Philippine Army Deploys Sabrah Light Tanks for First Operational Mission

13 September 2026

Sabrah light tank to support election-security mission in Mindanao (photos: Pambato)

Armor Division deploys for historic BARMM elecytions; reactivates DMIC to boost readiness 

Camp O'Donnel., Brgy. Sta. Lucia, Capas, Tarlac — The Armor (Pambato) Division, Philippine Army, led by Major General Ronel R. Manalo PA, conducted a send-off ceremony for Tank Platoons, a Security Platoon, and the Division Mechanized Infantry Company (DMIC) – Dismounted, alongside its formal reactivation, at the Pambato Clubhouse. These actions support the Philippine Army’s election-security mission for the historic first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections on September 14, 2026.

The deployment of forces underscores the Armor Division’s distinct role as the Philippine Army’s decisive arm, capable of delivering overwhelming firepower, rapid maneuver, and unyielding force protection in support of national objectives. Tank Platoons serve as visible deterrence and rapid-response capability; the Security Platoon fortifies ground stability; and the DMIC expands operational reach, strengthening forces in Mindanao to ensure absolute readiness and flexibility throughout election duty.

In his remarks, Major General Manalo emphasized the solemnity of the mission:

“This mission goes beyond securing polling places — it is about safeguarding democracy, protecting the people’s voice, and ensuring peace prevails at this defining moment in our nation’s history.”

He further noted that the DMIC reaffirms the Division’s commitment to modernization and readiness, serving as an agile force multiplier ready to respond decisively to emerging challenges. He emphasized that the mission tests the Division’s core principles of Respect, Relevance, and Mettle (RRM), and expressed full confidence that troops would carry out their duties with honor, resilience, and unity — upholding the Philippine Army’s STRONG principles of Stewardship, Transformation, Readiness, Organizational Development, Nation-Building, and God-Centered Leadership.

The Armor Division stands ready to fulfill its mandate, affirming the Army’s enduring commitment to defending democracy, preserving peace, and safeguarding the aspirations of the Filipino people. (Philippine Army)

ATMOS 155mm howitzers to support election-security mission in Mindanao (photos: Philippines Army)

Army reinforces Lanao del Sur security ahead of BARMM Elections

The Philippine Army, as the largest force provider to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, reinforced election security in Lanao del Sur as ground units deployed Sabrah light tanks, ATMOS 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery systems, additional ground troops ahead of the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on September 14, 2026.

The deployment forms part of the Army’s sustained and comprehensive election security measures, which include the strategic positioning and movement of troops and assets to areas requiring additional security support. The Sabrah light tanks and ATMOS 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery systems will augment the armored and fire support assets already prepositioned in Lanao del Sur, alongside the 10 battalions currently deployed in the area. The 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions will also be deployed as follow-on infantry forces.

Army units, which form a crucial part of Joint Security Control Centers with the PNP and Comelec, are firmly committed to ensuring that Bangsamoro voters can freely elect their next leaders free from any threat. (Philippine Army)

The Republic of Singapore Navy Successfully Concludes Exercise Maritime Cooperation with People’s Liberation Army (Navy)

13 September 2026

RSS Steadfast and PLANS Dali (photos: Sing Mindef, China Military Bugle)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the People’s Liberation Army (Navy) [PLA (Navy)] concluded the fifth edition of Exercise Maritime Cooperation (XMC) earlier today. Held from 5 to 9 September 2026 in Zhanjiang, China, the exercise saw the participation of the RSN’s Formidable-class frigate RSS Steadfast, and PLA Navy’s Jiangkai-II-class frigate PLANS Dali.

During the exercise, both navies had an exchange of sea riders and conducted a series of maritime security and conventional warfare drills. These included gunnery firings, communications and manoeuvring exercises, as well as joint search and rescue and medical evacuation serials. Ashore, the navies engaged in planning exercises and professional exchanges.

Speaking on the conduct of the exercise, the RSN’s Deputy Fleet Commander Colonel Ng Yen Meng said, “Through these serials, we have strengthened our operational competencies and deepened the trust and understanding between our two navies, allowing us to strengthen relationships. Exercise Maritime Cooperation 2026 represents yet another milestone in our navies' shared journey towards greater understanding and mutual trust, and I look forward to many more years of cooperation ahead.”

XMC underscores the longstanding, warm and friendly bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and the People’s Republic of China.

(Sing Mindef)

RNZAF Proves Ability to Support Hi-tech Partners During F-35 Exercise

13 September 2026

RAAF F-35As and RNZAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft (photos: NZDF)

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) and New Zealand Army have trained alongside the RAAF demonstrating agile combat employment, integrating RAAF F-35As, C-130J and RNZAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft, as well as Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) personnel in a series of training activities at RNZAF Base Ohakea and Waiouru Military Training Area this week.

The first Exercise Agile Tasman stemmed from a joint Chief of Air Force Vision Statement signed by the RNZAF and RAAF in 2025 and the desire to put its objectives into action. 

The Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, said the exercise was an opportunity to practise with Australia to project capabilities in the Pacific.

“Our responsibility to enhance the security and prosperity of our region is best done by Australia and New Zealand and many other nations working together. And to do that effectively, it simply takes practice.”

