NS was introduced in 1967, just 2 years after Singapore’s
independence to ensure the peace and stability of our nation.
We are a 'little red dot'.
With a population of 4.4 million and a land of 699 square km,
Singapore is amongst the 20 smallest countries in the world.
Singapore is too small to change the world. Instead, we must adapt
as the world changes around us.

We must be able to defend Singapore ourselves. No one else is
responsible for our security and we cannot depend on others to come
to our defence.
Our defence is predicated on deterrence. That is why we invest
heavily and consistently in building up a strong defence force to
provide that deterrence.
At the same time, we seek to be friends with as many countries
as possible in the region and beyond. By having friends who can
help us in our times of need, we enhance our security.
NS is our only viable option to building up a credible defence
force to ensure our survival. A conscription force by law which
obliges all eligible people to enlist would create a sizeable
standing force ready to guarantee our security.
The SAF maintains
itself in a high state of operational readiness at all times so
that it is able to react swiftly to any threat.
To meet the defence challenges in the 21st century, the
SAF is upgrading and
transforming itself into a highly sophisticated, well-integrated
fighting force.

The Third Generation SAF will be a network-centric
organisation. Our forces will be interconnected, equipped with
electronic information systems, and be able to fight cooperatively,
and in an integrated manner, on land, in the air and on the
sea.
Within the nation itself, the SPF upholds the law and maintains
order, keeping the streets safe for family and friends.
And in case of any crisis or emergency, such as a major accident
or a terrorist attack, the SCDF will be there to rescue
and save the lives of fellow citizens.
All together, the SAF, SPF and SCDF play a key role in
Singapore’s Total Defence—Military Defence, Civil Defence, Economic
Defence, Social Defence and Psychological Defence.
