This shows the level of trust of friendly countries in our defense industry.
Surabaya, East Java (ANTARA) - State-owned ship manufacturer PT PAL Indonesia has started work on a landing dock type warship ordered by the Philippines, which is targeted for completion and delivery in 2026.

A keel laying landing dock and first steel-cutting landing dock ceremony on Monday marked the beginning of the ship's construction.

PAL President Director Kaharuddin Djenod on Monday said that the ship, built to Lloyd's Register (LR) class, will weigh 7,200 tons and have a maximum speed of 16 knots, a cruising speed of 13 knots, and cruising endurance of 30 days.

"Meanwhile, its operating range will be 9,360 nanometers, and it will be capable of bringing a maximum of 680 passengers," Djenod added.

He said that the Philippine landing dock warship project proves the level of trust of friendly countries in the Indonesian defense industry.

"In our cooperation with the Philippines, two ships have been exported and currently, another one is under contract. This shows the level of trust of friendly countries in our defense industry," he added.

He said that international trust in his party has been built due to the support of Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto and President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

According to him, the two leaders understand geopolitical conditions well. Therefore, friendly countries are placing their trust in the Indonesian defense industry, especially PT PAL Indonesia.

"The strength of Indonesia's leadership has succeeded in convincing friendly countries (to purchase Indonesian ships). Our quality can be accounted for," he added.

Therefore, Djenod said he does not want to squander the trust that has been given to PT PAL Indonesia.

"When trust is given to the domestic defense industry, we must provide results with the best quality and (ensure they) are not inferior to the results of the foreign defense industry," he added.

According to him, Indonesia has a strategic position and can provide an example to other ASEAN countries in producing quality products in the midst of limitations and obstacles.

In terms of technological mastery, the domestic production capability has improved significantly: from producing 60-meter KCR ships and 123-meter LPDs previously, Indonesia is now capable of designing and starting the Red and White Frigate production, Djenod said.

"Even though we bought the basic design from abroad, the complete basic design has been done by our domestic engineers. We are also in the process of designing aircraft carriers," he informed.

Related news: PT PAL finishes second warship ordered by the Philippines
Related news: Jokowi lauds the Philippines' trust in Indonesian weapon products





Translator: Indra Setiawan/Naufal, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2024