Yogyakarta (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has said Indonesia`s National Defense Forces (TNI) must continue adjusting itself to developments in the challenges to the state`s defense that occur because of era changes.

"Today and in the future, the TNI as the main component in the state`s defense, will face complex challenges," the head of state said in his speech at the inauguration of young TNI officers at the Angkasa Air Force Academy square, Maguwo, here Thursday.

One of the challenges was the power constellation in the region which had contributed to tensions among certain states in the region, he said.

Military expenditure of certain countries would also affect the power constellation, he added.

Domestically, challenges have also diversified due to threats by non-state perpetrators such as terrorists, he added.

"To deal with the various challenges, the government is paying great attention to the development of the TNI. In 2014, it will be directed toward minimal main power," he said.

He also said that the three armed services would be developed optimally so they could carry out joint operations.

Security in border areas and the outer isles had also been intensified.

"It`s also important to synergize the effective use of the national strategic industries. In the future, we will use weapons produced by the strategic industries. From the strategic environmental developments, we must always be ready to protect the state`s sovereignty and maritime territory," he said.

The president inaugurated 635 young officers, respectively 295 from the Military Academy, 124 from the Air Force Academy, and 216 from the Naval Academy.
(Uu.F001/HAJM)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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