Indonesia, the United States, and other countries begin annual military exercises

Indonesia and the United States, along with more than 12 allied countries including Britain, France, and Japan, have launched annual joint military exercises aimed at enhancing defense capabilities and deterring any aggression in the Asia-Pacific region. The annual drills, known as “Garuda Shield” or “Super Garuda Shield,” have been held for nearly two decades. Approximately 4,700 soldiers will participate in the exercises across several locations, including the Indonesian islands of Sumatra and Borneo, until September 11. East Timor, Italy, Thailand, and other countries have sent observers to the training. In this context, Patrick J. Ellis, commander of the U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division, emphasized that these exercises are crucial “for building the human infrastructure that maintains security in the Indo-Pacific region.” Speaking at a military school in Bandung, East Java, where the drills officially began, he added that “the security landscape in the Indo-Pacific is complex, and readiness cannot be enhanced only after a crisis erupts.” He noted that the exercises would include special forces infiltration training and cyber defense drills. Last April, Indonesia upgraded its defense cooperation with the United States to a “major defense partnership.” Commenting on this, Patrick J. Ellis stated that it demonstrates the role of the world’s third-largest democracy as a “cornerstone of regional stability.” Notably, later this year, Jakarta and Washington will conduct joint military exercises under the name “Hibbing Garuda,” a recurring drill focused on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and military cooperation.