Indonesian Defense Diplomacy in Eastern Europe: A Multipolar Strategy Amidst Shifting Global Political Geometry

Indonesia’s defense diplomacy under President Prabowo Subianto (2024-2029) has entered a new phase marked by intensified relations with Eastern European countries. While Indonesia’s primary focus has previously been on the Asia-Pacific region and traditional partners like the United States (US), recent geopolitical dynamics are shifting, pushing Indonesia to further expand its reach and diversify its strategic partners globally.

Dynamics and Drivers Behind the Threat Approach to the External Security Environment

This strategic shift clearly did not occur in a vacuum. Rising geopolitical tensions, particularly following the conflict in Ukraine, and the shift in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, have created a more uncertain and fragmented security environment. In this context, Indonesia, like many countries in the Indo-Pacific region, feels the need to hedge against risks by consistently building broader defense relationships and becoming less reliant on a single major power.

The purchase of two Thaon-class frigates from Italy, valued at approximately €1.2 billion, is one of the clearest demonstrations of this new strategy. This rapid agreement demonstrates a shift in priorities in Indonesia’s defense equipment procurement policy. While previously the emphasis had been on technology transfer and local production, this case demonstrates that urgent tactical military operational needs and speed can override long-term defense industrialization considerations. This indicates a national leadership perception of increasing security risks that require a swift response.

Maintaining Sustainable Partnerships: From France to Belarus

Indonesia’s defense diplomacy in Europe currently focuses on diversifying strategic defense equipment, technology transfer, and strengthening flexible multipolar security partnerships amid global geopolitical tensions. Through its independent and active foreign policy, Indonesian government is aggressively engaging with Western, Central, and Eastern........

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