DPR Member Asserts No Legal Basis for US Military Aircraft to Fly Freely in Indonesian Skies
Jakarta - Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sukamta, has affirmed that there is no legal basis permitting United States military aircraft to have free access to fly in Indonesian airspace.
He emphasised that every foreign aviation activity, particularly military ones from the United States, must comply with strict permitting mechanisms.
“There is no legal basis that allows the granting of unlimited free access to national airspace to foreign parties,” said Sukamta when contacted on Monday (13/4/2026).
Nevertheless, the issue regarding plans to grant extensive access to US military aircraft, which is currently circulating, remains speculative and is not yet supported by official government statements.
“To date, the circulating information is still speculative and not supported by official statements from the Government of the Republic of Indonesia. It is important for all parties not to draw premature conclusions before there is comprehensive clarification,” he said.
The Prosperous Justice Party politician affirmed that Indonesia is in principle open to defence cooperation with various countries, including the United States.
Sukamta also reminded that the DPR has an oversight function over defence policies and foreign relations.
“If there is an agreement or strategic arrangement that impacts aspects of national sovereignty and defence, then it should be consulted and become part of the DPR’s oversight mechanism in accordance with statutory provisions,” said Sukamta.
“Every policy concerning foreign military access is a highly sensitive matter and must go through official mechanisms in accordance with national law and diplomatic principles that safeguard the nation’s interests,” said Dave.
He added that any changes to permitting mechanisms, especially those that are comprehensive without case-by-case approval, must undergo in-depth studies and clear political approval.
The account also mentioned that Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin will sign the related agreement in Washington, United States.