Singapore
-
Free and Open Indo-Pacific/FOIP
‘Malacca Dilemma’ a major security challenge for PRC
FORUM Staff Reliable alliance and partner networks around the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest shipping passages, would present economic and security challenges for the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the event of a naval blockade. Ships ferry 90% of Chinese trade and much of it — especially oil and natural gas — travels through the strategically critical,…
Read More -
Conflicts - Tensions
Defense procurements surge as tensions rise
FORUM Staff Regional threats and Russia-Ukraine war repercussions have led some Indo-Pacific states to dramatically boost their defense capabilities. Australia, Japan and Singapore are among nations amping up security measures to encourage diplomacy, project deterrence and prepare for potential conflict in an increasingly tense environment. Provocative actions by North Korea, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Russia are motivating…
Read More -
Partnerships
Singapore-Vietnam defense cooperation flourishing after 50 years
Tom Abke Defense cooperation between Singapore and Vietnam has made remarkable progress in recent years, demonstrating their enduring partnership and solidifying their mutual trust and commitment to regional stability, according to officials. The Southeast Asian nations are commemorating 50 years of diplomatic ties and a decadelong strategic partnership. At an early August 2023 news conference marking the 50-year milestone, Singapore’s…
Read More -
Partnerships
Indonesia hosts Super Garuda Shield 2023 to promote regional stability
Gusty Da Costa The multilateral, multi-force military exercise Super Garuda Shield 2023 kicked off August 31 in Indonesia’s East Java province. Seven countries, including Australia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States, together deployed about 5,000 troops and various defense assets. Twelve additional nations sent observers. Australian Army M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks and various support…
Read More -
Climate
Renewable Forces
On the evening of November 21, 1918 — 10 days after the signing of the armistice that ended World War I — British War Cabinet member George Curzon presided at a dinner honoring the Inter-Allied Petroleum Conference. Toasting the delegates gathered in London, Curzon declared that the Allies had “floated to victory on a wave of oil” due to their…
Read More -
Free and Open Indo-Pacific/FOIP
Pacific Griffin demonstrates ‘unwavering commitment’ as Singaporean, U.S. forces boost capabilities, deepen ties
FORUM Staff The Republic of Singapore and United States navies enhanced combined maritime proficiency and strengthened relationships during Pacific Griffin 2023, held June 16-29. In its fourth iteration, the biennial exercise included training in and around the U.S. territory of Guam. “It serves as a valuable platform for both navies to enhance our mutual cooperation and understanding,” Col. Ng Kok…
Read More -
Free and Open Indo-Pacific/FOIP
Defense leaders at Shangri-La Dialogue call for discourse, upholding international law
FORUM Staff Communication and coordination were major themes at the 20th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore in early June 2023. More than 600 delegates from 49 nations attended the security forum, which draws defense officials, senior military officers, diplomats and analysts from around the world. Opening the summit, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described dialogue as a crucial guardrail among nations and…
Read More -
Partnerships
ASEAN exercise, naval chiefs meeting demonstrate unity, ‘voice for peace’
Maria T. Reyes Navies from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states displayed a united front in the South China Sea during the ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX) hosted by the Philippine Navy. The exercise, conducted May 12-15, 2023, consisted of shore and sea phases, including the simulated rescue of a cruise ship being harassed by pirates off…
Read More -
Partnerships
LANPAC bolsters connections among Indo-Pacific armed forces
FORUM Staff The Land Forces Pacific (LANPAC) Symposium & Exhibition drew more than 1,700 military personnel, academics, and security and defense professionals to Honolulu, Hawaii, in mid-May 2023. The event, in its 10th year, highlights the role of land forces throughout the Indo-Pacific. Participants and attendees included delegations from more than 25 nations, and army chiefs from Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Japan,…
Read More -
Partnerships
Singapore, U.S. demonstrate military ties with Exercise Tiger Balm, other joint defense engagements
Tom Abke Singaporean Soldiers joined United States counterparts in Hawaii for the 42nd iteration of Exercise Tiger Balm in May 2023. The longest-running exercise between the Singapore and U.S. armies, it enables the forces to collaborate and share tactics, techniques and procedures in activities such as command post and field training drills. (Pictured: Singapore Armed Forces personnel drill during Exercise…
Read More