Former German director for research and technology receives Distinguished Fellowship

SINGAPORE - The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has conferred the Singapore Defence Technology Distinguished Fellowship to Mr Erwin Bernhard, former Director for Research and Technology in the German Federal Ministry of Defence.

Mr Bernhard received the recognition from Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen on Monday.

The award was conferred on Mr Bernhard in recognition of his contributions in expanding defence technology cooperation, and his role in enhancing the defence technology relationship between Singapore and Germany.

Mr Bernhard was the first co-chairman of the Singapore-Germany Defence Research and Technology Dialogue from its inauguration in July 2009 to March 2012. During his term, established closer links between research institutes and technical experts from both countries.

Mindef said in a press release: "Under his leadership, the level of research cooperation between Singapore and Germany has expanded significantly, with several joint projects of mutual interest spanning a broad spectrum of technology areas signed."

The Singapore Defence Technology Distinguished Fellowship was established in 1996 to recognise individuals who have contributed significantly to bilateral defence technology cooperation.