The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is among the latest of a growing number of militaries around the world whose troops are taking on a digital look.

According to the Ministry of Defence (Mindef), the army developed the new uniform together with the Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA).

The technology for digital camouflage is not something new though, the Canadian and US militaries were among the first to design and use digital pixel camouflage.

Earlier this year, Thailand announced that after four years of research, they have come up with an innovative digital pattern, designed especially to meet the needs of Thai soldiers.

In Singapore's case, extensive research was done to determine the combination of colour and shades used in the new combat uniform. This makes it extremely suitable for the local forested terrain. Take a look at our photo gallery to see for yourself.

Besides an enhanced camouflage pattern, the new SAF combat uniform also consists of better quality fabric and an ergonomic functional design. The cost for uniform is also higher than that of the current set, but Mindef declined to reveal how much.

For the soldiers sweating it out in the fields, here's some good news, the new uniform will be cooler to wear. This is because the new fabric has higher permeability for better air flow. It also has an enhanced wicking ability which allows the quick transfer of moisture from the soldier's body to the outer surface of the uniform. This enables perspiration to evaporate at a faster rate, allowing greater heat dissipation, and increased comfort, according to Mindef.

Aiming to ergonomically integrate with the soldier's personal equipment, the new fatigues are designed to be highly functional as well. The design removes pressure points on the soldier's body and protects it against abrasion from use of body armour. It also allows for knee and elbow guards to be secured to the uniform and has additional pockets for storage. These features have been proven to optimise the soldier's performance in the field.

Mindef says the new combat uniform will be phased in over three years, taking into consideration the wear and tear of the serviceman's existing uniform.

So besides the recruits entering national service next year, active personnel and NSmen in their 6th and 7th In-Camp Training (ICT) years will get their new uniforms at the start of the 2009.

This will be followed in 2010, by NSmen who are in their 5th and 6th ICT years. In 2011, NSmen in their 3rd to 5th ICT years will receive the new uniform.

Unfortunately, NSmen currently in their 7th to 9th ICT years will not receive the new uniform.

The writer is an NSman who holds the rank of Captain.