Vol. 5, No. 5, May 2024

E-ISSN: 2723-6692

P-ISSN: 2723-6595

http://jiss.publikasiindonesia.id/

Journal of Indonesian Social Sciences, Vol. 5, No. 5, May 2024 1103

Establishing Effective Reserve Components: Lessons Learned

from Russia

Tri Yudha Ismanto, Kurniawan Firmuzi Syarifuddin, Irdham Ahmad

Universitas Pertahanan Republik Indonesia, Bogor, Indonesia

Email: [email protected]om

Correspondence: triyudha2001@gmail.com

KEYWORDS

ABSTRACT

Reserve Forces; Military

Strategy; Technology:

Information Systems;

Integration; Regulations;

Operations

This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method to

explore lessons that can be drawn from Russia's experience in building an

effective military reserve component. The article discusses the importance

of establishing a robust and effective reserve force in Indonesia, drawing

lessons from Russia's experiences and strategies employed by other

nations. It emphasizes the need for a well-structured organization, clear

command structures, efficient hierarchies, and regular training programs.

The integration of technology and information systems, as well as the

provision of welfare and incentives, is also highlighted as essential

components for enhancing the effectiveness and readiness of Indonesia's

reserve forces. The document also emphasizes the necessity of clear

regulations and policies to provide a strong legal framework, ensuring the

operational effectiveness and integrity of Indonesia's reserve forces.

Additionally, it underscores the importance of integrating reserve

components with regular forces through joint exercises, standardized

doctrines, and operational procedures. The document concludes by

emphasizing the opportunity for Indonesia to design a resilient reserve

force by learning from Russia's challenges and strategies employed by

other nations, ensuring the creation of a large, effective, well-trained, and

deployable reserve force to balance and strengthen the overall national

defense system.

Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0)

1 Introduction

Indonesia, which spans more than 17,000 islands and is known for its vast territorial diversity,

is faced with unique challenges in defending its sovereignty (Karman, 2016). From vast bodies of

water to islands, this complexity demands robust and adaptive defense strategies, one of which is

through the establishment of resilient reserve components. In the global context, there is an

opportunity for Indonesia to learn from international experience, especially from countries that have

long-established reserve component management practices that have been tested by time and

conflict.

Russia, long known for having one of the world's largest reserve forces, offers Indonesia rich

insights. The history of Russian reservists—stretching from the Soviet era to the present—reveals a

wide range of operational and strategic aspects that can be referenced. Russia has faced various

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problems, ranging from difficulties in modernizing the army, and integration between reserve units

and regular, to maintaining the readiness and morale of the troops. These issues, when analyzed, open

a learning window for Indonesia to identify potential weaknesses and strengths in its own national

defense system.

For Indonesia, this analysis is not just about adopting what Russia has done, but rather

understanding the context of the mistakes and successes that the country has experienced. Thus,

Indonesia can formulate an approach tailored to its national needs, while avoiding the pitfalls that

Russia has faced. This introspection will provide a foundation for Indonesia to build a reserve force

that is not only large in number, but also effective, trained, and ready to be deployed, so that it

becomes a reliable balancing force in safeguarding national sovereignty and strengthening its overall

national defense system.

2 Materials and Methods

This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method to explore lessons that can

be drawn from Russia's experience in building an effective military reserve component. Case studies

are chosen because they allow an in-depth analysis of the context and dynamics involved. The

collected data will be analyzed using thematic analysis techniques to identify key emerging themes

related to the effectiveness of Russia's military reserve component. The analysis steps include: a) Data

Encoding: Identification and grouping of data based on relevant themes or categories. b) Theme

Grouping: Grouping themes were found to understand patterns and relationships between themes.

c) Data Interpretation: Crafting narratives that relate findings to broader contexts and relevant

theories. To ensure validity and reliability, this study will use data triangulation by combining various

data sources and data collection techniques. In addition, researchers will cross-check findings with

informants to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information obtained..

