Singapore Holds Interagency Maritime Exercise

Four agencies have held the largest maritime exercise in Singapore. The aim was to guard against potential attacks along the Singapore Strait, and to secure the safe passage of vessels carrying vital cargo essential not just for Singapore but the world economy. It is up to agencies like the Singapore Armed Forces, Police Coast Guard, Maritime Port Authority and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority to keep the waters safe. Since 1993, the APEX exercise between these four agencies has enhanced their inter-agency operations. The events of September 11, 2001 gave even more motivation to protect not just sea lanes, but also ports, installations and maritime infrastructure. The latest exercise was the fifth and largest in the series, involving 1,600 personnel, 22 vessels and a maritime patrol aircraft. The deployment of Accompanying Sea Security Team or Assets aboard merchant ships is one component of exercise APEX. Such deterrent measures also serve as an early warning for potential threats during inspections. Channel Asia