Indonesia Backs Advance Notice for Ballistic Missile Tests

Indonesia has voiced its support for a call to nuclear-weapon states to provide advance notification before testing ballistic missiles and similar weapons. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela, stated that the country backs the initiative as it promotes transparency and confidence-building.

Nabyl emphasized that advance notification of ballistic missile tests can mitigate the risks of misperception and miscalculation, particularly given the destructive potential of these weapons. Indonesia hopes that increased transparency in weapons testing will align with the broader goal of ending the nuclear arms race and lead to a commitment from nuclear-weapon states to fulfill their disarmament obligations.

“

Indonesia supports the initiative to urge early notification, as it encourages transparency and confidence-building efforts.

This stance follows a joint statement by 41 countries at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, urging nuclear-armed states to provide at least 24 hours' notice before conducting tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), or space launch vehicles (SLVs). The statement highlighted the dangers of such tests conducted without sufficient notice, which can disrupt regional peace and security and undermine global stability.

The joint statement was issued in the wake of China's test-launch of a nuclear-powered submarine-launched ballistic missile in July, which occurred shortly after it had notified several Pacific nations. The participating countries expressed concern that ignoring standard notification procedures could heighten the risk of miscalculation and jeopardize global stability.

“

Conducting nuclear-capable ballistic missile tests without sufficient advance notice and detail is dangerous and disrupts the peace and security of relevant nations in proximity to these tests.