Singapore and Indonesian Commandos Conclude Exercise Chandrapura

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Commandos and the SIndonesian Armed Forces (TNI) Special Forces Command (KOPASSUS) successfully concluded Exercise Chandrapura (XCP) 2021. Held virtually from 1 to 3 September, this year’s edition of the annual bilateral exercise involved professional exchanges and a table-top exercise (TTX) to build stronger bonds and strengthen mutual understanding between the two militaries.

During the exercise, personnel from the SAF’s 1st Commando Battalion and the TNI KOPASSUS’ 23rd Battalion exchanged knowledge in commando tactics, techniques, and planning procedures. This year’s exercise culminated in a TTX where both armed forces jointly developed an operation plan to conduct an attack operation on an enemy objective.

XCP 2021 concluded with a symbolic exchange of airborne wings during the closing ceremony, which was co-officiated by the SAF’s Chief Commando Officer Colonel (COL) Kenny Tay and the TNI’s Danjen KOPASSUS, Major General Mohammad Hasan. In his closing speech, COL Kenny Tay commended the successful conduct of the exercise. He said, “I am impressed with the high level of commitment to mutual cooperation by both units manifested throughout the exercise. Alone we can accomplish little, but we can achieve much together. I hope our cooperation and good relations will grow from strength to strength.“

First conducted in 1994, this year marked the 27th edition in the series and underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Indonesia. Besides bilateral exercises, the Singapore and Indonesian armies engage in a wide range of activities such as visits, professional exchanges and cross-attendance of courses. These regular interactions enhance the interoperability and foster mutual understanding between the two armed forces.