Philippines May Cut US Treasury Holdings After Moody's Move
'We're looking at it,' Remolona said when asked at a briefing on Friday if there's a chance the Philippines will start cutting its US treasuries as part of its reserves. 'It's one thing when other countries' debt is downgraded, but the US Treasuries, now that's a big thing.'
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Grab users were stunned by ride fares topping $1,000 due to a brief system glitch. The error lasted about 20 minutes and affected users in Singapore and Malaysia. Grab blamed a 'temporary system issue' and said inflated fares likely weren't processed. One user saw a fare of $1,511.80 for a short trip. Social media buzzed with screenshots. Grab apologised and confirmed the app is now functioning normally. More on Grab's fare glitch here. Singapore's North is entering a bold new chapter, with sweeping plans to reshape Woodlands, Sembawang, and Kranji over the next decade. From 4,000 new homes to the JB-Singapore RTS Link opening in 2026, to the establishment of the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS‑SEZ), the region is being reimagined as a vibrant, well-connected gateway to Malaysia and beyond. The transformation includes a fivefold expansion of Woodlands Checkpoint, a waterfront town replacing Sembawang Shipyard, and a mixed-use hub at Woodlands Gateway. With improved transport, housing, and economic links, the North is set to rival Singapore's most dynamic districts. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates. Grab glitch sends fares soaring past $1,000 Grab users in Singapore and Malaysia were shocked to see ride fares spike to over $1,000 due to a system glitch Wednesday (20 Aug). The issue began around 11:45am and lasted roughly 20 minutes, with complaints peaking before subsiding by 12:22pm. One user reported a fare of S$1,511.80 for a trip between two military camps, while another saw $1,012 for a ride from Tampines to Katong. Grab confirmed the error was caused by a 'temporary system issue' and said the app resumed normal function shortly after. The company stated that bookings with inflated fares likely didn't go through, but checks are underway to ensure no one was charged. Social media lit up with screenshots and memes, turning the glitch into a viral moment. Grab issued an apology and assured users that the issue has been resolved. Read on Singapore and Malaysia Grab users stunned by fare glitch here. Grab users in Singapore got a rude shock this afternoon. Short rides that should cost in the range of 15-20 SGD are showing 1000+ SGD! Users in neighbouring countries are reporting similar glitches. #Grab Grab says the issue is resolved now!#Grab #RideHailing #appglitch — Asia Tech Lens (@AsiaTechLens) August 20, 2025 Decade of change ahead for northern Singapore Singapore's North Region is stepping into the spotlight with a sweeping redevelopment plan anchored by the Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link and the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS‑SEZ). The RTS Link, due in 2026, will connect Woodlands North to Johor's Bukit Chagar, moving 10,000 passengers per hour each way and easing checkpoint congestion. Woodlands Checkpoint will expand to five times its current size over 15 years, with phased openings from 2028, requiring both land reclamation and acquisition. The 'Housing by the Woods' precinct will add 4,000 homes, alongside mixed‑use developments like Woodlands Gateway, integrating offices, retail, and a multi‑modal transport hub. Sembawang Shipyard will morph into a waterfront lifestyle precinct three times the size of Ang Mo Kio Town Centre, blending heritage with modern leisure. Kranji Racecourse's 130-hectare site is earmarked for 14,000 homes, with the first public housing ready in about a decade. Analysts predict rising property values as improved connectivity and amenities narrow the gap between the North and other regions. The government's vision mirrors past successes like Punggol, promising vibrant, connected communities. NDP 2026 goes indoor: Bigger stage, bigger crowd NDP 2026 will be held at the National Stadium to accommodate more spectators, marking a return to the Sports Hub for Singapore's 61st birthday. The stadium's capacity dwarfs the Padang's, allowing many more to attend in person. The last time NDP took place at the National Stadium was 2016, its only outing there since the venue opened. Organisers now want to 'try something new', promising a fresh venue with fresh ideas and fresh performances. Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing announced the move at the NDP 2025 appreciation function, where he thanked volunteers and partners, and framed the parade as a statement of innovation, perseverance, and unity. Preparations are already in gear: each NDP cycle spans roughly 15 months of planning and rehearsals, with the 2026 team working in parallel as SG60 wrapped. The appreciation function also celebrated the scale behind the spectacle – hundreds of awards went to sponsors, partners, and crew who keep the show running 'like clockwork'. Singapore to upgrade disaster response with mobile tech By early 2026, Singaporeans will receive disaster alerts directly on their mobile phones via a new Cell Broadcast System. Law Minister Edwin Tong announced the initiative at the ASEAN Strategic Policy Dialogue on Disaster Management. