The SCDF Operation Lionheart Contingent (first flight wave) arrived in Christchurch, New Zealand at 1335hrs today (Singapore time). The contingent set-up their base at Latimer Square and have been briefed by the local authorities on the latest situation.

The Contingent Commander, LTC Ling Kok Yong, has already linked up with the Local Management Authority (LMA), in charge of the management and deployment of international search and rescue teams.

The Contingent Commander is presently leading a 25-member team with search dogs, to conduct search and rescue operations at an area approximately 1km west of the base camp (Latimer Square). The team is expected to work through the night, conducting search and rescue operations.

The second flight wave is expected to arrive at Richmond, Australia at 2250hrs, 23 February 2011 (Singapore time). They will then proceed to Christchurch, New Zealand and the estimated time of arrival at Christchurch is 1315hrs, 24 February 2011 (Singapore time).