Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro on Thursday inaugurated two rapid combat ships -- KRI Pari-849 and KRI Sembilang 850
Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro on Thursday inaugurated two rapid combat ships -- KRI Pari-849 and KRI Sembilang 850.
"The two ships will be deployed to maintain security and sovereignty in Indonesian waters,' Yusgiantoro said after the inauguration ceremony in Batam, Riau Islands, as quoted by Antara news agency.
Yusgiantoro said that the two ships, manufactured by shipbuilding company PT Palindo Marine Shipyard Batam, proved that there had been development in the country's defense industry.
Development of arsenal system's main equipment was important for the country, the minister said.
"An increase in the main armament system is part of our efforts to maintain security in waters. We have to bear in mind that our waters have a lot of natural wealth and biodiversity," he added.
The country, according to the minister, has many straits and waters used by foreign ships, therefore maximum security is needed.
"The manufacturing of the two ships has contributed a lot to the development of the Navy," he said.
KRI Pari 849 and KRI KRI Sembilang 850, made of marine grade aluminum, were manufactured in Indonesia by local engineers at a cost of Rp75 billion (US$6.75 million).
KRI Pari-849 is expected to strengthen the Navy's command patrol unit in Eastern Indonesia, while KRI Sembilang RI-850 will be deployed to the country's western region around Padang, West Sumatra.
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