General Agus Subiyanto, the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), announced on January 31, 2025, a pivotal shift toward modern military doctrine and advanced technologies during his leadership meeting at TNI headquarters in East Jakarta. This shift is seen as necessary to align with contemporary warfare trends marked by the increased use of sophisticated technology.
General Subiyanto highlighted the dramatic evolution from traditional methods of warfare to the integration of tools such as artificial intelligence-powered drones. "For example, the trend has shifted from traditional means of war to the utilization of artificial intelligence-powered drones. These days, soldiers can simply use drones to eliminate or chase after targets," Subiyanto stated. This modernized doctrine seeks not only to upgrade the arsenal but also to expand the TNI's capabilities by incorporating civilian expertise, particularly in fields like cybersecurity.
Concerns about attempts to weaken the TNI have been echoed throughout Indonesia's military reform era. General Subiyanto remarked on these attempts during his guidance session with TNI officers, emphasizing the luxury of history and the ever-present challenges the military faces. "Since the reform process until now, when I was still a Lieutenant, I already knew there are attempts to weaken us," he noted, encouraging TNI personnel to unify and strengthen their institutional integrity.
President Prabowo Subianto, addressing the TNI and National Police leadership just prior on January 30, underscored similar concerns about the external and internal pressures seeking to undermine the military's effectiveness. "When a country is about to be destroyed, be prepared; the opponents will weaken the military, police, and intelligence," Prabowo cautioned. His remarks added urgency to Subiyanto's call for military personnel to align their visions and strategies with the current trend of warfare.
Subiyanto articulated the modernization efforts underway, asserting their importance against unconventional threats. "A modernized military doctrine could help the TNI fortify its posture against potential unconventional threats," he reaffirmed, underlining the strategic necessity of these updates.
This shift entails not just technological upgrades, but also cultural changes within the military. The commander stressed the importance of adapting military strategies to contemporary environments and challenges, asserting the formation of specialized units like cyber forces composed of experts from civilian backgrounds.
General Subiyanto's remarks reflect broader ambitions within Indonesia to adjust military structures and operational methodologies to match global advancements and combat modern-day challenges. He acknowledged the significant effort required for the military to realign its objectives and strategies to counter the internal threats posed by efforts aimed at its degradation.
Moving forward, the TNI appears committed to enhancing its capabilities through technology and strategic adaptation. The recent leadership meetings are integral to ensuring the TNI remains resilient and prepared against all forms of threats. This focus on modernization and unity aims to cement the military's foundation as it navigates the complex security environment of the future.
Such initiatives signal Indonesia's determination to develop a military ready to embrace modern warfare techniques and defense technologies, ensuring national security is safeguarded against multifaceted global and local threats.