10-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) wrapped up the 41st edition of Exercise Pelican, a bilateral exercise between the two navies. Taking place from 6 to 9 November 2023 in Muara, Brunei, this year’s exercise showcased the participation of various vessels, including the RSN’s MSRV Sentinel and RSS Tenacious, and the RBN’s KDB AS-SIDDIQ, KDB Darussalam, and KDB Syafaat.
Exercise Pelican 2023 marked the first involvement of the RSN’s MSRV Sentinel and the RBN’s KDB AS-SIDDIQ. The opening ceremony of the exercise emphasized the importance of Pelican to both navies, with RSN Fleet Commander Colonel Kwan Hon Chuong highlighting its growth in scope and complexity over the past four decades. He noted the progress made in various domains of warfare through complex manoeuvres, communications, and shore training.
The exercise included joint planning and professional exchanges onshore on 6 November, followed by a sea phase from 7 to 8 November. During this phase, both navies conducted several activities, including gunnery firing, manoeuvring, and communication drills in the waters off Muara, Brunei. The exercise concluded with a closing ceremony at Muara Naval Base.
Exercise Pelican, established in 1979, reinforces the strong defence ties between Singapore and Brunei. It serves as an annual platform to enhance cooperation, understanding, and interoperability between the RSN and RBN. In addition to Pelican, the two navies regularly engage in visits and professional exchange programmes, further strengthening the bonds between their personnel.
