RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has hailed the strengthening of defense ties with Indonesia, describing the newly signed Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) as a milestone in bilateral security relations.

“This partnership reflects the strength and potential of our security relationship, enhances regional deterrence, and advances our shared commitment to peace through strength,” Hegseth said while hosting Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin at the Pentagon on Monday, April 13, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

According to a statement from the U.S. Department of Defense, cooperation between the two countries has expanded rapidly, with their armed forces conducting more than 170 joint military exercises annually. Hegseth noted that Minister Sjafrie’s visit underscored the importance of the growing defense relationship.

Beyond the MDCP, Hegseth expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s assistance in recovering and repatriating the remains of U.S. soldiers who fought alongside Indonesians during World War II. He said the new framework would allow U.S. units responsible for prisoners of war and missing personnel to continue recovery efforts in Indonesia.

The MDCP is built on three pillars: military modernization and capacity building, professional military education and training, and operational exercises and cooperation. Both Hegseth and Sjafrie described the agreement as the beginning of a new chapter in defense collaboration.

“This is the start of a new mission for our two great nations,” Hegseth concluded. ***