13 Januari 2012

NSmen from the 285th Battalion, Singapore Artillery participating in a battalion live-firing exercise involving the Singapore Light Weight Howitzer, Pegasus. (photo : Mindef)

Permanent Secretary for Defence Development visits Artillery Exercise in New Zealand

Permanent Secretary for Defence Development Dr Tan Kim Siew visited Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) troops participating in the annual artillery exercise, codenamed Exercise Thunder Warrior, at the Waiouru Training Area in New Zealand, today. During his visit, Dr Tan witnessed a battalion live-firing exercise involving the Singapore Light Weight Howitzer, Pegasus and interacted with SAF troops participating in the exercise.

This year's exercise is conducted from 6 to 22 January 2012 and involves about 600 personnel from the 23rd, 24th and 285th Battalions, Singapore Artillery (SA). The 285th Battalion is made up of Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) who are undergoing their battalion evaluation in New Zealand.

Chief of Army Major-General (MG) Ravinder Singh, visited the exercise yesterday with New Zealand Army Chief MG Timothy Keating, where he witnessed the battalion live-firing and interacted with the SAF troops. MG Ravinder Singh, who is in New Zealand for his introductory visit, also called on MG Keating in Wellington today as part of his visit.

Exercise Thunder Warrior has been conducted annually in New Zealand since 1997 and underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and New Zealand. The SAF and the New Zealand Defence Force interact extensively through a wide range of bilateral and multilateral training exercises, professional exchanges and courses. Both armed forces also interact regularly under the ambit of the Five Power Defence Arrangements.

(Mindef)

16 Desember 2011

Marines with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3/1, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, load a CH-46E Sea Knight aboard USS Makin Island here Dec. 14 to participate in Exercise Kilat Eagle, a bilateral training event between Marines and sailors of MEU and soldiers from the Malaysian Army. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed from San Diego Nov. 14 aboard USS Makin Island, USS New Orleans and USS Pearl Harbor and arrived in Malaysia Dec. 14 as part of a regularly scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific and Middle East regions. (photo : dvidshub)

KUANTAN, Malaysia - Marines and Sailors with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) began a cooperative exercise with elements of the Malaysian Army Dec. 14.

The exercise focuses on jungle training, air assault operations, staff exchange and platoon and company movements.

“Kilat Eagle reinforces our relationship with the Malaysian forces and provides a unique training opportunity for all parties,” said Col. Michael Hudson, 11th MEU’s commanding officer. “We look forward to sharing all that this agile, forward-deployed Marine air-ground-logistics team has to offer.”

During the exercise Marines plan to learn jungle survival and work with their Malaysian counterparts to improve helicopter-borne assault techniques. A staff exchange will also take place blending the experiences and functional areas of the forces.

“This is a golden opportunity,” said Hudson. “The venues and expertise offered by our gracious hosts will allow us to train with the Malaysians while keeping us sharp for our deployment as America’s premier fighting force in the littorals.”

The Marines and Sailors taking part in the exercise came ashore from the amphibious assault ship Makin Island which departed its San Diego homeport Nov. 14. The MEU and Amphibious Squadron 5 make up the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.

The MEU's major subordinate elements participating in the training are the Battalion Landing Team 3/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion 11.

(US 7th Fleet)

10 Desember 2011

A Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-15SG fighter aircraft deploying a Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) during Exercise Forging Sabre 2011. (all photos : Mindef)

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) successfully conducted an integrated live-firing during Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona, USA earlier today (Singapore time). Held from 28 Nov to 11 Dec 2011, the exercise involves more than 450 personnel from the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Army as well as assets such as F-15SG and F-16C/D fighters, and Apache AH-64D and Chinook CH-47 helicopters from the RSAF. Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 is the third instalment in the series which began in 2005.

