Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) has signed separate agreements with European defence primes to develop enhanced capabilities for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
In early May, DSTA announced that it has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly explore digitalisation and experimentation opportunities in simulation and training systems to enhance training capabilities for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The two partners will also leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud and extended reality.
Rheinmetall noted in its statement that the MoU also provisions for talent development initiatives through exchange programmes, work attachments and internship opportunities at the company, enabling DSTA engineers and interns to deepen their technical competencies.
“Rheinmetall and DSTA bring together deep expertise, technological excellence, and a shared vision of leveraging digital transformation to push the boundaries of simulation and next-generation solutions,” said Tim Krabbes, Head of Sales for Rheinmetall’s Integrated Electronic Systems business unit.
“I would like to stress that this collaboration is not just about technology – it is also about fostering a culture of innovation, agility, and more importantly trust,” said Krabbes.
DSTA also signed a MoU with MBDA to jointly explore innovative and low-cost solutions for countering drone threats, particularly in the areas of detection, identification, and threat response.
“This is a partnership born from a common view on how to counter the threats posed by drones – a partnership supported by shared goals of how we can use innovation to provide capabilities that will protect the [SAF] and their assets,” said Stéphane Reb, Executive Group Director Programmes and Managing Director at MBDA France.
French prime Thales earlier announced on 1 April that they will set up a joint lab to develop AI-enabled technologies to enhance combat systems currently in use by the SAF.
Thales noted that the initial areas of focus include solutions for counter drone and advanced sensing applications. Both parties have also co-developed advanced AI algorithms that address drone threats.
by Jr Ng
