RRi.CO.ID, Jakarta - Deputy Speaker of Commission I of the House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, said the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) between Indonesia and the United States marks a significant step toward strengthening national security.

“This is a move to reinforce our defense while also advancing military diplomacy,” Dave stated at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that the cooperation aligns with efforts to ensure the Indonesian Military (TNI) adapts to geopolitical developments and enhances its understanding of modern defense technology to safeguard national sovereignty. “Technology and training collaboration are key focuses of this partnership, which could open opportunities for cooperation in other defense-related areas,” he added.

Indonesia and the US agreed to elevate defense ties to the MDCP level as a framework for strengthening cooperation to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The partnership was formalized during a meeting between Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on Monday, April 13, 2026, local time.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed the agreement, noting that the MDCP rests on three pillars: military modernization and capacity building, professional military training and education, and operational exercises and cooperation.

He said both ministers were committed to expanding the scope and complexity of bilateral and multilateral exercises, including Super Garuda Shield, to strengthen collective military capabilities.

“The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of the growing defense relationship and discussed shared objectives, such as enhancing special forces training and professional military education,” Parnell said.

Hegseth welcomed the partnership, describing it as a reflection of the strength and potential of US–Indonesia security ties. “This partnership enhances regional deterrence and advances our shared commitment to peace through strength,” he said.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defense also underscored the partnership’s role in bolstering national security. The Ministry’s Defense Information Bureau Head Brig. Gen. Rico Ricardo Sirait said the cooperation is seen as an opportunity to strengthen defense capacity.

“However, it will remain within the framework of Indonesia’s independent and active foreign policy, national interests, and full respect for state sovereignty,” Rico stressed. He clarified that the MDCP does not include provisions related to US overflight clearance requests in Indonesian airspace, which are still under separate consideration. ***