Singapore may be a small island state measuring no more than 50km by 27km, but yet, it is one of the key maritime trading ports in the world – about 70% of the global sea trades goes through this tiny maritime nation.

Hence, it follows that protecting our seas and our sea lines of communication, which are our economic lifelines and link to the world, is the foremost priority of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).

While the RSN invests in advanced defence technology and weaponry to safeguard our sovereignty from maritime threats, it understands that such tools are only as good as the hands that wield them.

Lieutenant (LTA) Satesh Kumar is currently reading a Master of Science in Security Studies at University College London under The Singapore Armed Forces Scholarship, hoping to serve our nation’s maritime interests in the future. He detailed to us his journey so far and his seafaring dreams thereafter.

Joining The Navy

His first touchpoint with the RSN came in 2014, when he visited the Landing Ship Tank, RSS Persistence, and learnt about how the RSN contributes to regional peace and security. This, in turn, made him seriously consider a purposeful career with the RSN.

During junior college, he attended SAF scholarship information sessions, where he had the chance to interact with men and women who were at various stages of their careers in the RSN. The information he gained from them provided him with a glimpse into what a future with the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSN would be like. The mission and purpose of the RSN, and the conviction and drive of its people, deeply resonated with him.

“I saw a lot of meaning in what the Navy and wider SAF does, especially given Singapore’s defence concerns. I believed it was the best fit for me in terms of the organisational mission as well as my own interests and strengths, and found it to be the most exciting and fulfilling career choice,” said LTA Satesh.

LTA Satesh

The Depths of Learning

After being awarded the SAF Scholarship in 2017, LTA Satesh went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in War Studies and History at King’s College London.

The rigorous academic course was perfect for this history buff. “Looking to the past often gives us a clearer understanding of why and how things are the way they currently are and what can be enhanced in the future.”

He decided to take his academic pursuits further and is now reading a Master of Science in Security Studies at University College London.

“I believe the critical thinking and analytical skills that I have honed over the course of my university studies will equip me to become a more effective Naval Officer, as naval operations are mentally taxing and require one to be able to handle and respond to complex and evolving scenarios,” he explained.

“Also, the more specific knowledge I have gained about conflict and security is also applicable to my work in the RSN.”

A Future at Sea

The first thing LTA Satesh wants to do when he returns from his studies? Go out to sea for a mission!

To prepare for his career as a Naval Officer, LTA Satesh has served in the different areas of the RSN, such as the submarine flotilla and the Maritime Security Task Force, during his vacation attachments.

“While on studies, Officers return to serve attachments during their annual vacation periods. This gives them valuable opportunities to be exposed to the different parts of the organisation and better understand some of the bigger picture issues and concerns, allowing them to contribute more effectively in the future,” explained LTA Satesh.

Keen on a career in the Navy? It’s not crazy – it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.