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.
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.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, November 17, 2011; Image: mindef