Bappenas Emphasizes Defense Industry’s Key Role in Economic Development

During a working visit to PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PT DI), the Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Rachmat Pambudy reviewed production technologies, innovations, and the potential for developing Indonesia’s aerospace and defense industries. 

Minister Rachmat emphasized the importance of enhancing domestic production capacity for components and advancing the development of the N219 aircraft, aiming to boost the aerospace sector’s contribution to Indonesia’s economic growth. 

“The defense industry, including aerospace, holds a strategic role in driving economic growth while supporting national security. Through the N219 development, we hope PT DI can enhance connectivity between major cities and remote areas, particularly those with challenging geographic conditions,” Minister Rachmat stated on Thursday (14/11).

The N219 aircraft is specifically designed to operate in regions with unique characteristics, such as high altitudes, short runways, and unpredictable weather. Minister Rachmat highlighted its potential to become a critical solution for underserved regions, fostering regional economic development. 

The Ministry of PPN/Bappenas serves as the program’s initiator and enabler, focusing on accelerating ecosystem development and crafting comprehensive plans. PT Dirgantara Indonesia leads the aircraft's development, leveraging its full production certification for the N219 and N219A. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) supports this effort through research and development, while the Ministry of Defense strengthens security and operational frameworks and facilitates funding.

Key development milestones include completing the prototype and certifying the Basic Amphibian Aircraft (N219 BAA) by September 2026, achieving the Airworthiness Type Certificate (ATC) for the N219 BAA, and fully developing and certifying the N219 Amphibian by September 2027.

These initiatives aim to transform Indonesia’s aerospace industry into a self-reliant, competitive, and sustainable sector while reinforcing national security and independence. 

“With the support and collaboration of various ministries and agencies, we hope the national defense industry will grow stronger, more advanced, and independent. This sector has immense potential to foster national resilience while driving economic progress,” concluded Minister Rachmat.