Singapore Must Strengthen Defence Amid Global Uncertainty, Says PM Lawrence Wong

SINGAPORE: Singapore must remain resilient and fully prepared to navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said, stressing that strong defense capabilities are essential to safeguarding the nation’s security.

Speaking on Thursday after a visit to the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) 6th Division/Sense and Strike Headquarters at Mandai Hill Camp, Wong warned that global instability is likely to persist in the coming years.

“We are living in a world where the global order is increasingly breaking down, and that means we must be prepared for more disorder, more conflict, and more wars in the years ahead,” he said.

While noting that Singapore has so far managed the impact of ongoing conflicts in West Asia, particularly in relation to energy security, the prime minister said the country must remain vigilant in other critical areas such as food security and supply chain resilience.

Wong added that recent global conflicts, including those in Ukraine and Iran, demonstrate how modern warfare has evolved significantly, with greater use of drones and advanced technologies.

“The good thing is we have been investing consistently in our defense capabilities over decades,” he said.

He emphasized that strengthening defense is not just about acquiring new military platforms but also about integrating capabilities across different domains within the SAF, including operations and technology.

Wong also highlighted the importance of human capital development within the armed forces to ensure Singapore’s long-term security.

“We must rely on ourselves to defend Singapore, which is why we have continuously built and invested in the SAF from the very beginning, and that stance remains unchanged today,” he said.

His remarks underscore Singapore’s continued focus on self-reliance, technological advancement, and comprehensive defense readiness amid rising global tensions.