How SOTF protects Singapore
In a flash it was over.
The troopers from the Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) had neutralised the "terrorists" who had attacked a cafe.
Luckily, the "terror attack" was a mock exercise.
Through this exercise, the SOTF demonstrated its counter-terrorism abilities.
Held on March 30 at Pasir Ris Camp, the balaclava-clad troopers showed how they would handle a terrorist attack in an urban setting.
In this scenario, the three "terrorists" attacked a cafe.
The troopers used the Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicle to storm in and neutralise them.
The troopers also showed how they would storm a flat during a hostage situation.
A trooper set a small explosive charge on a locked door.
It exploded and the troopers rushed to the unit on the third storey.
From the left, a separate group of troopers arrived on a Mobile Adjustable Ramp System.
Mounted on a truck, the system helped the troopers to quickly enter a unit through the window.
The "hostage situation" thus ended "peacefully".
The SOTF demonstration came days before the Minister of Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen's speech in Parliament on April 7.
During the Committee of Supply debate, Dr Ng outlined the steps the Ministry of Defence will be taking to protect Singapore from the rising threat of terrorism.
The SAF will train more units to patrol urban areas such as MRT stations and shopping centres, he said.
A mock town, complete with high rise buildings, will be built for training purposes.
Working closely with the Home Team, the SAF will share intelligence to develop joint operational command systems, the minister added.
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now