Training objectives included exercising an RAAF Forward Arming and Refuelling Point (FARP) outside Australia for the first time, delivery of high explosive ordnance into the Waiouru Military Training Area and intercept training with the RNZAF P-8A. 

The Commanding Officer of No. 3 Squadron RAAF, Wing Commander Mark Biele, said it was wonderful to be in New Zealand and operating together, reinforcing the Anzac spirit, especially when the squadron was celebrating 110 years since its founding.

“It's our 110th birthday while we are here, and who would we want to spend that with other than our best mates across the Tasman?”

The main tasks of the exercises included the two F-35As flying from RAAF Base Williamstown to New Zealand, supported by a RAAF KC-30 air-to-air refueller, and then entering the Waiouru skies to execute a coordinated time-on-target strike employing two GBU-54 precision-guided bombs, which were GPS target designated into the training area under the control of JTAC’s.

After this the jets landed at Base Ohakea, where they were refuelled from the tanks of a C-130J and rearmed. The FARP demonstrated the ability to rapidly refuel and rearm aircraft, increasing operational reach, resilience and mission tempo in remote or austere environments.

On the third day of the exercise, RNZAF No. 5 Squadron and its P-8As got involved with the jets conducting intercept training. Intercept training is a practice where military fighter jets learn to find, approach, identify and escort other aircraft in flight.

 A team of 67 RAAF personnel, including aircrew, maintenance, security forces and refuellers travelled to Base Ohakea, working alongside about 32 RNZAF personnel including aviation rescue firefighters, security forces personnel, refuellers and aircrews from No. 40 and No. 5 Squadrons.

Led by the RAAF, and hosted by the RNZAF, the exercise has laid a platform for future training with enhanced interchangeability of personnel and aircraft between the New Zealand and Australia.

(NZDF)

Preparing the Diponegoro Class for Future Missions

12 September 2026

Concept design for the Diponegoro Class refurbishment by Nevesbu (photos: Nevesbu)

Recently, Nevesbu presented its concept design for the Diponegoro Class refurbishment to the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, Navy and prime contractor PT Len Industri (Persero) (Official). The Platform System Integration (PSI) concept was well received, with constructive feedback supporting the next steps in its development.

We are proud of the Nevesbu team, who developed the concept design for the PSI solution for the extensive high-end SEWACO package in just three months. Looking forward to the full scale design solution for the refurbishment!

(Nevesbu)

HJ Heavy Industries will Receive Orders from Southeast Asia for High-Speed ​​Patrol Boats

12 September 2026

The Southeast Asian country mentioned above is described by defense analysts as related to the Philippines (photos: RoK Armed Forces)

[Financial News] HJ Heavy Industries is signaling a rebound in performance by predicting a "double-pull" success in the domestic and international special vessel bidding wars in the second half of this year. Market attention is focused on whether the company can simultaneously secure overseas orders for high-speed patrol boats, following the follow-up contract for the Navy's new high-speed patrol boat (PKMR) this coming November.

According to industry sources on the 25th, as expectations grow domestically for a follow-up contract for the new high-speed patrol boat (PKMR), a key asset for defending the Northern Limit Line (NLL), HJ Heavy Industries is also projected to have a high probability of securing overseas orders for patrol boats in the second half of the year. The domestic PKMR project is reportedly planned for two vessels.

The PKMR (Golden Eagle-B class) is a high-speed patrol vessel referred to as the "spearhead force" in the Navy's coastal combat operations. Its strength lies in its ability to operate in shallow waters, equipped with waterjet propulsion. Notably, it is reported to have significantly improved performance compared to previous models, featuring reinforcements such as a state-of-the-art combat system, anti-missile decoy system, and electronic warfare equipment.

In fact, new features of the first PKMR Black Eagle-B Batch-II ship include the integration of the control and firing functions of the 130mm guided rocket and the 12.7mm remote firing control system into the combat system, and the enhancement of electronic warfare response capabilities through strengthened anti-jamming capabilities.

PKMR is a 33,10 meter in length and 156 tonnes with max speed of 38 knots (photo: RoK Armed Forces)

Southeast Asia orders

Securing overseas orders is also a key factor. The industry believes it is highly likely that the schedules for overseas high-speed boats will align with domestic orders, aiming for November contracts as well. In this scenario, it is assessed that the visibility of second-half earnings could be further enhanced alongside the normalization of sales for specialized vessels. However, the signing of the high-speed landing craft for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a pipeline project in the Middle East, is expected to be delayed due to the impact of the war with Iran.

"Kim Dae-sung, an analyst at DS Investment & Securities, stated, 'HJ Heavy Industries has an abundant pipeline in terms of special vessel exports. Two orders are currently pending, including a high-speed landing craft for the UAE and a high-speed vessel for Southeast Asia. 

In particular, the high-speed landing craft is the highest-priced model relative to the size HJ Heavy Industries can build, so a significant contribution to earnings is expected upon securing the order.' He added, 'Even excluding the momentum from overseas warship exports, the trend of increasing visibility for securing orders for the U.S. Strategic Merchant Fleet and warships through cooperation with MASGA could continue.'"

