China, Singapore Launch Joint Naval Exercise

The Chinese and Singaporean navies have commenced the third edition of the Exercise Maritime Cooperation 2024, running from September 1 to 5, in Zhanjiang, China. This bilateral maritime drill involves about 200 personnel and aims to strengthen defense ties through various training activities, including gunnery firing, vessel boarding, and mine clearance. The exercise, which is part of a mechanism for annual joint drills, features vessels such as China's guided-missile frigate Sanya, minesweeper Hejian, and Singapore's RSS Stalwart. Officials from both navies emphasized the importance of mutual trust and friendship fostered through these exercises. The harbor phase is currently underway, followed by the at-sea phase which will include live drills on maritime inspections and rescue operations. This cooperation highlights the commitment of both nations to maintaining peace and stability in the region.