Surabaya. Indonesia on Thursday achieved a major defense milestone after successfully testing its first domestically built unmanned autonomous submarine at the Indonesian Navy base in Surabaya.

Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), developed by state-owned shipbuilder PAL Indonesia, will undergo further evaluation and refinement, particularly in its torpedo-launching systems.

Following the successful prototype test, the government plans to produce at least 30 locally built unmanned submarines to strengthen the nation’s maritime defense network, Sjafrie said.

“We need 30 autonomous submarines to secure Indonesia’s key maritime chokepoints,” he said. “This is a proud achievement -- proof that our engineers can develop military technology on par with advanced nations. Strong support from the people and the government is essential for continued innovation in our defense industry.”

The successful trial places Indonesia among a select group of nations -- including the United States, Russia, and China -- that have advanced indigenous unmanned submarine programs, Sjafrie added.

The test was also attended by Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto and Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali.