The Islamic Sultanate of Brunei is a small oil rich nation of approximately 485,000 people. It consists of two unconnected sections which are physically separated by Malaysia, making it almost an enclave within Malaysia. Approximately 97% of the population live in the larger western region. Brunei is an absolute monarchy whereby the Sultan of Brunei is the Head of State as well as the Head of Government. He also holds several ministerial positions such as Finance Minister and Defence Minister. In addition, the Sultan of Brunei is one of the world's wealthiest individuals. Brunei's economy is almost totally dependent on itsvastreserves ofpetroleumandnatural gas. Increases in oil and gas prices during the Ukraine conflict has recently bolstered Brunei's revenues. However, the long-term sustainability of the economy is questionable.
The Royal Brunei Armed Forces was formed on the 31st May 1961 and consists of the Royal Brunei Land Forces, the Royal Brunei Navy, and the Royal Brunei Air Force. While Brunei has a relatively small military capability, the nation is host to both British and Singapore military bases. Brunei and Australia have a longstanding military relationship dating back to 1945. Brunei contributes to Exercise INDO-PACIFIC ENDEAVOUR (IPE) which began in 2017 and has been conducted annually since. The most recent exercise (IPE 2022) involved the demonstration of a joint amphibious beach assault at Penanjong Beach.