“We Know About Them (Singapore)” – Malaysian Defense Minister

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – “We are aware of their defense capabilities, but we don’t disclose what we know,” Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Khaled Nordin stated when asked about Singapore.

He made the remark in response to a question by Dr. Halimah Ali (PN-Kapar) during the winding-up session of the 2025 Supply Bill in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday.

Dr. Halimah sought clarification on whether the military doctrine of Singapore—a country much smaller than Malaysia—focused on a defensive approach, similar to that of Malaysia.

Mohamad Khaled did not directly address the specifics of Singapore’s military doctrine.

However, he emphasized that the Ministry of Defense and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) would not reveal what they know about the southern neighbor.

He explained that withholding such information provides a strategic advantage for both the government and the military.

“We avoid sharing such matters to maintain control, prevent unnecessary concern, and avoid stirring tensions that could strain relations between the two countries.”

“Regardless, we closely monitor all nations, particularly those nearby, and that is my assurance to the Honorable Member from Kapar,” he said.

“While we may not openly discuss it, rest assured that we are well-informed about the military assets of all countries, and that is the role of the Ministry of Defense to ensure the country’s defense remains at its highest capability,” he added.

Singapore’s defense budget in 2024 amounted to USD 15 billion (RM 65.9 billion), compared to Malaysia’s allocation of RM 19.7 billion this year and RM 21.2 billion for 2025.

Singapore is widely known for its significant defense spending, with a budget twice that of Malaysia.

In February, Singapore announced the purchase of eight additional fifth-generation F-35A fighter jets, complementing the 12 F-35B (Vertical Short Take-Off and Landing – VSTOL) aircraft already on order.

This acquisition will bring the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF)’s total fleet of Lockheed Martin-built F-35s to 20, with the first four F-35Bs expected in 2026.

Beyond the F-35 fleet, the RSAF also operates several squadrons of F-15s, F-16s, Apache attack helicopters, and a diverse range of other air assets.

In recent months, Singapore’s Navy has begun receiving two of the four Type 218SG Invincible-class submarines ordered from Germany.

The RSS Invincible and RSS Impeccable have been commissioned into service, while the remaining two, “Illustrious” and “Inimitable,” are expected by 2028.

Currently, the Singapore Navy also operates four used submarines acquired from Sweden.

Singapore and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) signed separate contracts in 2013 and 2017 for the four custom-built Type 218SG submarines named “Invincible,” “Impeccable,” “Illustrious,” and “Inimitable,” designed specifically to meet Singapore’s operational needs.

Alongside modern air and naval assets, the Singapore Armed Forces also boasts a strong land force, including over 100 Leopard tanks, hundreds of armored vehicles, and additional assets. — DSA