• Indonesia and the US launched the annual 'Super Garuda Shield' military drills involving 13 nations.
• More than 4,100 Indonesian and 1,300 American troops are participating in the exercises.
• The drills aim to ensure stability in the Asia-Pacific region amidst growing concerns about China's assertiveness.
• Samuel Paparo emphasized this is the largest iteration of the drills, enhancing deterrence among participating nations.
• Observers from additional nations, including India and Papua New Guinea, are present at the exercises.

Indonesia and the United States have initiated the annual "Super Garuda Shield" military drills, which will last more than a week and involve 13 countries. The exercises are taking place in Jakarta, Sumatra, and the Riau archipelago, concluding on September 4. Over 4,100 Indonesian troops and 1,300 American troops are participating, alongside allies from Australia, Japan, Singapore, France, New Zealand, and Britain, among others, according to thejakartapost, channelnewsasia, and scmp.

The drills are particularly significant in the context of increasing concerns regarding China's military assertiveness in the Pacific, although the US has stated that these exercises are not directed at Beijing. US Indo-Pacific Command's Samuel Paparo noted during the opening ceremony that these are the largest Super Garuda Shield drills ever, with a focus on enhancing deterrence among participating nations. He stressed the importance of collective determination to maintain sovereignty, according to thejakartapost and scmp.

This year's military program includes various activities such as staff exercises, cyber defense drills, and a live-fire event. Nations like India, Papua New Guinea, and Timor Leste are also participating as observers, highlighting the broad international interest in maintaining regional security. Indonesia's attempt to maintain a neutral stance while balancing relations with major powers like the US and China reflects its careful diplomatic positioning amid rising tensions, according to channelnewsasia and scmp.