Russian and Indonesian navies hold first bilateral exercise

On November 4, the Russian and Indonesian militaries began their first joint naval exercise in the Java Sea.

According to Sputnik news agency, the Orruda 2024 exercise took place in Surabaya, Indonesia, and the Java Sea from November 4-8. This was the first bilateral exercise between the navies of the two countries since Indonesia gained independence 79 years ago.

The Hero of the Russian Federation frigate Aldar Tsydenzhapov at port in Surabaya on November 3.

The name of the exercise is a combination of two bird species: the Russian eagle and the Indonesian mythical Garuda, embodying strength and courage.

A task force of warships from the Russian Pacific Fleet docked at Tanjung Perak port in Surabaya on November 3rd. The group consisted of three frigates: Gromkiy, Rezkiy, and Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov, and the support ship Pechenga.

Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergey Tolchenov participated in the welcoming ceremony for the ship in Surabaya along with Indonesian Navy commanders. The Ambassador emphasized that the exercise is a regular event for partner countries and is not aimed at any third party.

Commander of the Russian Pacific Fleet Alexey Antsiferov announced that the exercise would demonstrate Russia's readiness to support Indonesia and expressed his belief that the operation would be held annually and expanded in scale.

Russia still has dangerous fighting forces that have yet to be deployed.

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, maintains a neutral foreign policy. Newly inaugurated President Prabowo Subianto visited Moscow in July for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the visit, Prabowo stated that he considers Russia a good friend and wishes to strengthen relations with Russia, according to AFP.

Indonesia has billions of dollars in trade relations with Russia and is a major importer of weapons from Moscow. Indonesia has a $1.14 billion contract to purchase 11 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia. According to The Diplomat , in May, Indonesian Ambassador to Russia Jose Tavares confirmed that the contract remained in effect despite unverified reports that it had been terminated due to US sanctions threats.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hai-quan-nga-va-indonesia-lan-dau-tap-tran-song-phuong-185241104150951678.htm