NDR 2026: Singapore’s new western island could pave way for nuclear power, experts say

Mr Lim, an associate research fellow, said Pulau Tekong could become a broader SAF training hub beyond its role as a BMT site, as better connectivity through the tunnel could cut travel time between the mainland and the island. 

It could also open a new land-based route for transporting logistics needed for military training, which the BMTC schools could benefit from if supply movement becomes more convenient and efficient.

Greater accessibility could bring more potential vulnerabilities, said Dr Chang Jun Yan, who heads the military studies programme at RSIS. But this is “by no means a dealbreaker”, as such vulnerabilities can be mitigated, he added.

Mr Lim said he does not see major security concerns at the moment but stressed that this was difficult to assess given the project remains in its formative stages. 

Like Dr Chang, he believes the risks can be managed as long as the right security checks are in place.

For land-based travel routes, this could take the form of toll gates manned by security personnel, with additional measures to manage personnel and vehicle entries, Mr Lim said.

On the roughly 500ha available for future civilian use, the prime minister said no decision has been made on how the land would be used.

Dr Chang said speculation would be premature at this stage, but suggested civilian uses complementary to SAF needs could create synergies, such as defence-related industry or other security businesses. 

Mr Lim added that the area could support civilian infrastructure such as research facilities for space, nuclear, energy or other related ventures with potential military or security applications.