The integrated live-firing, orchestrated by the exercise command post staffed by officers from the air force and army, involved multiple sensor and shooter platforms and was witnessed by Chief of Air Force, Major-General (MG) Ng Chee Meng and other senior SAF officers. Besides the deployment of advanced strike munitions, including Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and Hellfire missiles, the exercise also saw the RSAF's F-15SG aircraft dropping Laser JDAMs for the first time against mobile targets in day and night mission scenarios.

Speaking after viewing the integrated live-firing, MG Ng noted that Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 provided an excellent opportunity for the SAF to validate its integrated strike capabilities in a realistic and challenging environment. He said: "I am very impressed by our people's combat proficiency, professionalism and dedication. I saw for myself today how our airmen and soldiers worked to bring together a sophisticated suite of both sensors and shooters, like our F-15SGs, F-16C/Ds and Apaches, to effect an integrated strike against a variety of targets, including mobile targets. This in itself is a very complex operation and I think they have done very well." MG Ng also noted that the US' support of the Forging Sabre series of exercises was a testament to the long-standing and excellent defence ties between Singapore and the US. Besides interacting with SAF personnel participating in the exercise, MG Ng also took the opportunity to meet family members of SAF servicemen in the RSAF's F-16C/D training detachment at Luke Air Force Base.

Training in the US enables the SAF to build up its operational capabilities and readiness. Apart from supporting the conduct of training exercises such as Forging Sabre, the US also supports the RSAF's F-15SG, F-16C/D, Apache AH-64D and Chinook CH-47 aircraft training detachments in the US.

(Mindef)

See Also :

Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and Laser JDAM

Inert Laser Joint Direct Attack Munitions loaded onto a Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG aircraft during an arming demonstration.

The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit developed by Boeing which converts an unguided bomb into an accurately-guided and all-weather "smart" munition that can be launched 15 nautical miles from its target. The kit consists of a Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System fitted at the tail end of a bomb body, as well as aerodynamic body strakes to provide additional stability and lift. The Laser JDAM (LJDAM) is a JDAM guidance kit enhanced with a laser seeker that provides terminal guidance and improves precision accuracy.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force's ability to deliver JDAMs and LJDAMs against a variety of targets, including mobile targets, in day and night mission scenarios contributes significantly to the Singapore Armed Forces' integrated strike capabilities.

(Mindef)

07 Desember 2011

Soldiers from SAF and RBLF during Exercise Maju Bersama (photo : Cyberpioneer)

BERAKAS GARRISON – Bilateral exercise namely "Exercise MAJU BERSAMA 2011" between Royal Brunei Land Forces (RBLF) and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has been launched successfully this morning at the First Battalion RBLF Parade Square, in Berakas Garrison. This year’s exercise was conducted by the First Batalion RBLF as the exercise is organized in every two years.

Officiating the opening ceremony was the Guest of Honour, Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Yussof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Commander of RBLF. Also attending the ceremony was representative from SAF, Brigadier General Lim Hock Yu, Commander of TRADOC.

The aims of the exercise are to strengthen diplomatic ties and mutual understanding between the RBLF and SAF. Also to enhance cooperation and understanding on doctrine and operational procedures between the two countries. This exercise is expected to be completed until 14 December 2011.

(Brunei Mindef)

24 November 2011

On the move: An armoured personnel carrier at the exercise zone at Felda Lok Heng in Kota Tinggi yesterday. (photo : The Star)

KOTA TINGGI: The army will conduct military exercise in towns to prepare its personnel for urban warfare, says its chief Jeneral Datuk Zulkifli Zainal Abidin.

He said the exercise was needed as the landscape and terrain of war was constantly changing and the army must be prepared to face such challenges.

“We hope we will be able to perform a military exercise in smaller urban areas next year,” he said after officiating at the closing ceremony of an exercise here yesterday.

He also gave the thumbs up to the Pendekar battle tanks, which were used for the first time in the three-week exercise after they were handed over in September.

“The tanks did not have any problems during the period and were in tiptop condition throughout the exercise. They have proven to be a success and are a great addition to the army's assets,” Jen Zulkifli said.

