"Since Prabu Welgeduwelbeh Tongtongsot, also known as Bambang Irawan or Petruk, began his reign over the Sonyawibawa kingdom, his character transformed into that of an autocrat and an ambitious ruler. He did everything in his power to maintain the kingdom's stability (read: to defend his throne). Those who criticized him were promptly reported by his team on charges of disrupting the national stability. Prabu also employed 'hostage tactics' against his political opponents.Those who identified as part of the 'reform' or 'civil society' remained silent, having been appeased with positions as ministers, commissioners, directors of kingdom-owned enterprises, and other roles. A prince, a favorite among the Sonyawibawa people for his good looks, politeness, and persistence, found himself powerless when appointed as a minister.After a meeting between Sri Kresna and Semar Kudapawana, it was agreed that to preserve the honor of the Punakawan, Semar, and Nala Gareng would confront Petruk. However, Petruk refused to heed his father's advice, which infuriated Gareng. Petruk's actions had tarnished the family's good name.An argument ensued. "You have messed up Sonyawibawa, including reactivating the Supreme Advisory Council that had previously been abolished," said Gareng."Leave it alone, as long as everyone is confused," Petruk retorted, unwilling to concede."You yourself are confused either," Gareng quickly guessed. Petruk refuted, thus, the fight between the two Punakawan began. (To be continued)"
"Military strength is the nation's shield and sword, protecting it from harm and ensuring it can strike swiftly when necessary. It is the steel backbone of a nation, providing the sturdy support needed to stand tall against any threats. It is like the lion's roar, a powerful and intimidating sound that warns adversaries to keep their distance.The military serves as an impenetrable fortress, safeguarding the treasures of the nation and the well-being of its people. It is an ironclad guardian, standing resolute and unyielding at the nation's gates, ensuring no harm comes to its people.A nation's military strength is like a mighty oak tree, deeply rooted and strong, providing shelter and security to all who seek refuge beneath its branches. In turbulent times, military strength acts as an anchor in the storm, keeping the nation grounded and stable amid chaos. It serves as an invisible hand, subtly influencing and shaping global events, ensuring the nation's interests are safeguarded without always being seen," Seruni went on while looking at the Nasional Monument, commonly known as Monas, at Jakarta. While Monas primarily commemorates the struggle for Indonesian independence, it also embodies the spirit of resilience, strength, and unity of the Indonesian people, including the important role of the military in securing and maintaining that independence."Military strength refers to the capability of a nation to defend itself against external threats and to project power beyond its borders. It encompasses the size, training, and equipment of the armed forces, as well as the nation's strategic and tactical doctrines. It is crucial for a nation for several reasons. A strong military safeguards a nation against invasions, attacks, and other forms of external aggression. It provides a robust defense mechanism to protect the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Military strength is essential for combating terrorism and insurgencies that threaten internal stability. Specialized military units and intelligence capabilities can effectively counter these threats.A formidable military serves as a deterrent against potential aggressors. The knowledge that a nation has a capable and ready military force can discourage adversaries from initiating conflicts or provocative actions. Deterrence through military strength helps maintain regional and global peace. It reduces the likelihood of conflicts by ensuring that potential aggressors understand the high cost of military confrontation.Understanding the high cost of military confrontation acts as a powerful deterrent against aggression. War is expensive. The costs of mobilizing troops, maintaining supply lines, and purchasing weapons and equipment can drain a nation's financial resources. Military confrontations often result in significant damage to infrastructure, which can be costly to repair and rebuild. War disrupts trade, reduces economic productivity, and can lead to long-term economic instability.Military conflicts result in casualties among soldiers and civilians. The human cost of war includes not only deaths but also injuries and long-term psychological trauma. Conflicts often lead to large-scale displacement of people, resulting in refugee crises and humanitarian challenges.War can lead to political instability and unrest within the aggressor nation, as citizens may oppose the conflict and protest against the government's actions. Aggressors risk becoming isolated on the global stage, facing sanctions and losing diplomatic and trade relationships with other countries.Engaging in a military confrontation can deplete an aggressor’s military resources, including personnel, equipment, and ammunition. Aggressors must consider the possibility of defeat, which can have severe consequences for national security and territorial integrity.Military aggression can damage a nation's