TNI AU's 80th Anniversary: F-16 Fighter Jets and KAI T-50 Escort Presidential Aircraft
The working visit of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, General (Retired) Prabowo Subianto, to Magelang Regency, Central Java, on Thursday (9/4/2026), felt special. The Presidential Aircraft carrying Prabowo from Base Ops Lanud Halim Perdanakusuma, East Jakarta, to Lanud Adisutjipto, Sleman Regency, received air escort from the TNI AU fleet.
In that flight, the Presidential Aircraft was escorted by four F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets and two T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft. This air escort serves as 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 TNI AU Anniversary. It becomes an important milestone in the long journey of the TNI AU’s service in safeguarding Indonesia’s air sovereignty. During the journey, Prabowo 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 in a video upload on the official account of the Cabinet Secretariat, Friday (10/4/2026).
Prabowo also emphasised his pride in the dedication and spirit of Indonesia’s 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,” he stated.
From the cockpit of the escort aircraft, TNI AU pilots also conveyed respect and appreciation to the President for his support in strengthening and modernising the national air defence. According to Republika’s records, during the Prabowo era, TNI AU fighter jet procurements were carried out, such as Rafale, KAAN, and KF-21 Boramae, as well as other fighter jets still under discussion.
“With full respect and pride, on the 80th birthday of the TNI Air Force, we young eagles express our thanks for your attention and support, Sir. Since serving as Minister of Defence in 2019 until now as President of Indonesia, in strengthening and modernising the TNI Air Force,” said the pilot.