FPDA Nations Enhance Interoperability in Exercise Suman Protector

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) participated in Exercise Suman Protector, a Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) command post exercise, from 25 September to 6 October 2017. Held every five years, this year's exercise involved about 180 personnel from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom. It was hosted by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) and held in the Malaysian Army War-game Centre at Gemas Camp, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
 
The Chief of the MAF General Dato' Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi bin Raja Mohamed Noor officiated at the opening ceremony, while Singapore's Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General (LG) Perry Lim officiated at the closing ceremony of the exercise.
 
At the closing ceremony, LG Lim highlighted that Exercise Suman Protector is a valuable platform for strengthening professional military interactions among the FPDA countries and offers an excellent opportunity to enhance mutual understanding and build personal friendships. He said, "FPDA exercises allow us to build interoperability... Exercising together also allows us to build trust and establish understanding… The friendships forged and the professional ties that bind us are invaluable and to be treasured."
 
Exercise Suman Protector aims to enhance interoperability among the militaries of the FPDA member-nations and to build capabilities to respond to an increasingly complex security environment. This year's exercise was the third in the series, and included scenarios in maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
 
As part of the FPDA's continuous efforts to enhance its transparency and build trust and confidence in the region, non-FPDA ASEAN representatives were invited to observe Exercise Suman Protector.
 
Since the FPDA's founding in 1971, FPDA activities have grown in scope and complexity to meet the needs of the changing regional security environment. The FPDA's ability to remain relevant has anchored its role in the regional security architecture. The SAF's regular participation in FPDA exercises is a strong testament of Singapore's support for and commitment to the FPDA.