The Republic of Singapore Navy and Royal Brunei Navy conduct Exercise Pelican, fostering deeper cooperation and interoperability between the two nations
THE Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) are engaging in the 42nd edition of Exercise Pelican, a key bilateral exercise that highlights the close and enduring defense relationship between Singapore and Brunei. The exercise, running from August 5 to 8, 2024, is being held at RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base and features a series of shore planning exercises and professional exchanges.
This year’s exercise involves personnel from the RSN’s Sentinel-class Maritime Security and Response Vessel (MSRV) Protector and the Formidable-class frigate RSS Tenacious, alongside the RBN’s AS-SIDDIQ-class Patrol Vessels KDB AS-SIDDIQ and KDB AL-FARUQ. These interactions are designed to enhance the mutual understanding and warfare capabilities of both navies.
During the opening ceremony, Major Victor Sim, Commanding Officer of MSRV Protector, emphasized the long-standing significance of Exercise Pelican. He noted, “Exercise Pelican has come a long way since its inception more than forty years ago and will remain a cornerstone of our bilateral relations. Both navies have benefitted greatly through the cross-sharing of experience and expertise. This year’s exercise will further strengthen mutual understanding and warfare fundamentals of the participants, especially during the warfare scenario play at the RSN’s Naval Tactical Trainer.”
The exercise will conclude on August 8, with a closing ceremony co-officiated by RSN Fleet Commander Rear-Admiral (RADM) Kwan Hon Chuong and RBN Fleet Commander Captain Sahibul Bahari bin Haji Abidin.
Since its establishment in 1979, Exercise Pelican has been pivotal in enhancing cooperation, understanding, and interoperability between the RSN and RBN. The regular interactions, including visits and professional exchange programs, continue to reinforce the strong bonds between personnel from both navies.
Source – MINDEF
