Indonesian and Australian troops train in wilderness survival

Situbondo (ANTARA) – Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) conducted wilderness survival training at the Marine Corps Combat Training Centre (Puslatpurmar) 5 Baluran in Situbondo regency, East Java, on Friday.

In a written statement, the two countries’ militaries said the training was part of the Keris Woomera joint exercise, which runs from 10 to 20 October 2026.

The training aims to sharpen troops’ ability to survive in the open, particularly when facing limited supplies and challenging terrain during military operations.

Troops from both countries learned how to identify plants, leaves and wildlife that could provide food, and how to distinguish them from species that are dangerous or unsuitable for consumption.

This knowledge is important in helping personnel make sound decisions and avoid poisoning or risks posed by wild animals when operating far from logistical support.

The wilderness survival exercise also provided an opportunity for the TNI and ADF to exchange knowledge on responding to emergencies in operational environments.

The activity highlights the TNI’s commitment to strengthening troops’ physical and mental resilience and professionalism, while also serving as military diplomacy to deepen defence cooperation with Australia.