Telkomsat and PT Len Industri (Persero) Sign MoU to Strengthen Satellite-Based Defense Collaboration

PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), a subsidiary of PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (Telkom), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT Len Industri (Persero) to enhance the national defense system through the development of satellite-based communication and digital infrastructure. This strategic synergy between the state-owned enterprises (BUMN) reflects their support for the Asta Cita program of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

The signing was conducted by the President Director of Telkomsat, Lukman Hakim Abd Rauf, and the President Director of PT Len Industri (Persero), Prof. Joga Dharma Setiawan, Ph.D. The ceremony was witnessed by several dignitaries, including the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia and President Commissioner of PT Len Industri (Persero), Lieutenant General TNI Tri Budi Utomo, S.E., Telkom Commissioner Rizal Mallarangeng, and Telkom’s Director of Wholesale & International Service, Honesti Basyir.

This strategic partnership is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita program, which aims to solidify the nation’s defense and security system while promoting national self-reliance through the mastery of cutting-edge technology.

In his remarks, Telkom’s Director of Wholesale & International Service, Honesti Basyir, emphasized the critical role of connectivity in supporting national resilience. “No matter how advanced digital developments are, including artificial intelligence, they still require connectivity. For Indonesia, with nearly 17,000 islands, connectivity is not just a business interest but a part of our national resilience,” he stated. “This MoU is not just ceremonial; it is a concrete step towards building a self-reliant, satellite-based defense ecosystem. We believe this collaboration will be a crucial foundation for achieving digital sovereignty and strengthening our nation’s defense.”

Telkom Commissioner Rizal Mallarangeng added that this collaboration is the beginning of a larger strategic initiative. “This MoU is a foundation for strengthening our relationship, not only with the Ministry of Defense but also in supporting PT Len Industri’s development as a strategic BUMN in the defense sector,” said Mallarangeng. “Communication is the most vital element of defense. Therefore, this cooperation is highly strategic for reinforcing our nation’s sovereignty and stimulating satellite-based defense technology innovation.”

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defense, Lieutenant General TNI Tri Budi Utomo, expressed his appreciation for the initiative. “We highly appreciate the synergy between Telkomsat and PT Len Industri to deliver satellite-based technological innovations that can support the nation’s mission to strengthen the national defense system, not only on land, sea, and air, but also in space,” he remarked.

The scope of the MoU includes a commitment to provide capacity from the Merah Putih 2 satellite to support and defend the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia. Furthermore, both parties have agreed to collaborate on the development, construction, orbiting, and operation of an independent national satellite, utilizing both geostationary (GSO) and non-geostationary (NGSO) satellite constellations.

The partnership also aims to develop strategic technologies and facilities, including a command center, a national satellite launch vehicle, a research and development center, and a national satellite production facility. These efforts are expected to enhance Indonesia’s competitiveness in the international satellite technology ecosystem and foster regional and global satellite business development. Through this MoU, Telkomsat and PT Len Industri (Persero) affirm their commitment to building a sustainable partnership to support a superior, modern, and independent national defense system.