Indonesian Navy Adapts Strategy to BRICS Maritime Pressure in Natuna, Ambalat, and Papua Waters
A 2026 study by Mohamad Faikhul Himam and colleagues from the Indonesian Naval Command and Staff College and Fleet Command I reveals how Indonesia’s naval strategy is evolving in response to growing geopolitical pressure from BRICS nations. Published in the International Journal of Integrative Sciences, the research highlights critical security challenges in the North Natuna Sea, the Ambalat Block, and waters surrounding West Papua—areas vital for global trade and national sovereignty. The findings matter because these regions are not only Indonesia’s maritime backbone but also key flashpoints in the Indo-Pacific power competition.
Indonesia’s maritime geography places it at the center of global shipping routes. The North Natuna Sea, Ambalat, and Papua waters intersect with major sea lanes connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These routes are essential for international commerce, energy transport, and regional stability. However, overlapping territorial claims, illegal fishing, and rising military presence from major powers have intensified tensions in these areas.
Rising Stakes in a Multipolar Maritime Era
The emergence of BRICS as a stronger geopolitical and maritime actor has added a new layer of complexity. Naval deployments, joint exercises, and defense cooperation involving BRICS countries increasingly intersect with Indonesia’s maritime zones. This shift reflects a broader transition toward a multipolar Indo-Pacific, where no single power dominates.
As a result, Indonesia faces a dual challenge: protecting its sovereignty while maintaining balanced relations with global powers. The study shows that maritime security is no longer just about defense—it also involves diplomacy, economic interests, and legal enforcement.
How the Study Was Conducted
The research uses a qualitative approach to analyze Indonesia’s naval strategy. The team reviewed official naval doctrines, defense policies, and maritime security regulations. They also examined operational reports and academic literature on geopolitics and sea power.
To strengthen the analysis, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with naval officers, defense planners, and maritime experts. This combination of document analysis and expert insight allowed the study to compare strategic plans with real-world implementation.
Key Findings: Strategic Adaptation Underway
The study identifies several important trends shaping Indonesia’s naval posture:
- Increasing maritime pressure linked to BRICS-related activities in strategic waters
- A gap between strategy and execution, particularly in technology, fleet readiness, and resource allocation
- Growing importance of maritime domain awareness, including surveillance and intelligence integration
- Shift toward integrated strategy, combining military presence, law enforcement, and diplomatic engagement
According to Mohamad Faikhul Himam, Indonesia must move beyond a reactive approach. He emphasizes that the navy needs to “adapt proactively by aligning operational deployment with evolving geopolitical realities.”
From Conflict Zones to Strategic Maritime Spaces
One of the study’s central ideas is transforming contested waters into “strategic maritime spaces.” Instead of treating these regions solely as conflict zones, Indonesia can actively manage and stabilize them.
This transformation involves:
- Expanding naval patrols and presence operations
- Conducting joint exercises with international partners
- Strengthening maritime surveillance systems
- Enhancing inter-agency coordination
The research highlights that proactive engagement can reduce tensions while reinforcing Indonesia’s sovereign rights.
Innovation and Diplomacy Drive Change
The Indonesian Navy is increasingly combining military capability with diplomatic strategy. Defense cooperation with BRICS and other partners allows Indonesia to diversify alliances and access new technologies.
Participation in multilateral naval exercises and joint training programs also improves interoperability. This approach reduces reliance on a single defense partner and strengthens Indonesia’s strategic flexibility.
At the same time, innovation is not limited to hardware. The study emphasizes the importance of organizational adaptation, including better planning tools, scenario-based strategies, and improved coordination between institutions.
Impact on Society and Policy
Maritime security has direct implications for Indonesia’s economy and society. Coastal communities depend on stable seas for fishing, trade, and transportation. Disruptions in key maritime zones can affect livelihoods, supply chains, and national revenue.
By strengthening its naval strategy, Indonesia can:
- Protect fisheries and marine resources
- Secure international shipping lanes
- Support economic growth in coastal regions
- Attract investment in maritime industries
For policymakers, the study highlights the need for stronger coordination between defense, maritime, and economic agencies. It also underscores the importance of investing in technology and infrastructure.
Challenges Remain
Despite ongoing improvements, the study identifies several limitations:
- Limited naval platforms and technological capabilities
- Gaps in information sharing between institutions
- Budget constraints affecting long-term planning
These challenges create a gap between Indonesia’s strategic ambitions and its operational capacity. Addressing this gap will require sustained investment and institutional reform.
BRICS: Risk and Opportunity
The research presents a balanced view of BRICS. While increased activity from BRICS nations introduces competition, it also creates opportunities for cooperation.
Indonesia can leverage these dynamics to:
- Expand defense partnerships
- Access advanced maritime technology
- Strengthen its role in regional security frameworks
This dual perspective reflects Indonesia’s broader foreign policy approach—maintaining independence while engaging with multiple global actors.
Author Profile
Mohamad Faikhul Himam is a maritime security expert affiliated with the Indonesian Naval Command and Staff College (Seskoal). He specializes in naval strategy and Indo-Pacific geopolitics.
He co-authored the study with Andi Sulistiono and Ado Andika H from Seskoal, and Achmad Faisol from Fleet Command I. The team’s expertise covers maritime security, defense policy, and naval operations.
Source
International Journal of Integrative Sciences, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/ijis.v5i3.20
URL : https://journalijis.my.id/index.php/ijis/index
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