Heather Merritt, Chargé d’Affaires (Ad Interim) at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, stated that the U.S. military always strives to bring the most modern technology during joint exercises with Indonesia.

She made this remark on June 11, 2025, following the opening of the "USA Partnership Pavilion" at Indo Defense Expo and Forum 2025.

Details on Equipment, Including F-15 Jets, Still Under Discussion

Asked whether the U.S. would deploy F-15 fighter jets during the Super Garuda Shield exercise scheduled for late August, Merritt said the specifics of the equipment to be brought remain undecided.

These details are still being discussed with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and 14 other participating countries.

Growth of Super Garuda Shield and Multinational Participation

Brigadier General Tyson Y. Tahara, Commander of the Hawaii Army National Guard, highlighted the rapid development of the joint exercise since his first participation as a major.

He expressed his intention to participate again and witness the Super Garuda Shield involving 14 different nations.

Super Garuda Shield Strengthens Regional Military Cooperation

Super Garuda Shield is an annual joint military exercise involving TNI and the U.S. Armed Forces, alongside other Indo-Pacific countries.

The exercise aims to enhance military capabilities, interoperability, and the collective commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

This year’s exercise will include 16 countries: the United States, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, South Korea, France, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Brazil, India, Singapore, New Zealand, Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea.

PHOTO: INDODEFENCE

This article was created with AI assistance.