indonesia and japan deepen defence ties as tokyo loosens arms export rules

In a move that reflects shifting dynamics across the Asia-Pacific, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Shinjiro Koizumi met in Jakarta to advance a new defence cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening regional security.

While both sides confirmed their intent to collaborate more closely, specific details of the agreement have not yet been made public, and there has been no formal confirmation of its signing. Still, the meeting signals a clear alignment in priorities between the two nations at a time of increasing global uncertainty.

According to Japan Ministry of Defense, the discussions focused on expanding cooperation in defence equipment and technology. This comes shortly after Japan made a significant policy shift by relaxing long-standing restrictions on arms exports. The change now allows Japanese companies to supply lethal military equipment to 17 partner nations with existing defence agreements, opening the door for deeper military-industrial collaboration.

For Indonesia, the timing is critical. Under the leadership of Prabowo Subianto, the country has been accelerating efforts to modernise its military, replacing ageing systems and strengthening its defence capabilities since 2024.

Japan’s outreach doesn’t stop with Indonesia. Following the Jakarta meeting, Koizumi is set to visit the Philippines, where Japanese forces are participating in joint military exercises alongside the United States. These engagements reflect Tokyo’s broader push to expand its strategic footprint in the region.

Speaking to reporters, Koizumi emphasised that stronger defence ties with Indonesia would contribute to maintaining peace and stability, particularly as geopolitical tensions continue to rise. Maritime security and joint military drills were also key topics of discussion during the meeting.

Indonesia, meanwhile, has been actively diversifying its global partnerships. In recent weeks, Jakarta has finalised a defence agreement with the United States, strengthened security cooperation with France, and signed an oil deal with Russia. Despite these growing ties, the country continues to position itself as “free and active” in its foreign policy approach.

The nation’s strategic importance cannot be overstated. Sitting along the Malacca Strait—one of the busiest energy trade routes in the world—Indonesia remains a key player in global maritime security.