Defence Technology Defence Technology

Experiment with emerging technologies alongside teams from other disciplines.

Much of defence engineering involves focusing on R&D to produce better support services and equipment for Singapore’s air, land and naval armies. Much work goes into advanced electronics and systems engineering, as the end product must meet extremely rigorous military requirements.

Singapore’s defence technology is primarily managed by the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), and includes intensive development and acquisitions designed to strengthen and support the country’s “Total Defence” policy.

There are also other commercial organisations that provide defence engineering services or defence technology, though they tend to be government-linked.

Defence technology also brings the opportunity to work on some of the most technologically-advanced projects in the world.

Career overview

This industry’s one of the most dynamic in the world, and graduates have the chance to solve complex problems with emerging, cutting-edge technology.

As most defence requirements need global solutions, some positions necessitate mobility. However, even when based in one site, it’s possible to have a very interesting career – sites tend to be large, hosting a variety of projects and encompassing a vast array of disciplines, with every engineer’s skills an intrinsic part of the team and project.

Trends and developments

Unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAVs) and weapons systems are becoming increasingly vital in defence technology, allowing soldiers to perform reconnaissance missions and dangerous missions with minimal risk.

However, this wouldn’t be possible without an area many graduates keen on a career in defence technology often overlook; network security. In order for technologies across different mediums – such as electronic, land, air and marine – to function as a unified system, a comprehensive and well-protected defence communications network is key.

This has become more crucial in an era where new projects and capabilities must now be conceptualised, tested, manufactured and rolled out within a much shorter timeframe than before.

Career highlights

A variety of duties and people

One of the main draws of the industry is the diversity of duties and people; graduates may find themselves working in a laboratory one day, and assigned a research task onsite the very next.

On top of making for a vastly interesting career, there’s also a wide range of professionals recruits have the opportunity to meet and learn from.

Contributing to a larger cause

The opportunity to contribute to the safety of the nation is another positive point, and many find supporting and strengthening Singapore’s security incredibly gratifying.