He added that more than 5,000 personnel from the army, Royal Malaysian Air Force and Royal Malaysian Navy were involved in the first joint coordinated exercise.

(The Star)

21 November 2011

Singapore and Malaysian troops perfecting their urban drills together on 17 Nov. (photo : Mindef)

For six days beginning 15 Nov, a total of 400 personnel from the Singapore and Malaysian armies have been hard at work perfecting their moves together in a bilateral exercise codenamed Semangat Bersatu.

Culminating in a full-troop exercise, Exercise Semangat Bersatu provided soldiers from the 4th Singapore Infantry Regiment (4 SIR) and the 1st Battalion Royal Malay Regiment (1 RMR) with many chances to share professional experiences.

At the closing ceremony held on 21 Nov in Singapore, Chief of Army Major-General (MG) Ravinder Singh said: "As the security issues that our countries face become more challenging, our two armies must be ready to cooperate to achieve our common goals and interests. I believe that the exercise provides an excellent platform for us to facilitate mutual learning and increase the interoperability between our armies."

He was joined by his counterpart General Datuk Haji Zulkifli bin Haji Zainal Abidin, who added: "I am sure that all participants have benefited from the exercise, especially the Malaysian soldiers, who have learnt a lot about the conduct of urban operations."

Prior to the closing ceremony, both men observed the conduct of an urban operation training drill which saw soldiers from both sides working closely with each other to achieve their mission objectives.

On the ground, sentiments were similarly upbeat. "The level of cooperation was very high," said Captain Edwin Chua, a Platoon Commander in 4 SIR. "Initially there were some challenges because of language differences, but we overcame that because both sides made every effort to communicate."

"We worked well together even though we follow different doctrines, especially in the area of tactics during urban operations," said Sergeant Henri Purna Irawan Bin Basir, a Section Commander in 1 RMR.

This year marks the 17th time that the two armies are training together in this series of exercise. First conducted in 1989, Exercise Semangat Bersatu provides an excellent opportunity for both armies to strengthen professional interactions and enhance mutual understanding between personnel.

(Mindef)

18 November 2011

HMAS Sirius replenishment ship (photo : RAN)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted a bilateral maritime exercise, Singaroo, from 14 to 17 November 2011. Hosted by Singapore, this year's exercise was the 15th in the series held since 1995.

The exercise comprised a shore phase with operations planning held at the Changi Naval Base, as well as a sea phase which was carried out in the South China Sea. The sea phase included helicopter operations and air defence serials. The RSN participated in the exercise with RSS Formidable (Formidable-class stealth frigate) and a Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopter, while the RAN participated with HMAS WARRAMUNGA (ANZAC-class frigate) and HMAS SIRIUS (replenishment vessel). The Republic of Singapore Air Force also provided four F-16 fighter aircraft for the air defence serials.

S-70B of The Royal Singapore Navy (photo : Cyberpioneer)

Exercise Singaroo is one of many bilateral interactions between the Singapore and Australia defence establishments. Both countries enjoy a close and long-standing defence relationship. Apart from exercises, both armed forces also interact frequently through visits, professional exchanges, and military courses, and work together in close partnership in the multinational reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.

(Mindef)

14 November 2011

SFR personnel conducting Room Clearance Procedure (photo : Brunei Mindef)

The Special Forces Regiment, Royal Brunei Armed Forces recently carried out a bilateral exercise, KILAT SAKTI 2011, with the Indonesian elite Special Forces Unit, Komando Pasukan Khusus (KOPASSUS) held in Indonesia.

A series of joint special operations training was conducted by both units which concentrated mainly on special operations tactics on Jungle and Guerilla Warfare. During the exercise, the Special Forces Regiment and KOPASSUS personnel also had the opportunity to share their skills, knowledge and exchange opinions and ideas on special operation tactics, techniques and procedures. A culmination exercise was conducted at an undisclosed location which involves a static and freefall insertion by troopers from both units and followed by a hostage rescue operation that was focused on a guerilla warfare situation.

