Singapore launches next-generation urban training facility

A bird's-eye view of SAFTI City Phase 1, which is now used by the SAF for its training requirements. (Janes/Ridzwan Rahmat)

Singapore has launched the first phase of its next-generation urban training facility that can emulate a variety of training scenarios including close-quarter combat operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions.

Known as SAFTI City (Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute City), the facility was officially launched by Singapore's Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen on 19 March, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) disclosed in a statement on the same day.

It spans more than 17 hectares and is equipped with a mix of 71 low- and high-rise buildings having multiple entries and exits.

These buildings mimic train stations, a 12-storey hotel, office towers, malls, and other common features found in the urban environment.

Located across these buildings are about 11,000 electronic sensors that can capture various data including whether weapons deployed in a combat simulation have successfully struck the intended targets.

The facility can be used to train soldiers on foot and troops mounted in armoured vehicles.

“SAFTI City provides a realistic and challenging urban training facility for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), as its operational needs evolve to include a wider range of scenarios from peace to war,” said MINDEF in its statement.

“This advanced facility will help our soldiers to train better to conduct operations in built-up areas, including homeland security, counter-terrorism, and disaster relief operations.”

“SAFTI City enables our soldiers to employ equipment and concepts in line with the latest shifts in the modern battlefield, such as the use of drones and robotics in urban environments,” the ministry added.

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