reputation, leading to global condemnation and loss of moral standing. Aggressive actions can foster long-term hostility and animosity from other nations, impacting future diplomatic relations.Military confrontations can lead to unintended consequences, such as regional instability, the rise of insurgent groups, or the involvement of other nations. Aggressors may find themselves in protracted conflicts that are difficult to win and even harder to extricate from.Potential aggressors must consider the technological capabilities and advanced defenses of their adversaries, which can thwart their efforts and lead to significant losses. Opponents may engage in asymmetrical warfare, utilizing guerrilla tactics and cyber warfare, making the confrontation more complex and costly.Conflicts may bring many costs to both sides, including economic costs, human costs, political costs, military costs, reputational costs and strategic costs. A poignant example of the high cost of military confrontation is the Iraq War that began in 2003. This conflict illustrates the substantial economic, human, political, and strategic costs associated with military engagement. The United States spent trillions of dollars on the Iraq War, including costs for military operations, reconstruction, and long-term care for veterans. Iraq's infrastructure, including roads, hospitals, schools, and utilities, suffered extensive damage, requiring costly reconstruction efforts.The war resulted in serious casualties, including thousands of military personnel and hundreds of thousands of Iraqi civilians. The loss of life extended beyond the battlefield, with many more suffering from injuries and psychological trauma. The conflict displaced millions of Iraqis, leading to a massive refugee crisis and severe humanitarian challenges both within Iraq and in neighboring countries.In the United States, the war led to widespread protests and political division. The prolonged conflict and lack of clear success undermined public support and trust in the government. The war strained U.S. relations with various countries, including traditional allies. It also led to criticism and condemnation from the global community, affecting the U.S.'s diplomatic standing. The war also strained the U.S. military, leading to extended deployments, increased wear and tear on equipment, and challenges in maintaining readiness for other potential conflicts. The U.S. and its allies faced a persistent insurgency in Iraq, complicating military operations and leading to prolonged engagement without a clear resolution.The war, particularly the reasons given for its initiation (such as the presence of weapons of mass destruction, which were never found), damaged the U.S.'s global reputation. The conflict fostered deep resentment and hostility toward the U.S. in many parts of the Middle East, contributing to ongoing regional instability and anti-American sentiment.The invasion and subsequent instability in Iraq contributed to the rise of extremist groups, most notably ISIS, which became a significant regional and global threat. What was initially expected to be a quick and decisive conflict turned into a protracted engagement, with U.S. forces remaining in Iraq for many years and dealing with complex, evolving challenges.The Iraq War underscores the multifaceted and severe costs of military confrontation. It highlights how the economic, human, political, and strategic repercussions can extend far beyond the immediate conflict, affecting both the aggressor and the targeted nation for years, if not decades. This example serves as a cautionary tale about the profound implications and high costs of engaging in military conflicts.The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and escalated significantly with the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, provides a contemporary and stark example of the high costs of military confrontation. The Ukraine war illustrates numerous economic, human, political, and strategic costs that affect both Ukraine and Russia, as well as the broader international community.The war has caused extensive destruction of infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and power plants, leading to billions of dollars in damage and necessitating costly reconstruction efforts. The conflict has severely disrupted Ukraine’s economy, reducing industrial output, trade, and agricultural production, which are vital sectors for the country. In response to the invasion, Russia has faced severe economic sanctions from Western countries, targeting its financial sector, major industries, and key individuals. These sanctions have led to meaningful economic challenges and reduced access to global markets. The prolonged military campaign has resulted in substantial financial costs for Russia, including the expenses of mobilizing and sustaining its military forces.Thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians have died as a result of the conflict. The human toll includes not only deaths but also injuries and long-term psychological trauma. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced within the country or have fled as refugees to neighboring countries, leading to a massive humanitarian crisis. Russian military personnel have also suffered significant casualties, with many soldiers killed or wounded in the fighting. The conflict has affected the families of Russian soldiers, leading to grief and socio-economic challenges.The conflict has created internal political challenges and governance issues, complicating efforts to maintain stability and implement reforms. Despite these challenges, Ukraine has garnered significant international support, both politically and militarily, from Western countries. The war has led to protests and dissent within Russia, with some citizens opposing the government's actions and the heavy toll on Russian soldiers. Russia's aggressive actions have resulted in widespread condemnation and isolation from the international community, damaging its global standing and diplomatic relations.The conflict has stretched Ukraine’s military resources thin, requiring powerful external support and aid to sustain its defense efforts. The war has forced Ukraine into a prolonged military engagement, requiring continuous mobilization and readiness. Russia has experienced momentous military losses, including personnel, equipment, and vehicles, affecting its overall military capacity. Sustaining a large-scale invasion over an extended period has posed substantial logistical challenges for the Russian military.The conflict has stretched Ukraine’s military resources thin, requiring powerful external support and aid to sustain its defense efforts. The war has forced Ukraine into a prolonged military engagement, requiring continuous mobilization and readiness. Russia has experienced momentous military losses, including personnel, equipment, and vehicles, affecting its overall military capacity. Sustaining a large-scale invasion over an extended period has posed substantial logistical challenges for the Russian military.Ukraine’s resistance has garnered global sympathy and support, enhancing its international reputation as a nation fighting for its sovereignty and democracy. Russia’s invasion has resulted in widespread global condemnation, severely damaging its international reputation and relationships. The aggressive actions have fostered long-term hostility and distrust towards Russia from many countries.Despite the heavy toll, the war has galvanized Ukrainian national unity and resilience, strengthening its resolve to defend its sovereignty. The invasion has led to unintended consequences, such as the strengthening of NATO and increased military support for Ukraine from Western nations. Russia is now entangled in a protracted conflict with no clear end in sight, complicating its strategic objectives and draining its resources.The Ukraine war exemplifies the multifaceted and severe costs of military confrontation. It highlights how economic, human, political, and strategic repercussions extend far beyond the immediate conflict, affecting both the aggressor and the targeted nation, as well as the broader international community. This ongoing conflict serves as a powerful reminder of the profound and far-reaching implications of engaging in military aggression.The long-standing and multifaceted Palestinian-Israeli conflict has incurred heavy economic, human, political, and strategic costs for both sides, as well as impacting the broader region and international community. Recurrent conflicts have caused extensive damage to infrastructure in Gaza and the West Bank, including homes, schools, hospitals, and utilities, requiring costly reconstruction efforts. Restrictions on movement, trade, and access to resources have severely hampered economic development. High unemployment rates and limited economic opportunities contribute to persistent poverty. Israel allocates a big portion of its budget to defense spending, including maintaining and modernizing its military capabilities and funding security measures such as the Iron Dome missile defense system. Periodic escalations in violence disrupt economic activities, affect tourism, and create uncertainty that can deter investment.Almost close to millions of Palestinians have been killed or injured throughout the conflict, including many civilians. The psychological trauma and loss of loved ones have long-lasting impacts on communities. Many Palestinians have been displaced from their homes due to the conflict, leading to ongoing refugee crises and humanitarian challenges in the region and beyond. Israelis have also suffered casualties, including soldiers and civilians. The constant threat of rocket attacks and violence contributes to a pervasive sense of insecurity. The ongoing conflict has psychological effects on the Israeli population, including stress, trauma, and fear, particularly among those living in areas frequently targeted by attacks.Thousands of Palestinians have been killed or injured throughout the conflict, including many civilians. The psychological trauma and loss of loved ones have long-lasting impacts on communities. Many Palestinians have been displaced from their homes due to the conflict, leading to ongoing refugee crises and humanitarian challenges in the region and beyond. Israelis have also suffered casualties, including soldiers and civilians. The constant threat of rocket attacks and violence contributes to a pervasive sense of insecurity. The ongoing conflict has psychological effects on the Israeli population, including stress, trauma, and fear, particularly among those living in areas frequently targeted by attacks.The conflict has contributed to political fragmentation among