To further increase the close relationship by both units, the Commanding Officer of the Special Forces Regiment, Colonel Dato Paduka Haji Harith bin Haji Abdul Karim had the opportunity to conduct a “Friendship Parachute Jump” with personnel from both units and was presented the Military Freefall Parachute Wing by the Commandant General of KOPASSUS, Major General TNI Wisnu Bawatenaya. The next exercise series will be held next year in Brunei Darussalam and will be hosted by the Special Forces Regiment.

(Brunei Mindef)

02 November 2011

The Singapore Armed Forces' HIMARS in action during the live-firing exercise. (photo : Mindef)

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-firing exercise, code-named Daring Warrior, from 21 October to 7 November 2011, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA. The exercise involved 234 personnel from the Headquarters, Singapore Artillery, Headquarters 3rd Division Artillery and 23rd Battalion, Singapore Artillery as well as the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).

In conjunction with Exercise Daring Warrior, the SAF and the US Army conducted a bilateral air-land integrated live-firing exercise, involving US personnel from the 214th Fires Brigade Headquarters, as well as 1-14th and 2-5th Field Artillery. The two-day bilateral exercise, which ended today, involved the SAF's HIMARS and Apache AH-64Ds helicopters. The US also participated with their HIMARS, F-16 and F-18 fighter aircraft, as well as Ground Liaison and Targeting teams.

The Commander of the SAF Training and Doctrine Command Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Hock Yu and the Commanding General of the US Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill Major-General (MG) David Halverson were present to witness the exercise. Highlighting the value of Exercise Daring Warrior, BG Lim said, "Exercise Daring Warrior provides an excellent opportunity for the SAF to maintain the operational capabilities of its HIMARS and to conduct air-land integration training. It also opens up a channel for professional and operational exchanges between the SAF and the US Army." Likewise, MG Halverson added that "the exercise was a great environment for the soldiers to operate in a joint training situation". In addition, he said, "As we train together to develop proficiencies and certifications, we are also working to take the training to the next level. We have a great coalition team with the military forces of Singapore."

Exercise Daring Warrior 2011 is the second HIMARS live-firing exercise conducted since the SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010. The SAF and the US Army also conducted a joint live-firing exercise during the previous Exercise Daring Warrior, in November 2010. Training in the US enables the SAF to build up its operational capabilities and readiness. It also facilitates sharing of knowledge between the two armed forces. The US' support for the SAF's training in the US reflects the long-standing and excellent defence relationship between the two countries.

(Mindef)

28 Oktober 2011

A RAF Eurofighter/Typhoon takes off in the early morning heat at RMAF Base Butterworth. (all photos : Aus DoD)

Eurofighter Typhoons from the Royal Air Force's 6 Sqn have joined aircraft from four other nations in Malaysia for exercise "Bersama Lima 2011".

A RAAF A30 Boeing 737 AEW&C returns to RMAF Base Butterworth after completing its tasking for the day.

The Royal Australian Air Force sent Boeing F/A-18A fighters and a 737-based Wedgetail airborne early warning and control system aircraft to participate in the manoeuvres that are being conducted from Butterworth air base in Penang.

Royal Malaysian Air Force involvement includes use of its F/A-18Ds and RSK-MiG-29s, while New Zealand and Singapore are also taking part.

A formation containing a Malaysian F/A-18D Hornet, a MIG 29 and an Australian F/A 18 Hornet fly over the Penang region of Malaysia, the flight was organized as a prelude flight to Bersama Lima 2011.

The UK is leading efforts to promote the Typhoon to Kuala Lumpur, which has identified a need to replace its MiG-29s that have become increasingly expensive to support.

The topic is likely to be high on the agenda at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition, which will take place in early December. Other candidates could include the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

(FlightGlobal)

17 Oktober 2011

SFR and 1 Commando Regt Personnel Conducting a Static Line Parachute Water Descend Jump Off Muara Beach (photo : Brunei MoD)

MUARA, - The Royal Brunei Armed Forces Special Forces Regiment has recently conducted a bilateral exercise with their counterparts from the 1st Commando Regiment, Australian Defence Force called the EXERCISE NIGHT LEOPARD 2011.

