Paya Lebar Airbase relocation to only take place from 2030
The Air Force Museum, which is part of Paya Lebar Air Base. TODAY file photo
SINGAPORE — The relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase will only take place in at least another 15 years’ time, at about 2030 and beyond.
This is because, current airbases — Changi Airbase East and Tengah Airbase — will have to be first expanded to replace the Paya Lebar Airbase, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said in a written parliamentary reply to MP Christopher de Souza yesterday (Jan 20).
Mr de Souza had asked for an update on the Airbase’s relocation plans, which were first announced during the National Day Rally 2013 by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
The focus now is expanding the Changi Airbase East and building a new runway at Changi, Dr Ng said. Construction of facilities at Changi will commence after the completion of detailed site surveys and land preparation works.
As for the Tengah Airbase, Dr Ng said efforts are focused on developing a design for the airbase facility.
To ensure the Singapore Air Force’s operational readiness is maintained, the RSAF has put in place plans to build up capabilities such as the recently-announced Island Air Defence System, Dr Ng added.
The RSAF will also be upgrading and renewing some of its older systems to meet the country’s long-term security needs. CHANNEL NEWSASIA
