SINGAPORE : The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force has been conferred Singapore's military award, the Meritorious Service Medal.

Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Chalit Pukbhasuk received the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) or Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) award from Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean on Friday.

The Commander received the award in recognition of his contributions to bilateral relations between the Royal Thai Air Force and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).

The two air forces have long-standing relations, and engage in a wide spectrum of activities. These include bilateral and multilateral exercises.

Before the investiture, the Commander also called on Minister Teo and RSAF Chief, General Ng Chee Khern.

On December 19, Commander Chalit had officiated at the opening ceremony of Exercise Cope Tiger, an annual trilateral exercise between the Royal Thai Air Force, the RSAF and the United States Air Force.

Previous Royal Thai Air Force Chiefs who had received the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) in recent years included ACM Kongsak Vantana and ACM Sanan Tourtip. - CNA/ms