Naval Chiefs of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) member-nations, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy Vice-Admiral (VADM) Mark Hammond, Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy ADM Datuk Abdul Rahman Ayob, Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) David Proctor, Chief of the Republic of Singapore Navy RADM Sean Wat Jianwen, as well as Second Sea Lord and Royal Navy Vice-Admiral (VADM) Martin Connell, jointly called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Changi Exhibition Centre today. The joint call was conducted on the sidelines of the 13th International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEX) Asia.

The FPDA Naval Chiefs reaffirmed their commitment to the FPDA, and emphasised its strategic importance and enduring relevance. They also exchanged views with Dr Ng on the importance of maintaining strong military-to-military ties, to strengthen mutual trust and deepen cooperation.

Established in 1971, the FPDA is a constructive, transparent and peaceful arrangement that is an integral part of the regional security architecture. As the FPDA continues to enhance the professional value of conventional exercises, it also builds capacity in areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, cyber and information to keep up with the evolving security challenges. The regular conduct of FPDA exercises, dialogues, and platforms for professional interactions, allows member-nations to share professional knowledge and enhance cooperation amongst their militaries.