KSAU Considers Aerospace Technology Important To Overcome Natural Disasters

KSAU Marshal TNI Mohammad Tonny Harjono (Between)

JAKARTA - Air Force Chief of Staff (KSAU) Marshal TNI M Tonny Harjono alluded to the importance of aerospace technology in overcoming natural disasters.

According to him, international readiness and collaboration is needed in dealing with natural disasters that are increasingly frequent due to climate change.

"Indonesia, which is located in the Pacific ring of fire, has a high risk of natural disasters, aerospace technology, including UAVs and satellites, is vital in increasing the effectiveness of the HADR operation (Misi for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Management), saving lives, and minimizing the impact of damage," he said at the Bali Regional Air and Space Power Forum 2024 in Badung Regency, Tuesday, September 17, confiscated by Antara.

The KSAU alluded to the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, from BMKG data even at the end of 2023, more than 26 million people were affected by floods, earthquakes, and other disasters.

For this reason, the readiness of aerospace technology is important, plus international collaboration.

Marshal Tonny gave an example of the eruption of Mount Semeru and the 2018 earthquake which was successfully handled thanks to accurate information technology.

"Technology alone is not enough, international cooperation is very important, it is important for us to continue to foster partnerships, learn from each other, and build strengths with each other," he said.

For this reason, the forum, which was attended by 200 participants from various countries on the sidelines of the Bali International Airshow, became a forum for sharing knowledge and experience related to aerospace technology and HADR operations.

In this forum, the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment together with the Indonesian Air Force presented speakers with the latest development topics in the field of aerospace technology, including UAVs, satellites, and C4ISR systems (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance).

"This technology is important in accelerating response and coordination in humanitarian operations in the midst of global conditions that are full of challenges," said Kasau.

With the two discussion sessions held, he hopes that the Bali Regional Air and Space Power Forum 2024 can create collaborative initiatives between countries and related sectors in strengthening disaster response capabilities and the use of aerospace technology in the HADR operation.