Singaporeans hold Exercise in Waiouru

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) are conducting their annual artillery exercise in Waiouru this month alongside the 16th Field Regiment Royal New Zealand Artillery of the NZ Army.

'Exercise Thunder Warrior' is a collaborative live-firing exercise that involves about 500 personnel from the SAF and a single six gun battery-sized unit from the 16th Field Regiment.

The NZ Army are also supporting the SAF logistically with Unimog vehicles.

Commanding Officer of 16th Field Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Nick Gillard, said the exercise was a valued component of their annual training.

“Exercise Thunder Warrior provides a great opportunity for the NZ Army to continue their long-standing and close relationship with the SAF and enhance inter-operability between the two forces.

“The exercise also provides a great opportunity for the NZ Army to develop our own artillery skills and test them alongside a valued working partner.”

SAF assets in Ex Thunder Warrior include PEGASUS, the world’s first heli-portable and self-propelled 155mm calibre howitzer and support from mini unmanned aerial vehicles (mini-UAV’s).

2008 was the first time the two forces participated in a combined live firing capacity during the exercise. The SAF have held the exercise annually in Waiouru since 1997.