Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has signed a €93m (US$106m) agreement with investment firm CNP and Earth observation and environmental monitoring services provider Collecte Localisation Satellites (CLS), which is a subsidiary of the French space agency (CNES).
As part of the MMS project, CLS and its partners will equip Indonesia with over 200 advanced observation instruments, high-performance computing capabilities and AI-powered modeling to deliver accurate weather and ocean forecasts, along with real-time sea monitoring.
Indonesia’s Marine Meteorology System
This agreement marks the start of Phase Two of Indonesia’s next-generation Marine Meteorology System (MMS). This project aims to strengthen the safety, efficiency and sustainability of maritime operations across the archipelago.
The meteorological services enabled by the MMS project are intended to empower Indonesia to anticipate hazardous weather and ocean conditions and plan maritime operations with unprecedented accuracy and efficiency.
Backed by CLS’s expertise, the MMS project is built on an in-situ observation network that includes drifting buoys, profilers, weather stations, coastal radars and more. These data collection tools are integrated with high-performance computing infrastructure, delivering up to 2 petaflops of processing power and 6 petabytes of storage.
Leveraging probabilistic modeling and deep learning, MMS provides advanced services such as early warning alerts for coastal flooding. The result is projected to be safer and more efficient use of Indonesia’s maritime domain for all stakeholders – from fishermen and maritime businesses to port authorities and coastal communities.
This system will support Indonesia’s aim of enhancing national food security and establishing itself as a global maritime axis by improving connectivity, strengthening the blue economy (sustainable ocean economy) and boosting tourism.
Key partners
Sophie Besnard, director of international development at CLS, said, “This project reflects the level of excellence CLS has achieved in deploying marine instruments, collecting data, delivering forecasts and integrating AI into its operations. By working closely with BMKG and benefiting from the support of the French government, CLS is committed to advancing marine meteorology and supporting Indonesia’s leadership in ocean forecasting and climate action.
“Launched in 2020, the first phase of the project will culminate in 2028. Spanning nearly a decade, this large-scale initiative embodies a strong strategic vision for Indonesia’s maritime future. We are honored by the trust placed in us by Indonesia, and particularly by BMKG.”
Dwikorita Karnawati, director general of BMKG, commented, “MMS represents a major step forward for Indonesia. This integrated system will enable us to deliver accurate and timely marine weather information, thereby enhancing the safety and efficiency of our maritime activities. Our bilateral cooperation with France, along with the support provided by CLS and its partners, plays a vital role in the deployment of our future forecasting system. This is an ambitious project, but a crucial one for the safety of our citizens and the development of our maritime economy.”
His Excellency Fabien Penone, Ambassador of France to Indonesia, Timor-Leste and ASEAN, stated, “This partnership exemplifies the strength of Franco-Indonesian cooperation in the field of advanced technologies. France and Indonesia are working hand in hand on concrete and innovative projects that support sustainable development and maritime security.”