This marks the first time that a Vietnamese naval ship participates in the Kakadu, a multilateral naval exercise hosted by Australia every two years since 1993. Ship 18 will only take part in non-combat activities during this exercise.
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Ship 18 of Brigade 171, Naval Region 2 |
Senior Captain Nguyen Viet Anh stated that this mission continues to actualize the Party and State’s policies as well as the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense’s guidance on international integration and defense external affairs. It also demonstrates the growth of the Vietnam People's Navy, showcasing its capability to participate in multilateral activities in various seas around the world.
This mission aims to enhance coordination in response to common maritime security challenges, foster mutual understanding and trust, and promote cooperation among militaries and navies of various countries for peace, stability, and development in the region and the world. It also reflects Vietnam’s response to the invitation and support of the Australian Defense Force (ADF) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the two countries' militaries and navies in line with the comprehensive strategic partnership framework established in March 2024.
“Ship 18 will only engage in non-combat activities during this exercise,” Senior Captain Nguyen Viet Anh emphasized. Additionally, the officers and sailors on Ship 18 will combine the mission with long-distance sea training to improve command capabilities, coordination, combat readiness, and mastery of weapons and technical equipment during long maritime operations, while gaining experience in participating in and organizing international events.
According to Exercise Kakadu 2024 organizers, 23 countries have registered to participate in the event, including 16 warships and five aircraft. “We will participate in activities, such as communication, formation maneuvering, at-sea replenishment, towing maneuvers, aerial formation photography, search and rescue, and more,” Senior Captain Nguyen Viet Anh added.
To ensure the success of the mission in all aspects, Brigade 171 in particular and Naval Region 2 in general, have thoroughly prepared by selecting personnel with high professional expertise to join the mission. Senior Captain Nguyen Viet Anh noted that Naval Region 2 had implemented early training activities for the participating forces, covering contents, such as multilateral naval exercise standard operating procedures, offshore maritime practices, and education on traditions. Logistics and technical preparations have also been implemented to support long maritime operations.
Kakadu is a large-scale and highly professional exercise. According to the plan, the 2024 exercise will begin on September 8 and run through to September 19, including both onshore drills and live-fire practices at sea.
Translated by Trung Thanh