A series of joint special operations training was conducted by both regiments since they earlier this month. The exercise started with a jungle operation at one of SFR training areas in Temburong followed by an amphibious operation held at an off-shore oil rig. Following this, troopers from both regiment also participated in a combined water descend static line parachute jump in Muara Beach. The climax for the bilateral training was a culmination special operation exercise at an island off Brunei Bay.

This exercise has also given the opportunity for the Special Force Regiment to exchange valuable operational knowledge with the 1st Commando Regiment. Through this joint exercise, the Special Force regiment and 1st Commando Regiment have demonstrated high levels of professionalism and will continue to strengthen by carrying out more engagements in the future. The warm relationship has been enjoyed by both regiment dating back from 1998 and the next bilateral exercise will be conducted next year in Australia.

(Brunei MoD)

08 Oktober 2011

MalBru Setia 2011 was held in Miri, Serawak (photo : Brunei MoD)

Bandar Seri Begawan - Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) and Royal Malay Regiment military exercise dubbed MalBru Setia 2010/2011 which was held in Miri, Sarawak, since September 27 has achieved its objective in upgrading the skills, knowledge and professionalism of army personnel between the two forces and most importantly it has strengthened relationship between them.

MalBru Setia exercise had recently concluded with an official closing ceremony by the Deputy Chief of Malaysian Army, Lieutenant General Dato' Seri Panglima Ahmad Hasbullah bin Haji Mohd Nawawi, held at the enemy defence area of Kampong Sungai Nyalau, Bintulu, Sarawak.
Twenty-six officers and 437 other rank personnel comprising 134 personnel from Royal Brunei Land Force and 329 personnel from Royal Malay Regiment based in Miri took part in this exercise.
MalBru/BruMal Setia is a training exercise conducted alt a battalion-level every two years. It is held alternately between the two countries.

This year is the 10th series of the exercise.

The first exercise was conducted in 1993 in Miri, Sarawak. The next training exercise will be held in Brunei Darussalam in 2013.

(BruDirect)

13 September 2011

Singapore (right) and Australian Main Battle Tanks involved in manoeuvre training. (photo : Mindef)

Singapore and Australian Armies in Bilateral Armour Exercise

The Singapore and Australian armies conducted a bilateral armour exercise, Exercise Matilda, at the Mount Bundey Training Area (MBTA) in Darwin, Australia. Held from 28 August to 16 September 2011, Exercise Matilda 2011 involved 100 personnel from the 48th Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (48 SAR) who conducted bilateral training with their Australian Defence Force (ADF) counterparts from the 1st Armoured Regiment. During the exercise, both sides conducted a series of tactical missions together and exchanged information on Main Battle Tank (MBT) operations and tactics. The exercise culminated today in manoeuvre training involving the MBTs of both armies.

Highlighting the value of Exercise Matilda, Lieutenant Colonel Lim Kah Keng, Commanding Officer of 48 SAR, said, "Exercise Matilda 2011 is important because it provides an opportunity for the SAF armour to operate alongside the ADF in vast manoeuvre space and challenging live firing conditions to hone gunnery competencies. The exercise also allows soldiers from both armies to interact and learn from each other."

The exercise is a testament to the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Australia. The SAF and the ADF interact extensively through multilateral training exercises, visits, professional exchanges, and military courses, and work together in close partnership in the multinational reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.

(Mindef)

13 September 2011

KD Kelantan dan HMTS Pattani (photo : US Navy dan Phakphum Tangkijjarak)

Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM) dan Tentera Laut Diraja Thailand (RTN) sedang mengadakan satu latihan dua hala tentera laut, iaitu EX THALAY LAUT 18/2011, dari 8 Sep hingga 16 Sep 11. Upacara pembukaan diadakan di Pangkalan TLDM Lumut hari ini, dirasmikan oleh Panglima Armada, Laksamana Madya Dato' Wira Jamil bin Hj Osman dan Komander Skuadron Patrol, Royal Thai Navy Rear Admiral Chotiwat Sarikavanija. Majlis penutup akan diadakan di Pangkalan TLDM Langkawi pada 16 Sep 11.

