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  5. 1980/06 - School of Air Defence Artillery (SOADA)
First generation (1968 to 1984)

1980/06 - School of Air Defence Artillery (SOADA)

1980

SOADA, established in June 1980, trained ADA officers and specialists on air defence systems.

SOADA was established on 1 June 1980, and was initially located at Tanglin Camp before it was moved to Seletar East Camp. The school trained Air Defence Artillery (ADA) officers and specialists on Ground Based Air Defence system deployments and operations.

Trainee officers in green and blue uniforms attending class at the School of Air Defence

SOADA was first set up in Tanglin Camp before it was moved to Building 463 at Seletar East Camp on 30 December 1980.

Instructors and trainees inspecting a missile launcher system during technical training

Trainees at SOADA undergoing technical lessons on ADA systems.

Soldiers in camo uniforms firing machine guns during field training with a V-200 vehicle in background.

At SOADA, trainees learnt how to prepare for ground-to-ground test firing.

Block A of the School of Air Defence with cars and motorcycles parked in front.

In January 1983, SOADA was relocated to Paya Lebar Air Base due to insufficient space in Seletar East Camp.

Block A of the School of Air Defence showing arched windows and parked vehicles.

SOADA at Paya Lebar Air Base.

Group photo of School of Air Defence trainees in blue uniforms outside Block A.

The first batch of ADA officers to graduate from SOADA, in July 1980.

Large group photo of RSAF personnel in blue uniforms outside the School of Air Defence.

The first batch of ADA non-commissioned officers to graduate from SOADA, in October 1980.

Gold RSAF badge featuring wings, sword, and missile, with Singapore coat of arms above.

The Air Defence Systems Specialist badge is awarded to Air Defence Systems Specialists to recognise their professionalism in operating and maintaining Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems. They trace their roots to the pioneer Air Defence Artillery units, which were formed to operate the GBAD systems left over from British rule and were united under the Singapore Air Defence Artillery in 1979.

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