SAF Participates in Multilateral Exercise in Thailand

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is participating in the multilateral Exercise Cobra Gold from 14 to 24 February 2017 in U-Tapao Airport in Thailand. Co-hosted by the United States Pacific Command and the Royal Thai Armed Forces, the participants also include delegations from the Indonesian National Defence Forces, Japan Self-Defense Force, Malaysian Armed Forces and Republic of Korea Armed Forces. This year's exercise marks the 36th edition in the series, and focuses on multinational combined joint operations to deal with both traditional and non-traditional threats, such as having militaries work together in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.

The 42-member SAF delegation is led by Chief Guards Officer Colonel (COL) Mark Tan. The SAF personnel will undertake various roles within the Multinational Combined Task Force, alongside their counterparts from the other participating nations. As part of the exercise, the SAF team will also share their operational experience on "SAF's Support for the Nepal Earthquake" at a medical symposium. Additionally, a five-member team made up of combat engineers from the Singapore Army will participate in the multinational Engineering Civic Action Program to construct a multi-purpose building for a school in Buriram Province, Thailand.

Exercise Cobra Gold promotes mutual understanding, friendship and professionalism among the personnel of the participating armed forces. The SAF has been a full participant of this multilateral exercise since 2000.