Multinational Maritime Security Exercise in In Langkawi
Ten countries jointed together with its naval forces in Langkawi, Malaysia, to begin a two-day Multinational Maritime Security Exercise, says a report in Bernama.
A total of 19 naval vessels of various classes are being used by the forces of Brunei Darussalam, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea and the United States in the exercise.
The program includes discussions among the participants to resolve any obstacles that could hamper the smooth running of the mass field training, says Malaysia's Chief of Navy Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Jaafar, who launched the exercise at the Royal Malaysian Navy facility.
The event is held in conjunction with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace 2015 (LIMA'15) Exhibition.
The pertinent point here is that the countries are taking this step together (to take part in the exercise) ... during an exercise such as this, he said adding that they were able to demonstrate to the public and nations of the world that countries can work together to ensure regional peace and stability.
Meanwhile, the United States supported the event with approximately 450 Sailors, Airmen and Marines, demonstrating its continued partnership with the country of Malaysia.
"Our participation in events like LIMA 15 demonstrates our continued commitment to the regional stability and security of our partners in the Asia-Pacific region," said Maj. Gen. Michael Compton, the Air National Guard assistant to the commander of Pacific Air Forces.
"We have a strong military-to-military relationship with Malaysia, and we hope to continue to grow it through forming personal relationships that ultimately contribute to increased interoperability with other countries' services."
LIMA first started in 1991 on the small island of Langkawi, Malaysia. Now in its 13th iteration, this biennial event has since become the region's premier maritime and airshow exhibition.
