VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Indonesia will hold a defense industry exhibition 'Indo Defense 2018 Expo & Forum' with the theme 'Building the Global Defense Partnerships to Secure the Future’ from November 7 to 10 2018. This exhibition is the eighth held by Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia and will be opened directly by President Joko Widodo. Indo Defense is the largest exhibition in Southeast Asia and is included in the calendar of world events. Thirty pavilions of state representatives will be present at the exhibition which is held every two years. At least, there are 867 participants from 59 countries. The Indo Defense 2018 Expo and Forum is considered important by many countries. At least, 10 ministers of defense or the same rank, a number of Chief of Staff of Forces and Commanders of various countries will also attend. This defense exhibition is an event not only as business promotion and technology transfer for the Indonesian Defense Industry, but also as a forum to strengthen the capacity of the local defense industry by building partnerships with foreign parties. In addition, the privilege of the exhibition is expected to attract around 25,000 visitors. President Joko Widodo is scheduled to inaugurate and provide the name of Indonesia's flagship product, "Medium Tank" produced by PT Pindad. The Pindad’s medium tank is targeted to complete various stages of testing before mass production in 2020. The tank is equipped with the latest technology, such as the independent alert system, hunter killer system, passive protection (laser warning system), battle management system, and level-5 protection. Giving the name for the Indonesian first production -medium tank is right moment for Indonesia to officially announce that Indonesia has been able to produce medium tanks for both domestic and international markets. It should be noted, even though it has not yet been officially named, several countries have expressed interest in the tanks. PT PINDAD Indonesia collaborates with FNSS Turkey to produce them. Indonesia's consistency in organizing the Indo Defense Expo is also evidence of carrying out the concept of defense diplomacy to enhance interdependence in a bid to achieve world peace and prosperity. This exhibition will also be an effective communication medium for establishing business contacts and technology transfer. This will contribute significantly to the development of the defense and security industry in Indonesia. In addition, the Indo Defense Expo 2018 Forum will also be an arena to strengthen Indonesia's strong commitment to maintain world peace.