On Tuesday, Singapore and Australia reached an agreement to explore enhanced access to each other’s defense facilities, which includes facilitating more frequent visits by Australian personnel to Singapore’s air force and navy bases.

The two nations are expected to announce an upgrade to their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership next year, which will encompass plans for deeper military cooperation, as stated by Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles during his official visit to Singapore.

“Both nations have committed to exploring opportunities for greater access to our defense facilities,” Marles remarked at a joint press conference attended by the foreign, defense, and trade ministers from both countries.

“This represents a significant advancement in what is already a comprehensive and distinctive relationship.”

Singapore has historically allowed access to Australian naval vessels and aircraft, while for three decades, the city-state has been sending its fighter pilots to Australia for training purposes.

When asked to clarify what increased defense access would involve, Marles responded, “We aim to identify ways to enhance the frequency of visits from both our navy and air force.”

Singapore’s Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen indicated that Singapore would seek to expand training opportunities for its airmen and soldiers.