Singapore’s Home Team agencies have revealed a slate of cutting-edge technologies — from a GPS-independent drone interceptor to AI underwater robots and autonomous in-prison supply vehicles — signalling their intent to stay ahead of evolving security threats.
At the heart of the announcement was a drone interceptor built by the Robotics, Automation and Unmanned Systems Centre of Expertise (RAUS CoE), capable of pursuing and capturing rogue drones using nets, even in environments where GPS signals are blocked or jammed. Current counter-drone systems mainly disrupt communications or satellites, but jamming can leave drones hovering erratically — a hazard in dense urban settings.
Also on show was an AI-enabled underwater search robot that autonomously inspects sonar or visual detections to verify targets before alerting divers to precise locations — reducing human error and exposure during underwater work.
Another intriguing development is the Autonomous Remote Movers (ARM) project, slated for trial next year inside the Changi Prison Complex. The idea: self-driving trucks ferry food trolleys between buildings, while smaller mobile robots take over interior delivery — reducing manpower strain in secure environments.
To incubate and test these innovations, HTX (Home Team Science & Technology Agency) inaugurated Garage@HTX, Singapore’s first purpose-built developmental testing facility for public safety technologies. The space includes an Arena for drone trials, wind simulators, electromagnetic interference (EMI) chambers tailored for large vehicles, and netted zones to safely fly experimental systems.
Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong emphasised that the threats of tomorrow may not be obvious today — hence the need for diverse, adaptable tech tools. “We can’t always tell where the threats will come from… we have to think ahead,” he said at the launch.
What this means and potential challenges
- Stronger deterrence & response: The interceptor and robotics systems give Singapore’s Home Team agencies more tactical flexibility in countering drones, underwater threats and risky environments.
- Safety & urban complexity: Drone operations in a city like Singapore — with tall buildings, crowded airspace and interference — demand robust fail-safe systems. The GPS-independent design is a direct response to that challenge.
- Scaling autonomous systems in secure zones: Whether in prisons or policing contexts, the balance between automation and oversight will be key. Mistakes or failures in sensitive areas can have serious consequences.
- Regulation, integration & public trust: Deploying powerful technologies like drone capture systems and robots in public safety roles requires careful legal, privacy, civil liberties and trust considerations.
- Testing before deployment: The HTX testing facility underscores the reality that new tech must be rigorously trialled in near-real conditions — which helps reduce unexpected outcomes after full deployment.