The Indonesian Ministry of Defense handed over 569 units of defense vehicles to the Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), General Agus Subiyanto. The official handover ceremony, which took place at Monas Field, Jakarta, on October 2, 2024, was led by Deputy Minister of Defense M. Herindra. This event marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s strategic push for military self-reliance, as the majority of the equipment was produced domestically by three leading Indonesian defense contractors: PT Pindad, PT Sentra Surya Ekajaya (SSE), and PT Ralika. This large-scale transfer includes a range of armored vehicles, medium tanks, and tactical transport vehicles that are vital for both defensive operations and peacekeeping missions. The event not only highlighted Indonesia’s defense industry capabilities but also its ability to contribute to regional security and stability. PT Pindad, Indonesia’s state-owned defense manufacturing giant, contributed the majority of the vehicles. The company delivered an impressive array of combat vehicles, including 23 Pandur armoured personnel carriers, 8 Harimau medium tanks, 9 Anoa armoured personnel carriers, 4 Komodo armoured personnel carriers, and 250 Maung V3 tactical vehicles. Each of these platforms represents a critical component of the Indonesian Armed Force’s modernized land forces, designed to meet the challenges of contemporary warfare and ensure readiness for future combat scenarios.
One of the key assets delivered by PT Pindad is the Pandur II 8×8 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC), a versatile and highly mobile armored vehicle originally developed by Steyr-Daimler-Puch (now General Dynamics European Land Systems) from Austria. The Pandur II is notable for its modular design, which allows it to be configured for a wide variety of roles, including troop transport, command and control, and fire support. In 2016, Indonesia signed an agreement for a number of Pandur II vehicles to be manufactured domestically under the designation Pindad Cobra 8×8. The vehicle features advanced protection and mobility systems, making it a formidable platform in diverse combat environments. The Pandur is also equipped to carry a range of weapon systems, allowing for firepower flexibility on the battlefield.
The Harimau (Kaplan MT) medium tank, another vital component of the handover, represents a joint development between PT Pindad and Turkish defense firm FNSS. This 105mm-armed tank is specifically designed for agility and firepower, with a focus on performance in diverse combat terrains. The tank’s Cockerill 105mm High-Pressure (HP) rifled gun provides excellent firepower, while its modular armor ensures STANAG Level 4 protection. This enables the Harimau to withstand direct hits from 14.5mm armor-piercing rounds and provide adequate mine protection with its V-shaped hull. The Harimau is a crucial element in Indonesia’s armored forces, capable of operating effectively in both defensive and offensive roles. With a top speed of 78 km/h, the Harimau is engineered for fast-paced operations and can easily traverse rough terrain, making it ideal for Indonesia’s varied geographic landscape.
Also part of PT Pindad’s contributions is the widely used Anoa 6×6 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC). Named after an Indonesian buffalo species, the Anoa is built with a monocoque hull design and is armored to STANAG 4569 Level 3 standards, protecting the crew from small arms fire and artillery fragments. The Anoa has been integral to the TNI’s operations both domestically and in international peacekeeping missions. Its robust design, combined with its ability to transport up to 10 fully equipped soldiers, makes it an essential part of Indonesia’s military mobility strategy.
The Komodo 4×4 light armored vehicle, another key piece of equipment, was originally developed in response to a challenge from former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to create a domestic alternative to foreign tactical vehicles like the Humvee. Named after Indonesia’s iconic Komodo dragon, this armored vehicle is designed for reconnaissance, patrol, and tactical support. The Komodo is highly versatile, capable of being outfitted with a range of weapons systems and sensors, depending on the mission requirements.
The Maung V3 tactical vehicle is the latest in a line of light all-terrain vehicles designed for both military and civilian use. With a top speed of 120 km/h and a range of up to 800 km, the Maung is built for long-range reconnaissance, transport, and utility missions. The third version, which was named by President Joko Widodo in 2023, includes enhanced features such as a Toyota Hilux engine and a more robust frame, allowing it to carry heavier loads and navigate even the most challenging terrains.
Beyond PT Pindad, PT Sentra Surya Ekajaya (SSE) and PT Ralika also played crucial roles in the handover, contributing specialized vehicles designed for specific tactical needs. SSE provided 3 P2 4×4 armoured personnel carriers, 2 P2 4×4 tactical vehicles, 4 P@ATAV 4×4 V3 vehicles, 8 rigid buoyancy boats (RBB), and 8 missile launcher vehicles. SSE’s tactical vehicles are designed for rapid deployment and provide essential support to infantry units, particularly in rough and inaccessible terrains. Their missile launchers and RBBs offer flexible options for Indonesia’s naval and missile forces, further enhancing the country’s defense readiness. Meanwhile, PT Ralika supplied 250 troop transport trucks, essential for moving personnel efficiently across difficult terrain. These trucks provide vital logistical support, ensuring the TNI can respond quickly to emergencies, both within Indonesia’s borders and abroad in peacekeeping missions. The large-scale handover of locally manufactured defense equipment underscores Indonesia’s drive to enhance its national defense through self-reliance. By relying on domestic production from companies like PT Pindad, SSE, and PT Ralika, Indonesia is not only strengthening its military capabilities but also fostering a robust defense industry that supports local innovation, technology development, and job creation.
