RSS ENDURANCE SETS OFF FOR GULF OF ADEN

In aid of the international counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) dispatched Landing Ship Tank RSS Endurance with two Super Puma helicopters on board, in a send-off ceremony on 18 Jun.

Comprising a crew of 221 from all three Services, this SAF Task Group (TG) will operate under the multinational Combined Task Force (CTF 151) in operations to deter and disrupt piracy activities in the Gulf of Aden.

"The concerted action by navies from several countries operating in the Gulf of Aden demonstrates the international community's resolve to act collectively to safeguard shipping in this key sea lane. As a maritime nation, Singapore remains committed to these counter-piracy efforts," said Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) Chew Men Leong during the send-off ceremony at Changi Naval Base.

"The SAF's participation also provides an important opportunity to gain invaluable operational experiences in a multinational setting," he added. The SAF TG is expected to be deployed for three months.

Part of the Suez Canal shipping route, the Gulf of Aden carries a significant amount of annual world trade. According to some estimates, up to 11 percent of the world's seaborne petroleum shipments traverse the waterway each year.

Led by Colonel Tan Kai Cheong, Commanding Officer 191 Squadron, this latest deployment marks the second time that the SAF has sent assets to aid the ongoing anti-piracy efforts.

The SAF first deployed RSS Persistence and two Super Puma helicopters to the Gulf of Aden in 2009. From Jan to Apr 2010, CTF 151 was commanded by the SAF's RADM Bernard Miranda. This latest SAF TG includes a ship security unit comprising members from the Army and Navy, and a medical support team.