AUKUS: Rethinking Indonesia’s Naval Posture

China’s aggressive stance in the South China Sea, as well as the recent trilateral partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have increased the tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. In response, Indonesia has expressed deep concerns about regional stability, particularly with Australia’s plan to procure nuclear-powered submarines.

Amid the rising tension, questions were raised on the role of Indonesia as one of the regional powers. Furthermore, Indonesia’s modernisation plan, especially for the Navy (TNI AL), only becomes more important to support its role. Then, how should TNI AL adjust its posture to protect the country’s interests amid the great power rivalries in the Indo-Pacific?