Palestinians, with divisions between different factions such as Hamas in Gaza and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. While the Palestinian cause has garnered significant international support, political divisions and the lack of a unified strategy complicate efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution. The conflict influences Israeli politics, often leading to political polarization and complicating governance. Security concerns dominate political discourse and decision-making. Israel's policies and actions in the conflict draw international criticism and affect its relationships with other countries. While it maintains strong alliances with some nations, it faces diplomatic challenges and condemnation from others.The presence of militant groups in Gaza and the West Bank leads to frequent confrontations with Israeli forces. The militarization of Palestinian society diverts resources from civilian needs and development. Military actions often have devastating effects on civilians, with infrastructure destruction and loss of life further exacerbating humanitarian crises. Israel's need for constant military vigilance, including maintaining checkpoints, conducting military operations, and securing borders, imposes a heavy burden on its armed forces. The continuous state of conflict affects the readiness and morale of Israeli soldiers, with ongoing deployments and confrontations taking a toll on personnel.While there is consequential international sympathy for the Palestinian cause, the actions of militant groups and internal divisions can complicate the global perception and support. Israel faces severe international criticism for its actions in the conflict, including settlement policies, military operations, and treatment of Palestinians. This criticism affects its global standing and diplomatic relations. Allegations of human rights violations and the humanitarian impact of the conflict draw condemnation and affect Israel's reputation internationally. Also as a reputational cost, there have been recent developments regarding arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan, has applied for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, over actions taken during the Israel-Hamas war. The ICC judges will now decide whether to issue the warrants and allow a case to proceed. Perhaps, this process could take weeks or months. If the warrants are issued, it would restrict Netanyahu’s ability to visit close Western allies without risking arrest. Additionally, the UK’s involvement may cause further delays in the decision.The conflict has delayed the achievement of a sovereign Palestinian state. The ongoing struggle for statehood and recognition remains a central strategic challenge. Achieving long-term security and stability remains a strategic challenge for Israel. The conflict with Palestinians affects its broader strategic objectives and regional relations.The Palestinian-Israeli conflict exemplifies the profound and multifaceted costs of prolonged military confrontation. Economic hardship, loss of life, political instability, military strain, reputational damage, and strategic challenges have profound impacts on both sides and the broader region. The ongoing nature of the conflict underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to alleviate these costs and achieve lasting peace.Military strength enables a nation to project power beyond its borders, influencing global events and shaping international policies. This can include participating in peacekeeping missions, providing humanitarian aid, and securing strategic interests abroad. A strong military allows a nation to support its allies in times of need, reinforcing alliances and partnerships. This support can come in the form of military aid, joint exercises, and collaborative defense efforts.Military forces protect vital sea lanes and trade routes, ensuring the free flow of goods and resources. This protection is crucial for maintaining global trade and economic stability. A capable military can defend critical infrastructure and natural resources from attacks or sabotage, ensuring the continued functioning of the economy.Military research and development often drive technological advancements that benefit civilian sectors. Innovations in communications, medicine, transportation, and other fields frequently originate from military projects. Defense industries contribute to economic growth by creating jobs, advancing manufacturing capabilities, and fostering technological innovation.Military strength provides a nation with leverage in international negotiations and diplomatic efforts. A strong military presence can enhance a nation's bargaining power in various geopolitical contexts. Military strength contributes to a nation's soft power by demonstrating its ability to maintain order, provide security, and support international norms. This presence can influence global perceptions and relationships.Military forces are often deployed in response to natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Their logistical capabilities, medical support, and manpower can be crucial in providing timely and effective aid. In post-conflict regions, military forces can play a vital role in stabilization and reconstruction efforts, helping to restore order and rebuild infrastructure.A capable military is a source of