Indonesia Air Force Chief Affirms Direction for Air Defense Transformation

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) marked its Service Day with a call for a strategic transformation to confront evolving defense challenges. Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Marshal Tonny Harjono, stressed that the dedication of past heroes must serve as the bedrock for future air power.

"The Air Force's Service Day reminds us that air power is built not only on operational capabilities but also on the values of service passed down through generations," Harjono stated. He recalled the historic air raid on Semarang, Salatiga, and Ambarawa 79 years prior, and the tragic loss of three AURI pioneers, Commodore Agustinus Adisutjipto, Commodore Abdulrachman Saleh, and Officer Adi Sumarmo Wirjokusumo, who perished while delivering medical aid.

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The Air Force's Service Day reminds us that air power is built not only on operational capabilities but also on the values of service passed down through generations.

Harjono emphasized that the spirit of these pioneers is crucial for navigating today's complex landscape, marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting geopolitics, cyber threats, and information warfare. He noted that the TNI AU has outlined a transformation program to build air power capable of addressing current and future challenges.

This transformation extends beyond acquiring modern weaponry to encompass organizational strengthening, doctrinal updates, improved support systems, and enhanced human resources. Harjono asserted that advanced equipment requires personnel skilled in its operation, maintenance, and development to serve as a deterrent. The Air Force must also prepare for new operational domains, including cyber, information, electromagnetic spectrum, and space, ensuring integrated transformation to safeguard national air sovereignty and counter evolving threats.

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Transformation must proceed as a unit to build the Air Force's complete readiness in safeguarding air sovereignty, professionally carrying out every state mandate, and strengthening national defense.