"This year's exercise involves combined land, sea and air assets from the SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) and US forces, including 10 ships and fixed and rotary wing aircraft," the defence departments from the two countries said.

The opening ceremony for Co-operation Afloat Readiness and Trainingwas held on Monday morning at Changi Naval Base.

"These exercises have contributed significantly to the military co-operation between both navies," the two countries said.

"This year, the SAF and US forces will also engage in anti-terrorism exercises."

Singapore is a key Asian ally in the US fight against global terrorism and backed Washington in the Iraq war.

The two countries also enjoy a close trading relationship that was strengthened further with the recent signing of a bilateral free trade pact, Washington's first with an Asian country.

The US forces participating in CARAT are navy and marine personnel.

WAR.WIRE