KD Perkasa dan KD Perdana (photo : TLDM dan MalfianM)

Latihan yang dijalankan dua kali setahun ini, merupakan kali kelapan belas dalam sirinya. Ini menunjukkan betapa kerjasama erat dan interaksi yang kukuh terjalin antara TLDM dan RTN. Sejak penubuhannya pada tahun 1981, Latihan THALAY LAUT telah berkembang dalam dua hala. Latihan dijalankan di Selat Melaka akan melibatkan sejumlah enam kapal, tiga dari setiap angkatan laut, iaitu KD KELANTAN (Kapal Peronda) dan dua Fast Attack Craft, KD PERDANA dan KD PERKASA manakala penyertaan RTN terdiri daripada, HTMS Pattani(OPV), satu Fast Attack Craft(Missile), HTMS UDOMDET dan Fast Attack Craft(Gun), HTMS Songkhla. Latihan ini akan melibatkan kira-kira 400 anggota dari kedua-dua angkatan laut.

HMTS Songkhla dan HMTS Udomet (photo : Phakphum Tangkijjarak)

Tujuan utama adalah untuk menjalankan kapal yang mengambil bahagian dalam Operasi Peperangan Permukaan dan Operasi Keselamatan Maritim (MSO). Selain menyediakan satu peluang yang bernilai kepada para peserta untuk memupuk persefahaman dan meningkatkan saling boleh kendali, latihan ini juga mencerminkan kerjasama yang erat tentera laut dan hubungan pertahanan dua hala yang kukuh antara Malaysia dan Thailand.

(Royal Malaysian Navy)

09 September 2011

USS Oklahoma City visited Fleet Base West when the United States submarine participated in a Submarine Command Course alongside a RAN Collins Class submarine. (photo : RAN)

The Royal Australian Navy has hosted the U.S. Navy's Submarine Command Course (SCC), at Fleet Base West and in the fleet exercise areas off Western Australia.

Australia supports the SCC every year; regularly sending an Australian submarine to Hawaii (as well as the international biennial Rim of the Pacific Exercise), or hosting the course in Western Australia.

This year's exercise involved HMAS Dechaineux, HMASNewcastle, HMAS Sirius; Maritime Patrol Aircraft from theRAAF Edinburgh-based 92 Wing, and USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723).

Exercise participants gained valuable experience in complex submarine operations with the opportunity to share the knowledge and expertise of the MK48 Advanced Capability Torpedo and the BYG-1 Combat System which are employed by both submarine forces.

“The exercise proved to be extremely beneficial for all participants; enabling new crew members to put into practice what they have been taught as well as allowing experienced crews to hone their skills,” said CMDR Jason Cupples, Commanding Officer of HMAS Dechaineux.

The SCC has been training prospective commanding officers of U.S. submarines since 1944 and is an important milestone in those officer's careers. It is also an example of the outstanding relationship between the submarine forces of Australia and the United States.

“The students of the SCC responded well to the challenges they encountered, with the crew enjoying the opportunity to exercise with the Australian submarine force and Australian warships,” said USS Oklahoma City Commanding Officer, Commander Andrew Peterson, US Navy.

All participants agreed that this year's exercise proved to be a success for all involved.

(Royal Australia Navy)

24 Agustus 2011

The upgraded RSN missile corvette RSS Valiant firing against an air drone target simulating a missile attack on the ship. (photos : Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) conducted a live-firing of the Barak anti-missile missile in the South China Sea earlier today as part of the annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise which the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting with the United States Navy (USN). The missile was fired by the upgraded RSN missile corvette (MCV) RSS Valiant against an air drone target simulating a missile attack on the ship. The target was successfully destroyed.

