April 14, 2026 | 12:21 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin along with United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the establishment of the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Pentagon.
The agreement focuses on three main pillars as the foundation for strengthening the defense relationship between the two countries: "(1) military modernization and capacity building; (2) professional military training and education; and (3) exercises and operational cooperation," as stated in the official cooperation document on the U.S. Department of Defense website, cited on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
The document refers to MDCP as a guideline framework to advance bilateral defense cooperation, while reaffirming the commitment of both countries to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Within the MDCP framework, the two countries will explore a variety of cutting-edge initiatives that have been agreed upon. These initiatives include the joint development of advanced asymmetric capabilities using next-generation defense technology for maritime, subsurface, and autonomous systems.
Additionally, the two countries are opening up opportunities for cooperation in support of maintenance, repair, and overhaul of defense equipment to enhance operational readiness. Furthermore, as part of strengthening the partnership, both parties are committed to enhancing joint special forces training.
This engagement is expected to advance shared security interests while strengthening military personnel relationships through expanded opportunities for professional military education and the establishment of defense alumni networks.
This partnership is described as an extension of the decades-long defense relationship between the United States and Indonesia. Both countries reaffirm their commitment to cooperation based on principles of mutual respect, sovereignty, and shared interests in maintaining regional stability.
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