C-130s here to stay as RSAF upgrades other hardware: Air force chief

SINGAPORE – Rather than retiring its C-130 transport aircraft, some of which have been in service since 1977, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is opting to replace older models with used but well-maintained ones.

This is because the aircraft remains “the best platform to meet our operational needs for the next 15 to 20 years”, said the Chief of Air Force, Major-General Kelvin Fan, in a written interview ahead of the Singapore Airshow, which

runs from Feb 3 to 8

.

Responding to questions from local media and defence publications, MG Fan said the RSAF is in the midst of acquiring second-hand C-130H aircraft to replace its older C-130Bs.

Although exact figures are not public for security reasons, the air force reportedly operates four C-130Bs and six C-130Hs.

While he did not provide details, such as the age of the second-hand aircraft, MG Fan added that deliveries have already begun, with the planes to be repurposed to meet RSAF’s requirements.

In his interview, MG Fan covered a wide range of topics, from his priorities since taking on the appointment

in March 2024,

to the air force’s recent acquisitions.

These include four Boeing P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft, which are expected to come into service

in the early 2030s

, as well as F-35 stealth fighters, whose first delivery is set

to take place at the end of 2026

.

Beyond its aircraft fleet, the RSAF is also looking to upgrade its radar capabilities.

The Portable Search and Target Acquisition Radar, which has been in service for 25 years, will be replaced by the Giraffe 1X radar.

MG Fan said the new system will allow the RSAF to detect a wider range of aerial threats, including small drones.

Manufactured by Swedish aerospace and defence firm Saab, the radar has enhanced drone detection capabilities and can detect mini drones, distinguishing them from birds.

Complementing the radar system is the acquisition of the URO VAMTAC, or Vehiculo de Alta Movilidad Tactico.

Of Spanish make, the vehicle, whose name translates to High Mobility Tactical Vehicle, resembles a Humvee, or high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle.

The URO VAMTAC will “further improve mobility and expand air defence coverage”, said MG Fan.

Either the Giraffe 1X radar or the RBS-70 short-range air defence missile system will be mounted on the vehicle.

MG Fan added that as part of a regular refresh of its capabilities, the RSAF is also assessing a replacement for the long-serving FPS-117 radar, in use since 1998. The long-range radar is used for air defence and has high-precision detection capabilities, being able to detect threats up to 250 nautical miles, or 463km, away.

“It is a never-ending mission and we are continuing to build capabilities, especially given the increased threat spectrum out there.”

Pointing to conflicts that have erupted in recent years and calling them “real-world universities, with many lessons”, MG Fan said it is clear that Singapore must avoid a conflict that is drawn-out and attrition-based at all costs.

Hence, the basics of air power, air superiority and air defence continue to play crucial roles in helping Singapore achieve its strategic objectives and avoid such a protracted conflict, he said.

To do so, the RSAF is looking to build a “future-ready and relevant air force that can deter, defend, and if threatened, dominate the skies” by 2040, he added, citing the deadline by which the Singapore Armed Forces aims to transition into a next-generation defence force.

One measure being undertaken is the adoption of the Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle, which is currently being delivered and will replace the Hermes 450.

The older model has been in service for almost 20 years and “is becoming obsolete”, noted MG Fan, who called the newer model the “best choice” to complement the RSAF’s current fleet of drones.

Compared with the Hermes 450, the Hermes 900 can carry equipment weighing up to 350kg and fly non-stop for up to 36 hours, according to specifications on manufacturer Elbit Systems’ website.

The Hermes 450, meanwhile, can carry about half of what the Hermes 900 can, with an endurance of more than 14 hours.

Besides hardware upgrades, MG Fan also spoke about the importance of software, highlighting how the RSAF is working on employing artificial intelligence (AI) alongside human intelligence.

He said: “Our belief is that the nature of warfare will always need some level of human judgment.”

An example he raised was the current use of AI and human intelligence to analyse the physiological markers of personnel – such as their brainwaves, heart activity and eye movement – to select aircrew.

On people development, MG Fan said the RSAF is focusing on three areas: families, overseas experiences, and innovation and digital readiness.

Engaging and supporting the families of personnel will ensure they have peace of mind to focus on work, he said.

As for overseas experiences, he noted that more than 10 per cent of RSAF personnel are based overseas, with half of the air force spending at least a month abroad each year.

To that end, the RSAF has adopted mid-term rotations and enhanced overseas benefits for personnel based abroad.

Personnel now also undergo innovation and digital training at various points in their careers, he added.

As for the Singapore Airshow, MG Fan said he looked forward to speaking with his counterparts, including those from the Five Power Defence Arrangements.

The security grouping comprises Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Their respective air chiefs will meet on the sidelines of the show to discuss the grouping’s activities and ensure it stays relevant.

The air show also provides an opportunity for the RSAF to strengthen defence ties and keep abreast of advancements in the aerospace sector, MG Fan added.