18 Jun 21 - Republic of Singapore Navy Conducts Passage Exercise with United States Navy

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On 17 Jun 2021, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)'s Formidable-class frigate RSS Intrepid, Victory-class missile corvette RSS Vigilance and a Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft took part in a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the United States Navy's (USN) Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan, and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser, USS Shiloh.

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The combat information centre on high alert during the encounter exercise.

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The exercise was conducted in the southern reaches of the South China Sea within international waters. Ships from both navies conducted a series of manoeuvring, communication and encounter exercises, to enhance cooperation between the RSN and USN.

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Naval flags being hoisted during a communication exercise.

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During the flashing exercise (FLASHEX) serial, Communication System Experts from RSS Vigilance interpreted a Morse Code message from USS Shiloh, which was "Have a Smooth Voyage!"

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USS Ronald Reagan (bottom) sailing in company with the RSS Intrepid (middle) and USS Shiloh (top) during a manoeuvring exercise.

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The RSN conducts regular PASSEXes with foreign navies to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen friendships. These professional interactions at sea have enabled the RSN to keep our ties warm with our navy counterparts, especially amidst the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

Photos courtesy of ME1 Lee Guan Xiang, ME4 Liong Chun Hoong, ME2 Joseph Ang and LTA Nathaniel Chan and the United States Navy.