Many Countries Attracted to Indonesia`s Military Products: Minister

Surabaya, E Java (Antara Bali) - Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said that a number of countries were attracted to Indonesias military products, one of which was a warship manufactured by the National Shipyard Company PT. PAL Indonesia.

"We have built warships for several countries, such as the Philippines, and our weapons are made to meet orders of Arab countries," Ryamizard stated, after releasing the second warship made by PT. PAL Indonesia to Manila, Philippines, here on Tuesday.

Ryamizard asserted that Indonesians should be proud of PT. PAL Indonesia for having exported the second warship, proving that the country was able to complete the order on time.

"This second warship export will strengthen the defense cooperation and relationship between the Philippines and Indonesia and will be a testament to reveal the close relationship between the two countries," he noted.

He hoped that the relationship between the two countries will continue to be improved. He appreciated the Philippines government for its cooperation in developing the maritime sector.

Meanwhile, the President Director of PT. PAL Indonesia, Budiman Saleh, remarked that the company won the Philippines' warship bidding due to the excellent ship design, reasonable price, and timely process that satisfies the client.

The second warship has a length of 123 meters and a width of 21 meters and can be used for military operations.

The ship, with a maximum weight of 7.2 thousand and a speed of 16 knots with a 2 X 2.920 kilowatt booster, can accommodate 621 passengers and can survive in the ocean for 30 days.

The ship is also able to accommodate tanks, combat vehicles, hospital cars, as well as patrol boats and transporters.

The warship is innovated from Landing Platform Dock (LPD) through technology transfer with South Korea.(WDY)