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Singapore, U.S. militaries join for amphibious training during CARAT 2020

U.S. Navy Lt. Lauren Chatmas/Command Destroyer Squadron 7

The Republic of Singapore Navy, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps partnered in the 26th annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) maritime exercise, held in the South China Sea and on Changi Naval Base, Singapore, in December 2020.

With over a half-century of diplomatic relations, Singapore and the United States continue to work closely to maintain a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region. CARAT Singapore 2020 underscored a shared commitment to regional maritime security and stability.

Exercise leaders focused on the diverse training value of integrating small amphibious landing craft in addition to traditional large-deck operations.

“The 26th anniversary of CARAT Singapore symbolizes the strong and enduring U.S.-Singapore partnership that has benefited both of our navies for more than a quarter century,” U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Fred Kacher, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 7, said during the virtual commanders’ conference. “As someone who has lived, worked and sailed alongside our Singaporean partners during multiple CARAT exercises, I believe that practicing bilateral maritime operations in the South China Sea emphasizes our interoperability, cooperation, and a shared interest in maintaining regional security and stability in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

Republic of Singapore Navy Col. Ang Jeng Kai, commander of the 3rd Flotilla, said CARAT 2020 strengthened the understanding the two navies have built over the years, noting that the exercise had to be planned virtually.

“The successful conduct of Exercise CARAT 2020, which included drills that required close coordination between the ships, also bears testament to the firm professional rapport we have established,” Ang said during the closing ceremony.

Using integrated technology and in-person meetings, subject matter experts discussed the capabilities and organizational structure of each navy’s amphibious operations, highlighting future opportunities for bilateral training.

“CARAT Singapore is a perfect example of how we are able to sharpen maritime skills while simultaneously expanding our already deep bond,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Ann McCann, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 7. “Practicing tactics between RSS Endurance and one of our most capable amphibious warships, USS Somerset, will provide a unique training opportunity for both countries.” (Pictured: The Republic of Singapore Navy ship RSS Endurance, left foreground, and the U.S. Navy amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset are joined by Singapore Navy fast craft and U.S. Navy landing craft during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Singapore in the South China Sea in December 2020.)

The at-sea phase took place in international waters of the South China Sea with ships and aircraft from both militaries, including  amphibious transport dock and landing platform dock ships, landing craft air cushions, fast craft utilities, helicopters and a drone. Events included aircraft and vessel launches, search and rescue exercises, divisional tactics and maneuvering, and communication drills.

All events were planned with an emphasis on COVID-19 social distancing and other mitigation measures.

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