SINGAPORE : Changi Air Base is spreading its wings.
A new 200-hectare military complex and runway has been custom-built
from scratch on reclaimed land, packed with cutting-edge
technology.
Changi Air Base East was inaugurated on Monday by Defence Minister
Teo Chee Hean.
The 145 Squardron which will be based there, will fly the latest
and most advanced fighter, the F-16D Block 52 Plus two-seater
jets.
The F-16Ds are state-of-the-art, and so is the airbase they operate
from.
Inside the control tower are systems that monitor and control every
aspect of the airbase.
All its lights are controlled by computer touch screens - even the
street lamps.
The lights are automatically dimmed during off-peak hours, saving
about 25 percent on the electricity bill.
An anti-condensation system blows heated and dehumidified air onto
the tower's glass panels, giving air traffic controllers
unobstructed views.
And at both ends of the 3-kilometre runway, hook cables and barrier
nets can be deployed at a push of a button to trap any fighter jet
in an emergency.
It has all been jointly developed by the defence ministry, air
force and Defence Science and Technology Agency.
Ong Yew Hing, Defence Construction Division at the Defence Science
and Technology Agency, said: "This allowed us to evaluate and
select the most cost effective and best meet the operation needs of
the airbase. Compared to existing airbases, because they were
inherited from the British we were not able to implement some of
these systems because of the cost considerations."
Its location gives it an advantage over other airbases like Tengah
or Paya Lebar.
Colonel Andy Tan, Changi Air Base Commander, said: "Aircraft from
those bases have specific routes to fly to get out of the airfield.
They have to meet altitude restrictions because of the congested
airspace over the island."
The F-16 jets from Changi can make a faster trip out to training
areas over the South China Sea, compared to their counterparts from
other airbases.
The 145 Squadron can save as much as five to seven minutes in
travel time, which means they also save on fuel and cut down on
costs. - CNA