Indonesia has revealed its newest naval innovation: an AI-powered autonomous submarine that signals the country’s push to modernize its maritime capabilities.
Described as an alternative underwater defense system, the KSOT-008 is built primarily for surveillance and threat detection beneath the surface.
It can stay submerged for up to 72 hours and travel at a maximum speed of 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour). It can also be remotely controlled from as far as 200 miles (320 kilometers) away through a mobile command center.
Close-up view of Indonesia’s KSOT-008 autonomous submarine during the 80th anniversary parade of the Indonesian Armed Forces. Photo: Bureau of Press, Media, and Information
Equipped with six Black Shark torpedoes and a high-precision navigation system, the KSOT-008 can engage multiple underwater targets with accuracy while navigating complex maritime environments.
Variants include a surveillance model, a kamikaze-style one-way attack version, and a version capable of carrying two heavy torpedoes. All are designed for remote operation via satellite or radio communication networks.
PT PAL Indonesia showcased the KSOT-008 autonomous submarine during the 80th anniversary celebration of the Indonesian Armed Forces on October 5.
The unveiling highlighted domestic engineering progress in naval innovation and the country’s ambition to strengthen maritime security.
“This innovation stands alongside other top defense products as a symbol of trust and national pride in locally made military equipment,” said Kaharuddin Djenod, CEO of PT PAL Indonesia.
“The KSOT is not just a technological achievement; it is a maritime defense solution with direct benefits for the people.”
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