Prabowo Emphasizes Technology Independence, Aviation Industry Asked to Upgrade

President Prabowo Subianto (right) with Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer (left), at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday, February 2, 2026. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto reiterated his commitment that Indonesia will not be left behind in global aviation technology progress when he received the Embraer Commercial Aviation leadership at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday, February 2.

During the meeting, the President discussed directly with Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer, Garuda Indonesia President Director Glenny H. Kairupan, PT Pindad President Director Sigit Puji Santosa, and Secretary of State Prasetyo Hadi about the latest developments in the world aviation industry and opportunities to strengthen national capacity.

The Presidential Secretariat said the head of state specifically gave directions so that Indonesia, including national airlines and strategic industries, was able to follow and adapt to the leap in modern aircraft technology.

"President Prabowo gave directions so that Indonesia, including national airlines, is able to follow and adapt to global technological advances," said the Presidential Secretariat.

The focus of the discussion includes updates on commercial aircraft technology, operational efficiency, and opportunities for cooperation in developing the domestic aviation ecosystem to be more competitive internationally.

Garuda Indonesia President Director Glenny H. Kairupan said the President's direction focused on the readiness of the national industry to actively participate in technological transformation, not just as users.

"Mr. President wants us not to be left behind. Aviation technology is now very advanced, and Indonesia must be involved in its development," said Glenny.

He also emphasized that the meeting had not discussed plans to purchase new aircraft.

"There are no plans to buy. This is only a coordination and discussion about technology," he said.

For information, Embraer is a Brazilian aircraft manufacturer and is listed as the third largest aircraft manufacturer in the world. Indonesia itself has used a number of Embraer products, including the EMB-314 Super Tucano tactical fighter aircraft which is still actively operated by the Indonesian Air Force.