Indonesian Air Force Awaits Defence Ministry's Decision on Additional Airbus A400M Procurement

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is still awaiting a decision from the Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence (Kemenhan) regarding plans to purchase four Airbus A400M transport aircraft.

Air Force Chief of Staff (KSAU) Marshal TNI Mohamad Tonny Harjono stated that the procurement of the aircraft is entirely under the authority of Kemenhan in accordance with its duties and functions.

“So, regarding the development of the A400, we are waiting from Kemenhan in line with its tupoksi (duties, main tasks, and functions),” said Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal TNI Mohamad Tonny Harjono when met at TNI AU Headquarters, Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on Thursday (9/4/2026).

Nevertheless, TNI AU has stated that it is prepared to receive the potential arrival of this new defence equipment.

Tonny emphasised that his side is preparing infrastructure and human resources for whatever type of aircraft the government ultimately decides upon.

“We, the Air Force, are the maintainers. So, we maintain the defence equipment (alutsista) and personnel to be ready for use at any time. The user of its power is the TNI Commander,” said Tonny.

In this regard, Tonny expressed thanks to President Prabowo Subianto for providing such significant attention to the TNI Air Force in modernising defence and security equipment (alpalhankam).

It was previously reported that President Prabowo Subianto plans to add four units of the Airbus A400M aircraft.

“We already have two active units, we have an option for four units. We might negotiate to sign for another four units, yes,” said Prabowo after handing over the Airbus A400M aircraft to TNI AU at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, on Monday (3/11/2025).

Not only for territorial defence, but also to support various national needs.

“All TNI now we are building to be more effective, not only to guard the territory but also to secure and support national development,” said Prabowo.