This Tiny Island Is the Most Densely Defended Country in the World | WSJ

Singapore, a city state around the same size as New York City, has built one of Southeast Asia’s most advanced militaries. Despite being at peace with its neighbors, Singapore’s defense budget was over $11 billion in 2022, ranking it per capita among the highest in the world.
Singapore has ordered 20 F-35 jets and its navy is increasing its number of submarines to eight, more submarines than both its larger neighbors Malaysia and Indonesia combined.
WSJ takes a closer look at why this small nation is pouring billions into its armed forces.
Chapters:
0:00 Singapore’s advanced military
0:41 Defense spending
2:13 Singapore’s arsenal
3:02 Singapore’s weaknesses
4:20 Total defense
4:59 Tensions with China
News Explainers
Some days the high-speed news cycle can bring more questions than answers. WSJ’s news explainers break down the day's biggest stories into bite-size pieces to help you make sense of the news.
#Singapore #Military #WSJ

[@andreylucass]

Buy this man a decent microphone WSJ

[@vasiovasio]

Well... it is Recession, inflation you know... 😂😂😂

[@militiamc]

Has this issue been fixed? The audio seemed fine when I watched it just now

[@razzahling8951]

sounds like AI

[@jasontungjw]

He can consider Shopee hahahahaha

[@ILovePancakes24]

Microphone from wish

[@yiklinkhoo]

One of the very few rare videos that actually uses 100% actual footage of Singapore (not stock footage or substitute footage). For this reason, this is worth a watch.

[@chrisschene8301]

I visited Singapore on business in 1999 and I love and respect the country. They asked me if I wanted to become Singapore citizen because I align so closely with their values

[@jont2576]

@@chrisschene8301 1999 singapore is very different and long gone, and even if u only seen it briefly in 1999, i think u would recognise singapore today is a completely different entity and "thing"....sad

[@robertbauer3419]

@@chrisschene8301 Hi, I'm sorry but can you please elaborate little furter on your statement "they asked me if I wanted to become Singapore citizen because I align so closely with their values"? Who asked you that - the Singapore Immigration Service/Ministry, some government official...? I'm just confused how can you just go to Singapore for a business trip and then "they" ask you if you want their citizenship just like that? Unless you are billionaire/multimillionaire, I've never heard of anything like that, especially in a country which offcially has the #1 passport to travel in the world with and it has the highest living standard in the world, too. I'd appreciate any input becaue I'd love me to get my hands on a Singapore Passport. Thank you.

[@cosmicspacelatte]

@@robertbauer3419yep I agree it sound suspicious. People lie all the time on the internet too

[@chrisschene8301]

No, I won't elaborate

[@nawwk79]

"Audio Quality Is Terrible" - Sun Tzu

[@neogivxapwntcpaa]

"I never said that" -sun tzu

[@InotBigDA]

“in order to confuse your enemies, you must confuse yourself.” - Sun Tzu

[@slej2502]

-Sun Tzu

[@pubst]

😂😂😂😂😂😂 -Sun Tzu

[@wpariah]

LOL

[@nenadmitrovic3120]

The WSJ had to post this so US senators can learn where Singapore is

[@angeluscorpius]

Just Tom Cotton.

[@carr16k]

😂

[@bennysamuelkoh9463]

​@@angeluscorpius Cotton Tim rather

[@Thekidisalright]

It’s pointless, they still think all Chinese in the world have China citizenship

[@faze_fox2092]

"Senation, Im Simgaporean!"

[@clementckw]

As a Singaporean, I thought that there was an important historical story that the video missed out - SG gained independence from the British post WWII in large part because the British wasnt able to defend the tiny territory. Prior to that the British were confident that SG wouldnt fall, but it embarrassingly surrenderred within days and the British bailed. The leaders post independence lived through those times and recognised the importance to be self sufficient. As we were taught in schools and in national service, no one owes us a living.

[@toolbaggers]

Singapore should thank Japan for liberating it from western colonialism.

[@fot6771]

as a Brit I wonder if we truly won the war at all, given the costs necessary to bring victory

[@albback8176]

The British similarly failed in HK.

[@micahnewman]

@@toolbaggers And welcome Japanese colonialism?

[@user-jq1mg2mz7o]

@@toolbaggers 3 years of jap atrocities was more brutal than 100 years of brit colonisation. that's how bad it was

[@thinkingcitizen]

singapore one of the most advanced countries in world, did not deserve this audio quality

[@davidanalyst671]

Singapore is one of the first countries in Asia to embrace capitalism, so they are super powerful. What a surprise, said Lee Kuan Yu, the superhero of the Singaporeans.

[@tempejkl]

@@davidanalyst671The two countries with the highest growth rate in the past decades are two socialists, China, then Vietnam. No other country even comes close... Plus, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Pakistan are all capitalist; how are they doing?

[@markdsm-5157]

"one of the most advanced countries in the world" - no. "a country with the best tech money can buy" - yes Singapore isn't making those advancements.

