From a young dream of flying to a career dedicated to national defence, Major (MAJ) Koh Wei Ren, Daryn, exemplifies purpose and passion in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). As a C-130 pilot and SAF Scholar with a Bachelor of Arts in History, Daryn combines operational expertise with strategic insight. Discover how his journey, from mastering the skies to pioneering digital defence capabilities, showcases resilience, leadership, and a commitment to shaping the future of our nation’s defence.
Serving a Greater Purpose Through Aviation
My passion for aviation began with the Air Force posters and commercials, but it truly took flight during my junior college years when I joined the Singapore Youth Flying Club (SYFC), gaining my first hands-on flying experience. This invaluable exposure not only cemented my passion for flying but also inspired a desire to serve a greater purpose through aviation. Joining the RSAF became the natural path forward, allowing me to fulfil my dream while contributing to the nation’s defence and protecting my loved ones.
Shaping My Career Through History Studies
My academic background in history has been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and strategic thinking in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Studying historical conflicts taught me to analyse military situations through a multi-faceted lens, considering underlying political, social, and logistical factors that influence outcomes. These analytical skills have proven indispensable in my roles as a SAF officer and C-130 pilot.
Growing Through Challenges
Returning to flight training after my four-year academic hiatus was a significant challenge. It wasn’t just about regaining muscle memory; it was also about re-familiarising myself with aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and the nuances of operating within a complex airspace environment. I had to overcome a degree of “rustiness” and rediscover my confidence, but the strong camaraderie within RSAF made all the difference. With the support of my patient, dedicated instructors and colleagues, I quickly regained proficiency. It was an invaluable and transformative experience for me, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in the RSAF, a value I now strive to uphold in mentoring my juniors.
From Skies to Digital Defence
I started my RSAF career as a C-130 pilot with the 122 Squadron (SQN). The role provided valuable experience in leadership and management. In addition to flying missions, I served as the squadron Scheduler and Unit Human Resource Officer, gaining skills in resource allocation, personnel management, and operational planning. 122 SQN works hard and plays hard. As the C-130 is often deployed on critical missions such as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), airlift operations, and Search and Locate missions, the squadron leadership always ensures that we stay motivated and have sufficient rest. Our squadron comprises four vocations: pilots, navigators, flight engineers, and aircrew specialist (loadmasters). We are a diverse range of talents and personalities, always learning from one another. My journey then took an exciting turn with a posting to a Staff Officer role in HQ Digital Defence Command (DDC) under the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), where I manage and develop critical psychological defence capabilities, incorporating necessary measures within the daily functions of other SAF Services. This opportunity allows me to contribute to the RSAF in a new way, broadening my horizons and gaining invaluable experience outside of the cockpit. The DIS, established in 2022, has a dynamic ‘start-up’ culture, where my bosses encourage discourse and are always open to new ideas. My department has the unique opportunity to shape its own direction, making this role both challenging and rewarding. I’m driven to contribute something transformative to the SAF, leveraging my experiences to strengthen our capabilities in the digital age.
A Career Highlight in New Zealand
One of my proudest moments in the RSAF was leading the combined C-130 training exercise in New Zealand in 2022. This initiative involved close collaboration with my New Zealand counterpart to plan and execute a comprehensive training programme for C-130H aircraft and personnel from both the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) and the RSAF. The missions featured challenging flights over unfamiliar terrains and coordinated airdrop exercises that tested our interoperability. Beyond honing our skills, the exercise also deepened bilateral ties between our air forces.
Thriving as a Scholar in RSAF
To me, being a scholar means embodying passion, resilience, and critical thinking, and these same qualities are essential for thriving in the RSAF. Joining the RSAF is not just a career decision; it’s a chance to be part of something bigger, to contribute meaningfully, and to push your limits. Along the way, you’ll gain lifelong friendships, invaluable experiences, and the satisfaction of doing work that truly matters. 122 SQN has played a critical role in numerous Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, with the C-130 aircraft deployed to deliver essential supplies to disaster-stricken areas. Notable missions include the humanitarian airdrop operations over Gaza, delivering over 20 tonnes of food supplies to those in need, and the recent deployment in October 2024, which provided humanitarian aid to communities affected by Tropical Storm Kristine in the Philippines.
In the RSAF, you are not limited to a single career path. The organisation provides numerous opportunities to diversify your skillset, whether it’s becoming an instructor, taking on leadership roles, or transitioning to staff positions at HQ. These roles allow you to influence operations, develop policies, and engage internationally, all while contributing to national defence. For those ready to take on a dynamic and fulfilling career, the RSAF is the place to be.
MAJ KOH WEI REN, DARYN
SAF Merit Scholarship, 2016
Bachelor of Arts in History, London School of Economics and Political Science
Now: Pilot, The Republic of Singapore Air Force