WELLINGTON, July 6 (Xinhua) -- Members of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will exercise alongside the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) during Exercise LION ZEAL set for July 10-14, 2006, said New Zealand Defense Force Thursday.

    A press release said the exercise, which is based out of Devonport Naval Base, nearing Tasmania, consists of both a sea and shore phase and will allow both Navies to develop closer ties and improve interoperability.

    The aim of Exercise LION ZEAL is to strengthen the relationship and enhance mutual co-operation and understanding between the RSN and RNZN, said New Zealand Defense Force.

    Exercise LION ZEAL is an annual bilateral exercise and was first conducted in 1999.

    Ten personnel from the RSN will participate in the exercise and will work alongside members of the RNZN.

    The first phase of the exercise will be conducted on shore and will see the two Navies conduct professional exchanges and a one-day planning and tactical gaming exercise.

    The second phase will be conducted at sea and will provide the RSN the opportunity to observe some of the RNZN capabilities including the Navy's SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopter. Enditem