Singapore Navy expands multinational collaboration in Exercise Kakadu 2024.

According to information published by the Mindef Singapore on September 19, 2024, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) is participating in the multilateral Exercise Kakadu 2024 with its Formidable-class frigate, RSS Supreme, supported by a Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk naval helicopter and a Republic of Singapore Air Force Fokker-50 Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
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A Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk naval helicopter and the Formidable-class frigate RSS Supreme. (Picture source: Mindef Singapore)

This biennial exercise, hosted by the Royal Australian Navy, is taking place in the Northern Australian Exercise Area off the coast of Darwin, Australia, from September 9 to 19, 2024. Exercise Kakadu 2024 marks the largest iteration in the series, involving over 10 ships, a submarine, more than 10 aircraft, and approximately 3,000 participants from 32 nations.

The exercise began with a shore phase from September 9 to 11, featuring a Fleet Commanders’ Conference centered on Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR). Naval leaders discussed best practices in responding to natural disasters and crises.

Singapore

A key aspect of Singapore’s defense strategy is cooperation with neighboring countries, especially in Southeast Asia. Singapore regularly engages in joint military exercises with Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Brunei to enhance operational readiness and strengthen diplomatic ties. These drills are not limited to traditional military operations but also focus on counterterrorism, piracy, and disaster relief, reflecting the shared security challenges in the region.

For instance, Singapore's participation in the Malapura and Chandrapura exercises with Malaysia and Indonesia, respectively, serves to address critical non-traditional security threats, such as terrorism and piracy in the Malacca Strait.

Beyond its immediate region, Singapore has strong defense ties with global powers like the United States. In recent years, these ties have focused on advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The U.S. provides crucial support for training Singapore’s forces and enabling access to high-end military assets, such as the F-35 aircraft. The two nations also engage in regular strategic dialogues, such as the Strategic Security Policy Dialogue.