(FNNews)

KSAL Sebut RI Ditawari Kapal Selam Interim (Sementara) oleh Negara-negara Lain

12 September 2026

Indonesia diketahui mendapatkan penawaran kapal selam interim dari China, Italia, Jepang, Jerman, Prancis, Turki, dan Spanyol (photo: Keris Reborn)

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Kepala Staf TNI Angkatan Laut (KSAL) Laksamana Muhammad Ali mengatakan bahwa Indonesia telah ditawari kapal selam interim oleh sejumlah negara. 

"Ada beberapa negara yang sudah menawarkan, dan bisa jadi kita akan membeli dari beberapa negara yang sudah menawarkan itu," kata Ali di Auditorium Yos Sudarso, Sekolah Staf dan Komando Angkatan Laut (Seskoal), Cipulir, Jakarta, Rabu (9/9/2026). 

Kapal selam interim adalah kapal selam sementara sembari menunggu pengerjaan kapal selam selesai.

Namun demikian, Ali tidak menjelaskan lebih lanjut negara mana saja yang dimaksud.

JS Jingei (SS-515) kapal selam Jepang berteknologi Li Ion termasuk yang ditawarkan (photo: Foronaval)

Selain kapal selam konvensional, Ali mengungkapkan TNI AL bekerja sama dengan PT PAL juga akan membangun kapal selam tanpa awak atau kapal selam otonom (KSOT).

Menurutnya hal tersebut dinilai lebih efektif dan efisien. 

Selain itu, TNI AL juga berencana mengadakan kapal selam kecil atau midget submarine. 

"Mungkin juga kita akan mengadakan kapal selam jenis itu," ucapnya.

Ia menambahkan, berbagai upaya tersebut bisa dilakukan TNI untuk mengisi kekuatan laut. 

Kendati demikian, Ali menyerahkan keputusan tersebut kepada pemerintah. 

Type 212NFS kapal selam Italia yang akan diluncurkan pada pertengahan 2028 dan berteknologi Li Ion termasuk yang ditawarkan (photo: Fincantieri)

"Jadi hal-hal itu sangat memungkinkan, tapi keputusannya semua berada di Kementerian Pertahanan," tuturnya. 

Menunggu kapal selam Scorpene selesai 

Diketahui rencana TNI AL mengadakan kapal selam interim dilakukan sambil menunggu Scopene selesai dibangun. 

Pembangunan Scopene sendiri membutuhkan waktu 7-8 tahun. 

Di sisi lain Indonesia hanya memiliki 4 kapal selam. Berbeda dengan sejumlah negara di Asia Tenggara yang memiliki lebih dari 4 kapal selam. 

"Dan selama delapan tahun kekosongan ini, kita hanya memiliki empat kapal selam. Yaitu satu kelas Cakra, kemudian yang tiga kelas Nagapasa," kata Ali.

(Kompas)

Prabowo Rencana Tambah Lebih Banyak Kapal-kapal LCM dan LCVP

11 September 2026

LPD KRI Semarang 594 (photo: Vovashap)

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Presiden Prabowo Subianto berencana menambah lebih banyak kapal-kapal berjenis kapal pendarat mekanis (LCM) dan kapal pendarat kendaraan dan personel (LCVP) mengingat Indonesia sebagai negara kepulauan memiliki banyak gugusan pulau-pulau yang kecil.

Prabowo saat rapat terbatas (ratas) melalui sambungan video-conference di Istana Merdeka, Jakarta, Senin, menjelaskan keberadaan kapal-kapal itu berguna untuk mengirimkan bantuan dan personel ke pulau-pulau kecil manakala daerah tersebut terdampak bencana.

"Catatan bagi kita, bagi Angkatan Laut ya, saya kira dari sekarang kita perlu pesan lebih banyak LCVP ya, dan LCM, saya kira kita butuh lebih banyak karena pulau-pulau kita banyak dan kecil-kecil, supaya (terbuka, red.) aksesnya," kata Presiden Prabowo Subianto saat memimpin rapat terbatas membahas penanggulangan bencana gempa di NTT.

Pembahasan mengenai rencana pembelian LCM dan LCVP itu diawali dengan permintaan tambahan kapal untuk kepentingan mitigasi bencana di NTT, yang disampaikan oleh Gubernur NTT Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena. Permintaan kapal itu kemudian dijelaskan lebih lanjut oleh Komandan Komando Daerah TNI Angkatan Laut (Kodaeral) VII Laksamana Muda (Laksda) TNI Joni Sudianto.

LCM LPD KRI Makassar 590 (photo: Kolinlamil)

"Saat ini, kami di Kodaeral VII ada dua kapal patroli, Pak. Namun, posisinya dua kapal tersebut ada di Surabaya. Kami mohon dapatnya ada paling tidak dua kapal patroli jenis FPB yang stand by di Kupang sehingga apabila terjadi sesuatu dan butuh bantuan kita bisa gerakkan dua kapal tersebut," kata Laksda Joni kepada Presiden.​​​​​​

Presiden langsung memerintahkan jajarannya untuk mencatat permohonan dari Dankodaeral VII tersebut. "Baik, ya tolong dicatat," ujar Presiden kepada jajarannya.

Presiden mengatakan pengerahan itu nanti berkoordinasi lebih lanjut dengan Panglima TNI Jenderal TNI Agus Subiyanto.

"Ya nanti kita koordinasi dengan Panglima TNI ya. Di sini ada Kepala (Badan) Logistik (Pertahanan) nanti bisa dikirim ya? Jadi dua kapal patroli jenis FPB 57 ya. Itu cukup? Dua kapal itu cukup?" tanya Presiden ke Dankodaeral VII.

