The Commandant of the United States Marine Corps (USMC), General (GEN) Eric M. Smith called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) earlier today. During the call, Dr Ng and GEN Smith reaffirmed the excellent and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and the US. They exchanged views on developments in the Asia-Pacific, and discussed ways to continue strengthening defence cooperation between both countries.

GEN Smith, who is in Singapore for an introductory visit from 22 to 25 March 2025, also called on Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng, and Chief of Army Brigadier-General (BG) Cai Dexian, after inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF earlier this afternoon. GEN Smith also visited SAFTI City, where he was briefed on its key features and how the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has integrated simulation and technology to create a realistic and effective urban training facility.

As part of his visit, GEN Smith will also visit Bedok Camp to engage troops from the 3rd Battalion Singapore Guards and the US Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA), who are currently exercising together in Exercise Valiant Mark.

GEN Smith’s visit underscores the strong, long-standing and multi-faceted defence relationship between Singapore and the US. Both militaries cooperate and interact frequently through high-level visits and dialogues, professional exchanges and numerous bilateral and multilateral exercises. This includes the annual bilateral Exercise Valiant Mark between the SAF and USMC, held in Singapore from 17 to 26 March 2025. Singapore also provides strong and consistent support for the US’ presence in the region, including by facilitating the US’ rotational deployments of Littoral Combat Ships and P-8 Poseidon aircraft.