Like any other country, Singapore has strict measures in place for safeguarding the airspace. These measures were tested years ago in 2008, when an unknown aircraft was detected flying above the country. In response to a possible threat, all commercial flights and traffic were shut down for close to an hour. Two F16D fighters were also sent out in order to bring down the threat if needed.
From this, it is easy to see that the Republic of Singapore Airforce (RSAF) is always prepared for all possible scenarios. For the general public, the RSAF Open House (ROH) provides an opportunity to watch these procedures taking place at the Paya Lebar Air Base. Last year it was held on the 21st and 22nd of May, the ROH showcased a variety of air based tactics. We have yet to see if there will be any show in 2017.
ROH 2016 took place for the first time after five years, with great pomp and splendor. The theme chosen for the year was “Defending Our Skies”, and promises a wondrous display of Singapore's military might. This included a display of aircraft, safety systems and weapons.
The Deputy Chairman, Colonel Randy Ong has assured visitors that the ROH was filled with brand new experiences last year. He talked about how the simulator rides were buffed up and aimed to accommodate as many people as possible. It was done by creating a ticket system, so that visitors could explore other areas while waiting for their chance to ride.
There were other improvements as well, namely the installation of measures to direct vehicles in order to prevent traffic and make the visit more entertaining.
Col. Ong maintains that when the general public fully understands and appreciates the work of RSAF, it is a moment of pride for them. This is reliant on constant teamwork, whether it is during air operations or creating the base for ROH to be successful.
The ROH 2016 was a great weekend out for the family. There were five things in particular.
1) Air Force Sky Display
Visitors were able to watch F-16C and F-15G aircraft being deployed along with Apache helicopters to intercept an unknown aircraft. This took place with a sound and fireworks display, as the SAF red lions showed their parachute skills.
Along with aircraft, there were GBAD systems, a Chinook helicopter and a Mark II Light Strike Vehicle in mix. This display took place over half an hour and twice a day over the weekend.
2) The History of RSAF
The RSAF is known to decrease air operations over the Singapore airspace when yearly examinations roll around, so that the young students are not disturbed by the sound. Visitors learned plenty of trivia similar to this when they attended the ROH 2016.
History buffs got a chance of exploring the history of RSAF along with details of the evolution over the years. The exhibitions also explained how the operations side work and the major personnel in the RSAF. Visitors also attempted to fly the F-16 jet and the UAVs.
3) Get A Closer Look At The Weaponry
The ROH 2016 had close to twenty different types of advanced military aircraft on display, along with a number of weapon systems. Visitors were welcome to take a selfie in the cockpit of these aircraft, surrounded by technology worth millions of dollars.
They were be able to see helicopters and UAVS, along with GBAD weaponry. The jets included F-15Sg, the F-16C and a F-16D+.
There was also demonstrations about the process in which ammunition is loaded on to a jet.
4) Entertainment for Children
There was be plenty of console games available for the young children and a chance to win model aircraft as prizes. They could also head over to the K9 area, where handlers will demonstrate their SAF Military Dog operations.
5) Fly into the Sky
Participants from the RSAF e-ballot were chosen at random along with contest winners to take a ride in four different types of aircraft. They got a chance to sit in the C-130, the Ch-47 Chinook, The DA-40 or the Fokker-50 aircraft.
The ROH 2016 was free for all visitors and open from 9 AM to 6 PM. Visitors used various shuttle buses or the SBS bus service no. 90. Now we're looking forward to the next Republic of Singapore Air Force open day, see their facebook page for updates.