Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander General Moeldoko has said his institution was prioritizing local military weapons through a transfer-of-technology system to improve national defense competency.

"We cannot ignore the local products of our national defense system because they are our priority. We cannot overlook high technology either. Thus, we need a transfer of technology," Moeldoko stated during his visit to the Indo Defense Expo and Forum 2014 here on Thursday.

According to the General, the weapons that are utilized by Indonesian soldiers have high prices. Hence, the Indonesian Military should follow up the latest advances in technology so as not to fall behind other countries.

"The TNI weapons are not cheap. However, we need to follow the latest technologies to balance power and attain the strength to face other countries," Moeldoko remarked.

The Indo Defense Expo and Forum 2014 is being held in JIExpo, Jakarta, from November 5 to 8, 2014.

"This is an annual event that maintains good quality. Indonesian soldiers can update themselves on the developments in the defense technology industry. Civilians can also understand that military weapons are expensive," Moeldoko pointed out.

Moeldoko was accompanied by Chief of the TNI Information Center Mayor General Fuad Basya. They stopped by several stalls and discussed the capacity of weapons.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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