Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto said the move responds to modern threats and Indonesia's vast geography, which includes remote and hard-to-reach islands.
"Modern warfare is advancing rapidly. If we don’t keep up, how can we protect our people?” Agus told reporters at the 2025 TNI Fair in Jakarta.
The Indonesian Army is now operating 18 Harimau tanks, a joint development between Indonesia and Turkiye. The tank is built domestically and is part of a wider effort to modernize the country's defense systems.
The Harimau weighs 30 tons and measures 7 meters long, 3.2 meters wide, and 2.6 meters high. It can travel at speeds up to 70 kilometers per hour and has a range of 600 kilometers.
Its main weapon is a 105-millimeter cannon with a firing range of over 5 kilometers, depending on the ammunition type. First produced in 2019, the tank has been in service since 2021.
At the event, the Army also showcased other modern equipment, including Anoa armored vehicles, Leopard tanks, helicopters, and military-grade communication and engineering tools.
Agus emphasized that upgrading Indonesia's defense capabilities is necessary, not just to respond to external threats but also to ensure national sovereignty in the face of evolving global dynamics.
Indonesia's defense strategy also includes boosting domestic defense manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
"Our geography demands readiness. We have remote islands that must be protected with advanced technology," Agus said.
He added that maintaining peace and national security requires well-equipped forces capable of acting swiftly during emergencies.
The annual TNI Fair, held at the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta, allows the public to view Indonesia's military advancements and serves as a platform for transparency and defense education.
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Translator: Nadia PR, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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