[@leakahoshi5049]

​@@davidanalyst671Singapore isn't rich because of capitalism alone, it because literally only has one city. No need to diverse fund when you only has one city to think about.

[@xxDxxism]

@@davidanalyst671and you don't even know how to spell his name 😂

[@rishabhshukla4290]

As a Singaporean, thanks for covering this story but also, what an amazing microphone you have there. Is this what listening in 240p sounds like?

[@arghost9798]

Nah, 240p with 128kbps .aac audio file is still not so terrible like this. This audio is probably recorded by Symbian/java phone recorder with 3gp format.

[@phosphate66]

@@arghost9798 AUDIO NERD

[@Direwoof]

It is teh hey you pikachu mic from n64, i had used it for a few yrs XD

[@heehee7373]

​@@phosphate66 Audiophile 😂

[@StickyKeys187]

Are you indian Singaporean by any chance, looking at your username?

[@efstrexius2177]

For the Singaporeans watching, yes there were some info that might be wrong and not updated but that’s a good thing because it helps our operational security :)

[@BigFatPandaaa]

I like how Singaporeans are also always ready to defend the information online.🤣

[@lloyd9500]

Love that. Part of me wants to correct everyone's stupid af take in this extremely poorly informed comment section (and video), but the other part is like "well, OpSec is clearly on point". Keep it up SG!

[@huggybear441]

@@BigFatPandaaa It's SG *Psychological Defence* where everyone has to play a part.

[@andirememberu]

OPSEC always😂😂😂

[@MimOzanTamamogullar]

​@@lloyd9500 Can you tell me about it? I'm curious

[@dJ-yj1sb]

Is this what a fish hears

[@legitbeans9078]

😂 fr

[@vasiovasio]

😭😭😭

[@aero.l]

Sounds like AI 😂

[@Mew77778]

Yeah. The sea mackerel mentioned in the video 🤣

[@weijiakong1248]

No. I'm a fish and can confirm we get much better audio than this.

[@helloworld1476]

embarrassing audio quality

[@user47362]

WSJ probably outsourced it to upwork

[@Fee.1]

I think it may have been while the video was still uploading? I don’t hear any issues. Theres just a significant emphasis on vocals until the music at the end plays. Doesn’t sound BAD for me though

[@brycefraz]

They don’t have ears don’t worry I can hear it just fine too

[@Tappy-toes-808]

Seems fine to me, maybe your device is not working or it was encoding?

[@ravinraven6913]

I don't notice any quality issues outside youtube sucking.

[@MaximumPasta]

2:00 that maneuver was sick

[@george_sj4387]

It’s the Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles during 2024 Singapore airshow

[@Poobtato]

Ironically not even performed by our own

[@masterchinese28]

I remember being in Singapore in 2007. We were attending a meeting at our office next to the Marina. Suddenly we heard a big explosion and we went to the window to see what was happening. Then we saw an explosion in the bay and a helicopter flying low with troops jumping out of the back and into the water below. Had we just witnessed a terrorist attack? An opening salvo from a foreign enemy? Nope. The next thing we saw was another helicopter dragging a huge Singapore flag behind it. The whole thing was a dress rehearsal for the upcoming national day.

[@listentomyheartbeat]

Hahahaha every year for National Day we see this! I can understand it may seem startling for a tourist or visitor new to the country during the month of August 😂

[@uronchanokoe128]

Starting from May or June onwards, parade rehearsal is on every Saturday until August. Except on Saturday, that is one week before National Day.

[@lndyrd]

i might've been part of the troops in that

[@masterchinese28]

@@lndyrd Cool!!

[@abyssmal5858]

"Happy is that city which in time of peace thinks of war." -Venice and Singapore's motto

[@xikungao2376]

They're literally next to one of the most important shipping channels on this planet. It makes sense to be extremely defended. Alternatively just look at what's going on in Strait of Hormuz rn

[@LoanwordEggcorn]

And the Red Sea.

[@ssrae-2229]

Soon S'pore will be history if Thailand did the land bridge --

[@okisoba]

@@ssrae-2229still cheaper to have the boat go through the straight and straight to the port most of the goods should be going to. Don’t need to offload everything and redistribute to trucks/trains and go to another distribution center where it’s offloaded again to get redistributed

[@bodiandras]

tell this man about not standing in bike lanes

[@huaiwei]

That is not a bike lane. It is along the Marina Barrage.

[@Booz2020]

FARDed 😅

[@hejma_kato]

I live in the southern area of Malaysia where I got to enjoy Singaporean TV. I was always puzzled by the flashing words on top of the screen. This videos explains one of the greatest mysteries of my childhood.

[@musenw8834]

Oh you from JB (Larkin) there is it? 😊

[@ikhwansaloot]

But why do they need to show those words on TV shows? For what

[@figureofspeech4581]

​@@ikhwansalootIt is for mobilisation of troops. Each code is unique to a battalion.

[@davee2056]

Next news story: WSJ makes their journos record the audio for their videos with an iPhone 3 underwater. Can't believe I made it to 47 seconds.

