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Mr K Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs, visited the Police Coast Guard’s (PCG) headquarters at Brani Base to view new operational capabilities by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in its operations.
Staying Ahead of Security Threats
During the visit, Minister Shanmugam was briefed on how the SPF is exploring the use of Weaponised Unmanned Systems (WUS) and jet-propelled manpacks to enhance operational effectiveness and the safety of officers and members of the public during high-risk tactical operations.These new technologies reflect the SPF’s continued efforts to leverage innovation in strengthening its operational capabilities against evolving security threats.
In high-risk tactical operations, terrain limitations and the unpredictable tactics of adversaries can place officers at a disadvantage. The WUS addresses this by providing officers with greater sensemaking, speed, surprise and response capabilities, helping officers maintain a tactical advantage during critical missions.
Possible Deployment Scenarios
The technologies could be deployed across scenarios such as maritime security operations involving hostile vessels and incidents with armed perpetrators in buildings or barricaded strongholds.In maritime operations, the aerial WUS could provide cover fire for the PCG Special Task Squadron (STS) officers boarding hostile vessels. Simultaneously, another team of STS officers with jet-propelled manpacks can board the vessel, increasing the number of entry points and enhancing tactical advantage. These capabilities help to protect officers from armed adversaries while enabling them to secure vessels more effectively.
In barricaded situations involving armed perpetrators in a building, the WUS could be used to remotely breach a booby-trapped entry point, allowing officers to safely enter and neutralise threats.
A Responsible Approach
The SPF will continue to take a responsible and measured approach in evaluating and deploying new technologies.
Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SAC) Leon Chan, SPF’s Director of Operations, said, “The use of WUS has to be governed by strict legal principles, clear rules of engagement and robust safeguards to ensure any deployment remains appropriate, proportionate and safe.”
As security threats continue to evolve, the SPF remains committed to leveraging advanced technologies to strengthen its operational readiness and safeguard both officers and the public.
