Joint Naval Exercises Between Russia and Indonesia
First-Ever Joint Exercise in the Java Sea
The Russian and Indonesian navies have conducted their first-ever joint naval exercises in the Java Sea, focusing on freeing a vessel captured by terrorists and countering unmanned boats. The exercise, which started last week, is a significant development in the defense cooperation between the two countries.
Background
The joint exercise comes as newly inaugurated Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has pledged closer ties with Russia on defense, as part of Jakarta’s long-held non-aligned foreign policy. This move is seen as a strategic shift in Indonesia’s foreign policy, aimed at forging links with any country that can provide benefits to the nation.
Crew Training
The crews of the joint detachment of ships practiced various skills, including manoeuvring and communication, as well as inspection of suspicious vessels. The training also included counter-terrorism exercises, where the crews practiced freeing a vessel captured by terrorists. Additionally, the exercise involved countering unmanned boats with firing from automatic artillery mounts and small arms. Deck helicopters were used to practice joint tasks, further enhancing the interoperability between the two navies.
Participating Ships
From the Russian side, the corvettes Gromkiy, Rezkiy, Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov, and the medium sea tanker Pechenga participated in the drills. From the Indonesian side, the frigate I Gusti Ngurah Rai and the corvette Frans Kaisiepo took part.
Significance of the Exercise
The joint naval exercise between Russia and Indonesia is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marks a new chapter in defense cooperation between the two countries, which is expected to strengthen their bilateral ties. Secondly, the exercise demonstrates the navies’ ability to work together in responding to emerging security threats, such as terrorism and piracy. Finally, the exercise showcases the interoperability between the two navies, which is essential for effective joint operations.
Conclusion
The joint naval exercises between Russia and Indonesia are a testament to the growing defense cooperation between the two countries. The exercise has demonstrated the navies’ ability to work together in responding to emerging security threats, and has showcased their interoperability. As the two countries continue to strengthen their bilateral ties, such exercises will play a crucial role in enhancing their defense cooperation and promoting regional stability.
FAQs
Q: What was the focus of the joint naval exercises between Russia and Indonesia?
A: The exercise focused on freeing a vessel captured by terrorists and countering unmanned boats.
Q: Why did Indonesia decide to hold joint naval exercises with Russia?
A: Indonesia’s newly inaugurated President Prabowo Subianto has pledged closer ties with Russia on defense, as part of Jakarta’s long-held non-aligned foreign policy.
Q: Which ships participated in the joint exercises?
A: From the Russian side, the corvettes Gromkiy, Rezkiy, Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov, and the medium sea tanker Pechenga participated. From the Indonesian side, the frigate I Gusti Ngurah Rai and the corvette Frans Kaisiepo took part.
Q: What is the significance of the joint naval exercises?
A: The exercise demonstrates the navies’ ability to work together in responding to emerging security threats, and showcases their interoperability. It also marks a new chapter in defense cooperation between the two countries, which is expected to strengthen their bilateral ties.