Republic of Singapore Navy Conducts Passage Exercise with the People's Liberation Army Navy

On 22 Sep 2021, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)'s Formidable-class frigates RSS Steadfast and RSS Supreme conducted a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the People's Liberation Army Navy [PLA(N)]'s Type 052D destroyer Hohhot, Type 054A frigate Huangshan, and Type 903 replenishment ship Luomahu.

A Z-9 Haitun helicopter from PLA(N)'s Huangshan approaching RSS Steadfast during the contactless helicopter operations.

Conducted in the southern reaches of the South China Sea within international waters, the PASSEX saw ships from both navies conducting a series of drills employing the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea. Aside from communication and manoeuvring exercises, contactless helicopter operations involving a Republic of Singapore Air Force Super Puma helicopter and Huangshan's Z-9 Haitun helicopter were conducted between RSS Steadfast and Luomahu. In addition, RSS Supreme took part in a replenishment-at-sea drill with Luomahu. 

RSS Supreme (left) conducting an approach to PLA(N)'s Luomahu for a Replenishment-at-Sea drill.

Commanding Officer of RSS Supreme, LTC Chai Chian Jong said, "The smooth and successful execution of the exercise demonstrates the good understanding established between our navies. Such interactions are testament to both navies' operational readiness and strong ties."

RSS Supreme (right) sailing in company with PLA(N)'s Luomahu (left) and Huangshan (centre) during a manoeuvring exercise, which involved the use of the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES).

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

Wishing our PLA(N) friends fair winds and following seas at the end of the passage exercise.

Photos courtesy of ME3 Eng Wee Chong Gary and ME2 Ng Quan Jin (RSS Supreme), ME2 Ian Than (RSS Steadfast) and 3WO Soh Dai Kai (ACS 126 SQN).