RSAF shooting practice

I refer to the AP article titled 'S'pore air force shows its skills' which appeared on page 12 of the Feb. 27, 1998 edition of The Jakarta Post.

AP's article is incorrect, misleading and pernicious in stating that the "Republic of Singapore Air force (RSAF) showed Thursday how troops practice shooting down the planes and helicopters of the Republic's neighbor." The RSAF does not practice shooting down aircraft of friendly countries, including those of our neighbors.

The simulated shoot downs shown to the media during the visit were all RSAF aircraft. The aircraft of neighboring countries were displayed to highlight the point that visual identification of friendly aircraft is important to avoid the situation of wrongly engaging them. The report itself has pointed out that RSAF ground commanders have to ensure that only enemy aircraft are targeted (and by implication, not aircraft belonging to friendly countries).

LOW PIT CHEN

First Secretary

Embassy of the Republic of Singapore

Jakarta