Indonesia Conducts Exercises with the United States!
On August 27, Indonesian media reported that Indonesia is now strengthening its defense cooperation with the United States and other countries - the country recently launched the "Sudirman Shield" exercises. Military personnel from the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and other countries participated in the exercises.
Russian media "Izvestia" reported more information about the exercises: as before, all parties discussed issues of improving operational compatibility. Military personnel from 13 countries shared their experience in carrying out various operations.
The exercises were held simultaneously on land and at sea. All parties conducted command and staff training, joint shooting, and amphibious assault exercises.
An American representative stated that the exercises are aimed at deterrence, although they did not reveal who the exercises specifically targeted. However, in the context of the United States' policy in the region, it is clear that the target country is China.
Indonesia's interpretation of the exercises differs. These exercises are to enhance military potential and build mutual trust.
This is the difference in both sides' approaches. Jakarta probably does not view these exercises from the perspective of countering China in the region. This is part of Indonesia's defense diplomacy, which has also involved interactions with military personnel from Russia and China recently.
Russian media believe that Indonesia is still actively developing cooperation with the United States and its allies, which is reflected in the exercises and the procurement of military equipment. Therefore, we should not expect Indonesia to completely shift to other countries. But to maintain a balanced foreign policy, Indonesia is likely to strengthen interactions with Chinese and Russian authorities.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841617948075016/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.