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Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF)
First generation (1968 to 1984)

1968/11 - First helicopter

Helicopters

Alouette III

Year

1968

Singapore’s first Alouette III helicopters formed 120 Squadron for transport, rescue, and Army support missions.

The first eight Alouette III helicopters arrived in Singapore on 30 September 1969 at Seletar Air Base. The arrival of the helicopters heralded the formation of the SADC’s pioneer operational unit, 120 Squadron, which was formed with four pilots and six helicopter technicians. It was tasked with transport, Casualty Evacuations, and Search and Rescue missions.

A technician guiding a helicopter landing at Seletar Air Base.

An Alouette III helicopter landing at Seletar Air Base.

Alouette III helicopter on display with floats and open doors.

The Alouette IIIs formed the SADC's first squadron, 120 Squadron.

Two pilots seated inside Alouette III helicopter cockpit.

The Alouette Squadron had eight helicopters that were assembled at Seletar under the supervision of representatives from a French state-owned aircraft manufacturer, Sud Aviation. Its operations were later moved to Changi, making it the first SADC unit to be stationed there.

Group photo of 120 Squadron in front of Alouette III helicopters.

CPT Terry Loh served as the Alouette Squadron's first Commander from 30 September 1969 to 14 December 1971. Training for the first four pilots and six technicians was conducted in France, where 2LT Leo Tin Boon, 2LT Teo Boon Haw, 2LT Ashley Philips, and 2LT William Ang trained as pilots; while CPL See Peh Hock Alan, CPL Foo Chee Min, CPL Wee Kok Kee, CPL Go Tong Seng, CPL Francis Yuen, and CPL Chooi Poh Seng trained as technicians.

The Alouette Squadron's second Commander was MAJ Derrick Martin. On 31 March 1975, it was officially renamed 120 Squadron. Its role of rescue and relief was further expanded to cover search, reconnaissance, and Army support duties.

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