[@ILovePancakes24]

Wsj is a rag anyway.

[@AbuHajarAlBugatti]

Meanwhile you had no issue watching 240-480p videos with horrible audio for decades including crt tv

[@ravinraven6913]

can't believe you managed to type more than one whole world before your attention span said wheres the flashy game stuff.. if you find it trouble to listen to this, how is your active listening in real life....this isn't bad but seems like a bunch of kids are used to the fanciest most expensive tools, when it sounds better than the stuff in the 90s so sounds good.

[@eatsofeating]

Seriously? it sounds fine

[@cucunjameela]

For real? I did it for 30 sec and my ears already cry a river 😭

[@nickayrton3766]

Completely neglects to mention Singapore's tense history with it's neighbors who have threatened to invade or cut water supplies multiple times since it's independent in 1965

[@Glee73]

Stop war mongering. Malaysia has never threatened to invade Singapore. Also.. The politician who loved to talk up the issue of water supply is long gone. Current govt. Prefers working together with other countries and maintaining good relations.

[@Lekirius]

Nope. They just want to revise the 1965 prices. Would you sell your house for $6000 like in the 50s?

[@splashmoby]

I must say brainwashing really works 💁‍♀

[@masha22092000r]

​@@Glee73 yes it did. Stop trying to change history to fit your political views.

[@higasidi8210]

instigator detected 😂

[@jjj8491]

Some of the content is wrong. 1. It is no longer a poisonous shrimp strategy. It has since evolved to the Dolphin 2. Seletar airport is not an airbase. It’s a private airport for private jets. You’re missing changi airbase.

[@davidcks]

Ya… some stuffs anyhow hantam one….

[@someb0dy2]

They also mentioned that all Singaporean men serve 2 years in the military, which I believe is wrong. Some go to Civil Defence, some to Police, some to the Military. And all decided by the government how many and who goes where. So not all Singaporean men will know how to shoot a rifle, etc. Many might, but not all.

[@faze_fox2092]

for first one, it still remains true its STILL poisonous shrimp strategy

[@jont2576]

why dolphin?why not free willy?

[@user-yb1wt2mq8c]

@@someb0dy2 "decided by the government how....." Also dependant on manpower needs for various groups.

[@Scaleyback317]

I went to school in Singapore in the '60's. I lived in Kluang, Johore. My late Dad, had nothing but admiration for Singapore. I admit, even all these years later and in full knowledge that the SIngapore I grew to love is long gone, I still have a soft spot for the Island(s) and have yet to meet a Singaporean who I have not liked as a person.

[@TerryCheever]

Singapore has been pretty much at this level of capability and readiness for decades, even longer, I think. We had training exercises with their Air Force back in the 80's when was stationed in the Philippines at Clark AB. Even saw their combat aircraft and C-130's at Osan AB when stationed there in the later 80's. Small in stature, but not in power.

[@canelop4p181]

Just wondering though, who is Singapore threatened by? I think Singapore has good relations with China so who is the threat?

[@rsyoutube285]

@@canelop4p181anyone could be

[@antred11]

@@canelop4p181 Relations with neighbors can change in no time at all. If you're militarily weak when that happens, you won't have time to prepare your defense.

[@TerryCheever]

@@canelop4p181 Not the sharpest tool in the shed, eh. Did you thumbs up yourself?

[@nonye0]

@@canelop4p181 imperial japanese army and british colonial.

[@chocomelonsugarhigh]

Thanks to all my NS men. You’re doing great in protecting the country 🥰

[@jojoanggono3229]

Singapore has been very quiet about their military asset. Their submarine fleet is the best in SEA, perfectly suited for coastal defense.

[@nerolink7]

Invincible-class submarine is not only littoral but also ocean going .

[@Antsrule]

The subs are built for shallow water engagements and quiet in shallow water though it’s diesal-electric and not nuclear.

[@NewmaticKe]

Thanks for beating around the bush. Those subs are for blockading the Straits, hopefully the need for that never comes.

[@oweneather1435]

Under AUKUS, Australia, not Singapore, gets SSNs. Right now, it is acquiring cruise missiles ( and developing capacity to build them) with range to block the Mallacca Straits. That's the real strategic defence of Singapore, as Australia has done for eighty years, long before Harry Lee had his moment.

[@christhong7421]

Submarines are rarely, if ever, used for defensive purposes.

[@kelvinkj7074]

A strong defence helps to protect investors and citizens from harm. Investing in defence is like investing in health and life insurance. It helps everyone to develop and prosper peacefully.

[@tedl8178]

i thought my sound bar is broken

[@ravinraven6913]

thought? is? Thought is pass tense and "is" is current. So you thought in the past the your sound bar is broken now? sounds like more than that is broken...

[@eatsofeating]

It probably is, lol

[@rudiruttger]

It's clear to see in the historical record what happens to small nations that don't maintain healthy civic defense.

