A First-Hand Account of Tactical Drills and Live-Firing Exercises
Few experiences are as unforgettable as holding a gun for the very first time. The weight, the power, and the danger are palpable. This was exactly what I felt when I gripped the MP5 submachine gun during a training session with the Singapore Police Force’s (SPF) Emergency Response Teams (ERT).
On 6 March, media representatives were invited to witness the SPF’s Special Operations Command demonstrate its capabilities in preparation for Exercise Northstar XI, a counter-terrorism drill scheduled for 22 March on Jurong Island.
Emergency Response Teams: Defenders on Standby
In response to evolving terrorist tactics, such as the indiscriminate attacks in Paris (2015) and Jakarta (2016), the SPF established the ERT in 2016. Tasked with neutralising attackers swiftly and minimising casualties, these officers undergo rigorous physical and tactical training to ensure readiness for high-pressure scenarios.
ERT members, equipped with advanced firepower and protective gear, patrol high-traffic areas daily. Their deployment has already proven effective, such as in January 2023, when the team successfully resolved a hostage situation in Yishun.
Live-Firing Experience: A Test of Nerves
As part of the demonstration, reporters were given a chance to participate in a live-firing exercise. Though we fired blanks, the weight of the MP5 and the 8kg ballistic vest added to the intensity. The sound of live rounds fired by officers nearby was deafening, even through ear protection.
Positioning myself 5 metres from the target, I struggled to steady the red dot scope. The gun’s recoil, though minimal compared to live rounds, was startling. While my 10 shots landed on the target, it became clear why this job demands exceptional physical fitness and precision.
Tactical Scenarios: Speed and Coordination
We also observed ERT officers demonstrate tactical formations in HDB-style settings. One scenario involved pursuing an armed gunman into a flat, disarming and apprehending him in seconds. Another showcased a hostage situation, where officers neutralised the threat and secured the civilian.
Their rapid, coordinated movements and decision-making highlighted their intensive training. Watching them subdue threats with such precision left me both reassured and hopeful that such skills will rarely be needed in real-life situations.
Assurance in Preparedness
This training session underscored the immense dedication and expertise of the ERT. Their readiness to respond to potential crises provides a comforting reminder that Singapore’s safety is in capable hands.
