06.10.2009
Indonesia plans to increase number of patrol ships and arm them with Russian and Chinese guided missiles. That was said by Admiral Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno, Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff at ceremony devoted to national armed forces anniversary, informs Bernama.
Nevertheless, due to hard budget constraints Indonesian military officials had to define Navy development priorities, said Purdijatno. Instead of submarines and large combat ships, Navy will purchase more transport and patrol vessels. Meanwhile, the rearmament is to be performed despite complicated financial conditions, added the admiral.
Besides, Purdijatno commented statement previously made by military authorities concerning refusal of submarines procurement – Russian shipbuilders were also among competitors. According to him, despite tender shutdown the matter is still under consideration of Ministry of Defense and in the future will be considered by Indonesian government as well.
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