[@eduardoking8402]

Yup. Present day lesson...Ukraine. There is so much allies can help and donate. How long can the money keep flowing?

[@Dept246]

Singapore is a shipping hub with vessels arriving around the clock. That may be one of the reasons why they spend a large amount on the military.

[@aeroAdvocate]

@@eduardoking8402 Please take your geography classes again. Do you have any idea how huge Ukraine is?

[@eduardoking8402]

@@aeroAdvocate of course I know how big Ukraine is, but it is still 28x smaller than Russia. While it may be much much much larger than Singapore, it never bothered to boost its military defence....until Russia struck. There is no need for me to take my geography class again, thank you.

[@nfaudoa801]

⁠@@aeroAdvocate Funny of you to think that he was talking about land mass. 😂 That never once crossed my mind since I was thinking population size and civil defense. 😂

[@JohnnyJQuest]

Surprise. A strong military is required for a strong economy.

[@FutaCatto2]

Singapore's economy is strong because the government is good at acting passive towards rich countries. Our military still depends on foreign militaries, just like our economy. We don't have the land to raise animals and agriculture. The culture here is usually just study, work, money equals happy.

[@mistermood4164]

Japan?

[@Bell_plejdo568p]

⁠​⁠@@FutaCatto2passive to what strong countries the US/China/west? Also sigipore is a country that makes the global elite/rich happy, that y it is how it is. Can u tell me how the military relies on forgein military and the economy too

[@FutaCatto2]

@@Bell_plejdo568p I don't need to tell you about our military. The fact we are considered the smallest country in the world, we need the support of foreign militaries. Singapore has always relied on Malaysia for food and water. Australia supplies us with the most beef and milk. Thailand supplies food. America supplies jewelry and opens businesses here in Singapore to maintain both relations and economy.

[@denlimwolf460]

Those airobatics were insane. Had to do a retake in slow motion to see how those jets didn't collide in the air.

[@user-yb1wt2mq8c]

It's a view thing. If you get a different view, side/back/right under/etc, you will see a good safety separation, though it's still pretty close compared to normal operations. Check out different videos on Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, some will show the "in cockpit" view. They look really good from the front but it's still a pretty safe maneuver [increase risk, but also increase mitigation with practise, training, etc].

[@Kelvin_Foo]

Those aerobatic jets are actually South Korean (ROKAF Black Eagles). The RSAF does have a demonstration team with F-16s (Black Knights) but these are pilots from operational squadrons that are assigned on an "as needed" basis for events like the National Day Parade or Singapore Airshow.

[@denlimwolf460]

@@Kelvin_Foo that's awesome. I was stationed in Korea for a year and got to see the Korean F16s all the time.

[@Expt626]

There's a trick to it. The clue is your eyes cant perceive depth with no object to reference.

[@linzixuan29]

Proud to be a sgrean

[@hughjass1044]

Respect to Singapore from Canada!

[@youruncle5555]

Canada sucks

[@CatErpillar618]

We don't care

[@Antsrule]

:)

[@tailsorange2872]

We don't care if you don't care; You don't matter.@@CatErpillar618

[@thomasmurray3920]

I have visited Singapore multiple times in the 70s and 80s, and loved it. Although much has changed since then, it is still a model gif other nations to follow. I had an opportunity to work with their navy, and they were all highly professional. It should also be noted that they have developed weapons of their own, such as the Ultimax 100 light machine gun. It is one of the lightest possibly in the world, and is in use by a number of other countries.

[@chrisschene8301]

Would not trade my US freedom and Chaos for the lack of freedom in Singapore.

[@johnchua9387]

​@@chrisschene8301You don't stand a chance becoming a Singaporean even if you were to try. Bet you don't even know where Singapore is located. A hint, Singapore is not part of China like many of your comrades who sucks in geography think it is.

[@liongjiahwong5478]

​@@chrisschene8301after 7 PM, your children are not allowed to go out. Is the call freedom. In Singapore anyone can go home at Midnight.

[@chrisschene8301]

@@johnchua9387 blocking you

[@chrisschene8301]

@johnchua9387 not everyone is stupid like you. Do they still use the cane for judical punishment? They should apply it to you for being so educated and an LGBTQ embarrassment to SG, bringing dishonor upon SG.

[@skullsaintdead]

Much love from Australia, dear Singapore!

[@wyattearp88]

Much love from Singapore, dear Australia!

[@Pfyzer]

Nuh uh

[@user-hj1zj2fr8r]

Welcome Dearest Australia military assets to perform servicing, replenishment and docking in Singapore. Many Australian soldiers had sacrifice their lives defending Singapore against Japanese in WW2. During my time in the army, I was involved in the memorial ceremony in Kranji Cemetery to paid respect the glorious dead of Australian soldiers who fought in WW2 defending Singapore. Filled with gratitude, I only have the best wishes for Australia. Thanks!

