Philippine Navy Eyes Joint Maritime Exercises with Thai, Vietnamese Counterparts

29 Maret 2012

Naval Shipyard X46 or the Hai Long Shipbuilding Co. in Vietnam which is capable of building warships and military vessels (image : ttvnol)

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Navy plans to hold joint maritime exercises with its Vietnamese and Thai counterparts as part of efforts to strengthen ties with the navies of neighboring Asian countries, a military spokesman said.

Lieutenant Colonel Omar Tonsay disclosed this following the visit of a Philippine Navy delegation led by its chief, Vice Admiral Alexander Pama, to Vietnam on March 11-14 and Thailand on March 14-17.

The Philippine delegation toured the Naval Shipyard X46 or the Hai Long Shipbuilding Co. in Vietnam, which is equipped with state-of-the-art shipbuilding and repair facilities and which is capable of building warships and military vessels, Tonsay said.

“This visit is expected to provide opportunities for the conduct of joint maritime exercises in the West Philippine Sea (northeast of Vietnam) and other common maritime domains following proper diplomatic channels under guidance from the Department of National Defense,” Tonsay said.

“Sharing of shipbuilding expertise is clearly seen as one possible area for cooperation during this tour,” Tonsay added. The delegation, he said, suggested possible training for Philippine Navy personnel at the X46 shipyard.

Likewise, the leaders of the two navies discussed a proposal to establish a communication hotline between the operations centers of the Philippine Navy and the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) especially for search-and-rescue operations.

Pama and VPN’s commander in chief, Admiral Nguyen Van Hien, also signed the standard operating procedure regarding interactions among Philippine and Vietnamese navies’ personnel in the vicinity of Southeast Cay and the Northeast Cay Island, located between the two countries.

Nguyen offered to host the first “Navy to Navy Talks” with the Philippines in Vietnam in the last quarter of 2012, the Philippine Navy spokesman said.

“The visit paved the way for continued Staff to Staff Talks and exchange of visits between the Philippine Navy and VPN, which is hoped to sustain the active engagements of the Philippine Navy and the VPN and effectively address maritime security issues in common maritime domains,” Tonsay added.

In Thailand, Pama and other delegation members met with the Thai Ministry of Defense and held exploratory talks on avenues of cooperation for the Philippine Navy and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN). Joint maritime exercises and ship visits by the Thai Navy to the Philippines were also discussed.
Likewise, the RTN also committed to host Navy to Navy Talks to further discuss matters that will strengthen the bilateral activities of both navies.

(Inquirer)

Vietnam Conducts Live Fire Exercise with Su-22M4

27 Maret 2012

The swing wing aircraft Su-22M4 fires rocket to destroy the target. (photo : BaoDatViet)

Recently, at the shooting range TB3, the fighter unit - Su-22M4 striker/bomber, UH-1/Mi-8 transport/armed helicopter of 370 Division conducted live-fire exercises.

In two days 23-24/3, shot at the National School Region 3 (TB3), 370th Air Division held a practice test used missile, rocket and bomb from fighter and helicopter.

The exercise is an opportunity to evaluate the possibility of training for combat readiness of the 370th Division and represent experience and additional training options in next time as well as training organizations to participate in sea shooting practice as planned in 2012.

Su-22MK4 of the Vietnam People's Air Force (photo : Jetphotos)

On behalf of the General Staff to participate in directing the training and testing is Major General Nguyen Duc Kidney, Director General Military Training. Representatives of the Air Defense Command - Air Force Major General Nguyen Van Tho, Deputy Commander, Chief of Staff.

In the dazzling sunshine of the Southwest, Division commanding officers and 370 officers and soldiers of the two pilots of the 917th Helicopter Regiment and the 937th Fighter Group at headquarters, on the icy ground and flight the air was working hard, serious, highly effective training.

Before 7am, the Mi-8 crew and UH-1 (917th Regiment) and the fighter squadrons - Su-22M4 bomber (Regiment 937) was waiting in the ready command.

Mi-8 Hip of the Vietnam (photo : Jetphotos)

After about 20 minutes from the airport to the south, the border sorties team practice all tactical air forces, such as coil, low flying mountainous terrain advantage then suddenly plummeted increase the height of the target than fire rocket, missiles and bombs. Just about 5 minutes there is another round of air strikes on ground targets.

Through the vision system and listen to the commanding officer on the bridge reported, people are glad to see young pilots to shoot, very accurate throw. Naked eye, after a series of thundering explosions beams, we also recognize the right column of smoke up a red flag area, the white flag of the target.

In particular, during a practice flight shot, bombed on this land, boldly division first assigned to some young pilots (the youngest born in 1984) and use the UH-1 helicopter improved weapon control system.

UH-1 Huey of the Vietnam (photo : Jetphotos)

The fighter pilot - a bomb made Su-22M4 aircraft fire when all of the complicated and difficult than a normal shot.

After two days of training, Colonel Tran Ngoc Dong, Division Chief Division 370 Air Force, said the units involved in fire tests are reached or excellent. There are many young pilots (pilots born in 1984) shows good bravery and technical level.

After the training tests, even though faculty comments sum up the results, but the comrades Military Training Director General Command and Deputy Commander, Chief of Air Defense - Air Force are satisfied and that the pilots were required to complete a good strategy and techniques to ensure absolute safety.

(BaoDatViet)

Singapore and Malaysian Navies Conduct Bilateral Maritime Exercise

28 Februari 2012

Three Formidable class frigates will take part in the exercise (photo : Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) are conducting Exercise Malapura, a bilateral maritime exercise, from 27 Feb to 7 Mar 2012. Singapore is hosting this year's exercise, the 22nd in the series held since 1984. RSN Fleet Commander, Rear-Admiral Lai Chung Han and RMN Fleet Operations Commander, Vice Admiral Dato’ Wira Jamil bin Hj Osman officiated at the opening ceremony held at Changi Naval Base (CNB) today.

About 540 personnel from the RSN and RMN are involved in the 10-day exercise which will see both navies carry out joint planning and training at CNB, and conducting drills in conventional naval warfare and maritime security in the Malacca Strait. The RSN is taking part in the exercise with a frigate (RSS Formidable), a missile corvette (RSS Valour), and a patrol vessel (RSS Brave); while the RMN is participating with a frigate (KD Jebat) and two patrol vessels (KD Terengganu and KD Selangor).

Two Kedah class corvettes and one frigate will take part ini the exercise (photo : RMN)

The RSN and RMN interact regularly across a wide range of activities. These include professional exchanges and courses, as well as multilateral activities as part of the Five Power Defence Arrangements. The two navies have also been working closely to enhance maritime security through the Malacca Strait Patrols arrangement. These regular interactions serve to strengthen mutual understanding and professional ties among the personnel of both navies.

(Mindef)

SAF Artillery Troops Exercise in New Zealand

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)

Korps Marinir Gelar Latihan di Penghujung 2011

27 Desember 2011

Tank BMP-3F Marinir TNI (photo : Antara)

Surabaya (ANTARA News) - Korps Marinir menggelar Latihan Pemantapan Brigade Pendarat (Lattap Brigrat) yang dilaksanakan di penghujung tahun 2011 di Pusat Latihan Tempur Korps Marinir Baluran, Asembagus, Situbondo, Jawa Timur.

Siaran pers dari Penerangan Pasmar-1 yang diterima ANTARA Surabaya, Selasa, menyatakan, Lattap Brigrat itu dilaksanakan mulai tanggal 26 Desember hingga 29 Desember 2011.

Kegiatan itu bertujuan meningkatkan, kemampuan taktik dan teknik serta keterampilan tiap-tiap kesenjataan di jajaran Korps Marinir, termasuk dengan latihan tersebut yang merupakan latihan gabungan seluruh unsur-unsur kesenjataan yang dimiliki oleh Korps Marinir TNI AL.

Selain itu, latihan itu juga bertujuan menjadikan setiap prajurit Korps Marinir TNI AL memiliki naluri lapangan yang tinggi dan memiliki kemampuan bertempur sesuai dengan kesenjataan masing-masing.

Latihan yang diikuti 3.000 prajurit Baret Ungu dari berbagai unsur itu juga melibatkan sejumlah material tempur yang dimiliki oleh Korps Marinir TNI AL, di antaranya 15 unit BMP-3F, lima unit Tank PT-76, 32 unit BTR-50, dan enam unit LVT-7.

Selain itu, empat unit BVP-2, enam unit Roket Multi Laras (RM 70 Grad), delapan pucuk Howitzer 105 mm, empat pucuk Meriam 57 mm, tujuh pesawat udara (tiga unit Helikopter, empat unit Cassa 212), tiga buah Kapal Perang (KRI Teluk Mandar, KRI Hasanudin, KRI Makassar), dan empat unit Sea Raider.

(Antara)

Latihan HORNBILL TLDB dan TLDM 21/2011

19 Desember 2011

KD Kedah dan KD Ganas (photo : Brunei Mindef)

Muara, Isnin - Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei (TLDB) dan Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM) memulakan latihan laut dua hala, Latihan HORNBILL siri 21/2011 bermula pada 19 Disember hingga 23 Disember 2011. Upacara Pembukaan Rasmi latihan telah berlangsung pada hari Isnin, 19 Disember 2011 bertempat di Markas Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei dan dirasmikan oleh Yang Mulia Laksamana Pertama Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Abdul Halim bin Hj Mohd Hanifah, Pemerintah Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei. Turut menghadiri upacara tersebut ialah Yang Berbahagia Laksamana Muda Dato’ Anuwi bin Hassan, Panglima Wilayah Laut II, TLDM.

Latihan HORNBILL tahun ini dikendalikan oleh TLDB di mana latihan ini bermula di Negara Brunei Darussalam dan akan berakhir di Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia. Latihan ini bertujuan untuk mengeratkan lagi hubungan diplomatik diantara kedua-dua tentera laut serta mempertingkatkan kerjasama melalui kefahaman dari segi doktrin operasi, prosedur dalam evolusi laut dan peperangan maritim. Sebanyak empat buah kapal terlibat dalam latihan ini yangmana dua buah daripadanya dari Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei, KDB IJHTIHAD dan KDB AFIAT dan dua buah daripada Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia KD KEDAH dan KD GANAS. Manakala jumlah pegawai dan krew yang terlibat ialah seramai 200 orang.

KDB Ijhtihad (photo : mdc.idv)

Latihan ini diketuai oleh Ketua Delegasi Leftenan Kolonel (L) Abang Abas bin Abang Haji Omarzuki, Pegawai Pemerintah Latihan TLDB dan dibantu oleh Komander Abd Rahman bin Md Saat. Upacara penutup latihan akan dirasmikan oleh Yang Berbahagia Laksamana Muda Dato’ Anuwi bin Hassan, Panglima Wilayah Laut II, TLDM pada 23 Disember 2011 bertempat di Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia.

(Brunei Mindef)

Exercise Kilat Eagle Brings U.S. and Malaysian Forces Together

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)

SAF Showcases Integrated Strike Capabilities at Exercise Forging Sabre 2011

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)

Bilateral 'Exercise MAJU BERSAMA' Launches

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)

Eksesais Tingkatkan Kekuatan TDM, TDDB

29 November 2011



Latihan penembakan dengan mortir (photo : Mertak)



KOTA BELUD - Seramai 397 pegawai dan anggota Tentera Darat Malaysia (TDM) bersama 140 anggota pasukan Tentera Darat Diraja Brunei (TDDB) menyertai Eksesais Mertak Bersatu Siri 9 di Lapang Sasar Kota Belud selama sembilan hari yang akan berakhir esok.



Panglima TDM, Jeneral Datuk Zulkifli Zainal Abidin berkata, eksesais yang diadakan setiap dua tahun sekali itu memberi impak positif kepada kekuatan dan kerjasama ketenteraan antara kedua-dua negara.



"Tujuan eksesais ini adalah melatih dan memahirkan anggota tentera kedua-dua negara dalam perancangan dan pelaksanaan tembakan bersama.



"Latihan seperti ini juga dapat mengeratkan silaturahim antara tentera dengan tentera, pegawai dengan pegawai demi manfaat bersama," katanya pada sidang akhbar selepas majlis penutup eksesais tersebut hari ini.



Turut hadir, Panglima TDDB, Brigedier Jeneral Datuk Seri Pahlawan Yussof Abd. Rahman; Panglima Divisyen Pertama Infantri Malaysia, Mejar Jeneral Datuk Mohd. Zaki Mokhtar dan Panglima 5 Briged, Datuk Abdul Halim Jalal.

Sebanyak 138 anggota TDBB terlibat didalam Eksesais Mertak Bersatu dimana 106 anggota adalah anggota Tentera Darat Diraja Brunei dan 32 anggota daripada Tentera Udara Diraja Brunei. (photo : Mindef)



Menurutnya, eksesais itu melibatkan latihan menembak mortar yang disertai platun mortar dari Batalion Infantri 1 Divisyen dan platun mortar dari Batalion TDDB.



"Eksesais ini berkonsepkan latihan medan dengan platun mortar kedua-dua tentera darat digabungkan untuk melaksanakan misi tembakan bantuan berdasarkan rancangan bantuan tembakan semasa operasi ofensif dan defensif dalam senario peperangan konvensional," katanya.



Sementara itu, Zulkifli berkata, pihaknya akan terus meningkatkan pengisian program tersebut bagi memberi nilai terbaik kepada setiap peserta pada masa akan datang.



Yussof dalam pada itu berkata, eksesais berkenaan amat bererti kerana memberi peluang dan ruang kerjasama yang lebih erat antara kedua-dua buah negara dalam pelbagai aspek.



"Bagi pihak kerajaan Brunei, saya mengucapkan terima kasih kepada kerajaan Malaysia khususnya TDM yang memberi peluang kepada TTDB membina semangat perjuangan antara kedua-dua angkatan tentera," katanya.



(Utusan)

Military to Prepare Personnel for Urban Warfare

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)

S'pore, M'sia End Bilateral Exercise on High Note

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)

Singapore and Australian Navies Conduct Maritime Exercise

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)

Special Forces Regiment Conducts Bilateral Exercise With KOPASSUS

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)

The SAF Conducts Live-firing Exercise in the US

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)

Hornets, Typhoons Join Malaysian Exercise

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)

Brunei Special Forces Regiment Joint Exercise with 1st Commando Regiment Australia

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)

MalBru Setia 2011 Concludes On A High Note

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)

Elang Malindo 2011 : Indonesia-Malaysia Gagalkan Serangan Teroris

28 September 2011

Latihan pembebasan sandera dalam Elang Malindo 2011 di apron bandara Supadio Pontianak (all photos : Antara)

Sungai Raya, Kalbar, TNI Angkatan Udara dan Tentara Udara Diraja Malaysia menggagalkan serangan teroris yang melakukan pembajakan pesawat F-27 Fokker di Bandara Supadio Pontianak.

"Beberapa teroris yang menyamar sebagai teknisi dan awak pesawat berhasil melakukan pembajakan pesawat F-27 Fokker yang melaksanakan penerbangan dari Malaysia dengan tujuan Jakarta," kata Komandan Lanud Supadio, Kolonel Penerbang, Kustono, di Sungai Raya, saat latihan bersama Elang Malindo di upron Lanud Supadio, Selasa.

Dia mengatakan, di tengah perjalanan, teroris memaksa pilot untuk mengubah tujuan ke Bandara Supadio Pontianak. Setelah pesawat "landing" di Bandara Supadio Pontianak, maka teroris membawa dua pilot menuju ke VIP room Bandara Supadio untuk dijadikan sandera.

Tiba-tiba, di kejauhan tepatnya melintas di atas runway pesawat Fokker F-27 yang membawa lima orang peterjun gabungan yang terdiri dari tiga orang sniper dari Den Bravo Paskhas dan tiga orang sniper dari CTU Paskau TUDM.

Mereka akan melaksanakan infiltrasi melalui "free fall day" DC yang telah ditentukan untuk melaksanakan pengamatan dan pengamanan dini terhadap area sasaran yang akan diserbu oleh unit anti teror.

"Kemudian masing-masing penerjun mendarat dan melanjutkan infiltrasi ke titik-titik yang dapat melingkupi sasaran tempat sandera ditahan. Setelah unit sniper menempatkan diri, unit sniper akan menghubungi pusat dan melaporkan situasi dan kondisi," katanya.


Sementara area sasaran yang sangat berguna dalam mendukung proses pembebasan sandera yang akan dilaksanakan unit AKSUS, kata Kustono yang agkan di udara, lanjutnya, pesawat CN 235 TUDM yang membawa unit gabungan Den Bravo Paskhas dan CTU Paskau melakukan strategi penyerangan.

Unit pembebasan sandera langsung keluar melalui ramp door dan bergerak dengan teknis menuju daerah sasaran. Sementara Pesawat CN 235 melaksanakan parking menghadap ke runway dengan tujuan untuk segera melaksanakan eksfiltrasi, sementara itu, unit pengaman akan melindungi pesawat dari ancaman.

Kedua unit tersebut melaksanakan serbuan secara serentak dengan mengutamakan unsur pendadakan, kecepatan dan ketepatan. Dan setelah gedung berhasil dikuasai dan sandera berhasil dibebaskan, unit ini langsung melaksanakan escape menuju pesawat CN 235 dengan di cover oleh sniper dan FPU.

Aksi teroris tersebut berhasil digagalkan berkat kerja sama dua negara (Indonesia-Malaysia) melalui pasukan khusus Den Bravo 90 Paskhas TNI AU (Indonesia) dan Unit CTU Paskau dari satuan khusus TUDM (Malaysia).

"Ini merupakan rangkaian simulasi pelaksanaan latihan bersama Elang Malindo XXIV/2011 di Lanud Supadio. Dalam operasi antiteror ini, unit ini melaksanakan infiltrasi dengan cara air landed dan kemudian melaksanakan pembebasan sandera," tuturnya.

Unit itu terdiri dari Counter Terorist Unit dan Force Protectino Unit. Dalam hal itu, CTU bertugas untuk melaksanakan pembebasan sandera dan FPU bertugas untuk melaksanakan pengamanan di sekitar pesawat.

Infiltrasi udara dilakukan dengan menggunakan pesawat Foker 27-01 TNI AU dan pesawat CN 235 TUDM.

"Hari ini merupakan latihan teakhir dari Elang Malindo 2011. Dan besok pagi, kita akan melakukan upacara penutupan," kata Kustono.

(Antara)

Indonesia dan Malaysia Gelar Elang Malindo XXIV

22 September 2011

Latihan bersama Elang Malindo 2011 (photo : Antara)

Kalimantan Barat-KUBU RAYA, (kalimantan-news) - TNI Angkatan Udara Pangkalan Udara Supadio bersama Tentara Udara Malaysia menggelar latihan militer bersama dalam program Elang Malindo XXIV/2011 yang dilaksanakan di Lanud Supadio, Rabu.

"Latihan bersama ini merupakan kegiatan rutin tahunan yang selalu kita laksanakan sebagai upaya peningkatan kerja sama dalam menjaga kedaulatan dua negara," kata Dirlat Latma Elang Malindo XXIV/201, yang juga menjabat sebagai Komandan Lanud Supadio, Kolonel Penerbang Kustono, didampingi Kolonel Rashid Bin Majid, selaku ketua rombongan Tentara Malaysia (TUDM).

Dia menjelaskan, latihan bersama itu biasanya dilaksanakan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan TNI AU dan TUDM dalam menjaga daerah perbatasan negara dari berbagai tindakan ilegal yang dilakukan masyarakat Indonesia dan Malaysia.

Kustono mengatakan, latihan bersama itu dilaksanakan pada 19 - 28 September 2011 dengan melibatkan personel TNI AU sebanyak 150 orang dan personel TUDM sebanyak 125 orang.

Pesawat Hawk 108 TUDM (photo : cavok)

Pada latihan tersebut TNI AU menggunakan tiga pesawat tempur jenis Hawk 109/209, satu Fokker 27, satu Helikopter Super Puma NAS 332, sedangkan TUDM menggunakan tiga pesawat tempur jenis Hawk 108/208, 1 pesawat C-130, satu Helikopter Nuri.

"Tujuan utama dari latihan ini adalah sebagai sarana dalam menjalin kerja sama dan meningkatkan kualitas personel serta memantapkan koordinasi dalam pelaksanaan operasi udara antar-dua Angkatan Udara" tuturnya.

Kustono menambahkan, tujuan latihan itu juga untuk memperlihatkan suasana persahabatan sebagai negara serumpun, namun tetap didasari pada kesungguhan berdasarkan prosedur tetap yang telah disepakati.

"Sebagai negara yang bertetangga, kita tidak akan terlepas dengan kepentingan untuk selalu berhubungan satu dengan lainnya dalam menciptakan rasa aman dan tenteram untuk kepentingan bersama," katanya Setelah melaksanakan upacara pembukaan dilanjutkan dengan acara foto bersama dengan latar belakang pesawat Hawk 209, Helikopter SK Nuri, Helikopter Super Puma NAS 332, dan Hawk 208. (phs/Ant)

(Kalimantan News)