On This Day In 2019, The SAF Unveiled Its Coolest (Literally) Fighting Machine: Inside Got Air Con
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) officially introduced a new generation of military tech six years ago today (11 Jun 2019). It was tough, high-tech, and came with air-conditioning, no cap.
The Hunter Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) marked a major milestone – it was the SAF’s first fully digitalised combat vehicle, built locally here in Singapore. Developed by the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), ST Engineering, and the SAF, the Hunter was designed to eventually replace the Ultra M113 AFVs – vehicles that had been in service since the 1970s.
IMAGE: FACEBOOK/@OURSINGAPOREARMY
From past to present
The Ultra M113s were already an upgraded version of older US-made vehicles, and while they had served the SAF for decades, it was clearly time for a refresh.
The Hunter brought the SAF into the digital era. It was faster, could operate over longer distances, and included more advanced weaponry. It also came with modern comforts like air-conditioning, something that wasn’t standard in its predecessors. Now, that's cool.
IMAGE: FACEBOOK/@OURSINGAPOREARMY
IMAGE: FACEBOOK/@OURSINGAPOREARMY
What makes the Hunter different?
At first glance, the Hunter looks like your standard tough military vehicle. But inside, it’s packed with tech upgrades.
One of its standout features is the integrated combat cockpit, which allows the commander and gunner to operate the vehicle using the same set of controls. This streamlines communication and control, which can make a big difference during operations.
There’s also an automatic target detection and tracking system to help gunners engage threats more efficiently, while commanders can use their own independent sight to scan for other potential dangers at the same time. If needed, the commander can even take over the driving remotely using a “drive-by-wire” feature.
Externally, the Hunter is fitted with multiple cameras that provide a 360-degree view of its surroundings, day or night. So instead of sticking their heads out to see what’s going on, the crew can monitor everything from inside the vehicle.
IMAGE: FACEBOOK/@OURSINGAPOREARMY
IMAGE: FACEBOOK/@OURSINGAPOREARMY
Smarter combat planning
The Hunter also comes with a digital system called Artemis (short for Army Tactical Engagement and Information System), which lets commanders plan missions and share data across different formations in real-time. This is supported by secure communication networks designed for speed and reliability.
There’s also a Health and Utilisation Monitoring System that keeps track of the vehicle’s condition. If something goes wrong or needs maintenance, the system alerts the crew (kind of like how your car’s dashboard tells you when it’s time for servicing). Over time, this data can also be used for predictive maintenance, potentially reducing the risk of breakdowns.
The Hunter made its first public appearance at NDP 2019, proudly rolling out as part of the mobile column.
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