The annual Singapore Armed Forces Kartika (SAFKAR) Indopura, a joint exercise between the Singaporean and Indonesian armies, was conducted in West Bandung, Indonesia, from 16 to 23 September.
Now in its 28th year, Exercise SAFKAR Indopura reaffirms the long-standing defense relations between both countries.
Military Area III/ Siliwangi Commander, Major General Hadi Prasojo, represented by Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Wuryanto, and Singapore Army Chief-of-Staff, 3rd Singapore Division, ME7 Chow Wai Yein, opened the ongoing Exercise SAFKAR Indopura at the Infantry Training Center, Pusdikif Hq Camp in Cipatat, West Bandung Regency, on 16 September.
The Indonesian Army Commander said the exercise aims to improve coordination and cooperation for closer friendship between the Indonesian National Defence Forces (TNI) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
He said, “It is to build a better relationship between the Armed Forces of Indonesia and Singapore, based on trust and mutual respect between the soldiers of TNI and SAF.”
“Strategically, it is also to introduce the tactical doctrines of the TNI and SAF so that if there is a military operation involving the two armed forces, there would be no doubt and the operation will be carried out with mutual understanding,” he added.
The joint training covers:
- The exchange of training materials on leadership,
- Leadership skills and decision-making in tactics, and
- Tactical and technical training.
As part of the event, the Indonesian Indonesian Army Industrial Center (Pindad) showcased its defence equipment.
Weapons displayed by Pindad include the rifle calibers (SS-3, SS2-V1, SS2-V5, SS2-V4HB, SS1-V1, SS2-V7), SPG (SPG1-V4), pistols and sub-machine guns (G2 Combat, Elite G2, G2 Premium, PM2-V1, V2-PM2, PM3), mortars (Mo-1, Mo-2, Mo-3),and an ammunition mock-up.
The SAF also showcased the defence equipment its infantry unit uses – the SAW Ultimax 100, Matador, M110, SAR 21 standard, SAR 21, M203, SAR 21 Sharpshooter, SAR 21 Modular Mounting System – as well as other defence equipment and supplies.
