Introducing the C4I Battalions

10 Februari 2011

RSTA troopers like those who operate various mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicles are now combined with Signals units under the new C4I battalions. (photo : Aviation Week)

Wonder what the term 'C4I battalion' stands for? It means Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence Battalion. The 10 and 11 C4I battalions were formed in 2010 through the merger of Signals units and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) units of Army Intelligence. This development not only underscores the close operational linkages between combat intelligence and communications but also enhances their overall operational effectiveness.

The active 10C4I comprises companies specialising in C4, ISR, SATCOM and Mobile Cellular capabilities. The reprofiled battalion is better positioned to create closer synergy and faster response to support the High Readiness Core (HRC) in security operations and peacetime contingencies like terrorist attacks or natural disasters.

The formation of C4I battalions allows for a single point of contact resulting in fast and effective dissemination of information. (photo : Mindef)

Formed in January 2010, 11C4I is commanded by LTC Yeoh Keat Hoe. In peacetime, the battalion acts as a force generator; raising and training Intelligence and Signals troopers for the Combined Arms Brigade's (CAB) C4I battalion. In operations, 11C4I will support the combined arms brigade by providing them with a comprehensive situational awareness of the battlefield.

Operations aside, the newly created C4I battalions also allow for enhanced training and operational effectiveness as LTC Yeoh described, “With a C4I battalion headquarters, there is now dedicated attention devoted to the Signal and RSTA companies in terms of training, sustenance and development.”

(Singapore Army)