Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Marshall Mohamad Tony Harjono affirmed that all his personnel must be committed to stepping up the country's air defense by modernizing its main weapons system.

According to the Air Force's press release received here on Wednesday, Harjono made the statement in his speech addressed to all personnel during an entry briefing in Jakarta.

On the occasion, the marshall highlighted the importance of modernizing the defense system in order to safeguard Indonesia's sovereignty over its airspace.

Harjono spoke of been tasked with modernizing the Air Force's equipment by Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) General Agus Subiyanto and Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Hadi Tjahjanto.

Hence, to this end, Harjono emphasized that the Air Force would make technological breakthroughs and produce technologically-capable soldiers.

By equipping its Air Force with a formidable defense system, Indonesia will be able to ensure the security of its entire airspace, he stated.

He then drew attention to the need for his side to take into account the sense of security and comfort of the public.

To that end, he urged his officers to carry out their duties humanely and provide assistance to people.

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Harjono also spoke of the efforts made by the Air Force to revitalize a house of a resident living near the Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Pekanbaru City, Riau Province, on March 25.

He expressed hope that such an initiative would encourage the Air Force to continue to safeguard Indonesia's airspace while embracing the people of the country.

Marshall Harjono was appointed as Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force by President Joko Widodo at the State Palace on April 5.

After his inauguration ceremony, Harjono revealed that the president had instructed him to lead the Air Force into becoming a stronger institution that consistently safeguards Indonesia's sovereignty.

"During my inauguration, Mr. President also demanded that the Air Force emerge powerful and adhere to the mandates outlined in Law No.34 of 2004 concerning the TNI," he remarked.

He explained that the law tasks the Air Force with safeguarding Indonesia's air sovereignty, enforcing laws, and protecting Indonesia's airspace in compliance with national and international regulations.

Related news: Strong air defense main component to maintain sovereignty: Air Force

Translator: Walda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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