History of TNI – The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has a long and storied history in safeguarding Indonesia’s sovereignty and independence. Born from the People’s Security Agency (BKR) established after Indonesia proclaimed its independence, the TNI has undergone various transformations and faced numerous challenges to become the military force it is today.
In its early formation, BKR was established to maintain internal security following Indonesia’s declaration of independence on August 17, 1945. However, the increasingly complex security situation and threats from the Dutch, who aimed to recolonize Indonesia, prompted the government to restructure BKR into the People’s Security Army (TKR) on October 5, 1945. This move was taken to provide a more organized and efficient structure to face military threats.
The transformation did not stop there. To align with international military standards and improve organizational structure, TKR was later changed to the Republic of Indonesia Military (TRI). The government’s efforts to perfect the armed forces continued, and on June 3, 1947, President Soekarno officially established the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), uniting TRI with various people’s struggle organizations.
TNI’s Role in the War of Independence
During the War of Independence (1945-1949), TNI demonstrated its capability as the people’s army, a revolutionary army, and a national army. Although newly formed, TNI had to face various challenges both domestically and internationally. Domestically, TNI dealt with political subversion from communist factions and armed uprisings such as the PKI rebellion in Madiun and Darul Islam (DI) in West Java.
Internationally, TNI faced two Dutch Military Aggressions. Confronted with the Dutch’s more modern military forces, TNI and the Indonesian people implemented the Universal People’s War strategy. All national resources, including civilians, were mobilized to defend the country’s sovereignty. This collaboration between TNI and the people successfully preserved the integrity and existence of the Republic of Indonesia.
Post-Independence and New Challenges
After the War of Independence, following the Round Table Conference (RTC) agreements, the United States of Indonesia (RIS) was formed, along with the RIS Military Forces (APRIS), a merger of TNI and KNIL. However, in August 1950, RIS was dissolved, and Indonesia returned to a unitary state. APRIS was then renamed the Indonesian National Armed Forces (APRI).
During the parliamentary democracy era (1950-1959), TNI faced excessive political interference, leading to the October 17, 1952 incident, which caused a rift within the TNI Army. Despite this, TNI played a crucial role in suppressing various rebellions, such as APRA in Bandung, Andi Azis in Makassar, and RMS in Maluku.
Guided Democracy Era and New Order
In 1962, efforts to unify the armed forces and national police into a single organization, the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI), were made to enhance effectiveness and efficiency. However, ABRI faced significant challenges from the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI), which attempted to infiltrate and influence ABRI. The peak of PKI’s efforts was the 1965 coup known as G30S/PKI. ABRI successfully thwarted the coup and eradicated PKI supporters, fostering a new political order.
Reform and Modernization of TNI
Post-1998 reforms saw TNI implement significant changes. TNI separated from the police, eliminated involvement in practical politics, and reaffirmed its commitment to electoral neutrality. These internal reforms included doctrinal changes, such as replacing the Catur Dharma Eka Karma (Cadek) doctrine with the Tri Dharma Eka Karma (Tridek) doctrine.
Modern Role and Duties of TNI
According to Law No. 34 of 2004, TNI acts as the state instrument in defense, executing its duties based on national political policies and decisions. The primary duties of TNI are to uphold state sovereignty, defend the territorial integrity of the Republic of Indonesia, and protect the nation from threats. TNI conducts two types of operations: military operations for war and military operations other than war, which include counter-terrorism, quelling armed rebellions, disaster response, and peacekeeping missions.
With ongoing internal reforms, TNI remains committed to maintaining sovereignty and national unity, aiming to realize a better Indonesia within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia. As the state’s defense instrument, TNI continues to adapt to changing times, maintaining professionalism and loyalty to Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution.
