Ambon (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Navy warship KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata-331 (REM-331) has docked in Ambon, Maluku, after participating in the multinational Exercise Kakadu 2026 in Australia, aimed at strengthening maritime defense cooperation.Commander of Naval Region Command IX Rear Admiral Hanarko Djodi Pamungkas welcomed the vessel at Tawiri Pier on Saturday, noting the drill is routinely organized by the Royal Australian Navy.“This exercise plays a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Australia, particularly in maritime defense,” he said.Pamungkas said the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) joined the biennial exercise to enhance coordination and operational capacity in addressing maritime security challenges.He added the drill also serves as a platform to exchange best practices and improve personnel professionalism.“Participation is part of our effort to maintain and enhance the combat readiness of personnel and weapon systems to address potential threats at sea,” he said.Pamungkas noted that REM-331 trained alongside warships from Australia and other participating countries.The exercise covered a range of scenarios, including naval warfare, maritime law enforcement and humanitarian operations.The vessel operates under the Escort Ship Unit of Fleet Command II and is part of the SIGMA 10514 class of guided-missile frigates.It is equipped with advanced systems, including a 76 mm main gun, anti-ship missiles and air defense weapons.The warship is also fitted with modern radar and sensor systems to support surveillance and combat operations.In addition, it can carry and deploy helicopters for reconnaissance and anti-submarine missions.These capabilities position the vessel as a key component of Indonesia’s maritime defense posture.Pamungkas said participation in multinational drills such as Kakadu is essential for strengthening interoperability with partner navies.He added that such cooperation contributes to regional stability and collective maritime security.Now stationed in Ambon, REM-331 is expected to enhance the navy’s operational effectiveness in eastern Indonesian waters.