Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia, during his Jakarta visit as both countries move to deepen defence, maritime and technology cooperation. Both the countries are expected to expand cooperation in defence, critical minerals, maritime security and technology during PM Modi’s visit. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced the award in recognition of Modi’s contributions to strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation between the two countries.
The honour comes as PM Modi began the first leg of his three-nation tour, which also includes Australia and New Zealand. The Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia, also known as the Medal of Honour, is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the unity, continuity and prosperity of the Republic of Indonesia.
President Prabowo Subianto presented the honour to Prime Minister Modi during official engagements in Jakarta. The Indonesian PM welcomed Narendra Modi upon his arrival on Monday, accompanied by four Indonesian ministers. Before landing in Jakarta, the Prime Minister’s aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force F-16 and Su-30 fighter jets after entering the country’s airspace.
The joint development of Indonesia’s Sabang Port project ,located near the strategically important Strait of Malacca, is among the key proposals during PM Modi’s Indonesia visit. The project is expected to strengthen India’s maritime presence in the eastern Indian Ocean, improve logistics cooperation and complement India’s strategic interests near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the upcoming Great Nicobar port project.
Defence cooperation is also expected to witness significant progress during the visit. Indonesia is likely to expand its inventory of India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles by procuring an additional battery, with the possibility of increasing the order in the future. India is also expected to assist Indonesia in deploying the missile systems.
Another major development under discussion is Indonesia’s proposed procurement of India’s indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), developed by DRDO. The missile, with a strike range exceeding 100 kilometres, can be integrated with Indonesia’s Su-30 fighter aircraft.
The two countries are also expected to strengthen cooperation in critical minerals, with India planning investments in Indonesian facilities for steel, nickel and rare earth permanent magnets. The partnership aims to support resilient supply chains for electric vehicles, clean energy, electronics and defence manufacturing.
Additionally, India is expected to assist Indonesia in developing customised electronic voting machines (EVMs), further expanding technological collaboration between the two nations.