SBY Urges Indonesia to Modernize Defense Strategy, Prioritize Air Power

Jakarta – Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) emphasized the need for Indonesia to strengthen its defense capabilities, particularly its air power, in response to the evolving landscape of modern warfare. SBY delivered these remarks during a closed lecture to participants of the National Leadership Consolidation Education (P3N) XXVII, the National Leadership Preparation and Consolidation Education (P4N) LXIX, and personnel of the National Defense Institute (Lemhannas) on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Shifting Dynamics of Warfare

SBY highlighted that contemporary warfare is no longer solely reliant on land-based forces. He pointed to the increasing importance of cyber warfare, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and unconventional strategies as integral components of modern defense dynamics. “The world of AI, the world of robotics, the world beyond conventional thinking, conventional warfare – we have to be ready. So don’t be afraid,” SBY stated.

Prioritizing Air Power

The former president argued that Indonesia should move away from a traditional defense doctrine that prioritizes the army. He asserted that air power is becoming increasingly decisive in the face of modern threats. “In the past, it seemed as if Indonesia prioritized the army. Now, air power is very important,” SBY explained.

To illustrate his point, SBY posed a hypothetical scenario involving an air attack on key Indonesian cities and industrial centers, such as Jakarta, Bandung (home to Pindad), and Surabaya (home to PAL). “Now, what do we do if there’s an air strike destroying Jakarta, Pindad in Bandung, PAL in Surabaya, other cities? Arrive on?” he asked.

Evolution of Indonesia’s Defense Doctrine

SBY recalled that Indonesia’s past defense and security doctrine, known as Hankamrata, focused on blocking enemies at borders, defending coasts and large islands, and employing guerrilla warfare and counterattacks. But, he noted that advancements in military technology now allow for rapid attacks directly targeting government centers and vital strategic assets.

Call for Comprehensive Readiness

SBY stressed the importance of building resources, improving skills, and developing adaptive policies to address these evolving threats. “We still need resources, we need to build skills, and policies must be made. So for me, we have to be ready for anything because we can’t be picky,” he said.

He emphasized that modern and hybrid warfare demands comprehensive readiness encompassing conventional military capabilities, cyber defense, technological advancements, and a modernized defense doctrine. “So it is modern warfare, modern technology, modern doctrine – everything must be ready. And if [it’s] hybrid warfare, basically, don’t choose. Everything must be ready to do. That’s the point,” SBY concluded.

Ace Hassan Syadzily, Governor of Lemhannas RI, noted SBY’s extensive knowledge of geopolitics and his experience leading Indonesia for two terms, particularly in maintaining stability during a period of global flux. Metro TV News reported on the event.

Kompas.com initially reported on the closed-door lecture.