Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian and Australian marines took part in an amphibious assault simulation in East Java under the Keris Woomera 2026 joint exercise between the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
According to a press statement issued on Friday, spokesperson for the Indonesian Navy Marine Corps Colonel Rana Karyana said the drills took place at Banongan Beach, Situbondo, East Java, on Thursday (Oct. 15).
"The training aims to hone marine officers' tactical capabilities, resilience, and professionalism, as well as coordination among maritime, land, and air forces to support the operation in achieving success," Karyana said.
During the joint drills, Australian and Indonesian forces simulated a sea-to-land infiltration operation targeting enemy territory, beginning with a reconnaissance mission before proceeding to the assault phase.
The marine combat simulation between Indonesian and Australian forces proceeded smoothly and safely, says Karyana, adding that Indonesian marines deployed for the drills belonged to the 2nd Marine Infantry Brigade.
Related news: Indonesian, Australian armies hold joint exercise in Central Java
Colonel Karyana expressed hope that joint drills would serve not only as a test for Indonesian and Australian officers, but also as a means of strengthening friendship between the two countries.
The 2026 Keris Woomera joint drills run from October 12 to 20 in Banyuwangi, East Java, involving about 1,235 TNI personnel and 1,000 ADF personnel.
ADF Joint Operations Commander Vice Admiral Justin Jones described Indonesia as an important and enduring partner for Australia, noting that the exercise represented Australia's largest overseas military training activity this year.
The exercise includes an amphibious landing in East Java, live-fire drills, and maritime operations integration between the two countries' navies.
This year, the ADF deployed the Australian Amphibious Force aboard HMAS Choules, along with HMAS Perth and HMAS Stalwart.
The Royal Australian Air Force's C-130J Hercules and No. 4 Squadron PC-21 aircraft also took part, alongside Australian Army M777 howitzers and High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers.
The TNI deployed a Diponegoro-class corvette, artillery systems, multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS), Bell 412 and Panther helicopters, as well as Super Tucano aircraft.
Related news: Indonesia, Australia hold joint military exercise in Banyuwangi
Translator: Walda Marison, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
Copyright © ANTARA 2026