Article Posted on : - Sep 06, 2011

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). Photo: US Army.

SINGAPORE (BNS): The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has commissioned its first High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), the Defence Ministry has said.

Minister of Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, speaking at the commissioning ceremony at Khatib Camp on Monday said, “The successful induction of the HIMARS reflects well on the ability of the SAF to respond decisively to new challenges and changing circumstances in the operational environment.”

While advancements in technology has enhanced the SAF's capabilities and reduced the reliance on manpower, heavier responsibility now rests on the servicemen, he said.

The SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010 and conducted its inaugural battery live firing in November in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA.

The HIMARS provides artillery forces with precision fire power, enhanced responsiveness, protection and advanced networking capabilities. The rocket system will be operated by Bravo battery, 23 SA.