Sikorsky S-70M Black Hawk (United States), the Mil Mi-17 "Hip" (Russia), and the Mil Mi-26 "Halo" (Russia) for Indonesia Army (TNI)

Indonesia's military helicopter procurement plan encompasses three platforms with vastly different characteristics and weight classes: the Sikorsky S-70M Black Hawk (United States), the Mil Mi-17 "Hip" (Russia), and the Mil Mi-26 "Halo" (Russia).

These three helicopters do not directly compete with one another; instead, they complement each other based on their weight classes and tactical functions: the S-70M in the light-to-medium utility class, the Mi-17 in the medium transport class, and the Mi-26 in the heavy-lift (or super-heavy) transport class.

Mil Mi-26 "Halo"

 Key Specifications Comparison Table

Category / Class

S-70M : Light-Medium Utility

Mi-17 : Medium Transport

Mi-26 : Heavy/Super-Heavy Transport

Troop Capacity

S-70M : ~11–13 armed personnel

Mi-17 : ~24–36 personnel

Mi-26 : ~90 personnel

Cargo Capacity (Payload)

S-70M : ~4,000 kg (external/sling)

Mi-17 : ~4,000 kg (internal/external)

Mi-26 : 20,000 kg (20 tonnes)

Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW)

S-70M : ~9,979 kg

Mi-17 : ~13,000 kg

Mi-26 : 56,000 kg

Maximum Speed

S-70M : 294–302 km/h

Mi-17 : ~250 km/h

Mi-26 : ~295 km/h

Operational Range

S-70M : ~496 km (without auxiliary tanks)

Mi-17 : ~465–800 km

Mi-26 : ~500–800 km

Cargo Access Door

S-70M : Side sliding door

Mi-17 : Rear ramp door

Mi-26 : Massive rear ramp door

Mil Mi-17 "Hip"

Analysis of Roles and Tactical Characteristics

1. Sikorsky S-70M Black Hawk (Tactical & Agile Utility)

• Strengths: Highly ...agile, boasts the highest top speed in its class, is equipped with modern digital avionics (glass cockpit), and offers a very high level of crew survivability in combat situations. The S-70M version is manufactured in Poland (PZL Mielec) for the export market. Indonesia plans to assemble and locally upgrade the aircraft through a partnership with PT Dirgantara Indonesia.

• ​​Disadvantages: Cabin space is relatively cramped compared to the Mi-17; it cannot carry small vehicles inside the cabin and lacks a rear ramp.

2. Mil Mi-17 (Medium-Lift Workhorse)

• Advantages: Features a very spacious cabin for a medium-sized helicopter and includes a rear ramp that allows small tactical vehicles or supplies to be loaded directly into the cabin. It is reliable in dusty terrain and performs well at high altitudes. Operating costs are relatively economical considering its large cargo capacity.

• Disadvantages: Tactical speed and agility are inferior to the Black Hawk. Standard factory avionics systems are generally more conventional compared to those of Western helicopters.

3. Mil Mi-26 (Strategic Heavy-Lift Monster)

• Advantages: It is the largest and most powerful helicopter currently in production worldwide. Its 20-ton payload capacity rivals that of the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. It is crucial for mobilizing heavy equipment (such as armored vehicles, trucks, or radar units), conducting mass evacuations, and responding to large-scale disasters (such as floods or earthquakes in Sumatra).

• Disadvantages: Its massive size requires a very large and sturdy landing area. Fuel consumption is extremely high (~900–1,000 liters per hour), and maintenance and spare-part logistics are costly and complex. 

Sikorsky S-70M Black Hawk

Conclusion on TNI Deployment

• The S-70M Black Hawk will be optimized for roles such as tactical assault, special forces infiltration, rapid extraction, and VIP/VVIP transport.

• The Mi-17 is positioned as the backbone for tactical logistics transport at the company and battalion levels, as well as for large-scale troop movements.

• The Mi-26 is designated for heavy strategic transport roles, moving military vehicles or massive logistical loads to remote areas lacking airfields suitable for fixed-wing aircraft.

BAE Hawk 109/209 Aircraft - Indonesian Air Force

The BAE Hawk 109/209 fighter jet is a British-made jet aircraft used by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) as an advanced trainer and light tactical fighter.

Characteristics and Functions

Hawk 109: A tandem-seat variant that functions as an advanced trainer and also has ground attack capabilities.

