Russian warships arrive in Jakarta for joint drills

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A detachment of warships from Russia’s Pacific Fleet arrived at Tanjung Priok port in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Sunday, March 29, 2026, to participate in joint exercises with the Indonesian Navy.

Three Vessels to Participate in Exercises

The Russian naval unit consists of the corvette Gromky-335, the submarine Petropavlovsk Kamchatsky B-274, and the tugboat Andrey Stepanov. Representatives from the Russian Embassy in Indonesia and local maritime authorities welcomed the ships upon arrival.

Did You Know? Indonesia and Russia marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations with a port visit and joint exercises involving Russian Pacific Fleet ships in May 2025.

Joint Drills Scheduled for Next Week

According to a statement from the Russian Embassy, joint drills focusing on maneuvering and communication are planned for the coming days. These exercises aim to enhance interoperability between the two fleets. Indonesian Navy personnel and local residents are expected to tour the Russian vessels during the visit.

Growing Russia-Indonesia Defense Ties

This visit reflects Russia’s efforts to expand its military partnerships in Southeast Asia. Indonesia maintains a non-aligned foreign policy, engaging with multiple global powers while addressing regional security concerns. The joint drills represent a continuation of existing military cooperation between Moscow and Jakarta.

Expert Insight: The deepening naval cooperation between Russia and Indonesia is a notable development, given Indonesia’s traditionally neutral stance. These exercises likely aim to build practical skills and demonstrate a shared commitment to regional stability, but also signal a broadening of Russia’s influence in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ships are part of the Russian detachment?

The Russian detachment includes the corvette Gromky-335, the submarine Petropavlovsk Kamchatsky B-274, and the tugboat Andrey Stepanov.

When are the joint drills expected to take place?

The joint drills are expected to take place next week.

Will the public be able to visit the Russian ships?

Yes, the Russian Embassy confirmed that the ships will be open for public visits on Tuesday, March 31, from 10 a.m. To 4 p.m. Jakarta time, with registration required.

As Russia and Indonesia continue to strengthen their naval ties, what impact might this have on the broader geopolitical landscape of the Asia-Pacific region?

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