Singapore became responsible for its own defence when it separated from Malaysia in August 1965. At that time, Singapore's armed forces consisted of two infantry battalions, which comprised 1,000 men and 50 officers. The navy consisted of two small vessels and there was no air force. Given Singapore's small size and population, it needed a small but well-equipped military force supplemented by reservists and civil defence units. Legislation was passed in December 1965 to establish a full-time army and a part-time volunteer fighting force, the People's Defence Force. In March 1967, compulsory two-year National Service was introduced for young men of eligible age groups.
