BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) on Tuesday (Sept 9) began the Exercise Penguin 25, the leading bilateral maritime security activity between the two countries.
During the exercise, personnel from both defence forces will undertake a number of training exercises to enhance interoperability and mutual support.
RBN assets participating in Exercise Penguin 25 include Patrol Vessel KDB DARUSSALAM, IJHTIHAD-Class Fast Patrol Boat KDB AFIAT and a team from the Naval Surface Action Group. Australian participation comprise an ANZAC class frigate HMAS Ballarat and an RAAF P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy First Admiral Sahibul Bahari Zainal Abidin said, “The exercise would continue to strengthen maritime security and cooperation between the two navies.”
“The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the RBN have a long-standing defence relationship that dates back to 1986, when the first Exercise Penguin was conducted. This relationship is underpinned by strong navy-to-navy links and a shared interest in a stable, secure, and prosperous maritime domain,” he added.
Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy First Admiral First Admiral Sahibul Bahari said, “We look forward to hosting the event and providing opportunities for members of the RBN to train alongside the RAN, thereby enhancing our capacity to support each other in maritime security.”
Australia’s Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN, shared that both defence forces are committed to boosting cooperation under the Australia – Brunei Darussalam Comprehensive Partnership and accompanying Plan of Action.
“This year will be the 20th iteration of Exercise Penguin, further reinforcing the depth and the growing collaboration between our defence forces,” Vice Admiral Hammond said.
“Australia highly values its maritime security relationship with Brunei and together I am confident we will continue to collectively meet any challenges or threats to regional peace and security.”
Exercise Penguin 25 will conclude on Sept 14 after the completion of a number of sea and air surface warfare training exercises off the coast of Brunei Darussalam. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