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) is working with telcos to enable real-time alerts for emergencies like floods, fires or terror threats. The system complements existing tools like the Public Warning System (PWS) sirens, SGSecure app, and myResponder platform. Messages will include clear instructions on protective actions, tailored to affected areas. Tong emphasised that timely communication is critical during emergencies, and mobile alerts offer speed and precision. Authorities say the alerts will be non-intrusive, location-specific and designed to minimise panic while maximising preparedness. The system is part of Singapore's broader push to modernise disaster response using tech and AI. Read on Singapore's plan to launch mobile disaster alerts by 2026 here. Singapore unveils vision for Changi East Urban District Singapore is calling for proposals to develop the Changi East Urban District, a 40-hectare site next to the upcoming Terminal 5. Authorities say the hub will strengthen Changi's role as a regional air and business gateway, supporting the airport's future capacity of 140 million passengers annually. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) are leading the initiative, with support from agencies like Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The district will feature offices, hotels, residences, and smart workspaces, designed to attract both global visitors and local residents. Proposals must include a demand study, concept plan, and financial feasibility analysis, with sustainability and community-building at the core. Concepts should integrate car-lite transport, green corridors, and underground spaces, aligning with Singapore's net-zero goals by 2050. Experts suggest the district could feature wellness resorts, aviation campuses, and experiential retail to differentiate it from other urban zones. Stage one of the tender closes 24 September, with final plans expected by mid-2026. Read on Singapore opens tender for Changi East Urban District development here. Malaysia pushes for cross-border ride-hailing deal with Singapore Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke says the country is ready to discuss cross-border ride-hailing services with Singapore, but implementation requires bilateral agreement. Malaysia's proposal aims to enhance connectivity and tourism, especially ahead of Visit Johor 2026. Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) has previously clarified it has no plans to fully liberalise ride-hailing across the border, citing enforcement and regulatory concerns. Talks were held on 1 August between officials from both countries, including Singapore's Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow. LTA is exploring upgrades to the Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS), including app-based bookings and more pickup points. Illegal ride-hailing remains a challenge, with both countries conducting enforcement operations against unlicensed services. Malaysia recently detained four Singaporean drivers for operating illegally, mirroring Singapore's clampdown on Johor-based vehicles. While full liberalisation is off the table, both sides are working toward long-term solutions to improve commuter convenience. Royal rebuke ends Malaysia Black Hawk helicopter deal Malaysia has cancelled its plan to purchase four ageing Black Hawk helicopters after King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar publicly condemned the deal. The King referred to the helicopters as 'flying coffins' during a speech marking the 60th anniversary of Malaysia's Special Service Regiment. The RM187 million ($57 million) contract, signed in May 2023, was revoked after the supplier failed to deliver the first unit by October 2024. Sultan Ibrahim's remarks highlighted past procurement failures, including the purchase of outdated A-4 Skyhawk jets with high accident rates. He warned against military deals driven by agents and ex-generals turned salesmen, calling for transparency and accountability. The King's intervention underscores his growing influence in defence matters, especially amid rising public scrutiny. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has also criticised opaque defence deals, warning against political interference in military procurement. The Defence Ministry is now under pressure to reform its acquisition process and prioritise operational needs over commercial interests. Singapore basketball league rocked by CPIB match-fixing probe Singapore's basketball scene has been jolted by a match-fixing scandal involving nine individuals, including players from the 2025 K Star National Basketball League Division 1. The suspects, eight Singaporeans and one permanent resident, are aged 19 to 35 and were arrested by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) on Tuesday (19 Aug). One of the games under scrutiny is the 1 Aug matchup between Tagawa and Tong Whye, which ended 66–43. The league comprises 10 teams and began its season on 14 July, with the final scheduled for 30 Aug. CPIB is investigating the suspects under the Prevention of Corruption Act, with potential charges for giving or receiving bribes to fix matches. CPIB emphasised Singapore's zero-tolerance stance on corruption, warning of firm enforcement against any parties involved. The scandal