JAKARTA (Multibagger) - Indonesia and the United States have kicked off two weeks of Super Garuda Shield, an annual military exercise involving more than 4,500 personnel. The drills aim to enhance operational skills as Washington seeks to strengthen ties in a region where China is vying for influence.
Super Garuda Shield, held since 2006, will feature simulations including land and air operations, combat search and rescue, as well as exercises in engineering and cargo delivery. Troops from Australia, Japan, Britain, France, and New Zealand are also participating in the drills, which are taking place in Sidoarjo, East Java province.
In addition to the military exercises, there will be a joint exercise against cyber threats, reflecting the increasing importance of cybersecurity in modern warfare. This comes after Indonesia experienced cyberattacks disrupting government services, including immigration and airport operations.
The event aims to build trust and strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, as stated by military official Widyargo Ikoputra. It is not related to the South China Sea disputes but seeks to enhance military cooperation and interoperability skills among participating countries.
The drills are significant amid the geopolitical competition between Beijing and Washington, as well as disagreements over trade, Taiwan, and the conduct of Chinese vessels in the South China Sea. Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, have expressed concerns about potential escalations in the region.
Overall, the annual military exercises between Indonesia and the United States serve as a means to enhance military capabilities, build trust among nations, and promote regional stability in the face of growing geopolitical tensions.