**SINGAPORE:** Welcome to SAFTI City – a cutting-edge urban training facility that redefines military preparedness for modern warfare! Officially launched on March 19 by Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen, this extraordinary site features high-rise buildings, simulated battle explosions, and even a decommissioned MRT train, taking military training to unprecedented levels.

Since opening for training in October last year, SAFTI City has already welcomed around 3,000 soldiers, with projections to accommodate an astonishing 20,000 annually. "SAFTI City is a physical manifestation of giving realism to our soldiers so that they are prepared," declared Dr. Ng at the launch event. Forget traditional training methods; this facility captures the essence of urban combat in a meticulously designed environment.

As warfare evolves, so too must our military training. "Early on, jungle warfare defined our strategies, but today, urban operations are increasingly vital," Dr. Ng noted. SAFTI City boasts a diverse array of low- and high-rise buildings, modeled after Singapore’s urban landscape, allowing up to 1,200 soldiers to train simultaneously in realistic conditions that few militaries worldwide can replicate.

What’s Inside SAFTI City?

- **Three 12-Storey Buildings:** The facilities mimic an office building, a residential block, and a hotel, complete with QR-coded sensors that monitor soldiers’ movements during exercises.

- **Realistic Combat Features:** SAFTI City packs around 11,000 sensors and devices that create an immersive training experience, including “shoot through wall modules” that simulate crumbling walls and sound systems that mimic airstrike explosions.

- **Transport Hub:** The site includes a mock MRT station complete with signage resembling that of Singapore’s actual MRT system, featuring decommissioned train carriages for tactical scenarios.

Lt. Colonel Darius Kwa, the operations manager, explained, “SAFTI City is not just about combat training but also addresses disaster relief, homeland security, and counter-terrorism efforts.” And what's more, the facility will see the integration of public amenities such as hospitals and schools, balancing military needs with urban infrastructure.

A New Era in Military Training

During a media tour, soldiers demonstrated their capabilities as they stealthily navigated drains designed specifically for tactical maneuvers. This environmental design ensures that trainees gain experience in situations they might encounter in real-world missions.

Innovative technology is also at play. Trainers utilize mobile tablets to track movements and control various building features, enhancing the training potential further. “We can observe the troops in real-time and give them immediate feedback,” expressed Captain Dilys Choo excitedly.

Experience the Thrill of Combat

The training culminated in a series of simulated firefights where soldiers executed strategic assaults on enemy targets. These targets were no stationary mannequins; they were dynamic, equipped with technology that provided instant feedback on engagements.

"The sights and sounds of SAFTI City truly immerse soldiers in a wartime environment," stated 3rd Warrant Officer Noor Hasif Ahmad. With the help of sophisticated simulators generating smoke, noise, and vibration effects, soldiers must adapt quickly to unpredictable scenarios, mirroring the chaos of actual warfare.

The Future of Military Readiness

Impressed by the immersive training possibilities, Captain Choo noted that soldiers felt the magnitude of their training environment was significant. "This is where they can train as they would fight, reflecting the reality of modern warfare," she remarked.

SAFTI City stands as a testament to Singapore's commitment to innovation in military training, setting a global benchmark in preparing servicemen and women for urban conflict. Get ready – the future of warfare training has arrived in Singapore, and it's nothing short of extraordinary!