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Singapore's new F-16 squadron fully operational

May 30, 2006 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) 145 Squadron, was declared fully operational by Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean at Changi Air Base in eastern Singapore Wednesday.

RSAF F-16D block 52 #640 is taxiing by the camera at Dijon AB during exercise 'Western Arc' on September 30th, 2004. [Airliners.net photo by Michael van der Mee]

The F-16D block 52 Plus fighter has a weapon system operator controls in the rear cockpit, allowing the pilot to concentrate on flying while the weapon system officer delivers the precision strike weapons in a fight.

"145 Squadron is capable of conducting both air combat and ground attack missions with precision, in all weather, day or night conditions. The Squadron's attainment of full operational capability will enhance the RSAF's ability to meet the operational requirements of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and contribute to the defense of Singapore," the statement said.

All of the 20 F-16D fighters in the squadron were flown back to Singapore from Texas, the United States, by the RSAF's aircrew, which took over 21 hours and seven mid-air refuelings.

Changi Air Base is a new 200-hectare military air base custom-built from scratch on reclaimed land, packed with cutting-edge technology. The features at the base include an airfield lighting system and supervisory control and data acquisition system, anti-condensation system, energy conserving lighting management system, and ergonomically-designed consoles at the air traffic control tower.

Besides 145 Squadron, Changi Air Base East also houses support squadrons like the Flying Support Squadron, the Air Logistics Squadron and the Airfield Maintenance Squadron.

Its location gives it an advantage over other airbases like Tengah or Paya Lebar. The F-16 jets from Changi can make a faster trip out to training areas over the South China Sea, compared to their counterparts from other airbases. The 145 Squadron can save as much as five to seven minutes in travel time, which means they also save on fuel and cut down on costs.