Super Garuda Shield 2026 Strengthens Joint Military Capabilities

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Super Garuda Shield (SGS) 2026 joint exercise involves 4,743 personnel from 21 countries.

The exercise aims to test operational readiness and strengthen capabilities to address various security challenges. A key highlight is the missile‑firing drill conducted by the Indonesian Military Forces (TNI) and the U.S. Army in South Sumatra.

TNI Commander Gen. Agus Subiyanto said SGS is an annual exercise hosted by Indonesia and joined by numerous partner nations. This year’s exercise consists of 12 training modules conducted across several regions.

“Super Garuda Shield is held annually in Indonesia. Twenty‑one nations are participating this year. A total of 4,743 personnel are training across the 12 modules,” Agus said in an official press release in Jakarta on Thursday, September 10, 2026, as quoted on the TNI’s official website.

One of the modules took place at the Staling Armed Firing Range at the Army Training and Doctrine Command (Kodiklat TNI AD) Combat Training Center in Martapura, South Sumatra, on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

During the drill, Air Defense Artillery Battalion 10/Dam Jaya operated Mistral missiles, while the U.S. Army used Stinger missiles to test the readiness and capabilities of air defense units in countering aerial threats.

After the live‑fire session, Indonesian Air Defense Badges were awarded to U.S. Army personnel, while U.S. Army Air Defense Badges were presented to TNI soldiers. The badge exchange served as recognition of the soldiers’ competence, dedication, and professionalism, as well as a symbol of qualification in air defense operations.

The exercise is expected to enhance personnel capabilities and strengthen defense cooperation between Indonesia and the United States. Through the exchange of experience and knowledge, both countries continue to improve soldier professionalism and air defense readiness to support the success of SGS 2026.

SGS 2026 involves personnel from Indonesia, the United States, Australia, the Netherlands, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, India, the United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, Germany, Cambodia, Canada, South Korea, Laos, New Zealand, France, Singapore, Thailand, Timor‑Leste, and Vietnam.

The exercise is being held from August 31 to September 11, 2026, across several locations: Bandung, Jakarta, Lampung, the Indonesian Army Combat Training Center in Baturaja (South Sumatra), and Nunukan (North Kalimantan).

Beyond testing operational readiness, SGS 2026 aims to strengthen interoperability, defense diplomacy, and the ability to address various security challenges. The exercise is scheduled to conclude in Jakarta on September 11, 2026. ***