On 27 May 2021, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)'s Formidable-class frigate RSS Steadfast conducted a passage exercise (PASSEX) with the French Navy (FN)'s amphibious assault ship FS Tonnerre and frigate FS Surcouf who are in the Asia-Pacific as part of its Jeanne d'Arc mission. The PASSEX was conducted in the southern reaches of the South China Sea within international waters.
The RSN conducts regular PASSEXes with foreign navies to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen friendships with other navies. These professional interactions at sea have enabled the RSN to keep our ties warm with our navy counterparts, especially amidst the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
In addition to the PASSEX, FS Tonnerre is on a port call at Changi Naval Base and will continue with its deployment after. The Commanding Officer of FS Tonnerre Captain Arnaud Tranchant will also conduct a video tele-conference with RSN Commander 1st Flotilla Colonel Ng Xun Xi on 29 May 2021.
As a like-minded partner with common perspectives on freedom of navigation and overflight, we are glad to welcome the French Navy to the region. Our interactions with the French Navy in the maritime sphere allow us to reinforce our strong and broad-based defence relationship and strengthen mutual understanding with France.
Photos courtesy of the French Navy and 2LT Brian Shim from RSS Steadfast.
