Indonesia and Australia have commenced the Keris Woomera 26 joint military exercise in Banyuwangi, East Java, enhancing bilateral defense and security cooperation. Running from October 12 to 20, the exercise involves around 1,235 Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel and 1,000 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel.
Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Australian Joint Operations Commander, emphasized that the exercise highlights the robust partnership between the two nations, underscored by trust, mutual respect, and collaboration. He noted that Indonesia stands as a vital and enduring partner, and this drill marks Australia’s largest overseas military training activity this year.
The Keris Woomera exercise includes activities such as amphibious landings, live-fire drills, and coordinated maritime operations between the two countries’ navies. These operations aim to bolster joint operational capabilities, tackle regional deployment challenges, and reinforce deterrence against military coercion in the Indo-Pacific region.
For the exercise, Australia has deployed several military assets, including the amphibious ship HMAS Choules, HMAS Perth, HMAS Stalwart, C-130J Hercules aircraft, PC-21 aircraft, M777 howitzers, and HIMARS launchers. Indonesia contributes with a Diponegoro-class corvette, artillery, multiple-launch rocket systems, Bell 412 and Panther helicopters, and Super Tucano aircraft.
First held in 2024, Keris Woomera is conducted biennially, providing a platform for both countries to enhance military coordination and regional security cooperation. This exercise serves as a testament to the evolving defense relationship between Indonesia and Australia, aiming to address mutual security concerns and promote stability in the region.