ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Indonesia is moving decisively toward its bold ambition of establishing a national spaceport, a strategic leap aimed at achieving full independence in satellite launches and space technology.
The Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Arif Satria, emphasized that Indonesia must no longer rely on other countries for satellite launch capabilities. His remarks were delivered during the Nurtanio Award and Nurtanio Pringgoadisuryo Memorial Lecture (NML) 2025 at the Sumitro Djojohadikusumo Auditorium, B.J. Habibie Building, Central Jakarta, on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Arif stated that the spaceport development initiative has entered a crucial stage.
“We have reported to the President regarding preparations for building a national spaceport. The academic paper and technical studies have been completed, and we are now awaiting the official determination of the location. We will propose this project as a National Strategic Project so that the spaceport can be realized soon. If India has one, Indonesia should have one as well. Very few developing nations possess their own spaceports,” he stressed.
He further stated that BRIN is technologically ready.
“BRIN is already capable of producing high-quality satellites, including the NEO-1 Satellite, which is currently being prepared for launch next year. With our own spaceport—ideally located in Biak—we will no longer need to depend on other nations. This would be a major milestone and a source of pride for Indonesia,” he added.
Arif noted that BRIN has conducted comprehensive studies and is preparing for an on-site visit to review progress. He emphasized the need for significant investment and multi-stakeholder collaboration.
“This is why we are pushing for the project’s designation as a National Strategic Project, ensuring more structured and guaranteed funding,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ayom Widipaminto, Director of Research Facilitation at the Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP), explained why Biak is the most strategic location.
“Biak lies close to the equator, making rocket launches far more energy-efficient. Studies on this location began during the LAPAN era and are now being finalized by BRIN. China and Russia have long expressed interest in the site,” he revealed.
The Nurtanio Award and Nurtanio Pringgoadisuryo Memorial Lecture are Indonesia’s highest recognitions in aviation and space, honoring distinguished scientists and innovators. These awards continue the legacy of Air Vice Marshal Nurtanio Pringgoadisuryo, the father of Indonesia’s aerospace industry and the founder of PT Dirgantara Indonesia.
The event also reaffirms the state’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s space research and technology ecosystem—propelling Indonesia toward complete independence in space exploration and satellite launch capability. (AT Network)
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