IndoDefence 2025: Milkor Brings Forward Defense Solutions Shaped for Southeast Asia.

At the IndoDefence 2025 exhibition held in Jakarta, South African defense company Milkor presented a comprehensive range of defense systems across the air, naval, and land domains. This prominent presence reflects the company’s ambitions in the Indonesian market and more broadly throughout the Asia-Pacific region, where there is growing demand for coastal security, surveillance capabilities, and rapid response assets. We conducted an exclusive interview with the Milkor team, where company representatives outlined their key platforms, technical features, and the cooperation agreements they have signed in Indonesia. The full interview is available in our video report from Jakarta. 
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Through the variety of its systems, their technical sophistication, and their alignment with regional security priorities, Milkor is expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia’s defense landscape.

Among the major systems featured at the event was the Milkor 380, a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) aerial surveillance platform designed for intelligence, reconnaissance, and strategic observation missions. Fully developed in-house by Milkor, the drone is equipped with a wide range of payloads, including EO/IR sensors, SAR and ISAR radar for maritime detection, and both LOSCom and SatCom systems to ensure extended connectivity. With autonomous and manual flight modes, the Milkor 380 supports long-duration missions, along with real-time data fusion and processing. This type of platform is especially relevant to Indonesia’s requirements, particularly in maritime surveillance operations, combating illegal fishing, trafficking, and unauthorized incursions in its exclusive economic zone.

In addition to its aerial platforms, Milkor also presented its naval capabilities, including the Milkor Commander high-speed patrol vessel. Measuring 16.5 meters in length and powered by a waterjet propulsion system, the vessel cruises at 35 knots and can reach up to 45 knots under optimal conditions, while maintaining maneuverability in sea states up to 4 meters. With a capacity for up to ten crew members, the Commander is suited for coastal patrol, interdiction, search and rescue, and maritime security missions. Its B6-level armored cabin provides enhanced crew protection in hostile environments. With a range of 500 nautical miles, the Commander is a strategic asset for extended maritime operations in the Indonesian archipelago.

Milkor’s 40mm grenade launcher range also remains a core component of its offering and attracted significant attention in Jakarta. Already deployed in over 67 countries, these systems cover a broad spectrum of missions, from law enforcement to conventional military use. Milkor presented several key models, including the SuperSix MRGL, a multi-range, high-precision launcher; the MK1L and MK1S, known for durability and cost-effectiveness; and the Stopper Convertible, which can be adapted for either lethal or riot control missions. Other compact models, such as the UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher) and the MAR (Multiple Anti-Riot) are designed for mobile, urban use. These systems are also relevant to Indonesia’s international commitments, especially its participation in UN peacekeeping missions, where operational flexibility and reliability are essential.

Milkor’s participation at IndoDefence 2025 also included the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI). The agreement aims to strengthen industrial cooperation in the field of aerial systems, with a particular focus on next-generation UAVs. It reflects a shared commitment to technology transfer, local skill development, and enhanced Indonesian defense manufacturing capabilities. For Milkor, this represents a step toward deeper integration within the regional defense ecosystem, emphasizing partnership over simple export.

Through the variety of its systems, their technical sophistication, and their alignment with regional security priorities, Milkor is expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia’s defense landscape. Its participation at IndoDefence 2025 illustrates a clear strategy: offering modular, operational, and interoperable solutions while reinforcing long-term industrial ties with local partners. This approach aligns with the evolving strategic needs of Indonesia and its armed forces.