Thousands Flock to Lanudal Juanda for Naval Air Base Open Day 2026

Thousands of residents packed the Apron Hanggar of the Indonesian Navy’s Air Base (Lanudal) Juanda in Sidoarjo on Saturday (13/6). The public came to witness the Naval Air Base Open Day (NABOD) 2026, which showcased primary weapon systems (alutsista) and various engaging attractions. High enthusiasm came not only from local Sidoarjo residents but also from outside areas such as East Kalimantan and Probolinggo. One visitor from Pakis, Surabaya, named Faya, admitted she deliberately came because she was curious to see the Navy’s aircraft fleet up close. “It’s exciting. Usually I only see them briefly from afar a few times when passing by, but seeing them up close is a first for me,” Faya said during the exhibition. She also expressed her happiness at being able to spend the weekend at the air base. For Faya, this was her first recreational visit to NABOD. The NABOD 2026 event presented various highlight agendas that captivated the audience. The event ran from morning until night. One of the most anticipated was a spectacular aerial display from the Rajawali Laut Flight (RALF), followed by an exclusive session where visitors could meet Navy pilots face-to-face. Equally stunning, a performance by the Genderang Suling Gita Jala Taruna of the Naval Academy (AAL) also successfully drew the attention of thousands of spectators. In addition to the aerospace exhibition, the hangar area was enlivened by exhibitions from various agencies in East Java, as well as displays by classic motorcycle and car communities, such as Vespa, Harley Davidson, Willys, and VW. The organisers also held various competitions for children and teenagers, ranging from Paskibraka competitions, pushbike races, to colouring and drawing contests. To drive the local economy, NABOD 2026 also provided hundreds of SME bazaar stalls. The festivities concluded with a soldier entertainment stage featuring a line-up of guest stars, including Heavy Monster, DJ Rudi, Vijey, and Shinta Gisul, who successfully entertained the public until the end of the event. Commander of Puspenerbal (Danpuspenerbal) Rear Admiral TNI Bayu Alisyahbana stated that the activity was held to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of Indonesian Naval Aviation. Bayu expressed deep appreciation and gratitude to all elements of society and invited guests who attended to enliven the celebration. According to Danpuspenerbal, this anniversary momentum serves as an important means to remember and honour the long service record of predecessors. The contributions of the pioneers are considered immense in building and elevating the standing of Naval Aviation to its current state. Through this Open Day programme, Puspenerbal specifically opened access to the Juanda Naval Air Base for the general public. This policy was taken so that the air base could function as a means of education, recreation, as well as a forum for fostering ties between the Navy and citizens. “We want the public to get to know the world of Naval Aviation more closely,” Danpuspenerbal said in his remarks. He further expressed hope that the public could learn more about the official duties and service carried out by Jalaçatrapura soldiers. Through the closeness established during this event, the public is expected to feel directly that the Navy is always present and close to the people.