By: Prof. Dr. Drs. Ermaya Suradinata, S.H., M.H., M.S.
Editor: Dhania Puspa

The Astha Cita, promoted by President-Elect General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto, serves as the cornerstone of his leadership vision for building a stronger, independent, and sovereign Indonesia. One of the most significant goals is “Strengthening the National Defense System”, a key agenda aimed at reinforcing the nation’s defense posture in alignment with global strategic developments, ensuring Indonesia’s sovereignty and security.

Under General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto’s leadership, this agenda is not just a security priority but also a foundation for national social, economic, and political stability. With his extensive military background and experience as a former Minister of Defense, he possesses deep insight into the challenges Indonesia faces in defense.

As the largest archipelago nation in the world, situated between two oceans and two continents, Indonesia is highly vulnerable to various threats, both domestic and foreign. Therefore, strengthening the national defense system becomes an urgent effort to address traditional threats like military aggression, as well as non-traditional threats such as terrorism, cross-border crime, and cyber-attacks.

One of the most critical aspects of fortifying the national defense system is the modernization of primary weaponry systems (alutsista). During General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto’s tenure, Indonesia’s defense policy is expected to focus on enhancing more sophisticated weaponry aligned with contemporary defense needs. This modernization includes acquiring the latest military technology and developing domestic defense industry capabilities, so Indonesia will not only be a consumer of foreign weapons but also an independent producer.

The development of the national defense industry will not only increase defense capacity but also create jobs and boost the national economy. Concurrently, strengthening the cyber defense system is a priority, with efforts directed towards developing digital defense capabilities to protect Indonesia from asymmetric and invisible attacks. In this regard, General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto’s administration will focus on developing cyber technology, training human resources in cyber security, and fostering international cooperation to strengthen national digital security infrastructure.

Besides focusing on technological and weaponry modernization, human resource development within the defense system is also a key agenda. The quality and professionalism of military personnel are essential in building a robust defense system. As a former military commander, General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto understands the importance of continuous training and adequate military education for Indonesian Armed Forces personnel.

Intensive training programs, both domestically and through cooperation with friendly countries, will be a priority to enhance the competence and combat readiness of Indonesian soldiers. In efforts to strengthen the defense system, international cooperation is also an integral part of Prabowo Subianto’s defense strategy. Faced with increasingly complex threats, Indonesia cannot act alone.

As a leader with extensive experience in defense diplomacy, General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto will strengthen bilateral and multilateral security relations, particularly with neighboring countries and strategic partners such as the United States, Russia, China, and European nations. This collaboration will include joint military exercises, intelligence exchanges, and joint capability development, which will ultimately enhance Indonesia’s interoperability and combat readiness in confronting various global threats.

In addition to international cooperation, regional stability is also a concern for Prabowo in strengthening the defense system. Indonesia, as a leader in ASEAN, must play a more active role in maintaining stability in Southeast Asia. The rivalry between major powers like the United States and China in the region demands that Indonesia not just be a spectator but also a key player in creating a balance of power that supports peace and stability.

Thus, strengthening the national defense system also means safeguarding the sovereignty of the entire Indonesian territory. As an archipelagic country, Indonesia faces unique challenges in maintaining territorial integrity, particularly in border areas and regions vulnerable to disruptions. Prabowo Subianto will reinforce military presence in strategic areas, especially at sea borders and outermost islands, to ensure that Indonesia’s sovereignty is protected.

In the long term, strengthening the national defense system not only means protecting Indonesia from external threats but also ensuring that this defense system supports sustainable national development. Prabowo Subianto will prioritize policies that are not merely reactive but also proactive, by developing a defense strategy focused on prevention and diplomacy. A strong and solid defense system will serve as the foundation for national stability, which in turn supports economic growth, social progress, and the welfare of the Indonesian people.

Prof. Dr. Drs. Ermaya Suradinata, S.H., M.H., M.S. is the former Director General of Social Politics at the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia and the Governor of the National Defense Institute of Indonesia (2001-2005).