RSN LEADS RIMPAC TASK UNIT AGAIN

The Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN's) Formidable-class frigate RSS Intrepid marked a successful outing at the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2014 with the firing of an Aster Surface-to-Air Missile on 12 Jul (Singapore time).

Led by Senior Lieutenent-Colonel Aaron Beng, Commanding Officer of RSS Intrepid, the frigate is currently participating in the 22-day sea phase off the coast of Hawaii, United States. The successful execution of the live-firing represented a new phase in the RSN's operational readiness.

Said Military Expert (ME) 5-2 Christopher Yeo, who oversaw the preparation of the multifunctional radar system for tracking the missile's target: "The first firing of the Aster Missile (in 2008) was very technical as it was a systems test. This time, there was a shift to a more operational firing."

ME5-2 Yeo is an Above Water Sensor Systems Senior Engineer who was part of the team supporting the firing. Comprising engineers from the RSN's Naval Warfare Centre (WARCEN), Naval Logistics Command (NALCOM) and Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA), the team of 15 worked together on various aspects of the mission, such as the calibration of the firing system to ensure the accuracy and alignment of the missile.

This was the RSN's fourth showing at the world's largest multinational maritime warfare exercise, hosted by the US Navy, and its second time commanding a Task Unit. This year, RSS Intrepid led four other warships from the Chile, Norway and US navies in the exercise.

Assuming such a key role was no easy task, even during the second time around, and the crew underwent thorough preparations. This included participating in a multinational group sail for over 10 days, prior to RIMPAC. ME2-2 Lum Yen Kit, a Command and Control Supervisor on board RSS Intrepid, elaborated on the challenges the crew faced: "Some of the foreign navies were unfamiliar with our standard operating procedures. The language barrier was also an issue. Furthermore, the different countries had varying safety margins. Therefore, during the multinational group phase, we had to work with new training procedures and operating processes as well as integrate with the other navies so that we could work together."

However, it was well worth the hard work. The crew would certainly be heartened to know that the RSN's return to RIMPAC was warmly welcomed by their counterparts. RIMPAC 2014 Task Force Commander and Commander Third Fleet, Vice-Admiral Kenneth Floyd, from the US Navy commended the RSN's efforts: "I'm very impressed with the Singapore Navy which brings leadership (to the exercise). The crew was also very capable from the bow to the stern. We ve worked with Singapore before and it's very nice to have her here."

RSS Intrepid was also accompanied by an embarked S-70B Seahawk naval helicopter (NH), which participated in the missions as well. For first-time Air Controller Captain (CPT) Marilyn Sim, this was an eye-opening experience which saw her working with pilots and tactical coordinators from international navies to ensure the safety of the NH and the airspace. "It has been an interesting experience working with other navies, learning how they operate and take care of their people. Interacting with them was the highlight for me," she said.

This year, the crew also had the unique experience of commemorating Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Day while their ship was docked at Pearl Harbour. Dressed in their No. 3 uniforms, the servicemen and women performed the morning colours (a ceremonial hoisting of the national ensign) and recited the SAF Pledge from the flight deck. It was a memorable moment for all, including ME3-1 Sivashankar. "I am happy to be reaffirming my service to the SAF at a historical site, reminding me of the need for a strong defence force," the Air Force Engineer said proudly.

RIMPAC 2014, held from 26 Jun to 1 Aug brought together 22 international navies and 25,000 personnel, 49 warships, six submarines and more than 200 aircraft.