U.S. 7th Fleet Commander Engages in Strategic Talks with Indonesian Leaders

During his visit to Jakarta, Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, the commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, met with influential figures including the U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia, Hon. Kamala Shirin Lakhdir, Indonesian Navy chief Adm. Muhammad Ali, and Vice Adm. Denih Hendrata, the Indonesian Fleet Command leader. The primary objective was to discuss collaborative efforts and strategic cooperation between the U.S. and Indonesian navies.

Vice Adm. Thomas emphasized the importance of this visit in reinforcing the mutual commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the significance of joint exercises and leadership engagements in fostering this vision. “Indonesia and the U.S. are both maritime nations, and we have been vital partners over the last 75 years. Engagements with our Indonesian navy counterparts like those I was able to have in Jakarta remain the cornerstone of our strong bilateral defense relationship,” he stated.

The dialogues between the admirals focused on enhancing that partnership by supporting a rules-based maritime order and improving response capabilities to shared challenges. These challenges include short-notice at-sea engagements, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and exploring further cooperative operational opportunities.

This year, the 30th iteration of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Indonesia took place, underscoring 75 years of diplomatic relations. This partnership has grown to encompass staff talks, joint operations, disaster relief efforts, and collaborative efforts to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. 7th Fleet, recognized as the largest forward-deployed numbered fleet of the U.S. Navy, regularly engages with allies and partners to uphold the principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.