JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – A landmark military exercise, known as Orruda 2024, officially began on November 4, 2024, marking the first-ever joint naval drill between Russia and Indonesia. Held in Surabaya, Indonesia, the exercise is set to run from November 4 to 8.

The drill involves naval maneuvers in both the Surabaya port and the Java Sea. This marks a significant milestone in military relations between the two nations, especially after 79 years of Indonesian independence.

The joint exercise, which is being hailed as the largest of its kind, represents a strategic collaboration between the Russian Navy and Indonesia’s TNI-AL (Indonesian Navy). Prior to the commencement of the drill, Russian and Indonesian naval personnel exchanged symbolic gifts. Indonesian sailors presented their Russian counterparts with caps bearing the Indonesian Navy emblem, while the Russians reciprocated with chocolates and commemorative items marking the rich history of the Russian Navy.

According to reports from Russian news outlet Gazeta.ru, the military exercise is more than just a display of naval capabilities. Russia has openly stated that this drill serves as a “lesson” to its neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that may not be considered friendly. Alexei Antsiferov, commander of the Russian Pacific Fleet detachment, remarked that this collaboration is not just about joint operations but also sends a clear message about the strength and unity of the participating countries.

The significance of Orruda 2024 goes beyond tactical exercises. It underscores Russia’s growing interest in bolstering its presence in Southeast Asia, a region that has seen increasing competition between global powers. As tensions rise in the South China Sea and other parts of the Asia-Pacific, Russia appears to be positioning itself as a key player in the region’s security landscape. Antsiferov’s comments emphasize Russia’s readiness to extend assistance to any regional partner in need, further solidifying its role as a security ally.

Indonesia, too, has made its intentions clear. The country is actively working to raise its profile on the global stage through military alliances and exercises with major powers like Russia. This exercise is part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to assert itself as an influential player in global defense affairs. Indonesia has also hinted at future collaborations with other global military powers, demonstrating its commitment to strengthening defense ties and promoting peace in the region.

The Russia-Indonesia partnership is expected to evolve beyond just joint military exercises. As both countries continue to expand their defense cooperation, the focus will likely shift to advanced technology transfers, military training, and shared intelligence. In particular, Russia’s expertise in submarine warfare, air defense systems, and naval technology presents an opportunity for Indonesia to modernize its own military forces, which could have long-term implications for regional security.

In addition to the joint naval drills, Russia has also sent one of its most advanced submarines, the B-588 Ufa, to participate in the Orruda 2024 exercise. Known as one of the quietest submarines in the world, the Ufa’s presence is being seen as a demonstration of Russia’s advanced military technology.

This move highlights Russia’s commitment to strengthening its defense partnerships in the region while simultaneously showcasing its capabilities.

 

The growing military cooperation between Russia and Indonesia has potential diplomatic and strategic consequences for Southeast Asia. While countries like China and the United States have longstanding military ties with regional nations, Russia’s entry into the picture could alter the balance of power.

Analysts believe that such drills, while primarily focused on military preparedness, also carry a significant political message to other countries in the region, urging them to reconsider their security alignments.

In the broader context of regional geopolitics, Indonesia’s deepening military ties with Russia are seen as a balancing act. While the nation maintains strategic partnerships with Western powers like the United States, its military cooperation with Russia indicates a more diversified approach to its defense needs.

As tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea and other areas intensify, Indonesia’s role as a neutral player in these disputes, backed by a strong and diverse military network, becomes increasingly important (Uki Ruknuddin)