Indonesia, the United States and allied countries began their annual joint military exercise on Monday, aimed at strengthening defence capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region and deterring aggression. The exercise, known as Super Garuda Shield, will run until September 11 at various locations across Indonesia, including Sumatra and Borneo islands.

Indonesia follows a neutral foreign policy, which it describes as “free and active,” while seeking to maintain diplomatic balance and good relations with both the United States and China. Earlier this month, the Southeast Asian country joined a naval exercise with China that Taiwan criticised as a provocative activity.

Indonesia, the United States and several allied nations have participated in the annual Super Garuda Shield exercise for nearly two decades. About 4,700 military personnel from several countries, including the United Kingdom, France and Japan, are taking part this year. East Timor, Italy and Thailand are among countries that have sent observers to the exercise.