Indonesia successfully tested its first unmanned AI-powered submarine, marking a defense milestone.
Indonesia has made defense history by successfully testing its first torpedo-equipped autonomous submarine (KSOT) positioning itself as a global leader in unmanned underwater warfare technology.
Landmark Test for National Defense
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense conducted a groundbreaking test of its first Autonomous Submarine (KSOT) in the waters of Koarmada II, Surabaya. The trial included the launch of a torpedo, witnessed by Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, Navy Chief Admiral Muhammad Ali, and PT PAL Indonesia CEO Kaharuddin Djenod.
The orange-colored torpedo, attached to the KSOT-002, was released into the sea without a target to demonstrate launching capability. The test was monitored in real-time through the Autonomous Submarine Command Center.
A Presidential Observation
President Prabowo Subianto closely followed the launch virtually from Jakarta, emphasizing the mission’s national importance. Defense Minister Sjafrie confirmed that Prabowo had been briefed live via secure communication during the submarine’s deployment and torpedo release.
“This is the first torpedo launch made by a fully autonomous submarine produced by our own defense industry,” Sjafrie stated during the press conference.
A Technological Breakthrough
KSOT represents a major innovation in Indonesia’s defense modernization. Built entirely by PT PAL Indonesia, this AI-driven vessel is part of a strategic mandate by the Ministry of Defense to enhance the Navy’s underwater capabilities with unmanned, precision-driven assets.
Sjafrie emphasized that Indonesia is now the fourth country globally—after the U.S., Russia, and China—to successfully develop autonomous submarines. “This is 100% designed by Indonesian minds. It’s a moment of pride and a milestone in our defense journey,” he said.
Military Impact and Strategic Orders
Following the successful test, the Ministry of Defense has committed to procuring 30 KSOT units. These submarines will patrol and safeguard critical maritime choke points across the Indonesian archipelago.
“These units will help secure strategic waters using autonomous navigation and AI-integrated torpedo targeting systems,” Sjafrie added. The submarines will soon be fitted with sensors that allow torpedoes to detect and pursue targets independently.
Toward Mass Production
The KSOT-002 test is also part of a broader technical evaluation before mass production begins. The Navy and PT PAL will continue refining design and performance based on this initial launch. Full deployment of the 30-unit fleet is targeted for 2026.
The initiative complements upcoming advancements in the Indonesian Air Force and reflects a broader commitment to indigenous high-tech military solutions.
The successful KSOT torpedo launch marks a significant stride in Indonesia’s journey toward defense autonomy. As the country pioneers AI-driven underwater technology, it enhances its maritime security posture while showcasing homegrown innovation. For Indonesians and neighboring countries like Singapore, this signals a new era where Southeast Asia is no longer just a consumer of global defense tech but an active innovator in the space.
Sources: Tirto ID (2025) , Koma ID (2025)
Keywords: KSOT, Unmanned Submarine, Indonesia Defense, PT PAL, Torpedo Test, AI Military Technology
