18-6-2023 (JAKARTA) Indonesia has placed an order for 13 long-range military radars from Thales, a French manufacturer, in an effort to enhance its airspace surveillance capabilities across its vast archipelago. The contract, which spans several years, was announced by Thales and state-owned Indonesian defense firm PT Len Industri on Sunday.
The Ground Master 400 Alpha (GM400a) radars will provide the Indonesian military with a comprehensive air picture that integrates the detection of various threats, ranging from fighter jets and missiles to hovering helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles. The joint statement released by the companies highlighted the radar’s advanced features and its ability to manage large volumes of data through artificial intelligence capabilities.
Although the exact value of the contract has not been disclosed, it is known that each radar system costs several tens of millions of dollars. The GM400a radar is a mobile system with a range of 515 kilometers. Its integration of artificial intelligence allows for efficient data processing, ensuring effective monitoring and threat detection.
Thales International’s President, Pascale Sourisse, emphasized the significance of this radar acquisition for Indonesia’s airspace surveillance. She noted that the purchase of the latest-generation radars underscores the country’s commitment to monitor its surrounding airspace, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where China’s regional ambitions are a concern.
Under the contract, Thales will be responsible for building the radars and developing the associated computer systems for data processing. PT Len will handle the construction of the radar stations and contribute to the manufacturing of specific radar components.
The increasing geopolitical tensions in the world have led to a surge in demand for radar systems. Sourisse highlighted Thales’ efforts to expand its industrial capabilities beyond France to meet production requirements and customer expectations. She explained that the company’s presence in new countries allows for job creation, technology transfers, and economic development in those regions.
Thales has already sold more than 80 GM400 and GM400a radars to 19 countries, further solidifying its position as a leading provider of advanced radar solutions.
