Singapore Airshow 2026: SAFTI City and ST Engineering Showcase the Future of Urban Military Training in Singapore

Advanced Urban Training at SAFTI City

Exclusive Demonstration of Modernized Military Training

Just prior to the commencement of the Singapore Airshow 2026, an exclusive demonstration was conducted by ST Engineering at SAFTI City, a state-of-the-art urban training facility developed for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). This event provided an opportunity for international media representatives to observe firsthand how Singapore’s defense sector is harnessing cutting-edge technologies to prepare military personnel for a diverse array of operations, including peacekeeping missions and high-intensity urban combat scenarios.

Evolution of Training Infrastructure

Commissioned for training in October 2024, SAFTI City marks a significant shift in the SAF’s training methodology. This facility replaces older, low-rise “urban village” complexes dating back to the 1990s, offering a denser and more realistic training environment that integrates advanced technology. Increment Phase 1 became operational in March 2025, enhancing the facility’s capabilities.

• Size and Capacity:
  • Area: 17 hectares with a gross floor space of 105,000 m².
  • Exercises: Supports two battalion-level exercises concurrently, or up to 1,200 soldiers in mission evaluations. The facility can also be segmented into six company sectors for approximately 600 soldiers.

Comprehensive Urban Environment

SAFTI City’s design incorporates an intricate urban landscape that includes:

• Transportation: An integrated hub featuring above-ground and underground Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems.
• Infrastructure: Decommissioned trains, bus interchanges, commercial zones, residential blocks, community centers, educational institutions, and hotels.
• Realistic Scenarios: The layout effectively simulates a variety of real-world conditions, including damage from conflict and access points such as underground drainage systems for tactical maneuvers.

Enhanced Training Capabilities

The facility employs over 11,000 sensors from ST Engineering’s training and simulation division, which facilitate real-time tracking of troop positions and activities. These sensors are integrated with the Tactical Engagement System (TES), a laser-based technology that guarantees safe but realistic combat training.

• Troop Engagement: Soldiers wear sensor-integrated vests that interact with strategically placed detectors on buildings and vehicles, accurately logging hits and movements during training scenarios.
• Immersive Experience: The Battlefield Effects Simulator (BES) replicates combat sounds, smoke, flash effects, and explosions without relying on pyrotechnics, ensuring an immersive experience with operational safety.

Data-Driven Insights and After-Action Reporting

To enhance learning and performance assessment, all training data are collected through an analytics and gamification framework. This platform equips commanders with detailed dashboards for:

• Mission Reviews: Comprehensive performance metrics and individual scoring facilitate effective after-action reports.
• Team Dynamics: Metrics that enhance understanding of team effectiveness during exercises.

Coordinated Exercises and Operational Readiness

During the live demonstration at SAFTI City, observers witnessed a series of coordinated infantry and support unit exercises. These maneuvers took place in diverse environments, ranging from underground MRT tunnels to rooftop scenarios with interactive, sensor-driven targets that replicate contemporary urban threats.

Looking Ahead: Modular Training Ecosystem

SAFTI City is designed as a modular training ecosystem, capable of adapting to future advancements in sensor technology, data analytics, and virtual simulation techniques. The facility can also support collaborative training involving various agencies, including police, civil defense, and disaster response units, reinforcing Singapore’s comprehensive security strategy.

Conclusion: A Benchmark for Future Military Training

For ST Engineering, the establishment of SAFTI City epitomizes Singapore’s commitment to advancing defense technology and creating a digital training ecosystem. This facility exemplifies how integrated sensor systems, data analytics, and adaptable infrastructure can revolutionize military readiness in multi-domain urban operations. In a global context where armed forces must effectively train for hybrid warfare and complex urban environments, Singapore is positioned as a model for realistic, technology-enhanced military preparation.