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Marking National Technology Awakening Day and the 81st Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence, BAE strengthens the country’s MRO technological capabilities, develops a skilled workforce, and enhances the competitiveness of Indonesia’s aviation industry in the regional market.

Batam, August 19, 2026 — National Technology Awakening Day serves as a reminder that technological progress must be translated into capabilities that deliver tangible benefits to society and industry. This spirit is reflected in the development of Batam Aero Engine (BAE), part of Lion Group, which officially commenced operations in Batam on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The facility provides maintenance services for jet and propeller/turboprop aircraft engines, as well as Auxiliary Power Units (APUs).

Jet aircraft use jet engines as their primary source of power, while propeller/turboprop aircraft use engines that drive propellers to generate thrust. An APU, meanwhile, is an onboard support unit that supplies electrical power and other essential functions, particularly while the aircraft is on the ground.

The operation of BAE strengthens Indonesia’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities. MRO encompasses the inspection, maintenance, repair, and restoration of aircraft, engines, and components to ensure that they continue to meet safety and reliability standards. Behind every flight are advanced technologies, specialized equipment, and skilled professionals working to ensure that aircraft engines are ready to support safe and reliable operations.

The inauguration of the Batam Aero Engine facility was attended by prominent figures and stakeholders, including Mr. Rusdi Kirana, Founder of Lion Group; Mr. Sokhib Al Rokhman, Director of Airworthiness and Aircraft Operations at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transportation; Dr. Amsakar Achmad, Mayor of Batam and Ex-Officio Head of the Batam Indonesia Free Zone Authority (BP Batam); and Captain Daniel Putut Kuncoro Adi, President Director of Lion Group.

Strengthening Indonesia’s MRO Industry

Developing domestic aircraft engine maintenance capabilities delivers significant benefits to Indonesia’s aviation ecosystem. The more maintenance work that can be performed within the country, the greater the opportunities for supporting industries to grow—from component and equipment suppliers to a wide range of MRO-related service providers.

These capabilities also create opportunities for Indonesia to strengthen its competitiveness as an aircraft and engine maintenance hub in Asia. Batam is strategically positioned to support this development, as it lies along regional trade and aviation routes and is supported by established industrial zones and aviation facilities.

For airlines, the availability of aircraft engine maintenance facilities in Indonesia provides more options for meeting fleet maintenance requirements. BAE offers on-wing maintenance, which is performed while the engine remains installed on the aircraft, as well as off-wing maintenance, in which the engine is removed for inspection, repair, or further maintenance work.

These capabilities cover a range of engines used in jet and propeller/turboprop aircraft. To support the maintenance requirements of regional propeller/turboprop aircraft, BAE also provides borescope inspections. This process examines the internal sections of an engine using a small camera inserted through designated access points, eliminating the need to dismantle the entire engine.

This technology enables technicians to examine the condition of internal engine components in greater detail. The inspection results can then be used to assess component conditions and determine subsequent maintenance requirements. BAE uses borescope equipment including the IPLEX NX, IPLEX GX/GT, and Mentor Flex. Its other capabilities include Low Pressure Turbine (LPT) module replacement performed by certified personnel.

Creating Opportunities for Skilled Professionals

The growth of the MRO industry requires a workforce with specialized competencies. BAE creates employment opportunities for aircraft engine technicians, engineers, inspectors, quality assurance professionals, and other supporting personnel. These roles require technological expertise, proficiency in operating specialized equipment, accuracy in interpreting technical documents, and strict adherence to safety and quality procedures.

BAE’s development forms part of broader efforts to create employment opportunities while building a highly skilled aviation workforce. Professional competencies can be developed through work experience, training, certification, and progressive advancement to higher levels of expertise.

Expanding Opportunities for Education and Training

The demand for MRO professionals also creates opportunities for collaboration between the aviation industry and educational and training institutions.

MRO facilities can provide students and trainees with exposure to the practical application of technology and real-world operations within the aviation industry. Knowledge and skills in aircraft engines, mechanical systems, electronics, inspection, occupational safety, and maintenance procedures can be further developed to align more closely with industry requirements.

Such collaboration is expected to help prepare graduates with relevant competencies while expanding career opportunities for younger generations in the aviation sector.

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