Indonesian Navy Holds Joint Exercise with Friendly Nations in the US
Indonesian Navy Marine Corps troops are sharpening their aerial combat and close-quarter battle capabilities by participating in joint exercises with partner nations, including Malaysia, Fiji, Peru, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines, in the United States.
The activity is part of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 multilateral exercises, currently taking place at the Marine Corps Training Area Bellows in Hawaii, USA.
The Head of the Marine Corps Information Service, Colonel (Mar) Rana Karyana, confirmed in Jakarta on Monday that the activities have been underway since Friday (26/5).
Rana explained that during the Air Assault operations, Indonesian Navy Marines are simulating aerial assault operations using MV-22 Osprey aircraft. They are following attack scenarios ranging from landings to ground combat operations.
“The aim of this activity is to enhance rapid infiltration capabilities via air, tactical mobility, and the seizure of strategic objectives with aerial support,” said Rana.
Meanwhile, for the Close Quarter Battle (CQB) training, Indonesian Marine personnel and soldiers from other RIMPAC participating nations are focusing on honing close-range combat skills.
“The CQB training focuses on improving close-combat abilities, including room clearing techniques, team coordination, rapid decision-making, and tactical actions when facing threats in urban environments,” he explained.
Rana continued by stating that the entire series of exercises has proceeded smoothly, noting that the Marine personnel have successfully delivered their best performance in this international arena.
Rana ensured that his personnel remain prepared to undertake all scheduled joint training sessions within the RIMPAC programme. They have undergone various preparatory exercises to ensure peak performance at the RIMPAC event.
One of the completed exercises included zeroing and marksmanship training at the Jusman Puger Shooting Range in Cilandak, South Jakarta, on Monday (8/6).
Furthermore, personnel also conducted combat operation training at the Pondok Cabe airfield in Tangerang on Saturday (20/6). During these sessions, they practised air mobility schemes and fast-roping techniques.
Air mobility involves the movement of troops to combat objectives via the air, while fast-roping is a technique used to descend from a hovering helicopter using a rope.