LCVP LPD KRI Banda Aceh 593 (photo: Kolinlamil)

Menurut Laksda Joni, dua kapal patroli FPB 57 cukup untuk kebutuhan mitigasi dampak bencana.

"Di NTT dan NTB sendiri kondisinya pulau-pulau kecil sehingga apabila kapalnya terlalu besar kesulitan untuk fasilitas labuhnya sehingga menurut kami dengan analisis operasional dua kapal FPB sudah cukup Bapak Presiden," ujar Dankodaeral VII menjawab pertanyaan Presiden.

Dalam rapat yang sama, Presiden juga menanyakan keberadaan LCM kepada Kepala Staf TNI Angkatan Laut (KSAL) Laksamana TNI Muhammad Ali.

"Di LPD itu dua LCM, biasanya stand by di dalam LPD. Sekarang, ada KRI Semarang, kalau tidak salah dia ada di sana (perairan NTT, red.)," kata Laksamana Ali menjawab pertanyaan Presiden.

Ali menyebutkan total ada dua kapal yang bersiaga di perairan NTT, sekitar wilayah Manggarai, yaitu satu LPD, yaitu KRI Semarang-594 dan satu LST berjenis Frosch.

(AntaraNews)

Rudal Mistral dan Stinger Siap Hadapi Target Udara di SGS 2026

11 September 2026

Latihan penembakanb sasaran udara dengan Manpads rudal Mistral (TNI AD) dan Stinger (US Army) dalam Super Garuda Shield 2026 (photos: TNI, DVIDS)

(Puspen TNI). Prajurit Artileri Pertahanan Udara (Arhanud) TNI Angkatan Darat bersama personel Air Defense US Army melaksanakan latihan penembakan sasaran udara menggunakan pesawat tanpa awak dalam rangka Latihan Gabungan Bersama Multinasional Super Garuda Shield (SGS) 2026 di *Lapangan Tembak Staling Armed* Puslatpur Kodiklat TNI AD, Martapura, Sumatera Selatan, Rabu (9/9/2026).

Dalam latihan tersebut, Batalyon Arhanud 10/Dam Jaya mengoperasikan Rudal Mistral, sedangkan US Army menggunakan Rudal Stinger untuk menguji kesiapan dan kemampuan unsur pertahanan udara menghadapi ancaman dari udara. 

Usai penembakan, kegiatan dilanjutkan dengan penyematan Brevet Air Defence Indonesia kepada personel US Army dan Brevet Air Defence US Army kepada prajurit TNI. Penyematan brevet menjadi bentuk penghargaan atas kemampuan, dedikasi, dan profesionalisme prajurit sekaligus simbol kualifikasi dalam bidang pertahanan udara.

Latihan dan penyematan brevet tersebut memperkuat interoperabilitas serta kesamaan prosedur TNI dan US Army. 

Melalui pertukaran pengalaman dan pengetahuan, kedua negara terus meningkatkan kemampuan serta profesionalisme prajurit dalam membangun kesiapan pertahanan udara guna mendukung keberhasilan SGS 2026.

(ТNI)

The Royal Thai Navy Held a Keel-laying Ceremony for the New Oil Tanker

11 September 2026

Keel-laying ceremony for RTN's new oil tanker at TINDY, Samut Prakan, Thailand (photos: Royal Thai Navy)

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) held a keel-laying ceremony for a new oil tanker at the shipyard of Thai International Dockyard Co., Ltd. (TINDY) in Tambon Tai Ban, Mueang District, Samut Prakan Province, Thailand, on September 1, 2026.

Admiral Pairoj Fuangchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, presided over the keel-laying ceremony for the new oil tanker at the TINDY shipyard. TINDY is a subsidiary of the Thai SC Group and has been engaged in shipbuilding and repair operations since 1991. The Royal Thai Navy signed a contract with Thai International Dockyard Co., Ltd. via a selection process to build one oil tanker, with a total value of 434,634,000 Baht (approximately $13,198,726), on March 30, 2026.

The new oil tanker, scheduled for delivery to the Royal Thai Navy in 2028, is intended to replace an existing oil tanker. HTMS Chula (III), built by Singmarine Shipyard in Singapore, entered service on December 30, 1980. Having served for over 45 years, it is scheduled for decommissioning by 2027.

The new 65-meter-long oil tanker, built by the Thai company TINDY, will be equipped with two US-made Cummins diesel main propulsion engines (1,007 kW each) and two German-made MAN Lindenberg diesel generator engines (375 kW each). It will achieve a speed of 12 knots and carry a crew of 45. This procurement project underscores the Royal Thai Navy's long-standing support for the Thai shipbuilding industry.

(AAG)

Army's NASAMS Ready for Operations

10 September 2026

NASAMS integrated air and missile defence (photos: Australian Army)

Army's world-class air defence capability ready for operations

Australia’s integrated air and missile defence capability has been strengthened with the achievement of Final Operational Capability for Army’s National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) capability.

This milestone confirms the NASAMS has met all requirements for operational service and is ready to support Australian Defence Force (ADF) operations. 

NASAMS provides Army with a world-leading, networked air defence capability designed to detect, track and defeat a range of airborne threats, including cruise missiles, aircraft, helicopters, and drones.

