Indonesia and India are embarking on a new collaboration in space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is reported to be partnering with Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).
Both agencies have signed an agreement for the Implementation of the Integrated Biak Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TTC) Facility. This also involves the Operational Implementation Arrangement, Maintenance, and Utilization of the Integrated Biak TTC Facility, Satellite Facilities, and Launch Vehicles.
“The Indian space sector is experiencing remarkable growth and activity,” said Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, in a statement on Thursday (21/3/2024).
“The development of India’s first manned spaceflight program, ‘Gaganyaan,’ is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed by 2025,” he added.
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Chakravorty mentioned that astronauts for India’s manned spaceflight have been selected and are undergoing rigorous training. He also appreciated Indonesia’s progress in space communication in both the public and private sectors, and acknowledged India’s success in launching microsatellites, welcoming Indonesia’s interest in this field.
Sandeep reiterated India’s desire to collaborate in space exploration with friendly nations. Meanwhile, as quoted in the Indian Embassy’s statement, BRIN Chairman Handoko welcomed the signing of the Implementation Agreement. He hoped for sustained and enhanced cooperation between India and Indonesia in the space sector.
The new agreement is related to the continuation of the Inter-Governmental Framework Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Uses of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes. It was signed during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2018.
The Framework Agreement governs the transfer of ownership rights, including further operations and management of TTC by ISRO, as well as providing satellite launch services to Indonesia every five years and establishing another ground station in Biak-3. The first TTC station in Biak was established in 1999.
In 2002, both countries signed a broader memorandum of understanding for space cooperation. Subsequently, the second TTC was established in 2005. With the signing of this agreement, India-Indonesia space cooperation is expected to further intensify.
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