3 Results and Discussions

Organizing Reserve Forces

In the face of the challenge of organizing a large but often poorly trained and equipped reserve

force, Indonesia can take strategic steps based on lessons learned from Russia. First, creating a clear

and efficient command structure is key. This can be realized by implementing a hierarchy similar to

that of regular forces but with flexibility tailored to the unique needs of reserve forces (Sinaga, 2021).

For example, the command structure can be set up in such a way that allows reserves who have

specific civilian expertise, such as technical or medical expertise, to be quickly integrated into units

that require that expertise. Second, an orderly and continuous training system should be drawn up

for reserve forces. This can include foundation courses focused on universal military skills, followed

by more specialized training modules, such as cyber warfare, special operations, or battlefield first

aid courses. For example, reserve forces can attend annual training courses that simulate realistic

combat situations, using up-to-date training technologies such as augmented reality to effectively and

efficiently enhance their capabilities. Third, adequate budget allocation for equipment and logistical

needs is essential to keep reserve forces in ready-to-use condition. Indonesia may consider procuring

equipment that can be dual-use, both for military and civilian purposes, so that its use becomes more

efficient. Examples in this case could include vehicles that can be used for civilian purposes in

peacetime but can be easily converted for military purposes when needed. In addition, investment in

a cloud-based logistics system that enables accurate inventory management and rapid distribution of

resources can guarantee that reserve forces are well-equipped when called upon to duty.

With the implementation of such measures, Indonesia will not only increase the effectiveness

of its reserve forces but will also foster confidence among its members that they are becoming an

important part of a well-valued and well-supported national defense.

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Backup Component Integration with Regular

Deep integration between reserve forces and regular troops is a key factor in building a

comprehensive military force. Experience from countries such as Russia, as well as examples from

systems implemented by the United States National Guard and British Territorial Reserves,

demonstrates the importance of regular joint interactions and exercises to ensure synergistic

operational readiness (Vest, 2014). In the United States, for example, the National Guard is routinely

involved in joint exercises with active forces, allowing them to retain necessary skills and ensure

interoperability with active components. In the UK, Territorial Reservicing is often integrated in

military operations, exercises and joint educational activities with the regular Armed Forces

(Connelly, 2021).

For Indonesia, this means establishing a structured joint exercise program, in which reservists

are involved in field exercises, joint maneuvers, and simulations that allow both forces to operate in

tactical and strategic unity. For example, reservists could be involved in large-scale annual exercises

such as the one conducted in Exercise Garuda Shield, which involves various elements of the

Indonesian Armed Forces. Through this exercise, reservists will gain hands-on experience in military

operations and strengthen cooperative relationships with their counterparts from regular forces.

In addition, uniformity of doctrine and operational procedures is vital. This can be exemplified

through standardization of communication protocols, operational codes, and combat procedures that

allow reserve and regular forces to communicate and operate efficiently in conflict situations. For

example, NATO's operational doctrines used by member states, including the Standard Operating

Procedure (SOP) protocol, offer a framework that Indonesia can adopt and adapt to ensure that

reservists and regular forces speak the same "language" tactically (Pawlikowicz, 2023).

With the practicing consistent interaction and applying uniform doctrinal standards, Indonesia

will ensure that its forces can integrate smoothly, making the transition between reserve and active

status feel less like a drastic change, but rather as part of effective operational continuity. The success

of this integration will strengthen Indonesia's ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergency

situations, be it natural disasters or military threats.

Combat Readiness

The combat readiness of reserve forces is a critical aspect in ensuring the effectiveness of

military responses in emergency or conflict situations. Russia's challenges in maintaining the combat

readiness of its troops highlight two main aspects: the implementation of realistic military exercises

and the maintenance of the physical condition of the troops. Realistic exercises create scenarios that

are close to real conditions, preparing troops to respond quickly and effectively to a variety of

situations. For example, Israel conducts regular military exercises through the Tzav 8 program, which

calls for impromptu reservances to train in potential conflict scenarios, ensuring that they can

transition from civilian life to military duty with minimal hesitation (Edri, 2024).

