Aaron Beng


Aaron Beng Yao Cheng is a Singaporean vice-admiral and Chief of Defence Force. Prior to his appointment as Chief of Defence Force, he served as Chief of Navy between 2020 and 2023. He is the first naval officer to serve as Chief of Defence Force, and the first to hold the rank of Vice-Admiral in the Singapore Armed Forces.

Early life and education

Beng was born in Singapore in 1981. His father, Arthur Beng Kian Lam, was the Member of Parliament for Fengshan SMC between 1984 and 1988 for the ruling People's Action Party.
Upon his graduation from Hwa Chong Institution in 1999, Beng was awarded the President’s Scholarship and the Singapore Armed Forces Overseas Scholarship to study at Yale University, where he majored in economics and electrical engineering sciences, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Military career

Beng enlisted into the SAF in 2000. He was Commanding Officer of the frigate RSS Intrepid and subsequently Commanding Officer of the Frigate Squadron. He was also Director of the Defence Policy Office.
Beng was appointed Fleet Commander in March 2019, before his appointment as Chief of Staff – Naval Staff in November 2019. He was appointed Chief of Navy on 23 March 2020, where he served until 10 March 2023.
Beng was appointed Chief of Defence Force on 24 March 2023. He is the first Chief of Navy to serve as Chief of Defence Force. He was promoted as Vice-Admiral, the first person to hold this rank, on 1 July 2023.

Personal life

Beng is married to Sharon Koh.

Awards and decorations