Defense Minister Inaugurates New Navy Fast Missile Boat
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6 December 2021 11:59 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto on Sunday launched the 60 meter fast missile boats (KCR) at the PT PAL warship division in East Java, which marks the fifth production from the state-owned shipbuilder.
The KCR marks Indonesia’s attempt to strengthen and modernize the Navy alutsista or primary weapons system. This also adheres to Law No.16/2012 on the defense industry.
“Without a strong maritime power, it would be impossible for our country to be strong,” said Prabowo in his acceptance speech on December 5. “We can become a dependent nation through a capable defense industry.”
The fast missile boat is categorized as an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) built for quick and nimble maneuvers and will be tasked to guard the country’s maritime area and also conduct pursuits against trespassers in Indonesia’s maritime area.
This KCR unit is 60-meters in length and 8-meters wide and can carry 55 personnel. The 500 tons vessel is capable of travel speeds up to 28 knots under full load and operates for 5-days straight. The KCR is able to cover a travel distance of up to 2,400 nautical miles at 20 knots.
“We aspire to big dreams, to be masters in our own sea, land and air. We maintain relations with all countries but we will defend our sovereignty at all costs." said the Defense Minister.
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