Indonesian pilots urged to sharpen combat skills

Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono has called on fighter pilots to enhance their combat skills ahead of their participation in Exercise Pitch Black 2026, a multinational military exercise held in Australia. The directive was issued as the Indonesian contingent prepared for the event, which took place from July 20 to August 7. During a visit to Indonesian Air Force personnel stationed in Australia on Monday, August 3, Tonny emphasized the importance of improving operational readiness and deepening international defense cooperation through the exercise. The exercise, which involves multiple nations, provides a platform for Indonesian pilots to engage in joint training and simulated aerial combat maneuvers with aircrews from other participating countries. According to an official Air Force statement released on Tuesday, the drills offer valuable operational experience, allowing pilots to refine their combat techniques and adapt to diverse air operation scenarios within an international framework. This exposure to advanced combat tactics and aircraft technologies used by allied forces is intended to bolster the combat proficiency and operational effectiveness of Indonesian fighter pilots. Tonny highlighted that Indonesia’s participation in the exercise underscores the Air Force’s commitment to strengthening professionalism, enhancing air operations capability, and ensuring readiness in a rapidly changing strategic environment. He noted that the exercise would also serve to reinforce bilateral defense ties between Indonesia and Australia, while fostering closer cooperation with other participating nations. The goal is to expand defense partnerships with friendly countries and further improve the capabilities of Indonesian fighter pilots. Indonesia deployed four T-50i Golden Eagle fighter jets to Exercise Pitch Black 2026, marking its active involvement in the event. The deployment was announced earlier in July, with Air Commodore Somad, commander of El Tari Air Force Base in Kupang, confirming that the aircraft were scheduled to depart for Australia on July 16. In addition to the fighter jets, the Indonesian Air Force also sent one C-130 Hercules transport aircraft to support the mission. The presence of these assets highlights the scale and significance of Indonesia’s contribution to the exercise. The exercise, organized by the Royal Australian Air Force, brings together participants from over 20 nations, offering a unique opportunity for cross-border collaboration and tactical exchange. Indonesian pilots will take part in a variety of training scenarios, including joint fighter maneuvers and coordinated responses to potential threats. These exercises aim to improve interoperability among allied forces and ensure that all participants can operate effectively under complex and dynamic conditions. The Indonesian Air Force has been actively engaged in several recent initiatives aimed at modernizing its capabilities and enhancing readiness. Earlier this year, the force received its eighth NC-212i aircraft, contributing to improved logistical and operational support. Additionally, the Air Force conducted drills simulating a response to a bomb threat on a civilian aircraft, demonstrating its preparedness to handle security challenges. Meanwhile, the Indonesian military has also imposed Operation Battle Standby to address security concerns in Papua, underscoring the ongoing focus on national defense and stability. As the Exercise Pitch Black 2026 concludes, the experiences gained by Indonesian pilots are expected to contribute to long-term improvements in combat readiness and international collaboration. The continued emphasis on skill development and technological integration reflects the Air Force’s broader strategy to maintain a capable and responsive force in an increasingly complex global security landscape.