Minister of State for Defence Mr Desmond Choo officiated at the 30th Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony at SAFTI Military Institute this evening. A total of 234 service personnel, comprising 25 from the Singapore Army, 28 from the Republic of Singapore Navy, 31 from the Republic of Singapore Air Force, 144 from the Digital and Intelligence Service, and six from Joint were appointed as Senior Military Experts (MEs).

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Choo highlighted the importance of MEs and the deep expertise they can bring to the SAF to bolster the development of new capabilities and overcome emerging threats, amidst an increasingly complex and uncertain environment. He said, "The Military Domain Experts Scheme exists to build and deploy deep expertise - in engineering, medicine, intelligence, and cyber defence - where it matters most. As a Senior Military Expert, together with our Officers and Warrant Officers and Specialists (WOSpecs), you form a SAF that is integrated, professional, and credible." He added, "This year, we also welcome the largest group of NSmen graduating under the Enhanced Expertise Deployment Scheme (EEDS). These are individuals who chose to continue serving, not because they had to, but because they believe their skills make a difference."

Mr Choo also emphasised the crucial role that MEs play in leading the next generation as they moved on to the next stage of their careers. He said, "Graduands, today marks the start of a new phase. As Senior Military Experts, you will be expected to lead through your own expertise." He added, "The challenges ahead will not be simple, but the SAF has confidence in you - because you have already demonstrated commitment, discipline, and professionalism."

The appointment ceremony marked the completion of the Military Domain Experts Course, which trained the MEs to assume roles in the SAF where in-depth expertise in areas such as engineering, intelligence, military medicine and cybersecurity is required. The course developed and honed the Senior MEs' leadership competency, military domain knowledge and specialised skills. The newly appointed Senior MEs will move on to assume leadership or staff appointments in their professional areas.

Also present at the ceremony was Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, senior SAF officers as well as families and friends of the graduates.

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Speech by Minister of State for Defence, Mr Desmond Choo for the 30/26 SAF Senior Military Expert Appointment Ceremony on 21 January 2026