Recall the roar. It is the sound of Singapore’s air defense ready at Tengah Air Base. This is more than just an airfield. It is a symbol of vigilance and strength.
Tengah Air Base stands as the most important airfield of the Republic of Singapore Air Force. It is located in the Western Water Catchment. This base houses most of the RSAF’s frontline squadrons. It is home to the Airborne Early Warning and Control assets. Many F-16 Fighting Falcons and UAVs also reside here.
Before Singapore’s independence, Tengah Air Base was known as RAF Tengah. The Royal Air Force station opened in 1939. During World War II, the Japanese heavily bombed Tengah airfield. Seventeen Japanese Navy bombers initiated the first air raid on Singapore. This occurred shortly after the Battle of Malaya began. Tengah was also the first airfield captured by Japanese forces during their invasion of Singapore.
After capturing Singapore, the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force took control of Tengah. The Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service controlled Sembawang Air Base and RAF Seletar. Singapore was divided into north-south spheres of control. The Japanese Army commanded the south including Singapore City. The Japanese Navy took command of the north.
During the Malayan Emergency, Tengah housed Avro Lincolns. These belonged to the RAF and Royal Australian Air Force. They conducted bombing missions against pro-independence forces. These forces were led by the Malayan National Liberation Army.
During the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation, Hawker Hunter fighter aircraft were stationed here. Gloster Javelins also helped defend Singapore and Malaysia against air incursions. These incursions came from Indonesian MiG-21s and P-51 Mustangs.
In August 1963, the RAF deployed Handley Page Victor bombers to Tengah. This was a show of force to deter Indonesia. These bombers were later replaced by Avro Vulcan bombers.
British MoD documents revealed a secret. Up to 48 Red Beard tactical nuclear weapons were stored at Tengah. This occurred between 1962 and 1970. They were intended for use by the V bomber force.
The RAF station closed in March 1971. Tengah was handed over to the Singapore Air Defence Command by 1973. Despite this, the airfield hosted British and Commonwealth forces until 1976.
In 1971, it was renamed RSAF Tengah. Now known as Tengah Air Base, it houses Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons.
The motto of Tengah Air Base is “Always Vigilant”. This is symbolized by a black knight chess piece. The sword represents war’s destruction. The castle depicts the state.
Exercise Torrent demonstrates the RSAF’s capability. It generates air power quickly from public roads. Lim Chu Kang Road becomes an alternative runway during these exercises.
To accommodate the relocation of assets from Paya Lebar Air Base, Tengah Air Base will expand. A new runway will be built.
Today, Tengah Air Base stands as a testament to Singapore’s air defense capabilities. It embodies a rich history. It stands for constant readiness. Remember its story. It is one of vigilance, strength, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Singapore’s skies.