Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono

Jakarta – As global geopolitical tensions rise, Indonesia is prioritizing the modernization and strengthening of its air defenses. This comes following a stark warning from former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) regarding the evolving nature of warfare and the potential for large-scale conflict. SBY emphasized the need for Indonesia to adapt to a world where air power, cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, and robotics are increasingly central to national security.

Speaking at a closed lecture to participants of the National Leadership Consolidation Education (P3N) XXVII, the National Leadership Preparation and Consolidation Education (P4N) LXIX, and Lemhannas RI personnel on Monday, February 23, 2026, SBY cautioned that traditional defense doctrines focused primarily on ground forces are no longer sufficient. He highlighted the speed and precision with which modern attacks can target critical infrastructure and centers of government, necessitating a shift in strategic thinking.

“The world of AI, the world of robotics, the world beyond conventional thinking, conventional warfare… we must be prepared. So don’t be afraid,” SBY stated, according to reports from Kompas.com. This call for preparedness underscores a growing concern within Indonesian defense circles about the need to bolster capabilities across all domains of warfare.

Shifting Focus to Air Power

SBY specifically pointed to the increasing importance of air power, noting a historical emphasis on the army within Indonesian defense strategy. He argued that a robust air force is now crucial for deterring potential aggressors and protecting national interests. To illustrate the urgency, SBY posed a hypothetical scenario: “Now, if an air strike were to destroy Jakarta, Pindad in Bandung, PAL in Surabaya, what would we do in other cities? Think about it!”

This question, as reported by Metro TV News, served to emphasize the vulnerability of key industrial and governmental centers to modern attack methods. The former president contrasted this new reality with Indonesia’s past defense doctrine, which prioritized border defense, coastal protection, and guerilla warfare tactics.

Preparing for a Hybrid Warfare Scenario

SBY stressed the need for Indonesia to invest in resources, skills development, and adaptive policies to meet the challenges of modern and hybrid warfare. He emphasized that a comprehensive approach is required, encompassing conventional military capabilities, cybersecurity, technological advancements, and updated defense doctrines. “This is modern warfare, modern technology, modern doctrine, everything must be ready. And if it’s hybrid, it means not choosing. Everything must be ready to be done. That’s the point,” SBY said.

Governor of Lemhannas RI, Ace Hassan Syadzily, echoed SBY’s concerns, stating that the former president’s experience leading Indonesia through two terms provided invaluable insight into maintaining stability amidst global geopolitical fluctuations. Syadzily noted SBY’s consistent monitoring of the global geopolitical landscape and his deep understanding of the challenges facing the nation. DetikNews reported Syadzily’s comments highlighting SBY’s ability to navigate Indonesia through a decade of political and economic stability.

Increased Vigilance Amidst Global Conflicts

The call for increased preparedness comes as concerns mount over potential global conflicts. SBY reportedly warned that the possibility of a third world war is becoming increasingly real, citing escalating tensions in several regions, including the South China Sea, the Korean Peninsula, and the relationship between China, and Taiwan. He also pointed to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, specifically the situations involving Palestine, Israel, Iran, and the United States, as potential flashpoints, as reported by Antara News.

Syadzily further elaborated that SBY’s assessment necessitates a proactive approach to safeguarding Indonesia’s sovereignty, including strengthening diplomatic ties with major global powers such as the United States, China, and Russia.

What to Expect Next

The emphasis on air power and comprehensive defense preparedness signals a potential shift in Indonesia’s military strategy. Further details regarding specific modernization plans and policy changes are expected to be announced in the coming months. The government’s response to SBY’s warnings will be closely watched as Indonesia navigates an increasingly complex and volatile geopolitical landscape.

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