Jakarta, Indonesia – November 20, 2025 – The armed forces of Pakistan and Indonesia have successfully concluded their biennial joint counter-terrorism exercise, Shaheen Strike-II, after 12 intensive days of training. Conducted from November 8 to 19, 2025, in Indonesia, the exercise highlighted growing military cooperation between the two nations and focused on enhancing capabilities in urban counter-terrorism operations and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The Pakistan Army’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that combat teams from both countries successfully achieved all training objectives. The drills were specifically designed to refine tactics, techniques, and procedures for counter-terrorism missions, with particular emphasis on operations in built-up areas and neutralizing IED threats. The exercise also served to deepen the longstanding military-to-military relationship between the two friendly nations.
At the closing ceremony, Brigadier General Novi Rubadi Sugito, Major General of Infantry Division 1 Kostrad (Indonesian Army Strategic Reserve Command), praised the exercise as a vital platform for professional development and mutual learning. He described it as not only a means of strengthening bilateral ties but also a significant contribution to regional stability and peace, especially in South and Southeast Asia. The joint training allowed soldiers from both armies to exchange valuable field experiences and enhance interoperability in complex operational environments.
Shaheen Strike-II is part of a broader and historic defense partnership between Pakistan and Indonesia. Both nations share deep-rooted ties dating back to the mid-20th century, when Pakistan supported Indonesia’s struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. Over the decades, this relationship has evolved into structured defense cooperation, formalized through a 2010 Defense Cooperation Agreement that includes joint exercises, training exchanges, and discussions on co-production of military equipment.
The exercise featured realistic scenarios involving urban combat, room-clearing operations, live-fire drills, and advanced counter-IED techniques. Pakistani troops brought extensive experience from years of counter-insurgency operations along the Afghanistan border, while Indonesian forces contributed expertise in rapid-response tactics suited to archipelagic and maritime environments. The integration of drones for reconnaissance and coordinated assault maneuvers further reflected modern battlefield requirements.
Beyond tactical training, Shaheen Strike-II carried strategic significance. Both countries face persistent threats from extremist groups—Pakistan from remnants of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and ISIS affiliates, and Indonesia from cells linked to past organizations like Jemaah Islamiyah. By training together, the two militaries are better prepared to respond to transnational terrorist networks that exploit porous borders and ungoverned spaces.
The successful conduct of the exercise also reinforces the role of Pakistan and Indonesia as responsible and capable actors in regional security. With a combined Muslim population exceeding 450 million, both nations hold influential positions within the Islamic world and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Their military partnership sends a clear message of unity and resolve in combating extremism without external interference.
Public reactions in both countries have been overwhelmingly positive. Footage and photographs of joint maneuvers circulated widely on social media, with many users expressing pride in the display of brotherhood and professionalism. Official accounts of the Pakistan Army and Indonesian defense outlets highlighted the mutual respect and camaraderie exhibited throughout the training period.
Looking ahead, military officials from both sides have expressed commitment to further expand cooperation. Future iterations of joint exercises may incorporate naval and air force components, reflecting the multidimensional nature of contemporary security challenges. Discussions are also underway regarding potential collaboration in defense industry projects, including Indonesia’s interest in Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter program.
As the participating troops returned home, they carried not only enhanced skills but also strengthened personal and institutional bonds. Shaheen Strike-II has once again proven that shared values, mutual trust, and professional excellence form the foundation of effective defense partnerships.
In an era of evolving and hybrid threats, the Pakistan-Indonesia military relationship stands as a model of South-South cooperation—one that contributes meaningfully to peace and stability in Asia and beyond.
