An Indian Army delegation from the 55th Army Higher Command Course of the Army War College visited Indonesia’s National Armed Forces International Cooperation Centre (TNI-ICC) in Jakarta on November 11, 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening military-to-military engagement and expanding defence cooperation between the two countries.
The visit provided an opportunity for Indian military officers to gain a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s national defence and security framework while exchanging perspectives with senior officials of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). The engagement also focused on existing bilateral defence cooperation arrangements and identifying potential areas for future collaboration.
The Indian delegation was received by Brigadier General TNI Perry Sandhi Sitompul, Commander of the TNI-ICC, along with senior officers from the Indonesian Armed Forces. During the interaction, Indonesian military officials delivered a comprehensive briefing on the country’s National Defence and Security Strategy, highlighting the role of the TNI in nation-building, maintaining national stability and safeguarding the country’s security interests.
The discussions also provided a platform for both sides to review existing mechanisms of military cooperation and explore opportunities to further strengthen institutional ties. The engagement enabled officers attending the Army Higher Command Course to develop a broader understanding of Indonesia’s strategic priorities, security environment and defence institutions.
The visit reflects the growing importance of professional military exchanges in strengthening India’s defence relationships with Southeast Asian countries. Such interactions allow military officers from both nations to share operational experiences, understand each other’s strategic perspectives and identify opportunities for closer cooperation in an evolving regional security environment.
The latest engagement follows the conclusion of the India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI 2026, which was conducted in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, from October 27 to November 5. The exercise brought together personnel from India’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Indonesia’s Special Forces for joint training focused on improving operational coordination and interoperability.
The training covered challenging operational environments, including jungle, island and coastal terrain. It also involved specialised activities designed to strengthen tactical coordination, combat readiness and the ability of both forces to operate together in demanding conditions. The exercise concluded with a joint validation activity that demonstrated the capabilities and coordination developed by the participating contingents.
The continued engagement between the two armed forces highlights the expanding scope of India-Indonesia defence cooperation. Both countries have increasingly emphasised military exchanges, joint exercises and strategic dialogue as important elements of their bilateral relationship.
India and Indonesia share common interests in maintaining regional stability, strengthening maritime security and promoting a peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific. Their geographical positions and strategic interests make defence cooperation particularly significant, especially as security challenges in the wider region continue to evolve.
The visit by the 55th Army Higher Command Course delegation represents another step towards strengthening professional military understanding between New Delhi and Jakarta. Through continued institutional engagement, joint training and strategic discussions, both countries are seeking to build stronger defence partnerships and enhance cooperation across the wider Indo-Pacific region.