Passage Exercise with the Royal Australian Navy

On 19 Nov 20, our Victory-class missile corvette RSS Valour conducted a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN) Anzac-class frigate HMAS Arunta within international waters in the southern reaches of the South China Sea. 

Both ships conducted manoeuvring exercises and a sailpast. The PASSEX was also supported by a Fokker-50 Maritime Patrol Aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). 

"HMAS Arunta bears 310!" Manoeuvring exercises are a test of an officer-of-the-watch's skills in shiphandling – one must be sharp and precise to get their ship into station each and every time!

Our sailors from RSS Valour lining the deck during the sailpast.

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) conducts regular PASSEXes to strengthen interoperability and friendship with other navies. Such professional interactions at sea has enabled the RSN to continue to enhance our shared understanding and hone our ability to work with our friends, even with the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.

RSS Valour (foreground) and HMAS Arunta conducting naval manoeuvres.

With the successful completion of the PASSEX, we wish our friends on board HMAS Arunta fair winds and following seas as she continues on her journey! 

(Photographs courtesy of 2SG General Sri Gnana Vel & MAJ (NS) Khoo Pak Syn from 121 Squadron, and ME3 Chris Boo, ME4 Chew Leong Yew & ME4 Melvic Low from RSS Valour)