Indonesian Navy sends warship, elite troops to Russia for drills

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has deployed a warship and elite special forces units to Vladivostok, Russia, to participate in the joint bilateral combat exercise, Orruda 2026.

The deployment marks a significant continuation of defense cooperation between Jakarta and Moscow, according to Head of the Indonesian Navy Information Service (Kadispenal), First Admiral Tunggul during a press conference at the Navy Headquarters in Jakarta, on Monday.

"We are sending various elements to participate in Orruda 2026, including the KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332, helicopters, Kopaska (naval special warfare) troops, divers, and a specialized medical team," Admiral Tunggul stated.

The Navy's participation serves as a direct follow-up to the inaugural Orruda joint exercises, which were successfully hosted by Indonesia in the Java Sea in 2024.

Admiral Tunggul emphasized that the joint maneuvers are aimed at deepening military cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Russia.

He further noted that participating personnel have undergone rigorous selection and intense pre-deployment training, focusing on advanced combat maneuvers that will be demonstrated alongside Russian naval forces.

Currently, the KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332—a flagship SIGMA-class frigate—along with its specialized task group, is transiting international waters en route to the Russian Far East.

The high-profile international joint exercise is scheduled to run from July 7 to August 18, 2026.

Tunggul expressed high confidence that Indonesia’s prominent presence in the Vladivostok drills will solidify its partnership with the Russian military while simultaneously elevating the country’s defense profile and operational reputation on the global stage.

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Translator: Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa

Editor: Arie Novarina

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