Indonesia is signalling a major shift in its defence strategy as it prepares to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi this week. Senior Indonesian officials say Jakarta wants India to play a much larger role in the modernisation of its armed forces, moving beyond traditional arms purchases toward technology transfer, co‑production and joint capability development.
The message, delivered ahead of Modi’s July 6–8 visit, reflects growing strategic alignment between the two Indo‑Pacific partners at a time when regional security concerns are rising. Indonesia’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi, Yudho Sasongko, told ANI that the country’s military modernisation programme offers “opportunities for countries capable of supporting indigenous defence manufacturing and technological collaboration.” India, with its expanding defence‑industrial base, fits that requirement.
Officials say discussions between the two defence establishments are already underway, with commitments to expand defence‑industrial cooperation. Reports have hinted at the possibility of a BrahMos missile deal, though Sasongko declined to comment on specific procurement issues. Even without major purchases, both sides are deepening ties through naval exercises, military exchanges, training programmes, joint research and technology partnerships.
Diplomatically, Indonesia has reiterated its support for ASEAN centrality, welcoming India’s continued backing for the regional grouping. Jakarta views India as a key ASEAN partner and an important stakeholder in shaping the wider Indo‑Pacific. Indonesian diplomats emphasise that any regional security architecture must reinforce ASEAN’s central role — a position India has consistently supported.
Modi’s visit is expected to place strong emphasis on maritime security, defence cooperation, critical minerals, and digital partnerships, all of which are becoming essential pillars of India’s Indo‑Pacific outreach. For Indonesia, bringing India deeper into its defence modernisation plans signals a desire for long‑term strategic stability and a more balanced regional order.