Overview

• DSTA rolled out Gaia, a generative AI assistant for MINDEF and SAF staff that can retrieve information, generate analyses and swap between different large language models, with ongoing tuning using real data.
• Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong urged DSTA to accept more risk and adopt agile, continuous development with new procurement models to match accelerating technology cycles.
• DSTA is prioritising drones, robotics, autonomy and counter-drone systems, with engineers conducting field trials alongside SAF troops, including during Exercise Forging Sabre in the United States.
• The agency will test Razer gaming controllers to operate drones and robotics, aiming for intuitive interfaces that shorten training for younger soldiers.
• DSTA is expanding work with newer defence-tech players and startups via CapVista and a Horizon Tech Office, while Mr Lee warned of scaling and training challenges for NSmen as systems evolve rapidly.