FPDA Strengthens Collaboration for Enhanced Operational Cooperation

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Future engagement between the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) member countries will be further enhanced, says the Malaysia Armed Forces (MAF) chief General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman.

“This will undoubtedly enhance cooperation on traditional military operations, interoperability and foster stronger bonds among the Armed Forces of our five member nations,” he said at a press conference today at the InterContinental Hotel here on Tuesday (Oct 3).

He said that directives for these programmes had been set forth and would guide exercise development.

Earlier on Tuesday, the FPDA met for its 22nd Defence Chief’s Conference (FDCC) which saw the congregation of the military leaderships of Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Singapore.

FDCC is held alternately between Malaysia and Singapore to serve as a forum for the defence chiefs of FPDA, one of the region’s longest-standing defence arrangements, to share perspectives on regional security matters.

On the joint exercises, Gen Mohammad highlighted “Exercise BERSAMA LIMA” which began on Monday (Oct 2) would conclude on Oct 20.

The joint exercise covers conventional and non-conventional warfare involving operational planning conducted at the Joint Task Force Headquarters in Kuantan, Pahang.

“This exercise will involve a substantial force of 2,500 personnel, 44 aircraft and seven ships,demonstrating a multifaceted approach to military preparedness,” he said.

He said, elevating the capacity in conventional and non-conventional operations will prepare the FPDA member nations to respond more resiliently to dynamic security challenges from geopolitical dynamism and rapid technological advancement.

Mohammad also said, the FPDA are also inviting defence advisers and attaches from ASEAN member countries to observe the exercises.

“Mindful of regional sensitivities, the FPDA observer programme sought to build confidence and transparency by inviting ASEAN defence advisers and attaches to observe the exercise since 2007, including Exercise BERSAMA LIMA 2023,” he said. — DSA

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