Russia and Indonesia stage historic naval exercises

The maneuvers began on November 4 and will last four days. These are the first bilateral naval exercises of the two countries since Indonesia gained independence 79 years ago.

The command of the Indonesian navy and Russian Rear Admiral Aleksey Sysuyev attended the opening ceremony. Military personnel exchanged gifts: the Russians received hats with Indonesian navy symbols and commemorative coins, while representatives of the Pacific Fleet presented their counterparts with souvenirs related to Russian naval history and chocolates.

"Military cooperation is a natural part of our interstate relations. I am particularly pleased to note the very deep and sincere relations between the Indonesian and Russian navies. The maritime exercises currently being organized in Surabaya and the Java Sea will strongly confirm the friendship between our nations," said the Russian ambassador to Indonesia, Sergey Tolchenov.

Russia sent two corvettes, a tanker, a helicopter, and a tugboat for the maneuvers. Meanwhile, according to unofficial sources, the Indonesian fleet includes four submarines, seven frigates, 24 corvettes, 24 missile boats, and about 160 patrol boats.

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, remains committed to its non-alignment strategy despite pressure from the West, which seeks Jakarta's support on various issues, including the conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine.

Nonetheless, Prabowo Dubianto, the president of Indonesia, elected in February, has expressed his desire to deepen his country's alliances and ensure a more significant role on the international stage. In July, he visited Moscow, where he met with Vladimir Putin.