I-22 Sikatan, A New Hope for Indonesia’s Defense Industry
The development of Indonesia’s I-22 Sikatan fighter jet marks a monumental step in the nation’s journey toward military technology independence. This 4.5-generation combat aircraft is being advanced by Infoglobal, in collaboration with several leading universities and national research institutions. Its latest appearance at the Indo Defence Expo & Forum 2025 reaffirmed Indonesia’s growing capability in domestic aviation technology.
According to Infoglobal, the I-22 Sikatan program is about more than just building a fighter jet — it’s about laying the foundation for an independent, self-reliant defense industry ecosystem. CEO Adi Sasongko emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between industry, government, and academia to create a homegrown fighter that can compete on the global stage.
Given current technology trends and financial realities, one of the most promising opportunities in the near term is to develop scaled-down or unmanned drone versions of the I-22 Sikatan. These versions could serve as valuable platforms to test avionics, aerodynamics, and weapons systems without the higher risks of manned flight.
Recent advancements in manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and rapid prototyping have made the creation of sophisticated drone variants or miniaturized fighter models far more accessible than ever before. If countries like Iran can push forward with their Qaher 313 project under greater limitations, Indonesia is more than capable of achieving even better results.
Building drone platforms based on the I-22 Sikatan design would give Indonesia a strategic entry point into the rapidly expanding Southeast Asian combat UAV market. Across the region, defense ministries are increasingly looking toward unmanned systems for patrol, surveillance, and precision strike missions.
Scaled models could also play a vital role in research, testing, and training for technicians, engineers, and pilots, while simultaneously introducing Indonesia’s youth to advanced defense technologies. These miniatures would serve as the groundwork for future full-scale development.
The I-22 Sikatan demonstrator already showcases significant progress in avionics. Its modern fly-by-wire control systems and a 25-inch panoramic display bring it in line with the latest global fighter jet standards, offering an intuitive and highly functional cockpit environment.
Another standout feature is the Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS), which projects essential flight data directly onto the pilot’s visor, greatly enhancing situational awareness in high-pressure combat scenarios.
If this program receives steady support, Indonesia could realistically produce a fully indigenous fighter jet capable of rivaling aircraft like the Saab Gripen or South Korea’s KF-21 in the years ahead.
The primary challenges ahead involve securing consistent funding, ensuring effective technology transfer, and forming strategic partnerships with countries open to sharing critical defense innovations. Infoglobal continues to seek opportunities for international collaboration to strengthen its position.
Another highly feasible direction is to develop a light attack version of the I-22 Sikatan. This platform would serve ground attack, border patrol, and counter-insurgency missions, offering a cost-effective, efficient, and easily maintainable solution for a vast archipelagic nation like Indonesia.
Such a light attack aircraft could also open up export opportunities to friendly nations across Southeast Asia and Africa that require affordable, capable military aircraft but lack the budget for high-end Western fighters.
In parallel, developing an unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) variant of the I-22 Sikatan would be a highly strategic move. Not only would it be more economical to produce and operate, but it would also provide operational flexibility across various modern warfare scenarios.
If Indonesia succeeds in creating a combat drone based on the I-22 Sikatan, it would join the ranks of UCAV developers like Turkey with its Bayraktar TB-2 and ANKA, and Iran with its Mohajer and Shahed series.
Such combat drones would offer an ideal solution for safeguarding remote borders, maritime routes, and infiltration-prone areas, providing critical air superiority without endangering pilot lives.
A top priority should be the development of modular avionics systems adaptable to various platforms, including fighters, drones, and maritime patrol aircraft. This approach would enhance production efficiency and simplify integration across Indonesia’s defense assets.
Over the next five years, a full-scale mock-up is expected to be ready for limited flight testing. With steady government and industry support, Indonesia stands a real chance at producing its first domestically designed fighter jet.
More than just a plane, the I-22 Sikatan could symbolize the resurgence of Indonesia’s defense technology sector — tangible proof that the nation is capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with other advanced military technology producers.
The next vital step is involving engineering universities and polytechnic institutions to cultivate a new generation of highly skilled aerospace and military aviation specialists. Strengthening ties with Lapan, BPPT, and PT Dirgantara Indonesia will be key to this effort.
If Indonesia’s long-term development roadmap stays on track, within the next two decades the country could not only produce its own fighter jets but also enter the military aircraft export market in Asia and Africa.
The future is bright, and with today’s accessible technology, there’s every reason to believe that Indonesia’s aviation industry — through projects like the I-22 Sikatan — can soar to new heights.
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