Four Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-16C jets shared the skies over RAAF Base Pearce during their recent Extended Fighter Detachment (EFD).

Conducted from September 25 to October 10, the EFD gave RSAF aircrew and support personnel the opportunity to conduct realistic training using the vast airspace available in WA, and RAAF Base Pearce facilities.

Three EFD rotations were conducted in 2024, providing the foundation for this year's detachment.

RAAF EFD liaison officer Wing Commander Gareth Neilsen highlighted how the EFD was an extension of the long-established relationship RAAF Base Pearce had with the RSAF.

“All the aircrew completed their ab initio flying training at 130 Squadron RSAF, a unit that has called RAAF Base Pearce home for more than 30 years,” Wing Commander Neilsen said.

“RAAF Base Pearce has had to be agile to ensure EFD and local operations remained both safe and efficient.

“We have definitely built on experience gained from previous detachments – we better understand each other’s needs and limitations, and have streamlined planning and execution processes.”

A community engagement on September 30 allowed invited members from the local communities to view the aircraft up close and meet the personnel.

Detachment Commander RSAF EFD Lieutenant Colonel Keith Chiang described how the EFD had been invaluable for training and preparedness.

“Operating out of RAAF Base Pearce has provided us with access to valuable airspace for flying training,” Lieutenant Colonel Chiang said.

“The success of this detachment is thanks to the strong support from the team at RAAF Base Pearce and the local community, made possible by the close and longstanding bilateral relationship between Australia and Singapore.”