Indonesia begins joint naval exercise with Russia in Vladivostok

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Navy is ready to participate in the bilateral Exercise Orruda 2026 with the Russian Federation Navy after the frigate KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332 arrived in Vladivostok on July 23, the navy said on Friday.

The arrival of KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332 was welcomed by Indonesian Navy Operations Assistant Rear Admiral Yayan Sofiyan, Intelligence Assistant Rear Admiral Andy Kriswanto, and representatives of the Russian Federation Navy, according to an official statement.

Yayan said Indonesia's participation in the exercise reflects its commitment to strengthening military cooperation and broader bilateral ties with Russia through defense diplomacy.

"The arrival of KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332 in Vladivostok for Exercise Orruda 2026 demonstrates Indonesia's commitment to deepening its long-standing relationship with Russia," Yayan said.

The exercise follows the inaugural round of bilateral naval drills held in Indonesia two years ago, continuing defense cooperation between the two countries.

Yayan said he expects the exercise to strengthen bilateral ties while expanding professional exchanges and enhancing the operational capabilities of both navies.

The joint exercise will include Maritime Interdiction Operations, focusing on maritime law enforcement and vessel interception, as well as drills involving Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) to develop tactics for countering threats posed by drones and autonomous surface craft.

The program will also feature Search and Rescue (SAR) exercises to improve maritime emergency response, alongside Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) drills designed to enhance procedures for emergency treatment and casualty evacuation during naval operations.