The RSN’s Maritime Security and Response Flotilla Commander, Senior Lieutenant Colonel Neville Nah (right) at the opening ceremony of Exercise Pelican with the RBN’s Acting Fleet Commander, Commander Sonny Iskandar bin Rasani (left).

The Republic of Singapore Navy and the Royal Brunei Navy concluded the 43rd edition of Exercise Pelican, strengthening defence cooperation and professional ties.

On 26 September 2025, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) concluded the 43rd edition of Exercise Pelican. The bilateral exercise, first established in 1979, took place from 23 to 26 September at Muara Naval Base in Brunei.

This year’s exercise involved personnel from the RSN’s Naval Diving Unit and Sentinel-class Maritime Security and Response Vessels Guardian and Protector. The RBN participated with its Naval Surface Action Group and AS-SIDDIQ-class Patrol Vessels KDB AS-SIDDIQ and KDB AL-FARUQ.

An RSN personnel sharing during a professional exchange on conventional warfare.
Personnel from the RSN’s Naval Diving Unit (NDU) and the RBN’s Naval Surface Action Group (NAVSAG) in a professional exchange.
RSN personnel demonstrating the Fire-Fighting and Damage Control procedure as part of the exercise.

Throughout the exercise, participants conducted professional exchanges covering conventional naval warfare, seamanship, and engineering. Demonstrations also included firefighting and damage control procedures, reinforcing operational readiness and joint learning.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Senior Lieutenant Colonel Neville Nah, Commander of the RSN’s Maritime Security and Response Flotilla, emphasised the value of the exercise in deepening professional expertise and collaboration. He highlighted that the partnership between Singapore and Brunei reflected mutual respect and a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.

Commander Maritime Security and Response Flotilla Senior Lieutenant Colonel Neville Nah speaking at the closing ceremony of Exercise Pelican.

Exercise Pelican has remained a flagship platform for defence cooperation between the two nations, enhancing mutual understanding and interoperability. Beyond the exercise, both navies continue to strengthen their relationship through visits, professional exchanges, and regular interactions.

Source : MINDEF