[@DK-yz9xk]

@@user-hj1zj2fr8ryou think they defended Singapore for us? 🙄🙄

[@thehair9741]

I remember going to Australia n visiting one of the souvenir shops owned by a Singaporean in Australia.. suddenly a white dude came in n shouted "go back to ur country"..from Aussie with love 😂

[@paulmcmullan9931]

Singapore has two air force training bases in Australia.

[@MickeyPickney-dc6tj]

Another one in Arizona.

[@musenw8834]

Yeah the shoal water bay training area is the main one if I remember correctly. The other one I can't remember if it's in Queensland or wherever else.

[@gregjohnson8520]

Thank you for a great summarization and comparison of Singapore.

[@RDBean]

Was stationed on USS LaSalle when we went thru a fuel conversion from black oil to Kerosene in 1973. Cleanest, safest place ever been to, now 70yrs old. From what I saw then to what read/watch now, their military is no joke, they take their freedon seriously

[@TPDTND]

Sovereignty, not freedom. Singapore is no champion of freedom

[@jasonpoler]

Lockheed, Boeing, Raytheon thank Singapore for their business.

[@DorothyWayneright5]

And don't forget Raid Shadow Legends

​@@DorothyWayneright5people in SG made raid?

[@DorothyWayneright5]

Nah, just a silly joke. OP comment just reminded me of the usual sponsors we see in videos...

[@mokisan]

Wsj not lending him a decent mic 😅

[@shawnc5188]

Correction: Singapore will not be operating 8 submarines concurrently, as your article falsely states. The four Invincible-class boats will replace the last two Challenger-class submarines, originally launched in 1967 in Sweden, and the two Archer-class, which were also built for the RSwN and launched in 1986-1987.

[@nuggetmanman5459]

Invincible till a barrage of bombs

[@megane9861]

​@@nuggetmanman5459do you mean "depth charges"

[@Poobtato]

@@nuggetmanman5459fool it’s not like Malaysia/Indonesia even possess the tech to locate and detect subs frm aircraft, assuming they even have a sizeable amount of operationally ready aircraft given the history of poor funding and lackluster maintenance, and last time I checked SU-27 vs modernised F16s/F15s isn’t even a competition

[@Buttercookies0]

Do not reveal unnecessary military info. There are spies everywhere.

[@Rocky-life518]

lee kuan yew is my favorite leader I wish Africa had one leader like him. It’s very embarrassing how a tiny country Singapore with little resources became a first world country. Most of Africa countries got their independence the same as Singapore and they are still lagging behind. We Africans like to blame a white men

[@yewsengcheong1637]

We are fortunate in how we have a geographical advantage sitting on a major trade route and we had LKY who had the vision to take to what it became.

[@ShhhHhhhz]

Paul Kagame has the likes of Lee.

[@leakahoshi5049]

Major trade route + one city, I don't think there's a way for Singapore not becoming a prosperous land regardless who own it

[@Kilimanjaro5896]

You can blame it on corrupt African leaders who put their self interests above the people they are supposed to serve and plunder the countries wealth. All that stolen money is in Switzerland or some other countries who surreptitiously hide their ill gotten gains.

[@NewmaticKe]

I am a Singaporean businessman and one day, I was having a business meeting in an African country (I shall not name), there was a raid by the immigration department. Although I met all legal requirements, I was arrested illegally, thrown into the back of a van and my passport confiscated. When immigration officer securing me in the van realized I was Singaporean asked me how Singapore became so successful? My reply was that we do not harass investors. A week later, my host paid USD2000 to secure my passport so I can leave the country. As a business person holding a Singapore passport & ABTC, I can travel visa free to more than 190 countries and use the diplomatic channel at the immigration of APEC countries, it is stark contrast. This true story was told and retold to many business persons with intention to do business in Africa.

[@alexandral8913]

majulah singapura ❤

[@philip2205]

The audio quality of the narration is quite poor

[@neuropathical]

seems to be an issue with something that reduces noise floor, or a noise cancelling issue, raw audio should've just been used instead

[@Fee.1]

I’m not hearing an issue.

[@lloyd9500]

Bro was talking like a robot. Every sentence had the same intonation. So jarring.

[@georgequek7996]

I am proud of SG Govt and Our Country Majulah Singapura.🇸🇬👍

[@paunitka7]

@@mingzmings88 Well, if you have the money to buy all this equipment, you're not exactly nothing, are you?

[@coops1964]

I hope the sacrifices made in the past by our soldiers help Singapore remain true friends with the UK for ever.

[@bananaguard]

Aren't the elections in SG neither free or fair for the opposition?

[@PeterMuskrat6968]

I always really liked Singapore’s military. It’s small compared to the other major or even regional sized militaries around the world but it is one of the most advanced and they have some of the best training of any nation in the entire region.

[@WahlanSahlan1982]

But the country has like zero strategic depth

[@Talemuse-Cyoa]

Something that is not mentioned in the video, Singapore's military maintenance. Unlike some nations in our neighborhood, our planes actually fly and ships don't turn into submarines 🤣🤣

[@aeroAdvocate]

It's a complete waste of money. Singapore can't be defended in any way. Just ask the British; they were the last to try during WW2.