Commanding Officer RSS Valiant, Lieutenant Colonel Goh Kian Ngiap said that the exercise was valuable to both the RSN and USN. "The CARAT exercise is a great opportunity for both the RSN and USN to interact and exercise with each together. Many good ideas were exchanged, and the bonds of friendship strengthened," said LTC Goh. In addition, RSN personnel who took part in the exercise found value in working alongside their USN counterparts. Weapon Systems (Control) Operator Military Expert 1 William Kang, who fired the Barak missile said, "This was a wonderful learning experience for me in exercising with personnel from the USN. It was also excellent to see the entire crew's teamwork in action and executing the successful missile hit."

Barak - short range surface to air missile with operational range 10-12 km (photo : Rafael)

Present at the firing was Minister of State for Defence and Education Lawrence Wong, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and National Development Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Neo Kian Hong and Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Ng Chee Peng. Similar missile firings have been conducted in previous CARAT exercises. The exercise is presently ongoing and will conclude on 29 Aug 2011.

(Mindef)

03 Agustus 2011

AGL 40mm mounted on Bionix IFV (photo : Jane's)

SINGAPORE: The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has suspended all 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher (AGL) live-firing training exercises until investigations are completed on an accident last Sunday in which a full-time national serviceman was injured.

In response to queries from MediaCorp, Colonel Desmond Tan, director at Mindef Public Affairs, said preliminary investigations showed all safety procedures were adhered to during the exercise in which Specialist Cadet (SCT) Percy Toh Cheng Kai suffered superficial injuries when a 40mm round's propellant partially detonated in the AGL.

He was at that time firing the 40mm AGL mounted on a Bionix I Infantry Fighting Vehicle when the 40mm round's propellant exploded in the weapon.

Colonel Tan said SCT Toh has since been discharged from the National University Hospital and is recovering at home.

He added that his well-being is the SAF's priority and that the SAF will continue to provide assistance and support to him and his family.

The SAF also elaborated on some of its precautionary measures for live firing exercises.

It said servicemen are required to attend weapons handling lessons and pass relevant training safety regulations and technical handling tests before the exercise.

A safety specialist is also assigned to each servicemen to ensure he follows correct procedures.

A supervising officer, a conducting officer and a chief safety officer will also be on site to ensure safety regulations are strictly followed.

And to ensure that medical assistance is available as soon as it's necessary, a trained SAF medic equipped with a safety Land Rover will also be on hand.

(Channel News Asia)

02 Agustus 2011

Personnel and assets from the Army, the RSAF and the RSN taking part in the exercise. (all photos : Mindef)

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) conducted a readiness exercise on 2 August 2011. The exercise involved troops from 1st Guards Battalion conducting a battalion coastal hook, supported by elements from the Army, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).


The exercise featured the recapture of an offshore island that had been occupied by an enemy force. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen was present to witness the exercise today at Pulau Sudong. This was the first time Dr Ng visited an SAF exercise since he took over the defence portfolio in May 2011.


The exercise demonstrated the integration and operational readiness of the SAF. Dr Ng first observed SAF troops and M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers disembarking from the RSN fast crafts to secure the beach area with support from the RSAF F-16 fighter aircraft and Apache AH-64 helicopters. The troops then proceeded to advance inland supported by Light Strike Vehicles to capture the airstrip located in the centre of the island.


After the airstrip had been secured, Dr Ng saw a Super Puma helicopter deliver additional logistics supplies to the troops and evacuated simulated casualties. After viewing the exercise, Dr Ng spoke about the SAF's readiness and capability to execute a complex exercise involving elements of the three services, as well as the confidence of our soldiers.


He said, "They (the soldiers) must have confidence in the machines that we buy, the equipment that they have, their ability to execute these operations. I would say that at a professional level, it is not easy to do. It is tri-service which means that it involves elements of the Navy, the Air Force, and the Army. And your command and control systems need to be up to scratch. Your coordination and your ability to execute real time. It is complex."


