Successful Operation of N5 Satellite, PSN Supports Development of Spaceport in Biak
PT Pasifik Satelit Nusantara (PSN) considers the construction of a spaceport in Biak, Papua, to be a strategic step towards strengthening national space independence amid rising global geopolitical dynamics and worldwide technological competition. PSN’s CEO, Adi Rahman Adiwoso, stated that access to outer space has become an essential need for every country seeking to maintain its sovereignty and national resilience.
“Space is no longer merely an option,” Adi said during the inauguration of the operation of the Nusantara Five Satellite (SNL) or N5 at the JS Luwansa Hotel in Jakarta on Monday (11/5/2026).
According to Adi, globalisation and technological advancements have altered the global geopolitical landscape. Several countries are even beginning to restrict communication services, navigation, and access to remote sensing imagery from satellites.
Given the current conditions, Adi stated, satellite technology has become one of the indicators of a nation’s strength and independence. Adi believes Indonesia must boldly rely on its own capabilities and not depend on others.
He emphasised that major countries are now racing to build their own systems, networks, and satellite technologies because digital infrastructure is no longer just a business matter.
“They are building their own systems, their own satellites, their own technologies, their own networks. Why? Because they understand that future digital and communication infrastructure is not only about business, but also encompasses defence, security, and the nation’s future itself,” Adi continued.
In that context, Adi described the construction of a national spaceport as highly important. He noted that Indonesia’s position on the equator provides a strategic advantage for launching equatorial orbit satellites, including geostationary ones.
“Indonesia is located on the equator, which is the most strategic parking lot for launching equatorial orbit satellites, including geostationary,” he added.
Adi welcomed the plan to build a spaceport in Biak through international cooperation with Russia, India, and Turkey. Adi said Biak offers technical advantages compared to several other satellite launch sites worldwide.
“Launches from Biak can save up to 15 percent in fuel and increase payload weight by up to 25 percent, especially compared to launch sites like Cape Canaveral, Florida,” Adi revealed.
Nevertheless, Adi stressed that building access to outer space cannot be achieved by the private sector alone. According to him, cross-sector collaboration is needed between the government, industry, and international partners.
“Access to space is something that cannot be pursued by the private sector alone. This grand mission requires joint orchestration,” Adi said.
Adi stated that PSN has invested significantly in the national space sector. Over the past 10 years, the company has executed three geostationary satellite programmes with investments exceeding Rp 23 trillion.
“Towards space independence, we cannot remain mere users, but must become players,” Adi said.