Indonesia-US military exercises include 15 nations, test China ties

DefenseHost wants to 'avoid provoking' Beijing, a foreign official notesThe opening ceremony for Super Garuda Shield, a 12-day military exercise hosted by Indonesia, was held in Bandung on Aug. 31 (Photo by Natsumi Kawasaki)NATSUMI KAWASAKIAugust 31, 2026 18:47 JSTBANDUNG, Indonesia -- One of Southeast Asia's largest military exercises with the U.S. kicked off on Monday, testing host Indonesia as it navigates the impact of the U.S.-Iran conflict and the need to balance defense cooperation with China and Russia.