Singapore’s Navy takes part in multilateral exercise

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Navy (RSN) is taking part in a multilateral naval exercise, codenamed Kakadu, off the coast of Darwin, Australia.

The exercise, which started on August 29, goes on till September 15.

It is hosted by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), and aims to enhance interoperability among naval forces in the region.

Singapore’s Defence Ministry statement said the RSN’s Formidable—class frigate RSS Stalwart, Victory—class missile corvette RSS Valiant and an F—50 maritime patrol aircraft are taking part in the three—week long exercise.

They will be conducting anti—air, anti—surface and anti—submarine exercise serials with warships, a submarine, and aircraft from Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand and Thailand.

RSS Stalwart will also for the first time assume the role of Anti—Surface Warfare Commander for the exercise.

MINDEF added that this year’s exercise is the 11th in the biennial Kakadu series which was first held in 1993.

It provides a valuable opportunity for the navies in the region to strengthen interoperability and enhance confidence building.

Exercise Kakadu also underscores the good working relationship and professional cooperation between the RSN and the other naval forces taking part.

— CNA/cc