The capability, delivered under the Short Range Ground Based Air Defence (SRGBAD) project, forms part of the inner layer of Defence's integrated air and missile defence architecture, which combines ships, fighter aircraft and surface-to-air missile systems to protect ADF personnel, assets and critical infrastructure.

The project also incorporates Australian-designed radar technology developed by CEA Technologies, enhancing Defence’s ability to monitor and respond to emerging threats. 

Australian industry has played a central role in delivering the capability, from integrating key components through to providing ongoing sustainment and support in Australia.

This achievement follows a phased introduction into service that included successful live-fire activities and training undertaken by soldiers from Adelaide’s 16 Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, demonstrating the capability’s readiness for operational employment. 

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles:

"The achievement of Final Operational Capability for NASAMS marks a significant milestone in strengthening Australia’s integrated air and missile defence capability.

"NASAMS provides Army with a modern, highly capable air defence system that enhances our ability to protect Australian Defence Force personnel, critical assets and infrastructure from a range of airborne threats.

"This capability reflects Defence’s commitment to ensuring the Australian Defence Force remains equipped to respond to an increasingly complex strategic environment.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

"The achievement of Final Operational Capability delivers a world-leading capability for Defence and provides a major boost to Australia's integrated air and missile defence.

"This air and missile defence capability strengthens Defence's ability to protect Australian forces from modern airborne threats, including cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones."

"NASAMS demonstrates how Defence and industry are working together to deliver advanced capability and operational outcomes for the Australian Defence Force."

"Australian-designed radar technology is a key part of this capability, highlighting the important contribution local industry makes to Australia's national security."

"This milestone marks the culmination of years of collaboration between Defence, Australian industry and international partners to deliver a world-class air defence system for the Australian Army."

(AusDoD)

Meninjau Ulang Pasar Helikopter Militer Indonesia Sampai Tahun 2029

10 September 2026

Helikopter S-70 Black Hawk (photo: Sikorsky)

Beragam tantangan dihadapi dalam program modernisasi kekuatan pertahanan Indonesia sejak tahun 2020, satu di antaranya ialah keinginan pengambil keputusan agar sistem senjata yang dibeli dapat diserahkan dalam tempo yang sesingkat-singkatnya.

Padahal kondisi industri dirgantara dan pertahanan dunia mengalami gangguan rantai pasok akibat pandemi Covid-19 yang disusul dengan invasi Rusia ke Ukraina sejak 24 Februari 2022. Perang dagang yang ditabuhkan oleh Amerika Serikat sejak Donald Trump kembali ke Gedung Putih pada awal 2025 menambah pukulan terhadap rantai pasok global, sebab terdapat negara-negara yang melakukan tindakan balasan terhadap Amerika Serikat sehingga mempengaruhi juga pasokan bahan baku maupun bahan olahan.

Konflik terbuka Amerika Serikat dan Israel versus Iran sejak 28 Februari 2026 memberikan gejolak terhadap terhadap industri dirgantara dan pertahanan internasional sebab menciptakan gangguan rantai pasok seperti helium cair, sulfur dan nafta.

Karena perkara keinginan agar peralatan pertahanan yang diimpor dapat diserahkan dalam tempo yang sesingkat-singkatnya, kontrak pengadaan 22 S-70M senilai US$585 juta antara PT Dirgantara Indonesia dan Sikorsky gagal memasuki tahap efektif.

AW-149M pesaing langsung dari S-70M pada kelas medium-heavy helikopter (photo: Leonardo)

Sesuai dengan kesepakatan kedua firma, waktu penyerahan gelombang pertama S-70M sebanyak lima unit adalah T0+32 bulan. Adapun keinginan Kementerian Pertahanan ialah helikopter buatan Amerika Serikat tersebut dapat diserahkan dalam 24 bulan setelah aktivasi kontrak, suatu hal yang mustahil mempertimbangkan berbagai faktor dalam kegiatan manufaktur.

Sebagai dampak kegagalan kegiatan akuisisi S-70M, PT Dirgantara Indonesia sebagai penerima program Helikopter Angkut Serbaguna dan Dukungannya harus mencari pemasok lain yang bisa memenuhi aspirasi Kementerian Pertahanan, termasuk jumlah minimal 30 unit dan bukan pesawat sayap putar bekas.

Peristiwa demikian sekaligus menandai perubahan proyeksi pasar helikopter militer Indonesia sampai 2029, walaupun program Helikopter Angkut Serbaguna dan Dukungannya merupakan program Minimum Essential Force (MEF) 2020-2024. Sikorsky diperkirakan tidak akan dapat mengisi peluang pasar pada Optimum Essential Force (OEF) 2025-2029 mengingat pengalaman yang dialami pada MEF 2020-2024.

Selain itu, karakter perseroan seperti Sikorsky yang menerapkan secara ketat good governance and compliance tidak cocok dengan kondisi pasar helikopter militer Indonesia hingga ujung dasarwarsa ini. Mengapa terjadi perubahan proyeksi pasar helikopter militer Indonesia sampai 2029?

