Space security in Indo-Pacific: an Indonesian perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article examines Indonesia's complex position amid modern space affairs in the Indo-Pacific. While many countries prioritise space technology for security and defence purposes, Indonesia has struggled with inconsistency since its successful launch of the Kartika 1 rocket in 1963. This article analyses Indonesia's space security policy dynamics through the absence of the word ”Dirgantara” in the Indonesian National Armed Forces Law No. 34 of 2004 from Law No. 20 of 1982, indicating a desecuritization of space threats and undermining national security. The lack of concern for space security has diminished its effectiveness as a security medium. Ultimately, this article calls for the government to reintroduce ”Dirgantara” into its legal framework and to evaluate the necessity of developing space defence capabilities.