Inauguration of RSAF's 1st Local F-15SG Squadron

• The F-15SG Squadron will join the fighter group under the Air Combat Command, which plans, controls and executes air warfare operations

(April 5, 2010) -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean officiated at the inauguration ceremony of 149 Squadron, the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF's) first local F-15SG Squadron, at Paya Lebar Air Base this afternoon. The F-15SG Squadron will join the fighter group under the Air Combat Command, which plans, controls and executes air warfare operations. This marks a significant milestone in the 3rd Generation RSAF's development of its advanced fighter capabilities.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Mr Teo highlighted the crucial role that the F-15SG squadron will play in enhancing the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) ability to deal with future threats. He said, "The F-15SG is a major enhancement to Singapore's air defence capability, and will also play a significant role in the SAF's overall operations. The F-15SG squadron will increase the SAF's ability to deal decisively with future threats and meet our critical operational needs." Mr Teo also commended the F-15SG air and ground crew on building up a high level of operational proficiency and readiness in a short span of time. The F-15SG crew recently returned from the Mountain Home Air Force Base in the United States, where they had been training since last May to acquire the competencies to operate and maintain the F-15SGs.

The RSAF's F-15SG, which is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and a sophisticated integrated sensor suite, is one of the most capable multi-role fighter aircraft in the world. The RSAF also maintains the Peace Carvin (PC) V F-15SG fighter detachment at Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) in the US. The PC V F-15SG fighter detachment was established as part of the US Air Force's (USAF's) 428th Fighter Squadron, and will operate at the MHAFB for the next 25 years.

Source : MoD Singapore