Indonesian Air Force to Be Strengthened with Ilyushin Aircraft? Air Force Chief: We Are Still Waiting

Chief of Air Staff (KSAU) Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono has responded to news that the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is to be reinforced with Ilyushin Il-78MK-90A tanker aircraft from Russia. He did not deny the acquisition plan. ‘We are still waiting,’ Tonny told Republika at Balai Sudirman, Tebet, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (12/8/2026). When pressed further, Tonny was reluctant to answer. He said questions about the procurement of the four-engine multi-role aircraft should be directed to the Ministry of Defence. ‘Ask the Ministry of Defence,’ said Tonny.