raises questions about oversight and integrity in local sports, as authorities work to preserve public trust. Changi Airport's green diesel trial takes off: From fryer to fuel tank Changi Airport is turning waste into power, specifically, used cooking oil from its eateries is now fuelling runway sweepers and other heavy vehicles. The renewable diesel, refined by Neste Singapore, mimics fossil diesel and works in existing engines without modification. The trial began in May with a 50 per cent blend and moved to 100 per cent in August, aiming to slash emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to regular diesel. Seven vehicles are currently involved, with performance showing no drop in efficiency or reliability. While renewable diesel costs nearly twice as much, its environmental benefits align with Changi's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Neste, a global leader in renewable fuels, operates one of the world's largest sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel refineries in Tuas. The trial supports Singapore's broader push for sustainable fuel adoption, including a passenger levy to fund SAF use from 2026. If successful, renewable diesel could become a permanent fixture in Changi's fleet, and a model for airports worldwide. Drone training becomes standard at BMTC Pulau Tekong's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) has added drone training to its basic military programme, giving recruits six hours of hands-on aerial instruction. Each company of 100 soldiers receives 40 DJI Neo drones, compact and camera-equipped, for practical learning. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) says the initiative prepares soldiers for drone use in combat and logistics, while also teaching counter-drone tactics. Recruits begin with e-learning and lectures before flying drones in camp and field settings. The programme launched in July with over 3,000 recruits and will continue across future intakes. Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing says the goal is to build 'three-dimensional spatial awareness', a skill vital in drone-heavy battle zones. The SAF's drone centres helped shape the curriculum, drawing insights from global conflicts. Experts say this marks a shift in how militaries train, as airspace is now as critical as terrain. Read on Pulau Tekong recruits beginning their drone flight training here. Grab users in Singapore and Malaysia were shocked to see ride fares spike to over $1,000 due to a system glitch Wednesday (20 Aug). The issue began around 11:45am and lasted roughly 20 minutes, with complaints peaking before subsiding by 12:22pm. One user reported a fare of S$1,511.80 for a trip between two military camps, while another saw $1,012 for a ride from Tampines to Katong. Grab confirmed the error was caused by a 'temporary system issue' and said the app resumed normal function shortly after. The company stated that bookings with inflated fares likely didn't go through, but checks are underway to ensure no one was charged. Social media lit up with screenshots and memes, turning the glitch into a viral moment. Grab issued an apology and assured users that the issue has been resolved. Read on Singapore and Malaysia Grab users stunned by fare glitch here. Grab users in Singapore got a rude shock this afternoon. Short rides that should cost in the range of 15-20 SGD are showing 1000+ SGD! Users in neighbouring countries are reporting similar glitches. #Grab Grab says the issue is resolved now!#Grab #RideHailing #appglitch — Asia Tech Lens (@AsiaTechLens) August 20, 2025 Singapore's North Region is stepping into the spotlight with a sweeping redevelopment plan anchored by the Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link and the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS‑SEZ). The RTS Link, due in 2026, will connect Woodlands North to Johor's Bukit Chagar, moving 10,000 passengers per hour each way and easing checkpoint congestion. Woodlands Checkpoint will expand to five times its current size over 15 years, with phased openings from 2028, requiring both land reclamation and acquisition. The 'Housing by the Woods' precinct will add 4,000 homes, alongside mixed‑use developments like Woodlands Gateway, integrating offices, retail, and a multi‑modal transport hub. Sembawang Shipyard will morph into a waterfront lifestyle precinct three times the size of Ang Mo Kio Town Centre, blending heritage with modern leisure. Kranji Racecourse's 130-hectare site is earmarked for 14,000 homes, with the first public housing ready in about a decade. Analysts predict rising property values as improved connectivity and amenities narrow the gap between the North and other regions. The government's vision mirrors past successes like Punggol, promising vibrant, connected communities. NDP 2026 will be held at the National Stadium to accommodate more spectators, marking a return to the Sports Hub for Singapore's 61st birthday. The stadium's capacity dwarfs the Padang's, allowing many more to attend in person. The last time NDP took place at the National Stadium was 2016, its only outing there since the venue opened. Organisers now want to 'try something new', promising a fresh venue with fresh ideas and fresh performances. Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing announced the move at the NDP 2025 appreciation function, where he thanked volunteers and partners, and framed the parade as a statement of innovation, perseverance, and unity. Preparations are already in gear: each NDP cycle spans roughly 15 months of planning and rehearsals, with the 2026 team working in parallel as SG60 wrapped. The appreciation function also celebrated the scale behind the spectacle – hundreds of awards went to sponsors, partners, and crew who keep the show running 'like clockwork'. Singapore to upgrade disaster response with mobile tech By early 2026, Singaporeans will receive disaster alerts directly on their mobile phones via a new Cell Broadcast System. Law Minister Edwin Tong announced the initiative at the ASEAN Strategic Policy Dialogue on Disaster Management. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) is working with telcos to enable real-time alerts for emergencies like floods, fires or terror threats. The system complements existing tools like the Public Warning System (PWS) sirens, SGSecure app, and myResponder platform. Messages will include clear instructions on protective actions, tailored to affected areas. Tong emphasised that timely communication is critical during emergencies, and mobile alerts offer speed and precision. Authorities say the alerts will be non-intrusive, location-specific and designed to minimise panic while maximising preparedness. The system is part of Singapore's broader push to modernise disaster response using tech and AI. Read on Singapore's plan to launch mobile disaster alerts by 2026 here. By early 2026, Singaporeans will receive disaster alerts directly on their mobile phones via a new Cell Broadcast System. Law Minister Edwin Tong announced the initiative at the ASEAN Strategic Policy Dialogue on Disaster Management. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) is working with telcos to enable real-time alerts for emergencies like floods, fires or terror threats. The system complements existing tools like the Public Warning System (PWS) sirens, SGSecure app, and myResponder platform. Messages will include clear instructions on protective actions, tailored to affected areas. Tong emphasised that timely communication is critical during emergencies, and mobile alerts offer speed and precision. Authorities say the alerts will be non-intrusive, location-specific and designed to minimise panic while maximising preparedness. The system is part of Singapore's broader push to modernise disaster response using tech and AI. Read on Singapore's plan to launch mobile disaster alerts by 2026 here. Singapore unveils vision for Changi East Urban District Singapore is calling for proposals to develop the Changi East Urban District, a 40-hectare site next to the upcoming Terminal 5. Authorities say the hub will strengthen Changi's role as a regional air and business gateway, supporting the airport's future capacity of 140 million passengers annually. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) are leading the initiative, with support from agencies like Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The district will feature offices, hotels, residences, and smart workspaces, designed to attract both global visitors and local residents. Proposals must include a demand study, concept plan, and financial feasibility analysis, with sustainability and community-building at the core. Concepts should integrate car-lite transport, green corridors, and underground spaces, aligning with Singapore's net-zero goals by 2050. Experts suggest the district could feature wellness resorts, aviation campuses, and experiential retail to differentiate it from other urban zones. Stage one of the tender closes 24 September, with final plans expected by mid-2026. Read on Singapore opens tender for Changi East Urban District development here. Singapore is calling for proposals to develop the Changi East Urban District, a 40-hectare site next to the upcoming Terminal 5. Authorities say the hub will strengthen Changi's role as a regional air and business gateway, supporting the airport's future capacity of 140 million passengers annually. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) are leading the initiative, with support from agencies like Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The district will feature offices, hotels, residences, and smart workspaces, designed to attract both global visitors and local residents. Proposals must include a demand study, concept plan, and financial feasibility analysis, with sustainability and community-building at the core. Concepts should integrate car-lite transport, green corridors, and underground spaces, aligning with Singapore's net-zero goals by 2050. Experts suggest the district could feature wellness resorts, aviation campuses, and experiential retail to differentiate it from other urban zones. Stage one of the tender closes 24 September, with final plans expected by mid-2026. Read on Singapore opens tender for Changi East Urban District development here. Malaysia pushes for cross-border ride-hailing deal with Singapore Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke says the country is ready to discuss cross-border ride-hailing services with Singapore, but implementation requires bilateral agreement. Malaysia's proposal aims to enhance connectivity and tourism, especially ahead of Visit Johor 2026. Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) has previously clarified it has no plans to fully liberalise ride-hailing across the border, citing enforcement and regulatory concerns. Talks were held on 1 August between officials from both countries, including Singapore's Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow. LTA is exploring upgrades to the Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS), including app-based bookings and more pickup points. Illegal ride-hailing remains a challenge, with both countries conducting enforcement operations against unlicensed services. Malaysia recently detained four Singaporean drivers for operating illegally, mirroring Singapore's clampdown on Johor-based vehicles. While full liberalisation is off the table, both sides are working toward long-term solutions to improve commuter convenience. Malaysia's Transport Minister Anthony Loke says the country is ready to discuss cross-border ride-hailing services with Singapore, but implementation requires bilateral agreement. Malaysia's proposal aims to enhance connectivity and tourism, especially ahead of Visit Johor 2026. Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) has previously clarified it has no plans to fully liberalise ride-hailing across the border, citing enforcement and regulatory concerns. Talks were held on 1 August between officials from both countries, including Singapore's Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow. LTA is exploring upgrades to the Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS), including app-based bookings and more pickup points. Illegal ride-hailing remains a challenge, with both countries conducting enforcement operations against unlicensed services. Malaysia recently detained four Singaporean drivers for operating illegally, mirroring Singapore's clampdown on Johor-based vehicles. While full liberalisation is off the table, both sides are working toward long-term solutions to improve commuter convenience. Royal rebuke ends Malaysia Black Hawk helicopter deal Malaysia has cancelled its plan to purchase four ageing Black Hawk helicopters after King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar publicly condemned the deal. The King referred to the helicopters as 'flying coffins' during a speech marking the 60th anniversary of Malaysia's Special Service Regiment. The RM187 million ($57 million) contract, signed in May 2023, was revoked after the supplier failed to deliver the first unit by October 2024. Sultan Ibrahim's remarks highlighted past procurement failures, including the purchase of outdated A-4 Skyhawk jets with high accident rates. He warned against military deals driven by agents and ex-generals turned salesmen, calling for transparency and accountability. The King's intervention underscores his growing influence in defence matters, especially amid rising public scrutiny. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has also criticised opaque defence deals, warning against political interference in military procurement. The Defence Ministry is now under pressure to reform its acquisition process and prioritise operational needs over commercial interests. Malaysia has cancelled its plan to purchase four ageing Black Hawk helicopters after King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar publicly condemned the deal. The King referred to the helicopters as 'flying coffins' during a speech marking the 60th anniversary of Malaysia's Special Service Regiment. The RM187 million ($57 million) contract, signed in May 2023, was revoked after the supplier failed to deliver the first unit by October 2024. Sultan Ibrahim's remarks highlighted past procurement failures, including the purchase of outdated A-4 Skyhawk jets with high accident rates. He warned against military deals driven by agents and ex-generals turned salesmen, calling for transparency and accountability. The King's intervention underscores his growing influence in defence matters, especially amid rising public scrutiny. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has also criticised opaque defence deals, warning against political interference in military procurement. The Defence Ministry is now under pressure to reform its acquisition process and prioritise operational needs over commercial interests. Singapore basketball league rocked by CPIB match-fixing probe Singapore's basketball scene has been jolted by a match-fixing scandal involving nine individuals, including players from the 2025 K Star National Basketball League Division 1. The suspects, eight Singaporeans and one permanent resident, are aged 19 to 35 and were arrested by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) on Tuesday (19 Aug). One of the games under scrutiny is the 1 Aug matchup between Tagawa and Tong Whye, which ended 66–43. The league comprises 10 teams and began its season on 14 July, with the final scheduled for 30 Aug. CPIB is investigating the suspects under the Prevention of Corruption Act, with potential charges for giving or receiving bribes to fix matches. CPIB emphasised Singapore's zero-tolerance stance on corruption, warning of firm enforcement against any parties involved. The scandal raises questions about oversight and integrity in local sports, as authorities work to preserve public trust. Singapore's basketball scene has been jolted by a