China and Singapore started a joint maritime drill on Friday in waters near Zhanjiang City of south China's Guangdong Province.
The two sides send three vessels, including China's guided-missile frigate Sanya and minesweeper Hejian, the Singaporean navy's frigate RSS Stalwart, along with shipborne helicopters and marine soldiers.
"This marks the first international mission for the minesweeper Hejian. It is mainly responsible for guiding the fleet through the minefield and coordinating with other units for joint maritime rescue, telecommunication and other trainings," said Cheng Mo, a Chinese soldier.
The China-Singapore Exercise Cooperation 2024 is the first bilateral joint exercise held in China between the Chinese and Singaporean navies.
During the event, the two sides will carry out professional exchanges and training on subjects covering mine countermeasures, submarine rescue, joint strikes, replenishment operations, search and rescue, and inspections.
The exercise is expected to consolidate the regular mechanism for the navies of China and Singapore to alternately host joint exercises every year.
"The exercise is divided into two phases. First is port phase. During this phase, we will consult with Singapore regarding the previously established plans and contingencies, while also organizing table-top exercises. Second is at-sea phase. Based on the previous consultations and table-top exercises, we will conduct live drills on maritime inspections and capture, as well as conduct assault exercises at sea," said Lin Yunqi, a Chinese soldier.
The joint exercise will last until Sept. 5.
China, Singapore launch joint maritime drill
