Indonesia-China defence cooperation covers ammunition, missiles, and rockets
Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has revealed that defence cooperation between Indonesia and China consists of two main areas. First, in the defence industry, it continues what has already been underway and what will be carried out. Second, cooperation in new areas related to the development of missiles, rockets, and other weapons.
“What we have already done is that we will cooperate in an ammunition factory. We will also cooperate on missiles, rockets, and so on. For things we have not yet made, they will help us and carry out technology transfers so that we can build factories together in Indonesia,” Sjafrie told members of the media at the Pancasila Building of the Foreign Ministry, Central Jakarta, on Friday afternoon.
According to Sjafrie, discussions with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun indeed focused on the defence industry. “So what I raised was how the People’s Republic of China can carry out technology transfers to Indonesia, and we also want to develop military technology similar to what has already been implemented by the PRC,” said Sjafrie.
A foreign journalist interrupted Sjafrie to ask whether the meeting with the Chinese delegation discussed a proposal from the United States. “No, I did not discuss the US. I only discussed military operations,” Sjafrie said in response to the question.
In addition, Sjafrie emphasised that there was absolutely no discussion regarding the Chengdu J-10 fighter jet. “No,” he said firmly.
Asked whether the cooperation on producing missiles and ammunition would involve the domestic defence industry, Sjafrie confirmed it. “Pindad, this is with Pindad. Definitely Pindad. With LEN, that is electricity,” said Sjafrie.
Meanwhile, Sjafrie and Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono held a 2+2 Meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Pancasila Building of the Foreign Ministry, Central Jakarta. After that, the four of them were scheduled to meet Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at his private residence on Friday evening.