TNI AU Anniversary: President's Flight Escorted by 6 Fighter Jets

On the 80th anniversary of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU), Thursday (9/4), the presidential flight Indonesia One, carrying Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on a working visit to Magelang, Central Java, was escorted by four F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets and two KAI T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft. The presidential aircraft, departing from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta and heading to Adisutjipto Air Base in Sleman Regency, received air escort from the TNI AU. This air escort represents professional VVIP security carried out by the TNI AU, while also reflecting the readiness and national air defence capabilities in protecting the state leader. The escort moment is part of the series of events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the TNI AU, which serves as an important milestone in the long journey of service in safeguarding Indonesia’s air sovereignty. On that occasion, President Prabowo also conveyed congratulations and appreciation to all TNI AU personnel from inside the presidential aircraft. “First of all, long live the Indonesian National Armed Forces Air Force, Swa Bhuwana Paksa. Happy 80th birthday, may the TNI AU continue to thrive, always strong in defending the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia in the air.” “The Indonesian people are proud of you all. Guard our Motherland, thank you, my respects to you all,” said Prabowo, quoted from the Press, Media, and Information Bureau (BPMI) of the Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta, Friday (10/4). The President also emphasised his pride in the dedication and spirit of the Indonesian air force personnel. “I, Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, once again on behalf of the entire Indonesian people, we are proud of our air force, we are proud of our young eagles. Keep up the spirit, thank you,” said Prabowo. From the cockpit of the escort aircraft, TNI AU pilots also conveyed their respect and appreciation to the President for his support in strengthening and modernising national air defence. “With full respect and pride, on the 80th anniversary of the TNI Air Force, we young eagles express our thanks for your attention and support, Sir. From serving as Minister of Defence in 2019 until now as President of Indonesia, in strengthening and modernising the TNI Air Force,” he said. “We ask for your prayers and blessings so that we are always given strength in carrying out our duties of service to the nation and state. With the spirit of boundless dedication, we are determined to solidify a formidable TNI Air Force towards an advanced Indonesia. Long live the TNI Air Force, greetings Swa Bhuwana Paksa,” he continued.