SINGAPORE: The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is introducing a new Specialist Cadet rank for soldiers. There is also a revised allowance increase of at least S$20, which means that cadets will now enjoy a monthly allowance of S$490.

At a special parade held at the School of Infantry Specialists on Tuesday, Second Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said their roles are now more complex as the SAF continues its third generation transformation.

Dr Ng said: "In the integrated and networked SAF, even as a small team, you will be able to bring to bear the combined force of SAF's might on the enemy. You will be able to call on the fire power from the artillery, air strikes from Apache helicopters and F16 fighters."

Senior Warrant Officer Jeffrey Chung, SAF Sergeant Major, said: "Our specialists must be able to exercise initiative to call on fire even with the current integrated warfare.

"So our training definitely has to cater to that and build them up to achieve this. So in the third generation SAF, our specialists must be able to do more than what they used to do in the past."

The specialist cadet rank reflects the expanded scope and influence of section commanders. It also recognises the intensive training they go through and the greater demands expected of them as they lead men into battle. - CNA/vm