Bell 412EPX dapat melanjutkan kebutuhan akan medium lift helicopter (photo: Bell Textron)

Pertama, perencanaan akuisisi. Perencanaan akuisisi yang dianut saat ini selain bersifat top-down juga bersifat tertutup walaupun dana yang dipakai dalam belanja peralatan perang adalah Pinjaman Luar Negeri (PLN) dan bukan uang pribadi pejabat pemerintah.

Dengan alokasi PLN yang bersifat gelondongan yakni US$34,8 miliar dan semuanya telah menerima Penetapan Sumber Pembiayaan (PSP) dari Menteri Keuangan, tidak tersedia informasi detail program helikopter yang diakomodasi oleh pemerintah guna mendapatkan pembiayaan. Andaikata informasi itu tersedia, dapat dipastikan pabrikan rotorcraft mana saja yang mungkin akan bersaing di pasar Indonesia.

Kedua, alokasi anggaran program. Mengingat bahwa tidak tersedia data lengkap mengenai kegiatan akuisisi pesawat sayap putar bagi TNI dalam OEF 2025-2029, maka tidak diketahui berapa nilai pasar helikopter militer Indonesia hingga dasawarsa ini selesai.

Nilai pasar dapat diketahui dari alokasi anggaran total yang disiapkan bagi pembelian wahana terbang yang tidak membutuhkan landas pacu tersebut. Sebagai ilustrasi, pada MEF 2020-2024 kuota pengadaan helikopter dalam PLN lebih dari US$1,5 miliar, di mana angka itu sudah termasuk PSP tahun 2025.

Helikopter Mi-17V5 baru dengan nomor HA-5235 terlihat di lanud Husein Sastranegara, Bandung (photo: Arafina)

Ketiga, preferensi skema akuisisi. Uraian pada butir kesatu dan butir kedua berimplikasi pula pada perubahan preferensi skema pembelian rotorcraft bagi kepentingan pertahanan. Bila sebelumnya pengadaan pesawat sayap putar dilakukan lewat kerja sama antara BUMN industri dirgantara dan mitra asing BUMN itu, kini kecenderungan yang lebih disukai ialah akuisisi melalui peran makelar. Dengan kondisi seperti itu, beberapa produsen helikopter global diprediksi akan menemui kesukaran dalam mempertahankan posisi pasar dan atau melaksanakan penetrasi pasar di Indonesia.

Lalu seperti apa proyeksi pasar rotorcraft militer Indonesia dalam beberapa tahun ke depan? Seberapa besar peluang pemain lama mempertahankan posisi di pasar negeri ini? Seberapa besar pemain baru dapat memiliki pijakan di pasar Indonesia yang penuh tantangan? Apa dampak dinamika pasar yang terjadi saat ini terhadap industri manufaktur pesawat terbang Indonesia?

Pertama, proyeksi pasar. Sebagai dampak tidak ada transparansi dalam rencana belanja pertahanan yang dibiayai oleh PLN, sulit untuk menetapkan proyeksi pasar helikopter militer Indonesia selama OEF 2025-2029 berikut nilai pasar dalam denominasi dolar Amerika Serikat.

Ketertutupan rencana belanja pula memungkinkan terjadi perubahan anggaran maupun kuantitas pesawat sayap putar yang akan dibeli. Salah satu hal yang dapat diproyeksikan adalah kemungkinan akuisisi merupakan gabungan dari unit baru dan unit bekas, apalagi fakta menunjukkan keinginan pembeli agar rotorcraft dapat diserahkan dalam tempo yang sesingkat-singkatnya.

Helikopter Mi-35M terlihat menggunakan camo TNI AD di area apron Pangkalan Udara Angkatan Darat Ahmad Yani, Semarang, sebelumnya TNI AD merupakan pengguna helikopter Mi-35P (photo: Keris Reborn)

Kedua, pergantian dominasi pabrikan. Airbus Helicopters nampaknya sulit mempertahankan posisi di pasar militer Indonesia mengingat kebijakan perusahaan itu terkait good governance and compliance, sementara Bell Textron berpeluang kembali mempertahankan pasar di negeri ini lewat Bell 412 jika bermitra dengan perusahaan lokal seperti PT Dirgantara Indonesia.

Di sisi lain, Indonesia semakin berani mengabaikan CAATSA sebagaimana ditandai dengan pembelian sejumlah helikopter bekas Mil Mi-17 buatan Rusia tahun ini lewat jasa makelar. Leonardo akan menjadi pemain baru berkat penjualan ke pemerintah Indonesia melalui peran makelar, sedangkan Sikorsky dan Boeing sukar mengikuti jejak pabrikan Inggris-Italia di Indonesia karena alasan good governance and compliance.

Ketiga, dampak bagi industri pesawat terbang domestik. Apakah program pengadaan pesawat putar pada OEF 2025-2029 akan memberikan porsi pekerjaan yang signifikan di bidang aerostructure bagi PT Dirgantara Indonesia? Terdapat keraguan terhadap hal tersebut, apalagi seumpama pengadaan unit baru dilakukan oleh makelar, begitu juga jika unit yang diimpor ialah rotorcraft bekas.

Di sisi lain, PT Dirgantara Indonesia nampaknya tidak berminat untuk memperdalam kemitraan dengan Airbus Helicopters, walaupun masih memproduksi sejumlah komponen H225M, karena sejumlah alasan yang berakar pada rasa percaya (trust). Mengacu pada proyeksi yang sudah diuraikan, nampaknya sulit menjadikan pasar helikopter militer Indonesia atraktif bagi semua produsen karena tidak ada level playing field.

