They came in their thousands to a families day here last Saturday, organized by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). It was the kickoff event to the RSAF’s year-long celebration of its 50th anniversary, and the service had already set up the static display and pavilion that have remained for the main show that starts today.
Chief of Air Force Maj Gen Mervyn Tan welcomed an enthusiastic crowd to a sunny Changi, and told them how much he appreciated their support. Then they watched the RSAF’s new, combined F-15/F-16 flying display.
In the static park, there was plenty of hardware to examine - 20 aircraft and weapons systems, including an F-15SG that has been specially painted to mark the RSAF’s 50th. The event organizers were trying to keep this blue-painted beast hidden until its formal unveiling here tomorrow by Singapore’s President. Unfortunately, the strong sea breeze blew the flimsy tarpaulin screens apart, and the airmen guarding it soon gave up their attempts, to prevent the crowd from photographing the jet.
A lot of thought and effort has gone into the pavilion. There are multiple displays, demonstrations and simulations on the full spectrum of the RSAF’s capabilities. Not just aircraft, but the island-wide air defense network, the medical services, even the rapid runway-repair capability. An air-minded child could spend a whole day there, and maybe some will do so this coming weekend, since the pavilion and static display will remain in place for the public days of the Singapore Airshow. About 80,000 visitors are expected.
A substantial book has been produced to mark the RSAF’s 50th. It has been produced by Singapore’s premier aviation historian, Goh Yong Kiat. He is a former engineer in the RSAF who now works for ST Aerospace. “Defending Our Skies” is not just a coffee-table work, although it contains over 550 photographs that span the half-century since the island’s air arm was established. The photos are heavily-captioned, so that readers can fully understand how the RSAF evolved from humble beginnings to the formidable fighting force that we see today.
The book is on sale at a booth in the pavilion, price S$60. Payment is accepted in cash or by the local “Paylah!” stored-value card. Half of the proceeds are going to a charity that supports students with special needs.
