The Chief of the Presidential Staff (KSP) of Indonesia, Moeldoko, held discussions with South Korean Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) Minister Eom Dong-hwan on October 5. The meeting aimed to address the collaborative development of the Korean Fighter X and Indonesia Fighter X (KFX/IFX), as reported by the ANTARA news agency.
Moeldoko emphasized that the progress of the KFX/IFX fighter aircraft development can proceed, highlighting the significance of defense industry collaboration in the diplomatic relations between Indonesia and South Korea, which is marking its 50th anniversary this year.
In line with the President’s directive, Moeldoko stated that this cooperation is deemed strategic and can continue. It serves as a crucial aspect for the long-term enhancement of defense infrastructure and the transfer of technological knowledge.
The collaborative effort for the development of KFX/IFX is overseen by Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs and the Ministry of Defence.
The collaboration encompasses the transfer of fighter aircraft technology from South Korea to Indonesia. The project’s scope anticipates the manufacture of 120 fighter jets for South Korea and 48 fighter jets for Indonesia.
Moeldoko elaborated that the Indonesian government, working through entities such as KSP, the Defence Ministry, the Finance Ministry, and the Indonesian Military (TNI), is persistently pursuing innovative solutions to sustain and advance the KFX/IFX cooperation.
Simultaneously, Eom praised Indonesia’s dedication to sustaining the KFX/IFX collaboration.
“This aligns with the agreement established by the leaders of both nations, affirming Indonesia and Korea as exemplary partners,” he remarked.
The continuity of this collaboration was commemorated during the 78th anniversary of the National Defense Forces (TNI).
In a meeting on October 2 with the Defence Ministry, Finance Ministry, Foreign Affairs Ministry, and the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), Moeldoko underscored the necessity for meticulous preparation and earnest consideration of the KFX/IFX cooperation program.
“This partnership holds significance in the political relations between Indonesia and South Korea. We must approach it with due diligence,” he emphasized. –Bernama
