Enhancing national defense capabilities through collaborative programs: insights and policy recommendations for Indonesia

Abstract

This study analyzes the program planning in the Indonesian defense sector with a focus on the impact of defense spending on economic growth. Through a combination of quantitative analysis of Indonesian defense spending data and qualitative discussions with Indonesian defense economists, the study investigates the effectiveness of productive programs such as collaboration, dual-use capabilities, and empowerment. The findings reveal a positive association between Indonesia's defense spending and economic growth, emphasizing the significance of well-designed collaborative programs. However, ensuring budget certainty for these programs to yield practical benefits is crucial. The study emphasizes the need for the defense budget policy to be clearly stated in the national defense law, ensuring its effective implementation. Furthermore, the study explores potential new collaborative programs and defense and security initiatives that can enhance national defense capabilities. It underscores the importance of fostering collaboration between military and civilian organizations to accelerate innovation in science and technology, proposing the establishment of a defense science and technology park as a platform for such collaboration. The research has implications for policy development and decision-making in the defense sector. By emphasizing the significance of collaborative programs, the study provides insights for policymakers to enhance the effectiveness and practicality of defense initiatives. It also highlights the importance of ensuring budget certainty and incorporating defense budget policy into the national defense law.