Naval forces of the United States and Singapore have begun an annual maritime exercise in waters off the city-state's coast.

The 17th Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training exercise began with an opening ceremony at Singapore's Changi Naval Base Monday. The drills are focused on maritime operations including sea, air and surface warfare.

Singapore will deploy naval helicopters in this year's maneuvers for the first time since CARAT began.

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet says the training will also involve a culinary exchange and a joint community service action project.

In addition to Singapore, the U.S. Navy is involved in CARAT exercises with the navies of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. Vietnam participates in a CARAT-like skills exchange.