[@samiel1014]

@@aeroAdvocate pretty sure you guys ran with tails tuck between legs

[@user-jk5um1om8l]

@@aeroAdvocateThe British were facing the wrong way expecting an invasion from the sea. 😂 That’s just incompetence, not a result of being inherently indefensible. The forward, almost offensive posture of the Singapore military is geared towards not being sitting ducks in the event of a conflict…

[@YOUPIMatin123]

Long live Singapore. Love this little city.

[@matttrafton2725]

Way to go small nation.💪Stay strong.

[@johanea]

Maker and model of your microphone please? I’d like myself some early 90’s sound quality when feeling nostalgic.

[@soosainathan1753]

Lee Kuan Yew made Singapore happen while Mahatir made Malaysians wonder what happened.

[@PhiloSurfer]

Lee Kuan Yew made wonder happened in Singapore while Mahathir made Malaysians wonder what happened.

[@Gurashi]

Is that the best microphone WSJ has to offer?

[@serdarcam99]

Fr my headset mic sounds mucj better than this

[@elvenkind6072]

More about Singapore. I knew it was an important trade post and a very important, strategic location. Hoping to learn more. You got a subscriber here WSJ, all the way from Norway. 🙂

[@abhishekvanenooru2869]

wow informative

[@Joel-kw7jf]

SINGAPORE MENTIONED 🔥🔥🔥

[@scipioafricanus4875]

This is interesting gives me confidence

[@wtf.O_O]

Very informative videos for knowing how wide spread of the awareness of the future conflict, which may/may not happen. And the audio is clear and good. 👍

[@tealkerberus748]

Good for them. I like seeing small nations succeed and own their situation.

[@Timholle]

Singapore is one of the only few counties I’m impressed with

[@ThaiLifeSingapore888]

amazing!!!

[@natpalazzo8833]

I've been to Singapore. I love that place.

[@user-jp3fj8cq5d]

As a Singaporean, I can agree that: Singapore is very small indeed Singapore's military is quite powerful something most people think about Singapore is that it is a country similar to North korea. That is false, in fact life here is perfectly normal and the opportunities the country gives us is very good and not biased

[@obscurifyed]

yea

[@Tej517]

Get him this man a good microphone petition.

[@Chisato_Strafe]

Hopefully we Malaysia can forever maintain peaceful and friendly relations with all our neighbor.

[@dericofdorking]

Don't cut off the water then 😂

[@codfusilli5879]

Then return Sabah to the Philippines! 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

[@leakahoshi5049]

​@@codfusilli5879I had to google it and holy it was disputed since 1800

[@MeHaziq]

@@codfusilli5879 why would sabahan want to dowgrade tho

[@AlfariziZakaria]

As an Indonesian, I also hope that our government will maintain good relations with Singapore For the progress of Southeast Asia Conflict is no longer relevant, we must work together, Long live ASEAN 🇸🇬🇲🇾🇮🇩♥️

[@Ali-xv3em]

great video!

[@Tigerheart01]

I was in the US Air Force between 2000 and 2006. After my tech school, my first duty station was Canon AFB in Clovis New Mexico. At that time it was home of the 21st Fighter Wing which not only contain 3 F-16 Squadrons but also a Squadron of F-16s piloted by Singapore pilots and serviced by Singapore personnel. They lived on the base with us and were our comrades. They were awesome people and penultimate professionals during exercises and even real-world scenarios. I was stationed there as an Air Traffic Controller, only 20 years old, and with only 2 stripes on my sleeve when September 11, 2001 occurred... If a war in South East Asia occurs we can count on Singapore to be a friend and ally.

[@FucklesTheDog]

Better to be a warrior in a graden than a gardener in a war

[@existenceisillusion6528]

Best yet: being a warrior gardener in a garden of war

[@GlobalDrifter1000]

Ah so, you are being inscrutable.

[@Redditor6079]

​@@GlobalDrifter1000you gotta be on the short bus to not understand this concept Chief. Read a few books 📚

[@andyb619]

It’s still better to be a gardener in a garden

[@johnathandaviddunster38]

😂😂😢 Given wisdom EVERYONE can live in a beautiful garden H.G.WELLS ...

[@bhgtree]

Greetings and best wishes to Singapore from Ireland. You are an example and inspiration for us to follow, Irish Defence Forces need to start following this kind of plan. Well done to Singapore for achieving such military success.

[@coops1964]

When will Ireland join NATO or are they expecting any protection to come from the UK?

[@bhgtree]

@@coops1964 I hope that the last couple of years are a wake-up for the Irish government and they realize 'Neutrality' doesn't protect from the likes of Putin.

