Media Release
29 August 2025
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has deployed six F-35A Lightning II aircraft and 150 personnel to Indonesia for Exercise Elang AUSINDO 25, a bilateral air combat exercise strengthening defence ties between Australia and Indonesia.
Held at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Pekanbaru, Indonesia, from 21-29 August 2025, Exercise Elang AUSINDO 25 involves air combat training with the Australian F-35As and F-16 fighter aircraft from the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU).
"This exercise symbolizes the friendship and commitment of both nations in strengthening defence cooperation. Besides sharpening technical skills, we are also building trust, strengthening brotherhood, and the foundation for our future cooperation," said BRIG Micah Batt, Australian Defence Attaché.
During Exercise Elang AUSINDO 25, personnel from both countries jointly planned and executed air combat exercise missions. This includes offensive and defensive counter air missions, basic and air combat manoeuvres, and air-to-air refuelling with a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport.
“Through this exercise, our pilots can directly evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents," said COL Pnb Adhi Safarul Akbar, Director of Exercise Elang AUSINDO of the TNI AU.
First held in 1993, Exercise Elang AUSINDO is part of a series of air cooperation exercises between Australia and Indonesia. This activity is part of Australia’s ongoing commitment to collective security and regional stability, while increasing our capacity to operate with Indonesia.
Media Inquiries: [email protected]
Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kedubesaustralia/albums/72177720328694224