Jakarta. The Indonesian Army plans to establish 750 combat battalions across strategic and conflict-prone regions, including border areas, by 2029 as part of a broader effort to strengthen national defense.

“There are currently 105 territorial combat battalions. Next year, more battalions will be established using Army-owned land,” said Army Information Service Chief Colonel Donny Pramono, as quoted by Antara on Sunday.

According to Donny, these battalions will serve not only military functions but also play a role in supporting local economic development, such as opening new agricultural areas and contributing to infrastructure projects in partnership with regional governments.

The expansion program aligns with Indonesia’s Optimum Essential Force defense concept, which aims to balance strategic readiness with resource efficiency.

The Army will implement the battalion development plan gradually, coordinating with the Defense Ministry, Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ministry, local governments, and state forestry company Perhutani.

“Of course, the pace of construction will also depend on budget availability,” Donny said.

The Army’s territorial strengthening efforts will primarily focus on border regions, including Papua, Kalimantan, and East Nusa Tenggara, which are considered vital to Indonesia’s defense posture.

By expanding its territorial presence, the Army aims to enhance national security while supporting local resilience and community-based development initiatives, Donny said.

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