The Singapore Armed Forces has introduced a new Specialist Cadet (SCT) rank for specialists to reflect the challenging roles and increased responsibilities they perform.

The new rank will also replace the private and corporal ranks previously held by specialist trainees. The new SCT rank, which comes with a revised national service allowance of $490, came into effect on Dec 22.

Before the change, specialist privates drew an allowance of $400 and corporals $470.

Specialist Cadets (SCTs) from the Republic of Singapore Navy donning the new SCT rank

Some 1100 full-time national servicemen and regulars received the new SCT rank in a parade held Tuesday at the School of Infantry Specialists.

At a parade for those embarking on the 50th Basic Section Leader Course, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen affixed the new rank on three specialist cadets who represented the army, the navy and the air force.

In his speech at the parade, Dr Ng emphasised the challenging roles performed by Specialists in the transformation of the SAF to a 3rd Generation fighting force.

In particular, he highlighted the heavier responsibilities shouldered by the Specialists as leaders of small combat units, and how they possess greater empowerment in making tactical decisions in today's battlefield.