5 countries starts exercise Bersama Shield in sea of Malaysia

The maritime component of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA), Exercise Bersama Shield, recently got underway in the waters of Malaysia.

Before leaving Singapore, where the ship’s company had a port visit and observed Anzac Day at a local dawn service, the HMAS Anzac underwent an opening ceremony and planning meetings.

The task group of the participating ships, which will carry out a series of drills to enhance interoperability and fortify partnerships, will be led by Commanding Officer Anzac Commander David McPherson.

“Exercise Bersama Shield will see Anzac, along with other ADF elements, exercise with the other FPDA nations Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom,” said Commander McPherson.

“The exercise’s goal of increasing our interoperability across the land, air, and maritime domains in a multi-threat environment was achieved through working together. The opening ceremony and planning events provided a terrific opportunity to meet and engage with other participants.

“Anzac will participate in the maritime task group as the lead ship, representing Australia in the maritime role.

“It is an honor to command Anzac and have chance to take charge of maritime task group and make sure we accomplish our shared objectives.”

Anzac’s first exercise since leaving its home port of Fleet Base West in mid-April is Bersama Shield.

“The exercise is an important component of the regional presence deployment Anzac is currently deployed on and one of many opportunities to engage and work with our partners in the Indo-Pacific,” Commander McPherson said.

Australia’s commitment to and engagement with the Indo-Pacific is demonstrated by its nearly constant presence there, including deployments of regional presence forces.

About 250 members of the ADF are participating in Exercise Bersama Shield, which will end in mid-May.