Dr Ng was accompanied by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Neo Kian Hong and Chief of Army Major-General Ravinder Singh.

(Mindef)

27 Juli 2011

A No 3 Squadron F/A-18 Hornet and an F-15 Eagle from the Japan Air Self Defence Force fly low over the Alaskan tundra during Exercise Red Flag Alaska 11-2. (all photos : Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has successfully completed bilateral flying operations with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) for the first time.

The air combat familiarisation sortie conducted on 14 July during Exercise Red Flag was carried out by RAAF F/A-18 Hornets from No 3 Squadron in NSW, and JASDF F-15 Eagles from No 4th Air Wing.

The RAAF aircraft arrived at Misawa Air Force Base yesterday, second only to the United States military to ever have flown into a JASDF base.

“This level of high-end engagement offered the important opportunity to build on the strong friendship between Australia and Japan,” Commanding Officer No 3 Squadron, Wing Commander Terry van Haren, said.

“The large force, multi-threat environment of Red Flag enabled our fighter pilots to conduct complex missions with Japan, as well as the United States and Singapore as part of the exercise coalition force,”

“Now that we have arrived in Japan, we will hold a cultural and dialogue exchange at Misawa to further develop the strong bonds fostered between the two nations during Red Flag,” Wing Commander van Haren said.

“The four-day exchange programme includes several cultural activities and capability briefs to enhance shared co-operation and military appreciation between the Australian and Japanese fighter squadrons.”

During the visit to Misawa, members from RAAF’s No 3, No 36 and No 37 squadrons will donate toys to the JASDF for children affected by the recent tsunami.

Australia and Japan signed an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement in May last year. This week’s visit is the first since the Agreement was signed and reflects the growing strength of Australia’s bilateral partnership with Japan contributing to peace, security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Exercise Red Flag Alaska 11–2 was conducted from US Eielson Air Force Base, between 4 and 22 July.

(Aus DoD)

26 Juli 2011

LC-550 Baocold City (photo : Oocities)

Philippine Navy will again test its capability to conduct amphibious landing operations as force provider of the Armed of the Philippines that can perform mandated tasks utilizing its forces through sea, land and air. This year’s Exercise PAGSISIKAP 2011 will commence on 19 until 23 of July 2011 in Manila Bay and Marine Base Gregorio Lim (MBGL) in Ternate, Cavite. Two (2) Philippine Navy ships will be utilizes; the BRP Bacolod City (LC 551) and BRP Quezon (PS70) with the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) and the Naval Air Group (NAG) of the Philippine Fleet that will comprise the sea and air components respectively. The 6th Marine Battalion of the Philippine Marine Corps which is capable in special operations warfare will compose the land component. Naval reservists will also be utilized as force multiplier in this exercise.

LTCOL SAMUEL T MONGCAL PN(M)(GSC), Exercise Director PAGSISIKAP 2011 said that Amphibious EXERCISE PAGSISIKAP 2011 is being conducted in order to test and validate existing doctrine of Fleet-Marine Concept of Operations focusing on Amphibious Landing Operations and further improve and enhance interoperability between Fleet and Marine units.

PS-70 Quezon (photo : Timawa)

Series of ships and ground training/evolutions will be conducted in this exercise such as Refresher Training (lectures and drills) on amphibious planning embarkation, rehearsals, movement and assault during the Pre-Command Post Exercise. The Command Post Exercise (CPX) will involve Fleet-Marine Planning Process (FMPP), sea control and maneuver, Communications, Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (CISR) and Maritime Interdiction aboard ships. Also includes Forward Sustainment and Sea-basing and Sustains Operations Ashore that will culminate on the actual conduct of Boat Raid and Amphibious Landing Operations at Marine Base Gregorio Lim (MBGL), Ternate, Cavite on the last day of the exercise.

A total of 95 Officers and 556 Enlisted Personnel composed of Sailors and Marines will participate in this exercise.

(Philippine Navy)