The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) have commenced their 5th bilateral Exercise Maritime Cooperation (XMC) in Zhanjiang, China, as the two countries continue naval training and professional exchanges from September 5 to 9.
Category: Defence
Southeast Asia’s Defence Partnerships Are Expanding Beyond Bilateral Alliances
On August 30, the Philippines and US marked the 75th anniversary of their Mutual Defence Treaty (MDT), reaffirming an alliance that has evolved from a Cold War security pact into an expanded defence partnership. The relationship now covers military exercises, operational coordination, capability development, maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster response, while increasingly coupling the Philippines with wider regional security networks.
US Aircraft Carrier Arrives in Thailand After Record 286-Day Deployment
On September 2, the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group arrived in Laem Chabang, Thailand for a scheduled port visit as the US and Thailand continue their longstanding defence and maritime cooperation.
Singapore, Japan Strengthen Naval Cooperation Through Exercise Singapan
On August 28, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) concluded Exercise Singapan, a bilateral naval exercise aimed at strengthening operational cooperation and supporting efforts towards a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
Thai PM Anutin Reviews Navy Readiness Amid Thailand’s Maritime Security Focus
On August 27, Thai Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul visited a Royal Thai Navy training exercise in the Upper Gulf of Thailand as the navy reviews its readiness for maritime and national security missions.
Australia, Philippines and US Strengthen Maritime Coordination in the South China Sea
Australia, the Philippines and US conducted a seven-day Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in South China Sea from August 19 to 25.
Indonesia Advances Giuseppe Garibaldi Transfer Ahead of TNI Anniversary Debut
Indonesia’s newly acquired aircraft carrier, the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, is expected to make its debut as KRI Gajah Mada during celebrations marking the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) in October 2026.
British Patrol Vessel HMS Tamar Makes First Ream Port Call as UK-Cambodia Naval Ties Expand
On August 20, the Royal Navy offshore patrol vessel HMS Tamar arrived in Cambodia for its first visit to Ream Naval Base, marking a new step in defence cooperation between the United Kingdom and Cambodia. The visit is also the Royal Navy’s third to Cambodia since 2023, following two calls by HMS Spey at Sihanoukville.
Malaysia Increases Defence Spending to Counter Modern Security Challenges
According to statements by Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin on August 19, “the need for higher defence spending was driven not only by regional dynamics but also by emerging threats,” pointing to cyberattacks, electromagnetic threats and misinformation campaigns.
Thailand Separates US Defence Ties From Trade Talks Amid Tariff Pressure
On August 12, Thailand has rejected reports that it is considering using its longstanding defence cooperation with the US as leverage in negotiations over President Trump’s tariffs, stressing that economic and security relations with Washington will remain separate.