The Indo Defense Expo 2025 kicked off in Jakarta with strong momentum, drawing global attention to the country’s growing defense capabilities. Held at JIExpo Kemayoran from June 11 to 14, the event features 1,180 companies from 55 nations, including major players like Turkey, the United States, and France. As one of Southeast Asia’s largest defense exhibitions, it serves as a strategic platform to enhance international defense cooperation.
Strengthening Global Ties at the Indonesia Defense Expo
Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan emphasized the expo’s diplomatic value. “This event is a strategic venue to enhance bilateral and multilateral relations in the defense sector,” he said during the opening ceremony on Wednesday, as reported by Antaranews.com.
Gunawan explained that hundreds of companies are showcasing advanced defense technologies. These engagements aim to spark not only defense equipment transactions but also collaborative development between local and international industries.
He also stressed that peace remains Indonesia’s top priority in defense diplomacy. “In accordance with what the President (Prabowo Subianto) said, Indonesia is a country that loves peace but also values independence. Therefore, there should be no war that leads to destruction,” he added.
Historic First Day: 27 MoUs Worth IDR 33 Trillion Signed
The first day of Indo Defence 2025 marked a milestone for defense industry cooperation. A total of 27 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed, with a combined value of IDR 33 trillion. President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the signing ceremony, which involved a mix of state-owned enterprises, private firms, and foreign defense partners.
Key national companies such as PT Pindad, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, PT PAL Indonesia, PT Len, and PT Dahana participated in the agreements. They were joined by private sector players like PT Republik Defens Indonesia, PT Praba Cipta Mandiri, and PT Nusantara Turbine Propulsi. International collaborators included firms like Ellips Project from the UK, reflecting growing trust in Indonesia’s defense sector.
Showcasing Indonesia’s Military Technology
Indonesia used this global stage to highlight its domestic innovation in military technology. Featured products include the Maung electric military vehicle, Harimau medium tank, SS3 assault rifle, Red White frigate, a modern hospital ship, a landing platform dock, and the upgraded F-15 fighter aircraft. These technologies demonstrate the country’s expanding capabilities and commitment to defense modernization.
Key International Collaborations and the KAAN Fighter Deal
In addition to company-level agreements, a landmark defense deal was signed between Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense and Turkey’s Secretariat of Defense Industries (SSB). The two parties agreed to collaborate on the procurement of the fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries. This agreement reinforces long-term strategic cooperation between Indonesia and Turkey in advanced defense systems.
Indo Defence 2025 Draws 1,180 Exhibitors from 55 Countries
This year’s expo is notable for its scale and diversity. Exhibitors hail from 55 countries, and national pavilions have been set up by nations such as Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and France. These displays not only highlight cutting-edge defense innovations but also reflect global confidence in the Indo Defence platform.
A Platform for Peace Through Partnership
Indo Defence Expo 2025 proves that industrial collaboration in the defense sector can drive peace and stability. By bringing together governments and manufacturers from across the globe, Indonesia positions itself as a trusted player in the international defense community. Consequently, the deals and discussions underway this week will likely shape future partnerships and underscore Indonesia’s vision of peace through strength.
Source: antaranews.com, kabariku.com
Image: Biro Pers, Media, dan Informasi Sekretariat Presiden / Berita Nasional
