Indonesia Overhauls Military Amidst Defense Spending Surge

Regional Command Expansion Signals Largest Shake-up in Decades

Indonesia has unveiled a significant restructuring of its armed forces, establishing over 20 new regional commands. This extensive overhaul, the most substantial in decades, coincides with a notable increase in defense expenditures under President Prabowo Subianto and growing unease about escalating military influence.

New Commands Inaugurated

On Sunday, Prabowo, a former general himself, officiated the creation of new army, navy, and air force commands. This reorganization marks the most significant shift in military structure since the authoritarian Suharto era, a period characterized by the military’s deep territorial reach across all Indonesian provinces.

“The world is full of uncertainty, and even if we dislike war, wars are happening everywhere,”

—Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia

The Indonesian military’s new structure mirrors an earlier strategic approach, re-establishing a robust territorial network. This expansion comes as global geopolitical tensions rise. For instance, defense spending in Southeast Asia saw a collective increase of 7.9% in 2023, reaching $47 billion, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies. This broader regional trend underscores the backdrop against which Indonesia is bolstering its military capabilities.

Concerns Over Military Influence

The sweeping changes have drawn attention, particularly given the history of military involvement in Indonesian politics. The re-establishment of numerous regional commands is seen by some as a potential expansion of military presence and influence within civilian affairs, reminiscent of past eras.

President Subianto‘s administration has consistently advocated for a stronger defense posture. The recent military reorganization is a tangible manifestation of this policy, aiming to enhance operational readiness and command effectiveness in an increasingly complex security environment.