Indonesia has denied reports that Russia requested to base military aircraft in Papua, dismissing claims that raised alarm in Australia. Officials reaffirm no such deal exists, as both Indonesia and Australia stress their close defence relationship.
Indonesia has firmly denied reports that Russia requested permission to base military aircraft in its easternmost province of Papua, following concerns raised by Australian officials. The claim, initially published by defence outlet Janes, suggested Moscow had approached Jakarta to station Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) aircraft in the region — a report Indonesia's defence ministry labelled as “incorrect.”
Frega Wenas, spokesperson for Indonesia’s defence ministry, dismissed the report outright. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles echoed this, stating that his Indonesian counterpart had assured him “in the clearest possible terms” that no such arrangement exists.
The claim sparked debate during Australia’s ongoing election campaign, particularly as Papua lies just 1,200 km north of Darwin, a key Australian military hub hosting a U.S. Marines rotational force. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that his government had sought clarification, stressing a desire to limit Russian influence in the region.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s foreign ministry said it had no knowledge of the reported request. Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov met with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta on Tuesday, though no public statement linked the visit to military cooperation.
Both nations reaffirmed their strong bilateral ties, with Australia calling Indonesia “critical” to its national security.
Read next
15:30
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong have committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in defense, green development, and industrial growth during a high-level meeting in Singapore.
03:00
Türkiye's fighter jet
Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) has signed an historic agreement to sell 48 units of the 5th generation indigenous fighter jet KAAN to Indonesia. The aircraft will be delivered during a 10-year period.
14:41
Türkiye will export 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia under a major defense agreement announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday, marking the country’s biggest international arms deal to date.
16:30
Indonesia has revoked the mining licenses of four companies operating in the ecologically sensitive region of southwest Papua, responding to growing public pressure and environmental concerns.
13:27
After nearly a decade of talks, Indonesia and the European Union aim to finalize a free trade deal by the end of June.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment