Singapore and Chinese navies conduct bilateral naval exercise

SINGAPORE - The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) Formidable-class frigate RSS Intrepid conducted a bilateral naval exercise with the People's Liberation Army (Navy) (PLA(N)) Jiangkai II-class frigate Yulin on Wednesday.

The exercise comprised naval helicopter cross-deck landings, manoeuvring drills and gunnery firings.

Prior to the exercise, RSS Intrepid conducted a port call at Ma Xie Naval Base in Zhanjiang, China, from August 30 to September 3. During the port call, RSS Intrepid hosted a reception for personnel from the PLA(N) South Sea Fleet. In addition, personnel of both navies engaged in exercise planning and ship visits.

Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Lai Chung Han was also in China for a working visit in conjunction with the port call. He earlier met with the PLA(N)'s Political Commissar Admiral Liu Xiaojiang and Commander of PLA(N) South Sea Fleet Vice-Admiral Jiang Weilie in Beijing and Zhanjiang respectively.

The Ministry of Defence said in a statement that professional and personal interactions at the leadership and working levels have enhanced mutual understanding and friendship between the RSN and the PLA(N).

ljessica@sph.com.sg