Maintaining the health and physique of reserve forces is no less important. Reserve forces must

maintain physical conditions that allow them to deploy quickly. Finland, for example, has a health

system that monitors the physical condition of its services through regular health checks and physical

exercise programs (Lappalainen, 1983). The program is geared towards ensuring that reservicing

remains in optimal combat-ready condition.

Indonesia, in an effort to improve the combat readiness of its reserve forces, could adopt a

similar approach. Military exercises should include scenarios relevant to geographical and political

threats faced by Indonesia, such as asymmetric conflicts, natural disasters, or urban combat. These

exercises should be held periodically and include the use of simulation technology to enhance realism.

For example, exercises such as the Amphibious Operations Exercise conducted by the Indonesian

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Navy Marine Corps can be modified to involve reservists, giving them valuable experience in joint

operations with regular forces.

In addition, maintaining health and physical health can be achieved through programs

conducted by the Department of Defense, such as the construction of sports facilities or cooperation

with local health institutions to provide access to fitness programs and health screenings. With a focus

on realistic exercises and health maintenance, Indonesia's reserve forces will be a formidable force,

ready to support regular forces and safeguard the country's sovereignty.

Use of Technology and Information

In the era of increasingly advanced technology, the use of information technology is crucial in

increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of reserve forces. A vivid example of this investment can

be seen in Russia's initiative to update its communication and data management systems, which

allows for better coordination and rapid dissemination of information (Army, 1943). This is

particularly relevant for Indonesia, whose geography consists of thousands of islands, requiring a

system that can centrally manage reserve force data and distribute information quickly and securely.

For example, the use of an integrated information management system can facilitate the process

of identifying and mobilizing reserve forces. The United States uses systems such as the Integrated

Personnel and Pay System - Army (IPPS-A) that provide a holistic picture of personnel and facilitate

planning and deployment (Army, 1943). With a similar system, Indonesia can monitor individual

readiness, skills, and training history, enabling more strategic and responsive deployments.

Investment in virtual training and simulation technology is also crucial. This training system

not only saves costs, but also allows repetition of scenarios without any real risk. Singapore, for

example, has adopted virtual training systems such as the Integrated Tactical Training Centre (ITTC)

for its troops, which allow simulation of various combat scenarios (Kholina & Seredkin, 2016). Indonesia

could follow in that footsteps by developing or investing in similar training systems to enhance the

tactical capabilities of its reserve forces.

These virtual training technologies could include new battle simulations, improved training

hardware such as laser weapons and simulated combat vehicles, as well as software that enables

after-action analysis for learning and improvement. Through sophisticated simulations, Indonesian

reservicing can experience various scenarios of asymmetric warfare, conventional combat, or special

operations tailored to the potential threats faced by the country.

By applying information technology in management and mobilization, as well as investing in a

virtual training system, Indonesia will strengthen its reserve forces into a formidable and combat-

ready force. The integration of these technologies into national defense strategies will enable

Indonesian reservists to train more effectively, manage human resources more efficiently, and

ultimately, improve their readiness to face future security challenges.

Welfare and Incentives

Welfare issues and lack of incentives are often major barriers to the recruitment and retention

of reservists. Reserve force members are in a unique position, often having to balance civilian

commitments with their military responsibilities. In view of this, the provision of adequate welfare

guarantees becomes very important. For example, in Canada, reserve force members are given access

to comprehensive health and dental programs, as well as support programs for continuing education

and training (Kinmonth, 1951).

In Indonesia, steps must be taken to ensure that members of the reserve forces are guaranteed

welfare equivalent to that of regular troops. This can include access to health services, accident and

life insurance, as well as pension schemes that guarantee the future of them and their families. This

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increase in well-being not only shows appreciation for the sacrifices they make but also serves as a

powerful form of incentive.

In addition, attractive incentives can be in the form of financial compensation, such as

enlistment bonuses or performance bonuses, that have been implemented by the United States

Armed Forces to attract qualified recruits and retain experienced personnel. The granting of special

holidays or flexibility in civilian work can also be a powerful motivator, as seen in the 'Employer

Support of the Guard and Reserve' (ESGR) program in the US, which works to promote understanding

between the service and the organization above them (Gates et al., 2013).

