Antara, Jakarta – The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) will deploy four F-16 fighter jets to escort foreign dignitaries arriving for the presidential and vice-presidential inauguration of Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka on Oct. 20.
The operation, overseen by Air Operations Commander Marshal Tedi Rizalihadi, includes a comprehensive security plan ensuring the safety of aircraft as they enter Indonesian airspace and land at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang and Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in Jakarta.
"This standard procedure mandates that we escort VVIP aircraft carrying heads of state," Marshal Tedi said during a press conference at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. The F-16s will conduct combat air patrols (CAP) to prevent potential threats, equipped with a full complement of air-to-air missiles and other armaments.
The Air Force has mobilized a total of 2,254 personnel for this operation, including aircrew, special forces from the Quick Response Force (Kopasgat), and support units from various air bases.
In addition to the F-16s, a Boeing 737 reconnaissance aircraft will monitor Jakarta's airspace, equipped with advanced surveillance technology for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Marshal Tedi emphasized the importance of this operation in ensuring a secure environment for international guests, detailing the capabilities of the reconnaissance aircraft, which can survey vast areas and communicate directly with command centers.
Furthermore, the TNI AU has prepared eight transport aircraft and eight helicopters, including two armed H225M Caracal helicopters ready to respond to any low-speed threats. One of the helicopters is designated for medical evacuation, complete with an intensive care unit (ICU) setup.
This extensive security operation showcases Indonesia's commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for the high-profile event, reflecting the nation's hospitality and military readiness.