TNI Headquarters: Routine Combat Exercises for Readiness
Chief of the TNI Headquarters Public Affairs Centre, Brigadier General Muhammad Nas, commented on the military’s combat exercises. He stated that these exercises are part of routine activities under the TNI’s readiness and professionalism development program.
“These activities are conducted to test the capabilities and readiness of personnel, equipment, command systems, and operational preparedness in line with the TNI’s core duties and each service branch’s responsibilities,” Nas told Tempo on Sunday, 31 May 2026.
Nas explained that exercises are conducted regardless of existing threats, as the TNI, as the nation’s defence instrument, must always be prepared for various potential threats. “Both conventional and non-conventional threats require continuous maintenance and enhancement of combat readiness,” he added.
In recent weeks, the TNI has conducted various combat exercises across its branches. The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) held joint exercises with the Pakistan Navy in Jakarta waters and the Java Sea on Friday, 22 May 2026. During the drills, both nations deployed their best naval assets. The Indonesian Navy deployed KRI Bung Karno-369, KRI Wiratno-379, and Panther HS-1311 helicopters, while the Pakistan Navy contributed vessels including PNS TAIMUR, PNS ASLAT, and the submarine PNSS HANGOR.
The two armed forces also conducted various training exercises, including tactical maneuvering, photo exercises (PHOTEX), and search and rescue exercises (SAREX) simulating maritime search and rescue operations.
Days later, the TNI AL conducted ship maneuvering and casualty evacuation exercises in Balikpapan waters, East Kalimantan, on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. According to a TNI Headquarters Public Affairs release on Thursday, 28 May 2026, the activity was carried out by elements of the Second Fleet Command’s Combat Group (Guspurla Koarmada II). “Exercises must continue to enhance the readiness of units and personnel, ensuring they are always prepared for field operations,” said Guspurla Koarmada II Commander, First Admiral Endra Hartono.
Chief of the Indonesian Navy Public Affairs Office (Kadispenal), First Admiral Tunggul, stated that the navy deployed two KRI vessels and one helicopter for the exercise. The vessels were KRI Bung Hatta-370 and KRI Teluk Kupang-519, along with HS-1302 helicopter. Tunggul added that the drills were conducted with safety standards to ensure the security of personnel and weapon systems.
The Indonesian Air Force will conduct Exercise Angkasa Yudha 2026 to test operational readiness, strengthen inter-unit coordination, and enhance capabilities against modern threat scenarios. Air Force Chief of Staff, Marshal TNI M. Tonny Harjono, led the planning meeting for the exercise at TNI Headquarters in Jakarta on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.