Indonesia can explore providing non-financial incentives, such as public recognition and

opportunities to participate in humanitarian missions or peacekeeping operations, that could

increase a sense of personal pride and satisfaction. Providing opportunities for career development,

in both military and civilian professional contexts, is also essential to attracting and retaining talented

and motivated individuals.

With the implementing a strong welfare system and providing attractive incentives, Indonesian

reserve forces will feel valued and supported, which in turn increases their motivation and loyalty.

This will not only help in maintaining a combat-ready force but will also boost the morale and

commitment of reserve forces to the task of national defense.

Regulations and Policies

Clear and well-defined regulations and policies are the foundation of an effective reserve force

system. International experience, including the difficulties faced by Russia, shows that vagueness in

laws and policies can hinder the operationalization and effectiveness of reserve forces. For example,

in the United States, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

offers employment protection for members of the reserve forces and Guard when they are called up

for federal service (Clauss, 2014; Wood & Miazad, 2009). It establishes clear rights and obligations for

service members and their employers, which is critical in ensuring that reservists can return to their

civilian employment without discrimination upon completion of duty.

For Indonesia, it is important to draft regulations that outline specifically the rights and

obligations of reserve forces. This includes guaranteed civilian job security during and after

mobilization, fair compensation, and access to health services and other benefits. A concrete example

can be taken from Australia, where the Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act 2001 provides a

range of rights and protections for services, including employment and education issues (Library,

2018).

In addition, transparent and accountable policies are essential to ensure that the use of reserve

forces is done judiciously and only when necessary, with careful consideration of the implications for

personnel and their families. In a country like the UK, the mobilisation of reserve forces is regulated

by the Reserve Forces Act 1996, which provides the framework for the call up of reservicing and

guarantees that this measure is seriously considered by Parliament (Bury, 2019).

Indonesia needs to implement policies that allow transparent and accountable evaluation of the

need for reservist mobilization. Transparency in the decision-making process and in communication

with reserve forces and the general public helps in building trust and ensuring public support for the

use of reserve forces.

With clear regulations and transparent policies, Indonesia will ensure that its reserve forces

operate within a strong legal framework, support legal certainty and justice for reserve force

members and their families, and maintain the integrity of the national defense system. This will help

ensure that Indonesian reservists are ready, reliable, and respected, both on and off duty.

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4 Conclusion

Indonesia has the opportunity to design a formidable reserve force by taking lessons from the

challenges faced by Russia and the strategies implemented by other countries. The first step is to

create a well-structured organization, which includes a clear command structure, an efficient

hierarchy, and an organized training system. An example of this can be seen in the United States

National Guard model, which integrates training and command with active forces effectively.

Furthermore, effective integration between reserve and regular forces should be pursued through

joint exercises and standardization of doctrine and operational procedures. The experience of

countries such as Israel and the United Kingdom shows that frequent joint exercises and consistent

doctrine strengthen interoperability and combat readiness. Combat-ready reservists also need

investment in information technology and virtual training systems to enhance tactical capabilities.

The use of this technology, as Singapore did with its ITTC, allows for sophisticated simulation and

efficient training. Attention to welfare and incentives for reserve forces are essential to maintaining

morale and motivation. Adopting models like Canada or Australia in providing access to health

benefits and educational support is an important step towards improving the quality of life and job

satisfaction of reserve force members. Finally, clear regulations and transparent and accountable

policies, similar to USERRA in the United States or the Reserve Forces Act in the United Kingdom,

should be developed to provide protection and certainty for reserve forces and their families. With

the implementing a comprehensive strategy covering aspects of organization, integration, combat

readiness, technology, welfare, and regulation, Indonesia's reserve forces will be strengthened. This

approach will place reserve forces as a crucial component in a defense system that can respond

dynamically and effectively to changing security threats and challenges, securing Indonesia's national

sovereignty in the future.

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