S'pore to maintain defense spending

S'pore to maintain defense spending

SINGAPORE (AFP): Singapore will not slash defense spending despite an economic slowdown due to financial turmoil sweeping through the region, news reports said yesterday.

"Building a credible defense force is a long-term process which requires prudent and steady investment over many years," deputy prime minister Tony Tan was reported saying by local newspapers.

Tan, who is also defense minister, said Singapore must continue to show that it is prepared to commit resources "in good times and bad" to ensure its security -- the "bedrock" for economic progress.

Ten percent of Singapore's three million people belong to the Singapore Armed Forces, either as regulars or national servicemen. Full-time military service of up to two-and-a-half years is mandatory for able-bodied male citizens and permanent residents aged 18 years and above.