Jakarta, INTI - Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Arif Satria, encouraged aerospace researchers to apply technology forecasting as a foundation for strategic decision-making. He noted that the aerospace sector is high-cost, complex, and long-term, meaning policy errors can have significant consequences.
Arif delivered these directions during a working visit to theJacob Salatun Science and Technology (KST) Area in Rumpin and the R. Sunaryo Science Area in Tarogong, Bogor Regency, on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
“We need an aerospace roadmap, a satellite roadmap, a rocket roadmap, and an aviation roadmap through 2030. We must plan clearly what will be done and introduce various new breakthroughs,” Arif said.
He emphasized that applying technology forecasting is essential to anticipate future directions in space development and to maintain Indonesia’s competitiveness, enabling the country to play an active role in the global space race.
In addition to technology planning, Arif stressed that the success of research also depends on the quality of the supporting ecosystem. Reliable operations, competent human resources, and institutional support are the main foundations to ensure that research can proceed optimally and sustainably.
Optimizing Research Through Competent Teams and Prioritization
Arif continued that research equipment must be supported by competent researchers and managers to ensure optimal impact. Given budget limitations, priority management becomes crucial, especially as some equipment is reaching the end of its operational life.
He also emphasized the importance of courage to innovate and a culture of discussion as the heart of research. “If we are strong in imagination and creativity, we will be able to create breakthroughs,” he said.
During the visit, Head of BRIN’s Aerospace and Aviation Research Organization (ORPA), Robertus Heru Triharjanto, urged researchers to be more attentive in anticipating technology trends over the next five to ten years. “We must think about the future so that we are not merely followers of technology-producing countries, but can also become initiators,” he stated.
According to Robertus Heru, developing key technologies to reduce import dependency must be accompanied by a long-term and collaborative perspective. Drafting a research roadmap is an important step for Indonesia to meet national needs while contributing to the global community.
“We need to anticipate what our nation and the global community will require in the next five to ten years so that we can become one of the players,” he added.
During the visit, the Head of BRIN inspected several research facilities, including the Aerodynamics Laboratory, DO-160 Laboratory, Aircraft Hangar at KST Jacob Salatun, and the Propellant, Composites, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) Laboratories at R. Sunaryo Science Area.
He noted that these research areas have great potential for development through facility upgrades, strengthened governance, and research aligned with national needs, aiming to enhance the aerospace ecosystem and drive strategic innovation for Indonesia’s progress.
Conclusion
BRIN emphasizes that competent teams, strategic foresight, and well-maintained research facilities are essential to advancing Indonesia’s aerospace sector. By combining innovation, long-term planning, and ecosystem strengthening, Indonesia can not only meet national aerospace needs but also become an active player in the global space and aviation industry.
Read more: BRIN: Sustainable Manufacturing Transformation Key to Achieving 8% Economic Growth