Indonesia and Australia have commenced the Keris Woomera 26 joint military exercise in Banyuwangi, East Java, aimed at enhancing bilateral defense and security cooperation. This significant military collaboration, taking place from October 12 to 20, involves approximately 1,235 personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and 1,000 personnel from the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Vice Admiral Justin Jones, the Australian Joint Operations Commander, emphasized that the exercise underscores the longstanding partnership between the two nations, which is founded on trust, mutual respect, and close cooperation. He highlighted Indonesia as an important and enduring partner, noting that this event represents Australia’s largest overseas military training activity of the year.
The Keris Woomera 26 exercise includes a range of activities such as amphibious landings, live-fire drills, and coordinated maritime operations involving both countries’ naval forces. The primary objectives are to improve joint operational capabilities, address regional deployment challenges, and strengthen deterrence against military coercion in the Indo-Pacific region.
Australia has deployed several key assets for the exercise, including the amphibious ship HMAS Choules, HMAS Perth, and HMAS Stalwart, as well as C-130J Hercules aircraft, PC-21 aircraft, M777 howitzers, and HIMARS launchers. Meanwhile, Indonesia has contributed a Diponegoro-class corvette, artillery, multiple-launch rocket systems, Bell 412 and Panther helicopters, and Super Tucano aircraft.
The Keris Woomera exercise, first held in 2024, occurs every two years and serves as a strategic opportunity for both countries to enhance military coordination and regional security cooperation. By participating in such joint military exercises, Indonesia and Australia aim to bolster their defense ties and demonstrate a unified front in maintaining stability and security in the region.