Jayapura, Jubi – The Indonesian Military (TNI) has established a new command and control centre for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, to support military operations in Papua.

The facility, named the Centralized Drone Command Center, was inaugurated on July 5 by Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and TNI Commander Gen. Agus Subiyanto at the Indonesian Army's 754th Infantry Battalion (Yonif 754/ENK) complex in Timika, Central Papua.

The drone command centre will operate under the authority of the Joint Regional Defence Command (Kogabwilhan) III.

TNI spokesperson Brig. Gen. Muhammad Nas said the facility was built to strengthen the military's use of unmanned technology through a more integrated and modern command system.

"Its presence is expected to enhance surveillance capabilities, information gathering and decision-making in the field," Nas told Indonesia Defense Magazine.

He said the command centre forms part of the military's broader effort to strengthen technology-based command and control systems.

"Its use will be adjusted to operational requirements and will continue to follow applicable regulations," he said.

On the same day, Sjafrie and Agus also inaugurated the headquarters of Kogabwilhan III.

In a statement, the TNI Information Centre said the inauguration of both the Kogabwilhan III headquarters and the Centralized Drone Command Center formed part of efforts to strengthen Indonesia's national defence system.

According to the statement, the Defence Ministry and the TNI are committed to accelerating the modernisation of defence infrastructure, improving operational readiness and recognising soldiers for outstanding service.

The TNI said strengthening defence infrastructure and supporting facilities in Papua is expected to improve military effectiveness while reinforcing Indonesia's defence posture in safeguarding the country's sovereignty.

Source: https://en.jubi.id/indonesia-military-establishes-drone-command-centre-for-operations-in-papua