[@samueladams2340]

One of our neighbors (Indonesia) disapproved of our independence in 1965 so much that they regularly sent suicide bombers to target civilian or state buildings. The Macdonald house bombing was a famous case where they bombed a civilian building. We caught and then hung the bombers in public view and sent the corpses back to Indonesia. Other than that they would also position their missiles just a few kilometers offshore to point at our downtown. Another one of our neighbors (Malaysia) who we were heavily reliant on for water and food imports for most of our history, regularly threatened to "turn off the tap" and would sabotage our food supply. These two would work together and stage a military operation they called "Total Wipeout" (Pukul Habis) a mere 20 km from our borders. They would also routinely invade our airspace and do flyovers during culturally significant dates like Independence Day. Because of these two gems we call neighbors, we're the most densely defended country in the world. Although nowadays they aren't as wild as they were in the past, Singapore would never allow themselves to be at their mercy.

[@dwyprabowo9909]

we're Indonesian not considered SG as enemy or threat, I hope ASEAN not supposed to be a battle ground between 2 superior country like US and China

[@samueladams2340]

@@dwyprabowo9909 You guys are cool nowadays, we cooperate a lot with each other. I hope that doesn't change.

[@angeluscorpius]

"regularly threatened to "turn off the tap" " - When Mahathir (recognise that it is not Malaysia, but certain people) comes to visit, we will show him the Rain Vortex at Jewel, the Fountain of Wealth at Suntec City, the Rain Oculus at Marina Bay Sands, the Waterfall at Cloud Forest, and the waterfall behind the Bus stop at Bird Paradise, and tell him "some people use water to blackmail. We use water to attract tourists." Then we show him the Merlion spitting.

[@user-op8fg3ny3j]

​@@samueladams2340since when did renegotiating water price become an act of war?

[@PaulJacksonOttawa]

Great work. Awesome story👍

[@allenincabra]

crazy that singapore has more tanks than the UK

[@lynnecromack4933]

Maybe , but we have Challenger...

[@bambangl]

​@@lynnecromack4933 And we have Leopards

[@budisoemantri2303]

I think it's because the UK put more effort and budget to their navy and air force because they have a lot of territories across the globe and they're an island nation surrounded by "friendly" Nato nation

[@RealUlrichLeland]

Britain thought "fortress Singapore" was unconquerable, and it ended up being their biggest defeat of the war.

[@NewmaticKe]

Arguably the biggest in history

[@Justfeb01]

Mostly because they lost morale and their home island was sieged by Germany after France fell. Otherwise they could have defended singapore, the army and resources were in their favour

[@tonyb7779]

​@@OmakeRemenThey had no problem in facing the guns towards the Japanese coming in from Malaya (as was). They had the wrong shells. All of their ordnance was armour piercing and designed to sink ships. No high explosives at all.

[@geminiblue6677]

Yea that's what you get for bringing most of the fleet and army back to europe and leaving an empty fortress for the enemy to take over.

[@underdogfinancial6446]

and now Singapore has more tanks than the UK ...

[@richardglady3009]

I had the great opportunity to visit Singapore twice in the 80’s when I served in the US Navy. I was on a nuclear powered carrier that was welcomed with open arms. Singapore was a beautiful island and great just to walk around. I’m saddened that they are forced to extreme measures to protect themselves…but Switzerland has had a similar reality for centuries. Thanks for the video.

[@user-jk5um1om8l]

The U.S. military has underpinned regional prosperity in the Asia Pacific for decades. It’s why our leaders drive home one message repeatedly to their U.S. counterparts when they visit Capitol Hill: American engagement and presence in the region has seen sustained peace which sets the conditions for trade, economic growth and everything else. Receding U.S. power and the potential end of the Pax Americana makes people nervous (even the Vietnamese, who you fought a long and destructive war with, want Americans to stay). I know you don’t hear this very often from non-Americans, but thank you for your service.

[@richardglady3009]

@@user-jk5um1om8l that was a beautiful statement. Thank you. I am also saddened that the US has very definitely taken a step backward from being a reliable friend, in the region. As learnt by both Ukraine and Israel, long term support from the US is not dependable. It’s not just specific US leaders, it is also a population that provides little support for sacrifice for a bigger cause. Try to imagine a universal draft of 18 year olds in the US (like the one Singapore and Israel have). The ensuing chaos would cost any politician his or her job. So…thank you to the people of Asia-Pacific for carrying the load that the US is increasingly unwilling to do so.

[@moltenvanilla5935]

Hello❤

[@UnwrappingByMimiKoteng]

Amazing

[@whyismyricewet1986]

Next video: how this huge news corporation has their employees record videos using microphones from 1965

[@philipgates988]

They were better in 1965..

[@SShiJie]

I'm enlisting in the Singapore Army this year, no idea if this video was recommended to me on purpose

[@hiroyukishinichi9873]

Dun worri, just focus on your training, still peacetime 🫶

[@MSkallywagg]

Good luck

[@ecksdee1637]

Good luck bro. Defend Freedom 🇺🇦🇮🇱🇸🇬🇺🇸🇬🇧🇪🇺🇯🇵🇦🇺🇰🇷

[@rmn4]

Thank you for your service o7

[@DressedRunner]

Thank you for your service. ORD lor.

