Despite organizational challenges from repeated schedule changes, Czech firms maintained a high standard of preparation and presentation. In total, 26 Czech companies participated across four exhibition spaces covering approximately 500 m². Their presence was comprehensive and professional, proudly representing industrial know-how and the depth of bilateral Czech–Indonesian relations.

At the centre of the Czech presence was the national pavilion, supported by the Czech Ministry of Defence and AOBP, under the economic diplomacy program PROPED. It featured companies specialising in aviation engines, electronics, optics, software and specialised defence and rescue technologies: EVPÚ Defence, Meopta, Prolab Engineering, PBS Group, SVOS, and SpaceKnow. Two other Czech firms participated via local partners: LRY Group, representing EGO Zlín and Prolab Engineering, and PT. Akshara Dirga, representing the parachute manufacturer MarS.

Important roles were also played by the exhibitors from the Czechoslovak Group (CSG) and OMNIPOL Group, which flanked the Czech national pavilion. On one side, CSG presented Excalibur International, Excalibur Army, RETIA, ELDIS, TATRA Defence, MSM Group, VOP Nováky, and Fiocchi. On the other side, OMNIPOL showcased its four main subsidiaries – ERA, MESIT, Aircraft Industries, and Aero Vodochody – and also hosted partners like VR Group, DSS, PBS Velká Bíteš, and European Defence Corporation.

A separate exhibition was held by DSS, which took the opportunity to present its new lightweight aluminium version of the PZD Mk 24 light machine gun. The traditional Czech arms manufacturer COLT CZ appeared “disguised in stars and stripes” by presenting within the U.S. pavilion. THT Ostrava attended as a visitor, aiming to establish contacts and explore opportunities for its aviation-related solutions in Indonesia.

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Concrete Deliveries, Real Deployment

The Czech industry's participation was not limited to static displays but built upon already completed deliveries and long-term market presence. The CSG group confirmed that it had delivered 23 Pandur II 8×8 armoured vehicles, as well as rocket systems, 4×4 mortar carriers, ammunition, radios, and radar equipment, to the Indonesian armed forces. The OMNIPOL group achieved significant success through ERA, which delivered two passive surveillance systems as part of Indonesia’s electronic reconnaissance capabilities.

Although large platforms such as the L‑39NG and L‑410NG aircraft couldn’t be brought due to scheduling constraints, Czech firms still made a strong visual and symbolic impression. OMNIPOL highlighted its ongoing L‑39 Skyfox delivery to Vietnam, potentially serving as a reference for other Southeast Asian countries.

On the ground equipment front, the Czech presence was particularly striking. At the official opening ceremony, personally inaugurated by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, a white UN‑spec Pandur II 8×8 intended for UNIFIL missions in Lebanon was unveiled. The vehicles, supplied by Excalibur Army, underscored that Czech technology is actively deployed in international peace operations.

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Diplomatic and Strategic Engagement

The Czech national delegation was led by the Czech Ambassador to Indonesia, H.E. Jaroslav Doleček, accompanied by Brig. Gen. Martin Bulka, Defence Attaché, and Commercial Counsellor Pavel Drlík. Their participation was not only in the ceremony but also in a series of high-level bilateral meetings, always accompanied by the maximum possible number of Czech company representatives.

Key meetings included the Commander of the Indonesian Army, Lieutenant General Maruli Simanjuntak, and the Deputy Commander of the Indonesian Air Force, Air Marshal Andyawan Martono. The Czech exposition zone at JIEXPO was visited by Major General Piek Budyakto, Director of the Directorate General for Defence Potential at the Indonesian Ministry of Defence. Another milestone was the visit of BRIN, the National Research and Innovation Agency, which sets the country’s technological priorities.

Further important discussions took place with the BSSN (National Cyber and Crypto Security Agency) and the BNPB (National Disaster Management Agency), paving the way for cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity, cybercrime defence, and provision of Czech rescue and crisis-management technologies.

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Evening Reception at the Ambassador’s Residence

A highlight of the Czech involvement was the evening reception at the Czech Ambassador’s residence, supported by the Ministry of Defence under the PROPED programme. Held in a relaxed and representative setting, it provided a prime opportunity for non‑formal networking among Czech companies, institutions, and local partners. This event reaffirmed the crucial role diplomacy plays in supporting export activities, fostering key partnerships, and building confidence in Czech industry.

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A Future for Preparedness

Indonesia appreciated the strong Czech turnout despite logistical hurdles, and confirmed its strategy of diversifying defence suppliers. The country aims to cooperate with partners from Europe, Asia, and the U.S., without reliance on a single supplier. With proven projects and advanced technology, the Czech Republic has firmly opened doors in Indonesia.

Indo Defence 2024 proved to be more than a trade show – it marked a turning point in Czech–Indonesian defence cooperation. Both nations now look forward to further project developments and eagerly anticipate the next edition, scheduled for November 2026.

 

Pavel Drlík, Comercial Counsellor, Czech Embassy in Jakarta