AUKUS and Indonesia’s Naval Trinity: Strategic Responses in the North Natuna Sea

Fikri Nur Aini; Rudy Sutanto; Eko Setijo Pudjiantoro; Tasdik Mustika Alam

doi:10.55227/ijhess.v5i3.2006

Authors

Fikri Nur Aini Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia
Rudy Sutanto Sekolah Tinggi Intelijen Negara
Eko Setijo Pudjiantoro Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia
Tasdik Mustika Alam Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55227/ijhess.v5i3.2006

Keywords:

AUKUS, NAVAL TRINITY ROLE, NAVAL DIPLOMACY, SECURITY, DEFENSE

Abstract

The formation of AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom, United State of America) has intensified maritime security challenges in the North Natuna Sea, prompting Indonesia to reassess its defense posture. This study analyzes the strategic implications of AUKUS across regional, national, and global levels, and evaluates the Indonesian Navy's (TNI AL) response using Ken Booth's trinity of naval roles: military, policing, and diplomatic. Employing a qualitative literature review, the research highlights how AUKUS has reshaped the Indo-Pacific balance of power, triggered concerns over regional militarization, and complicated Indonesia's maritime sovereignty. In response, the TNI AL has strengthened its military infrastructure, modernized naval assets, intensified maritime patrols, and expanded naval diplomacy through joint exercises and international collaboration. These efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy aimed at maintaining stability and asserting national interests amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The study concludes that Indonesia must continue integrating military capability, law enforcement, and diplomacy to effectively navigate the post-AUKUS security landscape and safeguard its strategic maritime domain.

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