Podcasts

Our Research Coordinator and Manager, Anastasia Febiola S., discussed Indonesia’s strategic approach in navigating the shifting global alliance while maintaining national sovereignty. Notably, France has emerged as a reliable partner in various sectors, including in Indonesia’s defence modernisation efforts.

Major General Oktaheroe Ramsi highlighted France’s continued commitment to Indonesia’s defence sector, from high-tech offsets to military education exchanges. He emphasised the importance of sustaining this momentum, particularly in infrastructure development for the Rafale fighter jets programme. The recent visit of France’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the Lombok Strait also underscored the growing cooperation between both nations.

Adam Mulawarman Tugio highlighted Indonesia’s free and active foreign policy should not be mistaken as neutrality and emphasised the country’s role in global peacekeeping. He also discussed the strategic importance of long-term defence investments, as emphasised by former President Joko Widodo, to strengthen Indonesia’s self-sufficiency in the defence industry.

Curie Maharani Savitri shared some insights on the ideal strategic partner for Indonesia. For the past years, France stands out as a reliable partner given its strong commitment to offsets, self-reliance in defence technology, and operational readiness.

Iqbal Bagus Alfiansyah emphasised the importance of acquiring ITAR-free systems for greater operational independence. He also discussed how procuring surface warships from France—alongside the existing Scorpène Evolved submarines and Rafale fighter jets—would enhance fleet interoperability and strengthen Indonesia’s naval capabilities.