IMHO, more SAR/GMTI platforms is better for Singapore given Singapore`s restrictive space and the need to knock out enemy targets(static and moving ones) with precision accuracy before they can strike first although Singapore/SAF is more than capable of absorbing such attacks. It becomes all the more relevant with an increasing array of precision long range shooters or weapons available such as the 85 km GMLRs precision rockets, 130 km Extra precision rockets, new long range artillery shells like the Vulcano(70km / 100 km shells), JSOWs, JDAMs, Spice-upgraded weapons and much more.
The SAR/GMTI equipped platforms would be a true force multiplier for Singapore`s STORM(if it is not already the case
);
http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm137/spyder-album2/Singapore/Shoot--Scoot.jpg
Scanned pic credit to Spiderweb, a great local poster.
Integrating 3rd Generation SAF's Strike Capabilities
Posted: 18 May 2008, 2355 hours (Time is GMT +8 hours)
Location:
South Africa
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting Exercise Lightning Warrior, in Lohatla, South Africa from 10 to 27 May 08. Exercise Lightning Warrior validates the SAF's air-land integration as well as the Division Strike Centre's (DSC) ability to coordinate a network of sensor and shooter assets that allows a Division to see, strike and influence the battlefield in depth.
The highlight of the exercise was an integrated live firing orchestrated by the DSC, involving a network of strike assets such as the AH-64D Longbow Apache Attack Helicopters and the PRIMUS Self-Propelled Howitzers as well as an array of battlefield sensors such as the Searcher Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), ARTHUR Weapon Locating Radar, and STrike ObserveRs Mission (STORM) teams. Such an integrated strike capability is at the core of the 3rd Generation SAF.
When asked what he thought about the exercise after witnessing the live firing on 17 May, Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean remarked that this exercise "confirms the SAF's capability to have comprehensive awareness and precision strike on multiple targets. This includes targets which are static as well as fleeting targets, which means targets that only appear for a short while. This is done by integrating a network of sensors and shooters." Minister Teo added that "the SAF division now has the capability to see first and to strike first well into the division's depths and that means that the division is able to influence the battle well into the depth."
Factsheet: Division Strike Centre (DSC)
The Division Strike Centre (DSC) is the division's nerve centre for co-ordinating a tight network of sensor and shooter assets to execute accurate and responsive strike operations. Strike operations involve the planning, co-ordination, and delivery of fires onto multiple targets using air and land assets such as attack aircraft and artillery platforms. This is a key capability of the 3rd Generation SAF.
The key roles of the DSC are as follows:
a. Strike Orchestration. DSC conducts strike operations against targets such as artillery platforms, Multiple Rocket Systems (MRS) and Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD), to shape the battlefield by reducing threats to our land and air assets.
b. Counter-Fire Capability. Weapon Locating Radar (WLRs) may be deployed to accurately locate artillery projectiles and rockets within seconds. Upon detection, DSC orders counter-fires which are immediately processed and transmitted directly to pre-determined shooter platforms. The entire process, from detection to firing the first shot can be effected within minutes.
c. Synchronisation with Air and Naval Fires. Besides co-ordinating fire for the Army, the DSC also synchronises with shooters from the Air Force and Navy so as to deliver a more lethal kill.
DSC Strike Process
A typical strike operation commences with the search for and tracking of targets by a combination of sensors such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Weapon Locating Radar (WLRs), Apache Attack helicopters, commandos and STORM teams. These sensors scan the battlefield, detect potential targets and transmit the information back to the Headquarters (HQ) in real-time.
The DSC determines the desired effects, the timing and location of the strike as well as the type of strike assets most suited for destroying the targets. Depending on the nature of the targets, an array of precision and area impact shooters comprising F-16 Fighter aircraft, Apache attack helicopters, PRIMUS Self-Propelled Howitzers (SSPH) and/or High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) can be employed to achieve the precise effects.
The DSC then synchronises the sensors and shooters to conduct the strike operation. The shooters can engage the targets simultaneously or in a sequence, to ensure the destruction of the targets.
Once the strike has been completed, the sensors will report on the status of the targets. The HQ assesses the level of damage inflicted on the targets and decides if further engagement is required. If required, a new sensor-to-shooter cycle will be initiated and this continues until the desired effects are achieved.
Factsheet: STORM - STrike Observers Mission
The STORM teams are a key feature in 3rd Generation SAF Strike Operations. Mounted on a mobile platform, they function as mobile strike and observer teams specialising in the search and destruction of targets. Each STORM team comprises six soldiers - a commander, a deputy commander, two sensor specialists, a gunnery specialist and a signaller.
With enhanced network capabilities, the STORM team has the ability to rapidly direct a wide range of land and air-based sensors and shooters to engage a target. These sensors and shooters include Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), F-16 Fighter Aircraft, Apache Attack Helicopters and PRIMUS Self-Propelled Howitzers (SSPH). This is a significant capability enhancement, as previously, artillery fire and air strikes had to be called separately by the Artillery Forward Observers and Ground Forward Air Controllers.
STORM teams are extensions of the Division Strike Centre’s (DSC) sensor and shooter capabilities. Through the STORM teams, tactical forces are given access to an increased array of sensors and shooters in the Division. This enables them to responsively acquire targets and destroy them. The STORM teams enhance the Division’s effectiveness in searching for and destroying key targets such as command posts, artillery and Multiple Rocket Systems (MRS).
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/2374/maypar0034image.jpg
AH-64D Apache Attack Helicopters unleashing their lethal firepower during a live integrated strike mission at Exercise Lightning Warrior 08.
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/2035/maypar0035image.jpg
Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean being briefed on the capablities of the Strike Observers Mission Team (STORM).
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/206/maypar0036image.jpg
Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean witnessing the integrated live-firing at Exercise Lightning Warrior 08.
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/509/maypar0037image.jpg
The Searcher Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is a key sensor in strike operations.
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1566/maypar0038image.jpg
The Strike Observers Mission Team (STORM) surveying the battlefield for potential targets.
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/824/maypar0039image.jpg
Division Strike Centre (DSC) Commander COL Terry Siow and Exercise Air Director COL Yeo Yee Peng orchestrating a strike mission with precise information provided by the Air-Land Integrated Common Operating Picture.
Source: Singapore`s Mindef
Here`s the video;
mms://media.mindef.gov.sg/18may08_lightningwarrior08_hi.asf
You`ll need to paste it into your browser
