SAF Participates in FPDA Command Post Exercise

Singapore Armed Forces personnel discussing operation plans with counterparts from the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) militaries during Exercise Suman Warrior 2019.

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) participated in the 28th edition of Exercise Suman Warrior, a Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) land exercise, from 8 to 20 September 2019. This year's Exercise Suman Warrior saw representatives from the FPDA member-nations participate in a command post exercise focused on the planning of land-based operations. Hosted by the Australian Defence Force in Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane, Australia, the exercise involved over 150 personnel from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Kingdom.

Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment, MAJ Enriquez Zachary led the 30-man SAF delegation this year. He said, "Exercise Suman Warrior provides an invaluable platform for professional interaction and knowledge exchange among the FPDA member-nations. Through the exercise, we are able to enhance interoperability between the FPDA armies. Just as importantly, it provides a platform to build strong friendships which will strengthen military-to-military relationships".

Formed in 1971, the FPDA has evolved over the years to meet the demands of an increasingly complex regional security environment. Apart from Exercise Suman Warrior, the SAF participates regularly in other FPDA exercises such as Exercise Bersama Lima and Exercise Bersama Shield. These exercises are important to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and enhance the interoperability between the FPDA defence forces.

Personnel from the FPDA militaries participating in Ex Suman Warrior 2019.