Yong Chin, commander of the RSAF’s Peace Carvin II detachment.
Through a combination of cutting-edge technology and advanced training, Exercise Forging Sabre underscores SAF’s commitment to maintaining a robust defense force while fostering innovation in its operations.
