At the production line, Chan was briefed on the F-35 programme, its capabilities and the manufacturing process, accompanied by Chief of Air Force Major-General Kelvin Fan. Speaking at the event, he said, “This is not just a milestone, but one step in a long journey that we will take together with Lockheed Martin, our partners in the US Government, the US Air Force, and the community in Ebbing – because every one of us needs to come together in order for this capability to be realised… I want to express my deep appreciation to all of you for making this possible. Without your dedication and support, we will not be here.”
The Ministry of Defence said the acquisition forms part of Singapore’s long-term strategy to strengthen the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s future fighter fleet. The fleet will include a mix of F-35As, F-35Bs and F-15SGs to meet operational requirements and safeguard national airspace.
Chan is in the United States from 9 to 13 September for his introductory visit. His programme includes meeting Singapore Armed Forces personnel at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, during Exercise Forging Sabre 2025.
