Russia Denies Biak Spaceport Plans Include Military Base

Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov has clarified that proposed cooperation between Russia and Indonesia on developing a spaceport in Biak, Papua, remains in the initial discussion phase. He specifically addressed and refuted claims suggesting the facility would be utilized as a Russian military base.

Tolchenov explained that the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has engaged in discussions with Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, regarding potential involvement in the spaceport's development. "We haven't even reached the initial stage of cooperation. The meeting was just a preliminary discussion," Tolchenov said during a media briefing in Jakarta on Wednesday. He noted that no formal agreement has been signed between the two nations for the project, and BRIN might be exploring options with other countries.

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We haven't even reached the initial stage of cooperation. The meeting was just a preliminary discussion.

Russia, however, remains ready to support Indonesia's ambition to build its first spaceport. Through Roscosmos, Moscow offers its extensive experience and established space technology. "The decision is entirely up to BRIN to choose a partner. However, if Roscosmos and Russia are chosen, we will be very pleased, and I am confident we can realize this project for Indonesia," Tolchenov stated.

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The decision is entirely up to BRIN to choose a partner. However, if Roscosmos and Russia are chosen, we will be very pleased, and I am confident we can realize this project for Indonesia.

Addressing the military base rumors directly, Tolchenov reiterated that the Biak spaceport would be an Indonesian facility. Any cooperation with Russia, should it be agreed upon, would not grant dual-use functions for foreign military purposes. He underscored that Indonesia, as a sovereign nation, would not permit its territory to host foreign military bases.

"Even if Indonesia later uses the spaceport to launch military satellites or other space facilities, that is Indonesia's decision," Tolchenov added. This distinction highlights the difference between utilizing space technology for Indonesia's defense needs and the presence of foreign military installations, emphasizing that decisions on satellite types and missions launched from Biak would solely rest with the Indonesian government.

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Even if Indonesia later uses the spaceport to launch military satellites or other space facilities, that is Indonesia's decision.