[@positivevibes7093]

Team Singapore 🇸🇬

[@glennbrymer4065]

Great briefing.

[@andrewdewit4711]

Excellent work, packed with instructive content for eg “we don’t need a military“ peaceniks here in Japan and elsewhere. The comments fretting about the microphone quality ignore that we are perhaps drifting towards a shooting war in Asia (too)

[@alhypo]

Definitely can't fault Singapore for their defense policies

[@pauliewalnuts240]

Respect to Singapore. And no i don't hear any noticeable issues with the audio.

[@caniacstevehenderson7115]

Awesome 😮

[@prawnproductions234]

Proud to be part of this island.

[@ryantan63]

Singapore mentioned 🎉🎉

[@Highlander226]

Amazing country👍👍👍

[@lienlaopei5682]

What's with the complaints about the audio. Sound fine to me or maybe they have rectified it.

[@Peichen01]

Nope, still very poor quality and I am on upper-mid range PC speakers. I assume if you are on earbuds it would be even more obvious

[@coops1964]

Sounds fine to me on MacBook Pro internal speakers?

[@noorulhasan4904]

You're deaf then

[@lienlaopei5682]

I'm the one who heard it fine. Guess who is the deaf one. @@noorulhasan4904

[@greywolf7577]

@@Peichen01 I was using head phones. The sound wasn't perfect, but I could easily understand it. People just are too picky sometimes.

[@Forbidden_Word]

Wow, I never knew how small Singapore is

[@TrueChell]

Singapore is very impressive place. I wish I get to go there one day.

[@GlobalDrifter1000]

Terribly expensive

[@stephenlim2852]

May i know where are you from?

[@MickeyPickney-dc6tj]

You are SG Custom Officer on KZbin?😁

[@firdaus125]

nothing much to do here

[@GlobalDrifter1000]

@@stephenlim2852 presently the the USA. Also hold EU passport. Spent 6 years in asia.

[@chrisschene8301]

Us warships are refurbished in Singapore and us carrier groups often patrol nearby. Singaporean pilots train at Luke Airforce base right nearby my phoenix home

[@mattgummerson8370]

The UK has a naval base there too, nothing compared to the US presence though

[@gl1363]

More like restock on supplies

[@philipchan79]

US warships are refurbished in Japan and US carrier groups often patrol nearby north asia region. Not nearby Singapore.

[@NewmaticKe]

@@mattgummerson8370 There are no foreign naval base in Singapore. The country is so small, you can look over it on google map

[@gl1363]

@@philipchan79 they do however stop by and get resupply in sg

[@kraijom319]

Continue to grow and prosper Singapore 🇮🇩🤜🤛🇸🇬

[@Mr.Deko86]

Love the set up. Their defence strategy is the best deterrent. They live the FAFO philosophy.

[@CameronKang91]

2:15 that's Royal Malaysian Air Force's Sukhoi SU-30MKM, not Singapore's haha

[@simroysten7963]

Only one for demonstration purposes only at air shows. But they have invisible LCS navy vessels too.

[@nobunagaoda5217]

Just be grateful that they didn't put a Chinese J10 in this video.

[@skwb1973]

As a Singaporean NSmen, I am sibei howlian

[@balloonbuster]

Nowadays NSF got better pay than lao peng in the 70's. $90 still need to pay for 60 cents haircut.

[@skwb1973]

@@balloonbuster defintely. They are paid more than my sergeant’s grandmother.

[@Dckw]

Nsmen big fk meh?

[@skwb1973]

@@Dckw bigger than your grandmother

[@Dckw]

@@skwb1973 Ah neh mind knock it down!

[@tenga3tango]

Being prepared for any eventualities is crucial.

[@NillerMann]

Were you waving the microphone in front of you during the entire recording?!?

[@yapjinhao3598]

Majulah Singapore !🇸🇬

[@quadrantalerror1121]

I lived in singapore for 7 years and there are military bases almost on every street (exaggerating),i never realized how militarized it is until i left

[@weekiatchan5520]

Oh really. Surely that’s an exaggeration.

[@NickWheelon]

​@@weekiatchan5520 It is, but the sentiment is correct

[@jont2576]

its only 800sqkm or 25 by 35km......10 times smaller than melbourne or some american state like hawaii.....even if we had only 20 barracks how far apart do u think they would be?

[@quadrantalerror1121]

@@weekiatchan5520 its an exaggeration

[@davidcks]

Haha😂😂

[@potatolard9643]

Did they fix the audio or something cause like I think it sounds fine

[@xdtac9]

Small and probably in the most strategic spot in the world.

[@maxhugen]

Peace requires a well-armed and proficient military. Just ask Switzerland.

[@cristianhugomunozcampos3450]

2023: Singapore GDP: US$ 497 Billion Malaysia GDP: US$ 430 Billion

[@naweiheng]

Seletar Airport is civilian. The 4th air base is in Changi

[@AndreaDoesYoga]

Wow, Singapore's military power is impressive! 🌏

[@nemesiszz]

i was wondering about this topic recently