The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) will be conducting the 27th edition of the annual bilateral exercise, Exercise Valiant Mark (XVM), which will take place from 17 to 26 March in Singapore. Chief Guards Officer (CGO), Commander, 21st Singapore Division Colonel (COL) Wong Pui Chuan and Commander I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF), Lieutenant General Michael S. Cederholm co-officiated the opening ceremony at Bedok Camp on 17 March 2025.

The participants include more than 600 personnel from the 3rd Battalion Singapore Guards and 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade, and about 200 personnel from the Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA). The exercise will include professional exchanges, live-firing and heliborne training, culminating in a bilateral urban operations mission.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, COL Wong emphasised the long-standing relationship between the SAF and the USMC. He said, “The consistency and growth of XVM over three decades since its establishment demonstrates the commitment of both nations to regional security and mutual dedication in strengthening military-to-military relationships in the Indo-Pacific Region.” He also highlighted the enduring friendship with the USMC. He said, “This bilateral exercise not only enhances military interoperability but also provides a unique opportunity for participants to engage in cross-cultural exchanges and learn from each other’s diverse experiences.”

Exercise Valiant Mark underscores the excellent and long-standing bilateral defence relations between Singapore and the US since it started in 1991. Besides bilateral exercises, the two militaries also engage in a wide range of multilateral exercises, professional exchanges and cross-attendance of courses. Singapore also facilitates the US’ rotational deployments of US Littoral Combat Ships and P-8 Poseidon aircraft. These regular interactions have enhanced their interoperability, as well as forged strong rapport and camaraderie among their personnel.