The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s frigate RSS Stalwart is actively participating in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, demonstrating its air defence capabilities and fostering international naval cooperation.
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s Formidable-class frigate RSS Stalwart is engaged in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, the world’s largest international maritime exercise. Taking place in the waters off Hawaii from 28 June to 2 August 2024, RIMPAC 2024 includes approximately 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft, and more than 25,000 personnel from 29 nations.
This year, the RSN leads a task unit composed of ships from the Republic of Korea, Mexico, and the United States. The unit is participating in complex naval warfare exercises across air, surface, and sub-surface domains, including manoeuvring drills and underway replenishment. Additionally, 16 RSN personnel are working in shore command centres, collaborating with international counterparts to ensure the smooth execution of the exercise.
During the exercise, RSS Stalwart successfully fired two Aster surface-to-air missiles, intercepting two simulated inbound missiles represented by high-speed, sea-skimming aerial drones. RSN Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral (RADM) Kwan Hon Chuong, witnessed the missile firing and emphasized the importance of such large-scale exercises. “RIMPAC provides us with a unique opportunity to hone our multi-dimensional warfare capabilities and enhance cooperation with other navies,” he stated. “The successful missile firing demonstrates the RSN’s capabilities, crew proficiency, and operational readiness to execute complex missions.”
Commanding Officer of RSS Stalwart, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Sam Tan, expressed pride in the achievement. “The successful firing represents a significant milestone for the RSN in validating our anti-air defence capabilities, and reflects the precision and effectiveness of our anti-air warfare suite. I am extremely proud and honoured that RSS Stalwart was able to achieve mission success and fly Singapore’s flag high.”
Hosted by the United States Navy, Exercise RIMPAC fosters cooperation and readiness among participating nations. This is the ninth time the RSN has participated in the biennial exercise since its inaugural involvement in 2008.
Source – MINDEF
