MUARA NAVAL BASE, Tuesday, 4 October 2016 – The bilateral exercise conducted biennially between the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) dubbed “EX PENGUIN”, has reached its 17th serial which RBN will host for this year.
The Opening Ceremony was conducted this morning at the Multi-National Coordination Center (MNCC), Muara, and was officiated by Commander Spry bin Hj Serudi, Fleet Commander of RBN. Also present was Commander Sahibul Bahari bin Hj Zainal Abidin, Commanding Officer KDB DARUTTAQWA, as the Commander Task Group (CTG). On the other hand, representing the RAN was Commander Michael Moore, Commanding Officer of HMAS LARAKKIA, as the Deputy Commander Task Group (DCTG).
During the ceremony, the Fleet Commander highlighted in his speech that EX PENGUIN is a testament to the existing bond between the two navies and this year’s exercise will elevate the bilateral ties to a higher level. The Fleet Commander also emphasized on the safe conduct of the evolutions throughout the exercise whilst focusing to meet the objectives of the exercise; improving mutual doctrine, procedures and operational tactics between both navies.
Task Group 17.01 will consist of HMAS LARAKKIA from RAN along with KDB DARUTTQWA and KDB AFIAT from RBN. The exercise will feature both harbour and sea training activities. The harbour training will cover theoretical subjects and sharing of knowledge between experts during exercises briefings and boarding demonstrations. The Sea Phase activities aim to develop naval coordination in executing tactical operations that includes Minefield Transit, Manoeuvre Exercise, Communication Drills, and Maritime Interdiction Operations. RBN and RAN share common values as well as traditions, with both nations looking forward to continue strengthening mutual bonds and professional relationship through the conduct of EX PENGUIN series of exercises.
The exercise has witnessed broadening of scope and complexity through the years of its existence and this exercise codenamed “EX PENGUIN 17/16” is the latest of its continuing series.
