Singapore is not rich enough to hire a professional army in 1965. The population of less than 2 million that time was needed in the workforce to develop the economy and manpower was limited. Therefore, the government decided to build a citizen armed force through enlisting able-bodied men into the army.
In 1967, National Service was introduced. All able-bodied men were called up to serve full-time National Service. Through National Service, Singaporeans learn to defend Singapore. They also help Singaporeans bond as they share a common experience and hardships during their training. This bonding helps develop in the men a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny for Singapore. After the men completed their full-time National Service, they will continue serving in the citizen armed force as Operationally Ready NS men for another 10 years for a maximum of 40 days annually. During their training, they continue to undergo and attend refresher courses to maintain their competence in handling new weapons and equipment. They also learn new strategies of war. The Singapore Armed Force today consists of the army, the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Republic of Singapore Navy
