- PTDI President Director, Gita Amperiawan, firmly dismissed rumors of the strategic aerospace company being sold to foreign entities, reaffirming commitment to national technological sovereignty.
- As a state-owned enterprise in the defense industry, PTDI will focus on enhancing production capacity, technological innovation, and regional market expansion for 2026.
- The Indonesian government continues to support PTDI as a cornerstone of defense equipment self-reliance and economic growth, with investments in new-generation aircraft R&D and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.
JAKARTA, February 22, 2026 – PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) President Director, Gita Amperiawan, has emphatically refuted widespread speculation regarding the potential sale of the state-owned aerospace company to foreign entities. In an exclusive press conference held at PTDI headquarters, Amperiawan asserted that PTDI remains a strategic national asset with no plans for divestment of ownership to external parties.
Talk of a potential PTDI sale had been a hot topic within industry circles and among the public since early this year. Gita Amperiawan stated, 'We understand the concerns that have arisen, but I want to state clearly and unequivocally: PTDI has never been, and will never be, sold to foreign parties. PTDI is a vital pillar for Indonesia's defense and aerospace industry sovereignty and independence. Our commitment is to continuously strengthen national capabilities, not to relinquish them.'
PTDI's Strategic Role in the National Industry 2026
PTDI is one of Indonesia's State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) that plays a crucial role in the development of the country's aerospace and defense industries. With a focus on the design, development, and production of aircraft, helicopters, and air defense systems, PTDI forms the backbone in meeting the needs of the Indonesian Armed Forces' main weapon system equipment (alutsista) as well as civilian market demands, both domestically and internationally.
For 2026, PTDI has set ambitious targets to boost production capacity for the N219 Nurtanio aircraft, expand Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, and continue the joint KFX/IFX fighter jet development project with South Korea. 'Our current focus is on accelerating the strategic programs that have been launched to strengthen the national aerospace industry ecosystem,' Amperiawan added.
Analyst Views and Government Commitment
Dr. Eleanor Vance, a lead aerospace analyst at the Southeast Asia Strategic Studies Institute (SEASSI), highlighted the importance of PTDI's firm statement. 'Director Amperiawan's clarification is crucial to calm the market and the public. PTDI is not just an aircraft manufacturer; it's a symbol of Indonesia's technological independence and engineering capacity. A sale to foreign entities would be a significant setback for Indonesia's ambitions to become a major player in the regional aerospace industry,' said Dr. Vance.
The government, through the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises, has also repeatedly affirmed its full support for PTDI. Minister of SOEs, Erick Thohir, has on several occasions stated that strategic state-owned companies will continue to be strengthened and optimized for national interests. Investment in research and development, modernization of facilities, and enhancement of human resource capabilities are top priorities to make PTDI more competitive on the global stage.
Projections and Outlook for 2026
With the sale rumors now dispelled, PTDI is poised to move forward with a clearer agenda. The company aims to expand its export markets in Southeast Asia and Africa, and strengthen collaborations with domestic universities and research institutions to foster new innovations. Projections for 2026 indicate a significant increase in production contracts and MRO services, solidifying PTDI's position as a key player in the global aerospace ecosystem.
'We are optimistic about the future. With full support from the government, strategic partners, and the nation's best talents, PTDI will continue to soar high, carrying Indonesia's name on the world stage,' concluded Gita Amperiawan, bringing the press conference to a close.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why did rumors of PTDI being sold to foreign entities emerge?
A: The rumors likely stemmed from market speculation and internal discussions regarding SOE restructuring, but have been firmly denied by PTDI's President Director.
Q: What is PTDI's main focus in 2026 after these rumors subsided?
A: PTDI will focus on increasing N219 aircraft production, expanding MRO services, the joint KFX/IFX project, and export market expansion and technological innovation.
Q: How does the government support PTDI as a strategic company?
A: The government provides support through investments in research and development, facility modernization, and enhancement of human resource capabilities to strengthen PTDI's competitiveness.