April 14, 2026 | 11:40 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth welcomed Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to the Pentagon on Monday, where both sides announced the establishment of a Major Defense Cooperation Partnership between the United States and Indonesia, according to the US Department of War.
The new framework is designed to advance bilateral defense cooperation to help maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Your visit demonstrates the importance that the War Department places on our growing security relationship — and it is active and growing — with Indonesia,” Hegseth said during the meeting, noting that both countries conduct more than 170 joint military exercises each year.
He added that the partnership “signifies the strength and potential” of bilateral defense ties, bolstering regional deterrence and advancing a shared commitment to “peace through strength.”
In his remarks, Sjafrie echoed the sentiment, saying Indonesia was committed to deepening long-term defense cooperation with the United States.
“Today, we are here as Indonesian delegates… with very great enthusiasm to continue to develop our defense relationship, which should be enduring for our next generation in Indonesia and the United States of America,” he said. “We are working on behalf of mutual respect and mutual benefit to enhance the value of our national interests.”
According to a joint statement, the agreement is built on three “foundational pillars”: military organization and capacity building, training and professional military education, and exercises and operational cooperation.
Under the framework, both countries will also explore advanced initiatives, including co-developing asymmetric capabilities, next-generation defense technologies across maritime, subsurface, and autonomous systems, as well as cooperation in maintenance, repair, and overhaul to improve operational readiness.
The two sides also agreed to expand joint special forces training to further strengthen military ties.
Hegseth also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s assistance in the recovery of remains of US service members.
“I appreciate your continued support in helping the United States find, return and protect the remains of our soldiers who fought alongside Indonesians during World War II,” he said.
He added that the agreement would support efforts by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to recover remains in Indonesia.
Both officials described the agreement as a “line of departure,” marking a new phase in bilateral defense cooperation.
“So, here’s to the next chapter and our new mission together for our great countries,” Hegseth said.
The United States and Indonesia have maintained diplomatic relations for more than 75 years, dating back to 1949 following Indonesia’s independence war.
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