JAKARTA, Indonesia: Indonesia and Russia are set to conduct their first joint naval exercises from November 4-8 in the Java Sea near Surabaya, marking a new milestone in military cooperation between the two countries.
AFP reports the Indonesian navy announced the drills as part of Indonesia’s increased diplomatic and strategic engagement with Russia, particularly under the leadership of recently inaugurated President Prabowo Subianto, who aims for a more assertive foreign policy.
Russia plans to participate with a fleet comprising three corvette-class warships, a tanker, a tugboat, and a military helicopter. Russian ambassador Sergey Tolchenov confirmed the drills, emphasizing that they are not aimed at any other power but rather focus on improving the operational capabilities of both fleets.
Indonesia, which maintains a neutral stance on global conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has continued to call for peaceful resolutions to international disputes.
Recently, Indonesia has also initiated the process of joining BRICS, aiming to strengthen its position on the global stage alongside Russia, China, and other emerging economies. These developments reflect Indonesia’s evolving foreign policy, as the country balances relations with major global powers.
