Indonesia Agrees to Strengthen Military Defence Cooperation with the US
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth agreed to raise the level of military cooperation between the two countries. From the meeting at the Pentagon, the US and Indonesia officially formed the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP).
According to the official website of the US Department of Defense, Tuesday (14/4/2026), the meeting took place at the Pentagon, the headquarters of the US Department of Defense in Virginia. This agreement marks a significant strengthening of bilateral defence relations between the two countries.
“The two leaders agreed to elevate the US-Indonesia bilateral defence relationship to a Major Defense Cooperation Partnership,” the statement read.
The MDCP will serve as the primary framework for expanding operational collaboration, supporting defence modernisation, and enhancing military training and interoperability between the two countries.
During the meeting, Hegseth also praised Indonesia’s role in the Board of Peace. Indonesia is seen as playing an important role in the International Stabilisation Force.
Both reaffirmed the importance of bilateral defence relations and discussed several strategic agendas, including increased special forces training and professional military education.
Sjafrie and Hegseth also committed to expanding the scope and complexity of bilateral and multilateral exercises, such as Super Garuda Shield. This step is expected to strengthen collective capabilities and promote the doctrine of peace through strength.
The US Department of Defense and the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (Kemhan RI) are expected to continue strengthening the long-term partnership and deepening cooperation under the MDCP umbrella.
Joint Statement on the Establishment of MDCP
Sjafrie and Hegseth also announced the establishment of the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) between the US and Indonesia. This announcement reflects Indonesia’s strategic position in maintaining regional stability while affirming the great potential of defence relations between the two countries.
The MDCP will be the main guide in advancing bilateral defence cooperation. Through this agreement, the two countries once again affirmed their joint commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
In the joint statement, it was mentioned that the MDCP has three main pillars implemented with principles of mutual respect and upholding national sovereignty:
Military modernisation and capacity enhancement;
Professional military training and education;
Exercises and operational cooperation.