US, Indonesia announce major defense cooperation partnership to strengthen Indo-Pacific security

The US and Indonesia on Monday announced the establishment of a new major defense cooperation partnership, a framework aimed at expanding bilateral military ties and enhancing regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

In a joint statement, the US Defense Department and Indonesia's Defense Ministry said the agreement reflects “decades of cooperation” and a shared commitment to peace, security, and respect for sovereignty.

"Both countries recognize each other as important partners and reaffirm their commitment to cooperation based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and shared interest in regional peace and stability," the statement said.

Per the statement, the pact rests on three core pillars: military modernization and capacity building, training and professional military education, and exercises and operational cooperation.

Earlier Monday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with his Indonesian counterpart Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin at the Pentagon to discuss efforts to boost the bilateral defense relationship.

"This new partnership will serve as a framework to enhance operational collaboration, partner on defense modernization, and increase training and interoperability," Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement after their meeting.