Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesia has opened the possibility for other countries to use Biak, Papua, as a satellite launch site, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday (24/4/2025).

“This initiative is purely for peaceful purposes and has nothing to do with military or defense cooperation,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Rolliansyah Soemirat, as quoted by antaranews.com

Biak’s location near the equator makes it a potential hub for satellite deployment.

Recent reports suggesting Russia proposed using Biak’s Manuhua Airbase for military activities were firmly denied by the Indonesian government.

The Foreign Ministry reiterated Indonesia’s stance against hosting any foreign military bases.

The Ministry of Defense also confirmed no foreign military proposals had been received, calling such claims unfounded and counterproductive.

Indonesia intends to develop Biak strictly for civilian and commercial space activities, enhancing its space capabilities through international cooperation.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)