Starting from 2021 to 2024, we will soon realize the acquisition of various modern primary weaponry defense systems in stagesJakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is planning to buy sophisticated 4.5 generation fighter jets, including France-made Dassault Rafale and used US-made F-15s, by 2024, a senior official said on Friday.
The purchase is part of a strategic plan to boost Indonesia's air defense capability.
TNI AU is also considering buying multi-role tanker transport and Hercules C-130 J transport planes, Air Force Chief of Staff, Marshal Fadjar Prasetyo, said in a press statement released on Friday.
It is also planning to buy GC13 radars, planes with airborne early warning capability, unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV) with medium altitude long endurance (MALE) capability, and other primary weaponry defense systems, he informed.
"Starting from 2021 to 2024, we will soon realize the acquisition of various modern primary weapon defense systems in stages," he said at a meeting of TNI AU leadership, held at the TNI AU Headquarters here on Thursday (February 18, 2021).
"The plan to procure primary weapon defense systems has been subjected to frequent changes due to global condition, and state capacity," he remarked.
"Although we have guidance for posture, a strategic plan, and minimum essential force, the implementation hinges on various factors and conditions, which continue to change dynamically," he added.
All stakeholders, including the Defense Ministry and TNI AU, have analyzed and discussed a plan to settle issues related to the procurement of the primary weapon defense systems, he said.
"We will also modernize various TNI AU jet fighters, starting this year," he informed.
The procurement of primary weapon defense systems is aimed at strengthening TNI's power in the air to protect state sovereignty, he said.
In addition, it will contribute to defense diplomacy with other countries, as it has strategic value to constellations of global politics, he added.
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Translator: Syaiful Hakim/Suharto
Editor: Sri Haryati
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