Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and President-elect Prabowo Subianto have given the green light for the establishment of a Cyber Force, which will become the fourth branch of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). The move is aimed at improving Indonesia's ability to defend against cyber attacks from abroad.
The Cyber Force will operate alongside the three existing military branches: the Force, Navy, and Air Force, and is expected to be a key focus of Prabowo's administration.
The urgency of forming the Cyber Force has been underscored by a severe cyberattack in June, one of the worst in Indonesia’s history. The attack caused significant disruptions to immigration services and airport operations for several days, with over 40 government agencies and key ministries targeted. This incident highlighted Indonesia's vulnerability to cyber threats, making the creation of a specialized force highly relevant.
Why is a Cyber Force so Important?
The existence of a Cyber Force is crucial in today's digital era, where cyber warfare is changing how countries assess threats and respond to challenges. Cyber warfare, which operates in the virtual realm, has characteristics distinct from traditional warfare, requiring a new approach that reflects this reality.
With the increasing reliance on technology, the protection of vital national systems becomes critical. In this context, the presence of a Cyber Force is essential to face and counter various threats.
Several countries, including China with the People's Liberation Force Cyber Force, Germany with the Cyber and Information Domain Service, Norway with the Cyber Defence Force, and Singapore with the Digital and Intelligence Service, have already made significant advancements in developing their cyber forces.
Building and strengthening the Cyber Force will be a strategic step to ensure national security and protect the public from digital threats.
Defining Cyber Warfare: The New Frontier in National Security
Unfortunately, there is no universal definition of cyber warfare, and even its terminology varies, such as "cyber warfare," "Cyber Warfare," "Cyber World War," or "Virtual Warfare."
According to the American Public University, cyber warfare is a strategic cyber attack by a nation or international organization targeting the national security and public infrastructure of another country. These attacks can damage vital systems, spread disinformation, and disrupt economies and societies.
Examples of cyber attacks include hacking, malware, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which often target critical infrastructure like energy companies, utilities, financial institutions, and governments. The attackers' aim is to disrupt critical systems, steal sensitive data, or damage economic support structures.
In cyber warfare, network hacking can be used to gain unauthorized access or plant viruses, potentially damaging computer systems and infrastructure. DDoS attacks can hinder military operations and other essential services.
Securing Indonesia's Cyber Future
According to CNA, the establishment of a new cyber military unit in Indonesia is crucial, but its success depends on adequate funding and equipment. Lodewijk Freidrich Paulus, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasized that the cyber forces must be equipped with advanced tools and specialists.
He warned of the risk of Indonesia falling behind in cyber security if it does not invest in defense technologies and satellite systems. In his view, while the development of cyber technology is costly, advanced equipment with a small number of personnel is better than a large force without the proper tools.
