Indonesian student innovations in defense technology drew significant attention during the opening of the Indo Defence Expo & Forum 2025 on Wednesday (11/6).

The event, the largest defense exhibition in Southeast Asia, was inaugurated by President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, under the theme “Defence Partnership For Global Peace and Stability.”

More than 1,180 participants from domestic and international defense sectors are taking part.

The opening ceremony was also attended by the Minister of Defence, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), Chief of the National Police (Kapolri), and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

A wide range of weapon systems and technologies were on display, with many created by Indonesian students driven by a strong sense of nationalism.

Mendiktisaintek Affirms Support for Campus-Based Defense Innovations

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek), Brian Yuliarto, was present at the official opening.

He visited various booths, particularly those featuring contributions from universities engaged in defense science and technology.

Kemdiktisaintek encourages student innovation in defense technology. This is a tangible implementation of ‘Impactful Campus',” said Minister Brian.

He emphasized the ministry’s ongoing support for the development of science, technology, innovation, and human resources in the national defense sector.

Student Innovation Featured in Presidential Opening Gesture

The official opening of the event was marked by a hand scan by President Prabowo, using a device called “Hand Gesture for Detonate Bomb,” developed by students from the Republic of Indonesia Defense University.

“I hope these creations by the younger generation will continue to strengthen the nation’s resilience,” said Minister Brian.

University Collaboration Strengthens National Defense Innovation

To close the day’s agenda, Minister Brian joined the Minister of Defence in visiting the Republic of Indonesia Defense University.

The visit aimed to observe the campus’s role in contributing to strategic national innovation.

The innovations presented are a result of collaboration between higher education institutions, research communities, and the defense sector, focused on building technological independence and maintaining global peace and stability.

PHOTO: FREEPIK

This article was created with AI assistance.