Tensions rise as Australia reacts to unconfirmed reports suggesting Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific may include seeking access to a Papua airbase in Indonesia—a move that could potentially shift the balance of military power in the region. While these rumors are not yet confirmed, one thing is clear: Russia is expanding its military presence in Asia-Pacific, and Australia is on edge.
Unconfirmed Reports Stir Concerns in Australia
The potential Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific near Indonesia, just 1,200 km north of the US Marine Corps base in Darwin, Australia, has raised alarms. Canberra has reportedly put Indonesia on notice, with US media expressing concern about the strategic implications for regional security.
Russia’s Strategic Goals in Asia-Pacific
Unlike the United States, whose presence in the region often involves large-scale military bases, Russia’s military presence in Asia-Pacific is focused on defense cooperation and military exercises—not permanent bases or offensive weapons. Moscow’s military footprint in the Asia-Pacific is growing, but it centers around regional defense cooperation, not dominance.
Longstanding Indonesia-Russia Military Cooperation
Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific has been a longstanding feature of Russia-Indonesia relations, dating back to the Cold War. After a CIA-backed coup in 1965 interrupted relations, the two nations resumed their defense cooperation with a new pact signed in 2016. The strengthening ties between Russia and Indonesia are part of a broader strategy that includes agreements with several other Asia-Pacific nations:
- China (2001)
- Malaysia (2001)
- Myanmar (2016)
- India (2017)
- Thailand (2017)
- Philippines (2017)
- Cambodia (2018)
- Vanuatu (2018)
- Papua New Guinea (2019)
- Vietnam (2021)
Russia’s Growing Military Presence in the Asia-Pacific
Since 2001, Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific has steadily increased, with Russia signing multiple defense cooperation agreements with countries like China, India, and Vietnam. Recent military drills showcase this growing footprint, with Russia’s Pacific Fleet conducting joint exercises with:
- Indonesia (February)
- Iran and China (March)
- Pakistan (March)
- India (March-April)
- Bangladesh (March)
Key Military Drills and Power Projection
Russia continues to showcase its military might in the Asia-Pacific with regular drills and operations:
- Indra drills with India (biennial)
- Naval and bomber patrols with China in the Pacific
- Vostok 2022 drills in Siberia, featuring China and India
- Russia-ASEAN Naval Exercises involving seven ASEAN nations
However, unlike the US model of permanent bases, Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific is more focused on collaboration through joint drills, port visits, and defense agreements.
No Desire for Regional Domination
The core difference in Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific is its emphasis on cooperation over domination. Unlike the US’s heavy military presence, which often involves permanent bases, missile deployments, and warships, Russia’s military strategy revolves around building alliances and strengthening defense ties—without the need for large-scale permanent bases.
Bottom Line: Shaping Regional Stability
Russia military presence in Asia-Pacific is seen as a stabilizing force in the region, offering an alternative to the heavy-handed approach of the US. As tensions rise, Russia continues to cultivate strategic partnerships with nations like Indonesia and China, contributing to the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.
