There have been numerous works discussing the role of the armed forces in various fields, particularly in the context of its socio-political functions. Another lengthy exposition on these lines would be of little relevance here. However, with the exception of Guy Pauker's generally neglected Seskoad document (1980), and Sundhaussen's short monograph (1982), very little research exists on the significance the TNI's places on socio-political strategies to enable the military to successfully prosecute its defence doctrines against external security concerns. In addressing the defence aspects of socio-political strategies, it would be useful to examine first of all, the impact of history on the armed forces’ perception of its defence and security role. Particularly, what factors have shaped a doctrine like the Sishankamrata, which ostensibly was devised for external defence, to be interpreted generally from the narrow perspective of counter-insurgency and public order during the Suharto era? Second, by that extension, it would be relevant to examine the connection between defence and development and specifically the military's role in national development, which the TNI believed was a logical consequence of its dual role as a custodian for defence and security matters as well as a socio-political force. Third, there is a need to understand how the TNI perceived the significance of its relationship with the civilian forces in Indonesia as a consequence of its defence and security doctrines. In doing so, we will be able to understand how defence and national security priorities have impacted on the socio-political system that has developed under the New Order.

That the socio-political doctrines that underpinned the TNI's privileged role in the political system are irrelevant in the aftermath of reformasi is not the point of contention in this chapter. More important for our analysis is an understanding of how such doctrines came about for defence purposes, and whether elements can be retained for the effective defence of Indonesia while doing away with the excesses, specifically, its contentious political role, that have tarnished the reputation of the TNI as one of Indonesia's critical institutions. Essential in this regard is how the TNI can transform its territorial structure and evolve a total defence role for itself considering the budgetary shortfalls, technological backwardness and the lack of proper political guidance.