JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is set to prioritize the modernization of its primary weapon systems (alutsista) in 2025, as part of a strategy to bolster the country’s defense capabilities. The modernization efforts are aimed at enhancing the combat readiness of the forces, ensuring that the military stays ahead of emerging threats in the region.

Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana, the Chief of the Army’s Information Department, explained that the goal is to combine upgrades to existing equipment with the acquisition of new systems.

“We are targeting a blend of modernizing current alutsista and purchasing new ones that meet the operational needs of today,” said Wahyu during a press briefing in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The need for modernizing military assets stems from the increasing sophistication of foreign military technology. The modernization will help Indonesia better prepare for potential threats posed by these advanced weapon systems.

Moreover, the goal is to establish a more effective defense and offensive capability for the nation.

While acknowledging the current effectiveness of the TNI AD’s existing alutsista, Wahyu emphasized that staying competitive in terms of military technology is vital.

“Our current arsenal is adequate, but the modernization process is necessary to maintain strategic parity with other nations,” he added.

In addition to modernizing weapons and systems, Wahyu highlighted the importance of collaborating with domestic defense industries. This aligns with the government’s broader vision of strengthening national defense independence. “We continue to promote synergy with local defense industries, which is in line with government policy,” he said.

Wahyu did not provide specific details on the types of new weaponry or systems that will be procured by the TNI AD in 2025. Similarly, the exact budget allocated for these purchases was not disclosed, leaving room for speculation about the scale of the modernization program.

The emphasis on working with local defense companies is part of a larger push to ensure that Indonesia can produce more of its own defense equipment, reducing reliance on foreign imports. This strategy aims to not only enhance military capability but also stimulate the domestic defense industry.

The modernization initiative is seen as an essential step for ensuring that the TNI AD is equipped to respond to increasingly complex security challenges. As geopolitical tensions rise in the region, a well-equipped and modernized military is crucial for maintaining Indonesia’s defense posture.

Experts have previously lauded the TNI for its efforts to modernize its military over the years. The Indonesian military’s modernization strategy has been vital in ensuring that the country remains resilient in the face of evolving threats and challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. With these planned upgrades, the TNI AD aims to continue strengthening its defense capabilities in 2025 and beyond.

This strategic move towards modernizing Indonesia’s military assets reflects a growing recognition of the need for robust defense systems in an increasingly uncertain global security environment. (Uki Ruknuddin)

 

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