From two hours to minutes: How SPF uses vending machine-like systems to dispense weapons faster

Straits Times

25-05-2025

SGT Farhan Shah demonstrating the withdrawal of arms through the automated armoury system at Woodleigh Neighbourhood Police Centre on May 21. ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
From two hours to minutes: How SPF uses vending machine-like systems to dispense weapons faster
SINGAPORE - Police officers used to take two hours to draw their arms and equipment, but they can now do it in minutes.
The once manual process has since been streamlined due to an automated equipping system (AES) and automated armoury system (AAS).
These eliminate the need for queueing, and were showcased to the media on May 21.
Similar to a vending machine, they consist of individual lockers that can be unlocked by officers to dispense the necessary gear needed for their shifts after a quick identification verification process.
The AES dispenses various pieces of equipment, such as ballistic vests and helmets, handcuffs and batons, which are the more commonly used gear. These are packed in one singular locker for simultaneous withdrawal.
It was first implemented on Dec 1, 2021.
The AAS dispenses arms, ammunition and tasers, with facial recognition required as part of a two-factor authentication process.
First unveiled at the Singapore Police Force's 2023 Workplace Seminar, it was implemented at Woodleigh Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) on Aug 19, 2024.
Sergeant Farhan Shah, a ground response force officer there, said the AES and AAS have significantly reduced the paperwork and time involved in drawing daily equipment.
'Previously, we needed to queue. However, with the new system, there is no need for any queuing.' he said.
SGT Farhan Shah selecting the equipment he needs for his shift using the automated equipping system.
ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
The police said the original method to dispense gear and arms was run manually by a maintenance officer for equipment and a duty armourer.
These processes would take up to two hours as there was only one counter for withdrawal.
With the new systems, officers can withdraw and return their gear at any time. For faulty equipment, officers can return them and withdraw replacement gear independently.
SGT Farhan Shah demonstrating withdrawing his equipment for patrol using the automated equipping system.
ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
Multiple officers can do so at the same time.
There is also increased accountability, as all equipment and arms are tagged with radio-frequency identification technology.
This allows for quick stock-taking, where an officer can know how many items have been withdrawn and by whom.
The police said they ensured that officers who used the AES and AAS in the pilot phases gave feedback, so that the prototypes could be improved to ensure the systems suited officers' operational needs.
'While the equipping process is now faster, there is greater responsibility on the officers to make sure the items drawn are correct and in working condition before they go on patrol,' added the police.
The AES dispenses various pieces of equipment, such as ballistic vests and helmets, handcuffs and batons, which are the more commonly used gear.
ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
As at May 2025, 30 out of 34 NPCs have been equipped with the AES, and four NPCs have the AAS.
All NPCs will be equipped with the AES by June 2026. By December 2027, all NPCs will have the AAS.
The systems have other benefits, said the police.
Superintendent Sabrina Wong, Woodleigh NPC's commanding officer, said: 'Officers can be redeployed to support other frontline duties while the rest can utilise their time more meaningfully.'
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