Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia's Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin on Wednesday reviewed progress on the National Car Project, which aims to develop an automotive manufacturing hub with a targeted production capacity of 300,000 vehicles a year.The project in Subang, West Java, has been designated a national strategic installation and is expected to strengthen Indonesia's industrial base, support technology development, and contribute to long-term economic growth.During the visit, Sjafrie reviewed plans for manufacturing facilities, vehicle engineering and development centers, testing facilities, and other supporting infrastructure included in the project's master plan.Sjafrie, accompanied by Deputy Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces General Tandyo B Revita and Head of the Defense Logistics Agency Air Marshal Yusuf Jauhari, said strategic manufacturing industries play an important role in strengthening Indonesia's industrial self-reliance and economic resilience.”The National Car Area is a strategic installation with an important role in strengthening national industry, technology mastery, and the development of an integrated manufacturing ecosystem,” Sjafrie said.The government expects the project to generate significant economic benefits for Subang and nearby areas through increased industrial activity, expansion of local supply chains, and additional investment in the manufacturing sector.The facility is projected to create about 2,000 jobs for university graduates and technical workers once operational, according to officials.Sjafrie said the project would also help strengthen Indonesia's capabilities in electric vehicle technology and support the development of domestic expertise in advanced automotive manufacturing.He called on stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and accelerate implementation of the project so its economic, technological, and industrial benefits can be realized as soon as possible.President Director of PT Pindad Sigit Santosa said the project would be developed in three phases between 2026 and 2028, with the first phase targeting an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles by 2028.The long-term plan is to expand production capacity to 300,000 vehicles a year as part of Indonesia's efforts to build a comprehensive domestic automotive industry.The development area will cover approximately 539 hectares and serve as an integrated automotive manufacturing ecosystem comprising production facilities, offices, testing centers, research and development facilities, and supporting infrastructure.Initial construction will focus on a 60-hectare section of the site designed to support annual production of 50,000 vehicles before expansion to full operational capacity.Santosa said PT Pindad had invested in human resources for several years to support the project, including planners, engineers, and implementation personnel needed for large-scale industrial development.”We have invested in human resources for this national project for several years, from planners and implementers to higher-level personnel,” Santosa said.