The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the United States Armed Forces, together with military personnel from 11 other countries, have commenced the 2025 Super Garuda Shield exercise. The opening ceremony was held at the Naval Staff and Command College (Seskoal) in Jakarta. This multinational exercise will take place across Jakarta, Baturaja in South Sumatra, and Dabo Singkep in Lampung from August 25 to September 4, 2025. Over 6,000 troops are participating from Indonesia, the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Brazil, South Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, and France.
Super Garuda Shield is a joint military exercise aimed at improving interoperability among participating armed forces and building mutual trust. The event also seeks to enhance collective readiness. First established as a bilateral training exchange between Indonesia and the United States in 2006 under the name Garuda Shield, it expanded in 2022 to include more partner nations.
Commander of United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Samuel J. Paparo stated at the opening ceremony: “Super Garuda Shield has grown into one of the region’s premier exercises… whether its airborne operations, littoral and jungle operations, maritime maneuver, or staff planning, this exercise builds interoperability and resilience. It ensures that, as a team of nations, we can meet regional challenges and keep the Indo-Pacific free and open.”
Deputy Commander of Indonesian Armed Force (TNI) General Tandyo Budi Revita said: “The Super Garuda Shield Joint Exercise 2025 is not merely a military drill. It is a platform of trust, a bridge of friendship, and a beacon of our shared commitment to safeguard peace and stability.”
U.S. Charge d’Affaires Ambassador Peter Haymond added: “Super Garuda Shield exemplifies the strength of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Indonesia and the unwavering commitment of all participating nations to strengthen regional security and stability. Each year this exercise grows in importance and reflects our shared dedication to peace and security.”
The exercise includes training activities such as engineering construction projects; staff exercises; airborne operations; jungle training; air assault drills; amphibious maneuvers; large field exercises with combined arms live fire; as well as High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live fire events. These efforts focus on joint planning and cooperation intended to increase each nation's ability to contribute to combined defense operations within Indonesia’s archipelago.
Training during Super Garuda Shield covers various climates and terrains. This provides participants with experience relevant for overseas contingencies while fostering cultural awareness among service members.