Excerpts.
"Previously, Indonesia expressed interest in purchasing second-hand Japanese Soryu-class submarines. However, the latest visit indicates that Jakarta is eyeing the latest Taigei-class submarines equipped with lithium-ion batteries instead of traditional lead-acid ones. Lithium-ion batteries increase endurance and speed underwater.
"I believe this has laid an excellent foundation for the two countries to further deepen their cooperation in maritime security. Military transfers are an important policy tool for Japan to create the desired security environment," said Koizumi.
Joint Production
In January 2025, Indonesia and Japan launched a defense consultation mechanism. This mechanism focuses not only on maritime security issues but also on collaboration on defense equipment and technology transfer.
The two sides are still negotiating the potential for joint development and production of advanced frigates for the Indonesian Navy. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto first expressed interest in cooperation while still serving as Defense Minister in 2021.
Indonesia appears interested in modified Mogami-class frigates.
According to several sources, Tokyo's proposal is valued at US$1.94 billion. This project will involve the construction of four frigates in Japan, with an equal number to be built in Indonesia by the state-owned shipyard, PT PAL Indonesia.
In addition to exports and technology transfer, the two countries also agreed during the 2+2 meeting to continue cooperation under the Official Security Assistance (OSA) program. OSA aims for Japan to provide equipment and infrastructure development assistance to the partner country's military in the form of grants.
As such, Japan will continue to donate fast patrol boats to Indonesia for the second year. These vessels will boost Indonesia's maritime security capacity. Earlier this year, Tokyo provided two high-speed patrol boats.
Furthermore, although not part of the OSA, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is building an offshore patrol boat for the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla). The vessel is scheduled for delivery in March 2028."
Indonesia dan Jepang membahas kerja sama di bidang maritim, khususnya terkait pertahanan dan ekonomi untuk menciptakan kawasan yang stabil.
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