A 2026 study by Agus Wahyudi Irianto, Bangun, and Haposan
Simatupang from the Republic of Defense University reveals that the territorial
operations strategy of Korem 131/Santiago has strengthened border security in
the Sangihe and Talaud Islands, although operational challenges remain. The
findings are significant as the region is a strategic frontline area directly
bordering the Philippines and vulnerable to sovereignty violations.
The Sangihe–Talaud region holds both strategic and
vulnerable characteristics. Its location along international maritime routes
makes it prone to illegal fishing, smuggling, and cross-border infiltration.
The archipelagic geography, scattered islands, and limited infrastructure
further increase security risks in the area.
The study applies a descriptive qualitative approach
combined with SWOT analysis. Data were collected through interviews, field
observations, and document analysis. The evaluation focuses on identifying
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to assess the effectiveness
of the implemented defense strategy.
The findings show that the territorial operations strategy
has been implemented effectively through an integrated approach:
- Routine land and sea patrols in high-risk areas
- A layered command system (Kodim–Koramil–Babinsa) enabling early detection
- Strong community participation in reporting suspicious activities
- Integration of technology such as radar, drones, and digital communication systems
As explained on pages 6–7, Babinsa personnel act as
frontline “social sensors,” maintaining direct contact with local communities
and accelerating information flow and response to potential threats.
Community-based security mechanisms significantly strengthen early warning
systems.
However, the strategy has not yet reached optimal
effectiveness. The study identifies several key constraints:
- Limited personnel compared to the vast operational area
- Inadequate maritime transportation and logistical support
- Uneven communication infrastructure across remote islands
- Inter-agency coordination that is not fully integrated
The conceptual framework illustrated on page 5 shows that
the strategy relies on integrating internal strengths and external
opportunities through SWOT analysis, leading to strategic recommendations for
operational improvement.
Agus Wahyudi Irianto from the Republic of Defense University
explains that the current strategy is adaptive to the archipelagic environment
and modern security threats. However, he emphasizes the need for enhanced human
resource capacity, modernization of surveillance technology, and stronger
inter-agency coordination to improve effectiveness.
The study has broader implications for national defense
policy. A territorial operations strategy that integrates military presence,
technology, and community participation proves effective in maintaining border
stability. This model can be applied to other archipelagic regions facing
similar security challenges.
In the long term, strengthening territorial defense systems
requires sustained support, including increased budget allocation,
infrastructure development, and integrated defense information systems. Without
these improvements, border vulnerabilities are likely to persist.
Author Profile
- Agus Wahyudi Irianto - Universitas Pertahanan
- Bangun Universitas Pertahanan
- Haposan Simatupang - Universitas Pertahanan
Source
Irianto, A. W., Bangun, & Simatupang, H. (2026). Territorial Operations
Strategy of Korem 131/Santiago in Securing the Sangihe and Talaud Islands to
Support National Sovereignty. Contemporary Journal of Applied Sciences
(CJAS), Vol. 4 No. 3, 235–248.
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