Battle of Surabaya

Battle context

The Battle of Surabaya was the largest single battle of the Indonesian National Revolution, pitting Indonesian regular infantry and militia against British and British Indian troops deployed in connection with the re-imposition of Dutch colonial rule. Though the British force of roughly 30,000 outnumbered the Indonesian side, Indonesian casualties ranging from 6,300 to 16,000 reflected the intensity of resistance mounted by nationalist fighters. The battle galvanized both domestic and international support for Indonesian independence, elevating the conflict from a local confrontation into a cause with wider political resonance. It became a foundational symbol of the revolution, and 10 November is commemorated annually in Indonesia as Heroes' Day, marking the battle's enduring place in national memory.