Airbus Helicopters mungkin saja dapat mempertahankan posisi di pasar Indonesia bila ada dukungan politik dari pemerintah Prancis, khususnya bagi H225M yang berakar pada SA330 buatan Aerospatiale. Tanpa dukungan politik dari pemerintah Amerika Serikat, sulit mengharapkan Sikorsky dan Boeing mempunyai pijakan di pasar yang sama, baik untuk S-70M maupun CH-47F. (Alman Helvas Ali)

(CNBC)

Hanwha Ocean dari Korea Selatan Menangkan Tender Fregat Angkatan Laut Thailand

10 September 2026

Hanwha Ocean adalah nama baru bagi DSME (Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering) setelah perusahaan galangan kapal tersebut resmi diakuisisi dan berganti nama di bawah naungan Hanwha Group (gambar: Hanwha Group)

Angkatan Laut Thailand telah memilih Hanwha Ocean Co Ltd dari Korea Selatan untuk membangun satu kapal fregat dalam proyek pengadaan senilai 16,73 miliar Baht, yang mencakup sistem terkait, peralatan, suku cadang, pelatihan, dan layanan dukungan.

Laksamana Korawit Chayarathi, Komandan Armada Kerajaan Thailand sekaligus ketua komite proyek pengadaan fregat, menandatangani pengumuman yang menetapkan Hanwha Ocean sebagai pemenang tender.

Perusahaan tersebut menawarkan harga total sebesar 16,73 miliar Baht; angka ini tidak termasuk bea cukai namun sudah mencakup pajak pertambahan nilai (PPN), pajak lainnya, biaya transportasi, dan segala biaya lainnya.

Hanwha Ocean adalah perusahaan galangan kapal dan rekayasa kelautan asal Korea Selatan. Didirikan pada bulan Oktober 1973, perusahaan ini diluncurkan kembali di bawah naungan Hanwha Group pada tahun 2023.

Harga tersebut bersifat tetap dan mengikat berdasarkan ketentuan DAP (Incoterms 2020), yang mencakup transportasi dan asuransi hingga fregat diserahterimakan di Pangkalan Angkatan Laut Sattahip atau lokasi lain yang ditunjuk oleh Angkatan Laut.

Sementara itu, juru bicara Angkatan Laut, Laksamana Muda Parat Rattanachaiphan, menyatakan bahwa Perdana Menteri Anutin Charnvirakul telah menandatangani ringkasan hasil seleksi pada tanggal 4 September, dan Sekretaris Tetap Pertahanan kemudian menyetujui hasil seleksi tersebut pada tanggal 7 September.

Hanwha Ocean (sebelumnya DSME) memiliki pengalaman sebelumnya setelah menyerahkan HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej—fregat pertama Thailand di kelas ini—pada tahun 2018 (foto: Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand)

Ia mengatakan bahwa pihak Angkatan Laut menyadari besarnya perhatian publik terhadap proyek ini karena menyangkut keamanan nasional, perlindungan kepentingan maritim, dan penggunaan dana publik.

Oleh karena itu, aspek ketepatan, nilai manfaat (value for money), transparansi, dan akuntabilitas sangat ditekankan di sepanjang proses pengadaan.

Angkatan Laut menegaskan bahwa proyek ini ditujukan untuk memberikan manfaat bagi negara secara keseluruhan, bukan sekadar menyediakan kapal perang baru bagi Angkatan Laut. Angkatan Laut akan secara resmi mengumumkan hasil seleksi pada 18 September, setelah masa pengajuan keberatan berakhir.

Pihak Angkatan Laut akan memaparkan hasil tersebut serta menjelaskan kriteria seleksi, alasan pemilihan, poin-poin utama proposal, dan manfaatnya bagi negara.

(ThaiPBS)

Australian Army Procures Next Generation Australian-designed Military Bridging Capability

09 September 2026

Birdon next-generation Bridge Erection Boats (BEB) (photos: Birdon, US Army)

Port Macquarie, Australia – Birdon is supplying three next-generation Bridge Erection Boats (BEBs) to the Australian Army, marking the evolution of a capability whose origins lie in an Australian-designed program developed for Army more than two decades ago.

The delivery represents a significant milestone in the evolution of a capability that began with Birdon’s Bridge Erection Propulsion Boat (BEPB) program for the Australian Army in 2003 and has since been adopted by military forces in the United States, Brazil and Europe.

Birdon’s original BEPB program delivered 24 vessels to the Australian Army and established the foundation for a family of military bridging boats that would ultimately support major international defence programs. The success of the Australian program enabled Birdon to expand into global markets, including the United States, where the company has since manufactured over 540 bridge erection boats and associated systems for military customers and allied nations.

The three vessels being supplied to Army have been manufactured at Birdon’s BEB manufacturing facility and represent the latest evolution of a platform that has benefited from years of operational experience, engineering refinement and continuous product development across multiple military customers and operating environments.

Birdon Chief Executive Officer Jamie Bruce said the delivery demonstrates the enduring value that can be created when Australian industry is entrusted to develop and support sovereign defence capability.

“The origins of this capability lie in Australia, where Birdon developed and delivered a solution to meet the Australian Army’s operational bridging requirements.

