Indonesia and Russia Conduct Historic Joint Naval Exercises
Indonesia and Russia have embarked on their first-ever joint naval exercises, marking a significant shift in Indonesia's foreign policy. The exercises, which commenced on November 4, 2024, will take place over five days, split into two phases at a naval base in Surabaya and in the Java Sea. This collaboration involves three corvette-class warships, a medium-sized tanker, a military helicopter, and a tugboat from Russia, as stated by the Indonesian Navy.
The move is seen as part of President Prabowo Subianto's broader strategy to enhance Indonesia's global presence and strengthen its alliances with major powers. During his visit to Moscow in July 2024, Subianto emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with Russia, referring to it as a 'great friend.' This visit also included discussions about a $1.1 billion deal for Russian fighter jets, originally agreed upon in 2018, despite the potential for US sanctions.
Implications of the Naval Exercises
The joint exercises come at a time when trade relations between Indonesia and Russia are substantial, estimated at billions of dollars. However, arms imports have seen a decline in recent years, attributed to Western sanctions on Russia following its actions in Crimea and Ukraine. Indonesia's foreign policy remains neutral, as evidenced by its refusal to comply with Western demands to exclude Russia from the G20 summit it hosted in 2022.
As the largest economy in Southeast Asia, Indonesia's decision to engage in military exercises with Russia signals a potential reorientation of its defense strategy. This partnership could influence regional dynamics, particularly as ASEAN countries have previously engaged in joint military exercises with Russia, although Indonesia has not participated in bilateral exercises until now.