national pride and unity, symbolizing the nation's strength and resilience. It fosters a sense of security and confidence among the populace. The military embodies values of service, sacrifice, and duty, contributing to national identity and cohesion.Military strength is essential for ensuring national security, deterring aggression, projecting power, safeguarding economic interests, fostering technological innovation, enhancing political influence, providing humanitarian assistance, and promoting national unity. A well-maintained and capable military is a cornerstone of a strong and resilient state.The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) offers detailed data and analysis on global military capabilities and defense economics. This annual report includes information on defense budgets, military expenditures, and comparative assessments of military strengths across different countries. The report highlights several aspects of the United States' military capabilities and defense posture. It emphasizes the continued dominance of the U.S. military on a global scale, underscored by significant investments in advanced technologies, modernization programs, and strategic deployments. The report also notes the challenges posed by strategic competitors such as China and Russia, which have driven the U.S. to enhance its defense strategies and maintain a robust presence in key regions like the Indo-Pacific and Europe. Additionally, the U.S.'s focus on innovation in areas such as cyber capabilities and artificial intelligence is highlighted as crucial for maintaining its military edge in an evolving security landscape.For Indonesia, the report highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military. It mentions that despite significant increases in defense spending over the past 15 years, Indonesia's military modernization efforts are still a work in progress. The Minimum Essential Force (MEF) plan, which aimed to achieve a certain level of military capability by 2024, has seen mixed results. As of early 2024, the Indonesian Air Force, Army, and Navy have only met 51%, 60%, and 76% of their respective MEF targets. The report also discusses Indonesia's purchase of Rafale fighter jets from France as part of its broader strategy to enhance its air force capabilities. These insights underscore the complexities and challenges faced by Indonesia in its quest to bolster its defense capabilities amidst regional security dynamics.Major global powers and defense alliances like NATO carefully monitor changes in defense budgets worldwide. Countries such as the USA, Russia, and organizations like NATO will pay close attention to increases in other nations' defense budgets. This scrutiny is driven by strategic, geopolitical, and security considerations. The U.S. closely monitors global military spending, particularly in regions of strategic interest. For example, the U.S. has expressed concerns over China's increasing defense budget, seeing it as a challenge to U.S. dominance in the Asia-Pacific region. Similarly, U.S. officials and analysts keep a close watch on Russia's military expenditures, especially in the context of the Ukraine conflict and broader NATO-Russia tensions.The peeping goes on, Russia also monitors the defense spending of other countries, particularly NATO members and neighboring states. Increased military spending by NATO countries is often viewed by Russia as a potential threat, leading to reciprocal increases in its own defense budget and military readiness.NATO closely tracks the defense budgets of both its member states and potential adversaries. The alliance encourages its members to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense, a benchmark that many members have struggled to meet. Increases in defense spending by countries like Germany and Poland are often highlighted positively within the alliance, while rising military expenditures by Russia or China are viewed with concern and cited as justifications for NATO's own defense investments.These observations influence diplomatic dialogues, strategic planning, and sometimes lead to reciprocal military spending increases, reflecting broader security and geopolitical dynamics.We have explored the importance of Military Strength. In the next episode, we will delve into the challenges and key components of Military Strength. Biidhnillah."Then, Seruni sang a song,Don't give up, I won't give upDon't give up, no no noI'm free to be the greatest, I'm aliveI'm free to be the greatest here tonightThe greatest alive *)
Citations & References:
- The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), The Military Balance 2024: The Annual Assessment of Global Military Capabilities and Difference Economics, 2024, Taylor & Francis
- Mick Ryan, War Transformed: The Future of Twenty-First-Century Great Power Competition and Conflict, 2022, US Naval Institute Press
- Lawrence Freedman, The Future of War: A History, 2017, Public Affairs
- Roger Petersen, Death, Dominance, and State-Building: The U.S. in Iraq and the Future of American Military Intervention, 2024, Oxford University Press
- Serhii Plokhy, The Russo-Ukrainian War: The Return of History, 2023, W.W. Norton & Company
- Oren Kessler, Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict, 2023, Rowman & Littlefield
*) "The Greatest" written by Greg Kurstin, Sia Furler & Kendrick Lama