match-fixing scandal involving nine individuals, including players from the 2025 K Star National Basketball League Division 1. The suspects, eight Singaporeans and one permanent resident, are aged 19 to 35 and were arrested by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) on Tuesday (19 Aug). One of the games under scrutiny is the 1 Aug matchup between Tagawa and Tong Whye, which ended 66–43. The league comprises 10 teams and began its season on 14 July, with the final scheduled for 30 Aug. CPIB is investigating the suspects under the Prevention of Corruption Act, with potential charges for giving or receiving bribes to fix matches. CPIB emphasised Singapore's zero-tolerance stance on corruption, warning of firm enforcement against any parties involved. The scandal raises questions about oversight and integrity in local sports, as authorities work to preserve public trust. Changi Airport's green diesel trial takes off: From fryer to fuel tank Changi Airport is turning waste into power, specifically, used cooking oil from its eateries is now fuelling runway sweepers and other heavy vehicles. The renewable diesel, refined by Neste Singapore, mimics fossil diesel and works in existing engines without modification. The trial began in May with a 50 per cent blend and moved to 100 per cent in August, aiming to slash emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to regular diesel. Seven vehicles are currently involved, with performance showing no drop in efficiency or reliability. While renewable diesel costs nearly twice as much, its environmental benefits align with Changi's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Neste, a global leader in renewable fuels, operates one of the world's largest sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel refineries in Tuas. The trial supports Singapore's broader push for sustainable fuel adoption, including a passenger levy to fund SAF use from 2026. If successful, renewable diesel could become a permanent fixture in Changi's fleet, and a model for airports worldwide. Changi Airport is turning waste into power, specifically, used cooking oil from its eateries is now fuelling runway sweepers and other heavy vehicles. The renewable diesel, refined by Neste Singapore, mimics fossil diesel and works in existing engines without modification. The trial began in May with a 50 per cent blend and moved to 100 per cent in August, aiming to slash emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to regular diesel. Seven vehicles are currently involved, with performance showing no drop in efficiency or reliability. While renewable diesel costs nearly twice as much, its environmental benefits align with Changi's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Neste, a global leader in renewable fuels, operates one of the world's largest sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel refineries in Tuas. The trial supports Singapore's broader push for sustainable fuel adoption, including a passenger levy to fund SAF use from 2026. If successful, renewable diesel could become a permanent fixture in Changi's fleet, and a model for airports worldwide. Drone training becomes standard at BMTC Pulau Tekong's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) has added drone training to its basic military programme, giving recruits six hours of hands-on aerial instruction. Each company of 100 soldiers receives 40 DJI Neo drones, compact and camera-equipped, for practical learning. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) says the initiative prepares soldiers for drone use in combat and logistics, while also teaching counter-drone tactics. Recruits begin with e-learning and lectures before flying drones in camp and field settings. The programme launched in July with over 3,000 recruits and will continue across future intakes. Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing says the goal is to build 'three-dimensional spatial awareness', a skill vital in drone-heavy battle zones. The SAF's drone centres helped shape the curriculum, drawing insights from global conflicts. Experts say this marks a shift in how militaries train, as airspace is now as critical as terrain. Read on Pulau Tekong recruits beginning their drone flight training here. Pulau Tekong's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) has added drone training to its basic military programme, giving recruits six hours of hands-on aerial instruction. Each company of 100 soldiers receives 40 DJI Neo drones, compact and camera-equipped, for practical learning. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) says the initiative prepares soldiers for drone use in combat and logistics, while also teaching counter-drone tactics. Recruits begin with e-learning and lectures before flying drones in camp and field settings. The programme launched in July with over 3,000 recruits and will continue across future intakes. Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing says the goal is to build 'three-dimensional spatial awareness', a skill vital in drone-heavy battle zones. The SAF's drone centres helped shape the curriculum, drawing insights from global conflicts. Experts say this marks a shift in how militaries train, as airspace is now as critical as terrain. Read on Pulau Tekong recruits beginning their drone flight training here.
