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This Tiny Island Is the Most Densely Defended Country in the World | WSJ
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This Tiny Island Is the Most Densely Defended Country in the World | WSJ

Singapore's Military Readiness: A Small Nation with Big Defense

Overview of Singapore's Military Signals

  • In Singapore, military code words like "bullet head" and "sea mackerel" are broadcasted on TV to alert Reserve troops for mobilization.

The Unusual Militarization of a Peaceful City-State

  • Despite being a small, prosperous nation at peace, Singapore has developed one of the most advanced militaries in the region.
  • With a defense budget exceeding $11 billion in 2022, Singapore ranks among the highest per capita military spenders globally.

Comparative Military Strength

  • Singapore boasts more military assets per square kilometer than any other country, including tanks and warships.
  • It maintains strong defense ties with the US while purchasing advanced military equipment like the F35 fighter jets.

Strategic Geography and Defense Philosophy

  • The founding Prime Minister emphasized that Singapore must have a powerful military to deter larger nations from aggression.
  • The nation's investments in defense signal to foreign investors that it can protect itself effectively.

Military Assets and National Security Concerns

  • Singapore's navy is expanding its submarine fleet to eight, surpassing both Malaysia and Indonesia combined.
  • All male citizens serve two years of mandatory military service as part of national defense strategy.

Resource Scarcity and Strategic Vulnerabilities

  • As a resource-scarce nation reliant on imports for essentials, Singapore faces significant security challenges due to its size.
  • The proximity of borders limits strategic depth; critical assets are close to potential conflict zones.

Infrastructure Preparedness for Conflict

  • Civilian infrastructure is designed for dual-use; highways can serve as runways during crises, enhancing readiness.

Rising Tensions in Regional Politics

  • Amid rising tensions between the US and China over Taiwan, Singapore has increased its defense budget significantly.

Balancing Relations Between Superpowers

  • Conducting joint drills with both US and Chinese forces reflects Singapore’s attempt to maintain neutrality while ensuring security.
Video description

Singapore, a city state around the same size as New York City, has built one of Southeast Asia’s most advanced militaries. Despite being at peace with its neighbors, Singapore’s defense budget was over $11 billion in 2022, ranking it per capita among the highest in the world. Singapore has ordered 20 F-35 jets and its navy is increasing its number of submarines to eight, more submarines than both its larger neighbors Malaysia and Indonesia combined. WSJ takes a closer look at why this small nation is pouring billions into its armed forces. Chapters: 0:00 Singapore’s advanced military 0:41 Defense spending 2:13 Singapore’s arsenal 3:02 Singapore’s weaknesses 4:20 Total defense 4:59 Tensions with China News Explainers Some days the high-speed news cycle can bring more questions than answers. WSJ’s news explainers break down the day's biggest stories into bite-size pieces to help you make sense of the news. #Singapore #Military #WSJ