The event was announced last August, and this will be the first bilateral exercises between the two countries’ naval forces since Indonesia gained its independence 79 years ago.
In his speech at the opening ceremony of the exercises, Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tulchinov said: “Military cooperation is a natural part of relations between the two countries, and I am particularly pleased to note that there are very deep and sincere relations between the Indonesian and Russian naval forces. There is no doubt that the naval exercises that will take place these days in Surabaya and the Java Sea will become a good confirmation of the strong communication and friendship between our two peoples.”
It is noteworthy that the joint “Uruda 2024” exercises will include two stages: at the naval base – the port of Surabaya, and the second at sea in the waters of the Java Sea.
Earlier, a detachment of ships of the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet docked at the port of Tanjung Perak in the Indonesian city of Surabaya on the eve of the start of bilateral maneuvers.
The Russian naval group includes 3 frigates: “Gromki,” “Ryzky,” and “Aldar Tsidenchapov,” as well as the support and supply ship “Pechenga.”
Commander of the Russian ship group, Alexei Antsiferov, confirmed that the joint naval exercises with Indonesia are a signal to Indonesia’s unfriendly neighbors of our readiness to provide assistance.
Source: Novosti
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**Interview with Naval Expert Dr. Anna Putri**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Putri. As we just witnessed, the Indonesian and Russian navies conducted their first joint drills in the Java Sea. What are your thoughts on the implications of this military cooperation for regional stability?
**Dr. Anna Putri:** Thank you for having me. This is indeed a significant move in terms of military diplomacy. These exercises symbolize a deepening of Indonesian-Russian ties, which could shift the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. The engagement of Russian naval forces might be seen as a counterbalance to Western influence and could create tension with Indonesia’s neighbors.
**Interviewer:** That’s an interesting point. The Russian commander mentioned that these drills serve as a signal to Indonesia’s “unfriendly neighbors.” Do you think this type of military collaboration could escalate tensions in the region, particularly between Indonesia and its neighbors?
**Dr. Anna Putri:** Absolutely, it could. While Indonesia traditionally promotes a non-aligned stance, joint military exercises with Russia might raise concerns in neighboring countries like Australia and Singapore. Some may interpret this as Indonesia leaning toward a more militarized alignement, potentially leading to an arms race or increased military posturing in the area.
**Interviewer:** Certainly a complex situation. Considering Indonesia’s long-held non-alignment policy, how do you think domestic public opinion will react to this partnership with Russia?
**Dr. Anna Putri:** There is a divide in public opinion. Some may see this as an opportunity for Indonesia to assert its sovereignty and strengthen its military capabilities, while others might be wary of aligning too closely with Russia given its global reputation. The government will need to communicate effectively to ensure the public sees this as a balanced approach to national security.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Putri. To all our readers, what do you think? Is Indonesia’s decision to engage in joint military exercises with Russia a step towards greater security, or does it risk inflaming tensions in the region? Let us know your thoughts!
