Indonesia Seeks Iran's Help in Drone Production, Tech Transfer

Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with Iran’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, on March 5 to discuss strengthening defense cooperation, including drone production and technology transfer.

The meeting at the Ministry of Defense in Jakarta covered military technology, education, and defense industry collaboration. Indonesia plans to send an observation team to Iran after Ramadan to advance the partnership.

The talks highlight growing defense ties between Indonesia and Iran. Tehran's offer to host Indonesian officials reflects a broader effort to deepen bilateral relations.

Iran’s drone industry operates through government, military, and private sectors, despite international sanctions. Its drones are used in counterterrorism, surveillance, and combat operations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) plays a major role through its aerospace division, alongside state-owned firms and private contractors.

Iran produces various drone models, including the Shahed-136, Shahed-149, Arash, and Simorgh. These drones are used in regional conflicts in Syria and Iraq and have been supplied to Russia for use in Ukraine.