Minister Prabowo optimistic RI to have strong defense industry

Jakarta (ANTARA) -  Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto has expressed optimism that Indonesia would have a strong national defense industry in future.

The national defense industry is currently able to produce propellants used in bullet and rocket propulsion, he stated at a hearing with the House of Representatives’ (DPR’s) Commission I in Jakarta on Monday.

"I thank God that we have been able to produce propellants, raw material used to produce bullets and rockets, domestically. I am optimistic that in the years to come, we would have a strong defense industry," he noted.

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Prabowo pointed out that state firms engaged in the defense industry, including weapons manufacturer PT Pindad, shipbuilder PT PAL, and aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia, were able to export their products.

He stated that the Defense Ministry is seeking to create strong and professional state defense and security, and that the National Defense Forces (TNI) will be reckoned at a regional level.

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"In December 2019, we will complete software products and revise and update the state defense and security strategy and doctrine and unveil them to the relevant institutes and the president responsible for state defense and security," he remarked.

He planned to hold a meeting of leaders in the defense field from all stakeholders to discuss the state defense and security doctrine.

Vice Defense Minister Wahyu Trenggono was also present at the meeting led by Chief of DPR Commission I Meutya Hafid.

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