Indonesian Air Force Inaugurates Squadron 18, Home to Falcon 8X Aircraft

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) inaugurated Squadron 18 on Thursday, the new home for Falcon 8X aircraft manufactured by France’s Dassault Aviation.

Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force (KSAU) Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono stated in a press release in Jakarta that the inauguration took place at the Squadron 18 headquarters at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, East Jakarta.

In his remarks during the inauguration ceremony, Tonny said the aircraft are designated for transporting important state guests and high-ranking officials.

“VIP and VVIP flight support is a mandate of honour that demands high professionalism, security, and responsibility. Each mission carries the trust of the state and reflects the quality of the Indonesian Air Force’s dedication in supporting state duties,” Tonny stated in the official TNI AU press release received in Jakarta.

With the establishment of this new squadron, Tonny expressed confidence that the TNI AU will deliver maximum service and dedication in ensuring the safety of air travel for the nation’s important guests.

During the ceremony, Tonny also formally appointed Lieutenant Colonel Pnb Rachmad Syaputra as the Commander of Squadron 18.

At the same time, Head of the TNI AU Information Service (Kadispenau) Air Commodore I Nyoman Suadnyana stated that all facilities and operational requirements for the Falcon 8X aircraft have been fulfilled by the TNI AU.

There are currently six Falcon 8X aircraft stationed there. He confirmed that all six aircraft are fully operational and capable of supporting Indonesia’s air defence duties.