Debated in Parliament on 13 May 2013.
Asst Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene asked the Minister for Defence (a) whether defence equipment, such as radar, are installed on HDB blocks and, if so, what are the reasons for doing so; (b) how are public health, safety and security concerns managed and mitigated; and (c) whether these installations pose an added danger to HDB residents during times of military conflict.
There is less than a handful of defence equipment installed on HDB blocks as part of SAF's surveillance network to ensure Singapore’s security. These were sited only after all other viable alternatives had been exhausted. These equipment pose no adverse effects on health of individuals as they keep well within international norms and standards required by local agencies. In fact, the measured levels are similar to base stations for mobile phones that have been set up by commercial telcos across the island.
These installations protect all Singaporeans as they serve to prevent attacks on Singapore.