(Bandar Seri Begawan, 11th) The Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) launched the “Penguin 25” exercise on the 9th of this month, marking the most important bilateral maritime security event between the two countries.
During the exercise, defense personnel from both countries will conduct a series of training drills to enhance interoperability and mutual support.
Brunei Royal Navy vessels participating in “Penguin 25” include the KDB DARUSSALAM patrol ship, KDB AFIAT IJHTIHAD-class fast patrol boat, and the Surface Operations Team. Australian participating assets include the ANZAC-class frigate HMAS Ballarat and the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, Shaib Bahari, stated that this exercise will continue to strengthen maritime security and cooperation between the two navies.
He noted that the defense ties between the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Brunei Navy have a long history, tracing back to the first “Penguin Exercise” held in 1986. This relationship is built upon the solid connections between the two navies and their shared interest in a stable, secure, and prosperous maritime domain.
He said, “We look forward to hosting this exercise and providing an opportunity for Royal Brunei Navy personnel to train alongside the Royal Australian Navy, thereby strengthening our mutual support capabilities in maritime security.”
Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, Commander of the Australian Navy, stated that both countries’ forces are committed to strengthening cooperation under the Australia-Brunei Comprehensive Partnership and its action plan framework.
He said, “This year marks the 20th ‘Penguin Exercise,’ which will further deepen and increase the growing cooperation between the two defense forces.”
“Australia attaches great importance to its maritime security relationship with Brunei, and I am confident that we will continue to work together to address any challenges or threats to regional peace and security.”
The “Penguin 25” exercise will conclude on September 14, with a series of sea and air surface operations drills conducted off the coast of Brunei.
During the exercise, defense personnel from both countries will conduct a series of training drills to enhance interoperability and mutual support.
Brunei Royal Navy vessels participating in “Penguin 25” include the KDB DARUSSALAM patrol ship, KDB AFIAT IJHTIHAD-class fast patrol boat, and the Surface Operations Team. Australian participating assets include the ANZAC-class frigate HMAS Ballarat and the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, Shaib Bahari, stated that this exercise will continue to strengthen maritime security and cooperation between the two navies.
He noted that the defense ties between the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Brunei Navy have a long history, tracing back to the first “Penguin Exercise” held in 1986. This relationship is built upon the solid connections between the two navies and their shared interest in a stable, secure, and prosperous maritime domain.
He said, “We look forward to hosting this exercise and providing an opportunity for Royal Brunei Navy personnel to train alongside the Royal Australian Navy, thereby strengthening our mutual support capabilities in maritime security.”
Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, Commander of the Australian Navy, stated that both countries’ forces are committed to strengthening cooperation under the Australia-Brunei Comprehensive Partnership and its action plan framework.
He said, “This year marks the 20th ‘Penguin Exercise,’ which will further deepen and increase the growing cooperation between the two defense forces.”
“Australia attaches great importance to its maritime security relationship with Brunei, and I am confident that we will continue to work together to address any challenges or threats to regional peace and security.”