Evaluation of the Minimum Essential Force Program on the Independence of the Indonesian Defense Industry

Indonesia as a strategic archipelagic country in Southeast Asia requires an independent defense industry to maintain national sovereignty and security. The government through the Ministry of Defense initiated the Minimum Essential Force (MEF) Program in 2010 to build adequate defense forces, encourage transfer of technology, increase production capacity, and develop human resources in the defense sector. This research evaluates the achievements of the MEF Program in increasing the independence of the Indonesian defense industry using the CIPP (Context, Input, Process, Product) evaluation model. This research uses a qualitative descriptive analytical approach, examining the implementation and impact of the MEF policy. Evaluation of the context, planning and implementation, implementation process, and results and impacts show that despite challenges such as budget constraints and dependence on foreign industries, the MEF policy has increased the capacity of the domestic defense industry. An example of success is PT PAL which produces various types of defense equipment through a transfer of technology scheme and government support. The conclusion of this research emphasizes the importance of synergy between the government, defense industry, and research institutions to achieve sustainable defense industry independence and increase domestic production capabilities.