Navy chief spokesman Lt.Col. Maman Suleman said here on Sunday the plan has been discussed in an "Initial Planning Conference (IPC)" attended by delegations from both sides.
"The IPC was attended by 19-member delegation from the U.S. navy led by Capt Mark Stacpoole, the U.S. embassy attache and 23-member delegation from the Indonesian navy led by Col.Zaenal," Maman said.
The navy joint exercise will also be highlighted with social activities with donations to orphanage, symposium and sports involving the U.S. and Indonesian nay members and local students and youths.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian navy has conducted exercise in security operation in the sea border between Indonesia and Australia.
Chief of the maritime fleet Rear Admiral Darwanto said a countrys strength in defense would determine the bargaining position facing other countries.
"Countries especially in this region have seen sea territory as important assets in the future that they have placed military development, navy development in particular a priority to protect their interests," he said.
Therefore, Indonesia, as the worlds largest archipelago, needs to continue efforts to strengthen its navy , he said.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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