16 May 2013

AUS: Navies sign Submarine Rescue Arrangement

Singapore's submarine rescue Ship, MV Swift Rescue

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) today signed an arrangement with the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) during the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEX) in Singapore this week.

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Ray Griggs who signed the agreement with his Singaporean counterpart Rear Admiral Ng Chee Peng, said the Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation Arrangement was developed between the RAN and RSN to enhance submarine rescue system availability between both navies.

“Having the arrangement in place will assist in facilitating an Australian request to Singapore for support if ever required in areas within the reach of the Singaporean submarine rescue system,” Vice Admiral Griggs said.

The arrangement also allows for familiarisation visits between the two Navies to ensure interoperability of these important systems.

“This will ensure the compatibility of our systems, procedures and documentation, and establishes a framework for the conduct of future submarine rescue exercises at sea,” Vice Admiral Griggs said.