Indonesia Pushes for Deeper ASEAN Military Cooperation

Indonesia has called for stronger military cooperation among Southeast Asian nations, proposing expanded joint training, practical defense initiatives and closer coordination to address regional security challenges.

Deputy Defense Minister Richard Taruli Horja Tampubolon outlined the proposals during the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines, on October 29.

Speaking on behalf of Indonesia's defense ministry, Tampubolon identified three priorities: strengthening exchanges between military personnel, translating defense cooperation into practical activities, and expanding partnerships based on mutual respect and shared benefits.

He highlighted Exercise Trident Resolve 2026, held in Indonesia's Banten province in September, as an example of multinational military cooperation.

The exercise brought together ASEAN members and partner countries, integrating humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, military medicine and cybersecurity into a single training framework.

According to Indonesia's Defense Ministry, it was the first ADMM-Plus exercise to combine three Expert Working Groups in one field training activity.

Tampubolon said such exercises could improve military capabilities while strengthening relationships between defense personnel and governments.

He also stressed that respect for national sovereignty and peaceful dispute resolution should remain central to regional defense cooperation.

Indonesia urged participating countries to use ADMM-Plus as a platform for sustained dialogue and practical cooperation amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

The proposals represent Jakarta's position on regional defense cooperation rather than a newly signed military agreement.