Modification of Pindad's Maung for Pope Francis as Directed by Prabowo

SEAToday.com, Jakarta - The Maung national tactical vehicle (rantis) made by Minister of Defence Prabowo Subianto is one of the important parts in the series of activities of the leader of the world Catholic church, Pope Francis in Indonesia.

According to the plan, the Maung rantis will be used by Pope Francis when inspecting and greeting the people during the Holy Mass, which is planned to be held at GBK, Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday, 5 September 2024.

The type of Maung prepared by the Ministry of Defence is Maung MV3. The Maung has been modified in white and has features tailored to the needs of Pope Francis to greet Catholics in Indonesia.

Karo Humas Setjen Kemhan Brigadier General Edwin Adrian Sumantha said Prabowo and the Ministry of Defence had prepared a special vehicle for Pope Francis since three months ago.

"The entire preparation of the vehicle was in accordance with the direction of Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto," Edwin told reporters on Tuesday, 3 September 2024.

The process of preparing the vehicle began in May 2024, with direct supervision from Lieutenant General TNI (Pur) Putranto as Commissioner of PT Pindad and in collaboration with a team from the Vatican.

"This car has been modified with the addition of a rooftop for protection from heat and rain," he said.

In general, Maung MV3 is a rantis initiated by Prabowo and produced by PT Pindad to fulfil the needs of tactical vehicles for the TNI.

"We hope this preparation can provide maximum comfort and safety for Pope Francis during his visit to Indonesia," said Edwin.