Over time, that capability has evolved through successive international programs, creating export opportunities, supporting manufacturing growth and strengthening our engineering expertise across Australia and the United States.

It is particularly rewarding to see the latest generation of that capability returning to Australia to support Army’s future needs.”

The latest vessels incorporate enhancements arising from years of operational feedback and design evolution, reflecting lessons learned from supporting military bridging operations across a range of environments and user requirements.

Mr Bruce said the program demonstrates how investment in Australian-owned industry can deliver benefits extending far beyond a single acquisition project.

“The original Australian Army program delivered much more than a fleet of vessels.

It enabled the development of a specialist capability that has since been exported internationally, expanded Birdon’s global footprint and strengthened our ability to support defence customers across allied nations.

This is a strong example of how Australian defence programs can generate lasting industrial capability, export success and ongoing investment in Australian skills and expertise.”

The delivery also builds on Birdon’s longstanding relationship with the Australian Army. In addition to designing and constructing the original BEPB fleet, Birdon continues to provide in-service support to Army’s bridge erection vessel capability, including maintenance, capability upgrades, obsolescence management, and spares provisioning.

This combination of design, manufacturing and through-life support experience provides Birdon with a unique understanding of the operational and sustainment requirements associated with military bridging capability.

“Our team has supported this capability throughout its lifecycle, from initial design and construction through to ongoing sustainment support,” Mr Bruce said.

“That continuity allows us to apply decades of operational and engineering knowledge while ensuring the capability continues to evolve in line with customer requirements.

We are proud to continue supporting the Australian Army with a capability that reflects Australian innovation, sovereign expertise and the strength of our global defence business.”

The project further reinforces Birdon’s position as an Australian-owned defence contractor delivering vessel design, manufacturing, sustainment and specialist maritime solutions across Australia, the United States and allied defence markets.

(Birdon)

TNI AL dan Republic of Korea Navy Gelar Latma DIVEX 2026, Perkuat Kemampuan Operasi Bawah Air

09 September 2026

Dive Exercise (DIVEX) 2026 antara TNI AL dan ROKN (photos: TNI AL)

Dalam rangka memperkuat kemampuan operasi bawah air, TNI AL dalam hal ini Komando Penyelam dan Penyelamatan Bawah Air (Koppeba) dan Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) menyelenggarakan Latihan Bersama (Latma) Dive Exercise (DIVEX) 2026 mulai 25 s.d 30 Agustus 2026. Latihan yang melibatkan Koppeba, Kopaska dan ROKN ini dilaksanakan di Jinhae Naval Base dan Pulau Jeju, Korea Selatan pada Minggu (30/08/2026).

Latma DIVEX 2026 yang dilaksanakan setahun sekali dengan penyelenggaraan bergantian antara TNI AL dan ROKN ini dirancang untuk meningkatan pengetahuan, kemampuan dan profesionalisme prajurit TNI AL dan ROKN dalam melaksanakan operasi penyelaman dan penyelamatan bawah air pada kegiatan Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) serta memperkuat hubungan bilateral dan kerjasama militer angkatan laut kedua negara dengan melibatkan 10 personel Komando Penyelam dan Penyelamatan Bawah Air (Koppeba) dan 2 personel Komando Pasukan Katak (Kopaska) di bawah komando Dansatgas Letkol Laut (S) Mz Lerry yang berdinas sebagai Wadan Satkoppeba 3.

Materi latihan yang komprehensif mencakup beberapa aspek kritikal, diantaranya pengaplikasian prosedur Wet-Bell Diving pada operasi penyelaman dan penyelamatan bawah air; pengaplikasian prosedur Helicopter Rescue Swimming, pengoperasian peralatan ROV (pengamatan visual dan identifikasi objek); pengoperasian peralatan Side Scan 3D Sonar guna pencarian, pendeteksian dan identifikasi objek bawah air serta Field Tactical Exercise (FATEX): Simulasi misi nyata seperti pencarian dan penyelamatan (SAR) bawah air, evakuasi black box serta pengangkatan benda berat dengan lifting bag.

Dalam kesempatan tersebut Staf Khusus Kasal Laksma TNI Baroyo Eko Basuki didampingi Kolonel Laut (P) Norman Faizal turun meninjau langsung pelaksanaan Latma DIVEX 2026 yang juga turut dihadiri oleh delegasi militer dari ROK Navy.

Dalam pernyataannya, disampaikan bahwa Latma DIVEX-26 bukan hanya sekadar latihan rutin, tetapi merupakan wahana strategis untuk memperdalam hubungan bilateral. “Latihan ini merupakan platform strategis untuk berbagi pengalaman dan mengadopsi teknik penyelaman militer modern. Hal ini pada akhirnya akan meningkatkan kesiapan dan profesionalisme kedua angkatan laut dalam menjaga stabilitas keamanan maritim di kawasan.”

Dengan diselenggarakannya latihan ini, TNI AL dan ROKN menunjukkan komitmen nyata guna terus meningkatkan kemampuan operasional, membangun kepercayaan, dan memastikan kesiapan dalam menjawab setiap tantangan keamanan di domain maritim serta memperkuat hubungan bilateral di bidang operasi bawah air serta berbagi pengalaman dalam teknik penyelaman militer modern.

(TNI AL)