Hawk 209: A single-seat variant designed for air superiority and ground attack missions.

Capabilities: Equipped with Rolls-Royce Adour engines, a modern APG-66 radar (on the 209 variant), and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.

The history of the BAE Hawk 109/209 fighter jet in Indonesia is a long and strategic one. This fighter jet was purchased as part of the modernization of the national air force to replace legacy fighter jets such as the A-4 Skyhawk.

The following is a timeline of the procurement history and its operational history:

1. Purchase and Unique Code "9" (Early 1993)

Purchase Contract: The Indonesian government signed a procurement contract with the British aerospace company, British Aerospace (now BAE Systems) in 1993.

The Meaning of Code 109/209: The basic variants of this aircraft are actually called the Hawk 100 (two-seat) and Hawk 200 (single-seat). The numeric code "9" at the end was specifically assigned by the manufacturer to identify units exported specifically to Indonesia.

Arrival: This fleet arrived in stages using direct ferry flights from the UK and officially joined the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) between 1996 and 1997.

2. Historic Operational Assignments

Although categorized as a light tactical fighter, the Hawk 109/209 has a track record of active involvement in various important Indonesian military operations:

East Timor Crisis (1999): As tensions escalated following the East Timor referendum, a fleet of Hawk 109/209s was stationed at El Tari Airport, Kupang. Historically, TNI AU Hawk jets were deployed to intercept Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets found violating Indonesian airspace.

Military Operations in Aceh (2003): In the operation to crush the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), four Hawk 209s (codenamed Sriti Flight) acted as air escorts. They escorted the deployment of Kostrad Air Force troops carried by C-130 Hercules aircraft to take over Sultan Iskandar Muda Air Base, Banda Aceh.

3. Unit Deployment

Over decades of service, these dozens of fighter jets were divided into two main Indonesian air defense bases:

Air Squadron 1 at Supadio Air Base, Pontianak (West Kalimantan).

Air Squadron 12 at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base, Pekanbaru (Riau).

4. Final Relay of Service (January 2026)

After nearly 30 years of guarding the skies of Western Indonesia in Riau, on January 7, 2026, the Indonesian Air Force officially held a send-off ceremony to transfer the remaining Hawk 109/209 fleet from Air Squadron 12 in Pekanbaru to Air Squadron 1 in Pontianak. This relocation step is a strategic decision because the base in Pekanbaru is being vacated to be used by the latest generation of French fighter jets, the Dassault Rafale, which will start arriving at the end of January 2026. At Supadio Air Base in Pontianak, the Hawk 109/209 will spend its service period until it is completely replaced by new defense equipment.

The rejuvenation and retrofit process of the former ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense

 The rejuvenation and retrofit process of the former ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense and PT PAL Indonesia is focused on three main aspects: service life extension, operational adaptation, and integration of Indonesian Navy doctrine. Because this ship is over 40 years old, a comprehensive repair is needed so that it can be operated optimally until 2040. 

The following are the main points that will be worked on in the rejuvenation process: 

1. Modernization of Propulsion and Electrical Systems 

Replacement of Main Generators: Vital components such as old diesel generators will be replaced with new ones to ensure a stable supply of electrical power to all ship systems. 

Turbine System Overhaul: Complete maintenance (overhaul) on 4 Fiat gas turbine units to ensure the ship remains able to reach safe operational speeds in Indonesian waters. 

2. Hull Overhaul and Interior Refurbishment 

Hull Structure Repair: Corrosion check, steel plate reinforcement, and hull repainting using a special anti-marine biota coating. 

Safety Standardization: Rejuvenation of the fire suppression system, renewal of rescue facilities, and adaptation of crew accommodation space to meet the comfort and safety standards of the Indonesian Navy regulations. 

3. Combat Management System (CMS) & Weapons 

Integration TNI Communication System Installation: Installation of integrated tactical communication devices so that this aircraft carrier can be directly connected to the TNI Network Centric Warfare data network. 

New Weapon Installation: Integration of the Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) and air defense missile launchers that are aligned with the Indonesian Navy command ammunition inventory. 

Sensor and Radar Update: Replacement or improvement of the function of air/surface search radars and sonar systems to be able to detect modern threats. 

4. Flight Deck Function Modifications 

Conversion into a Helicopter/Drone Carrier: Since Indonesia does not possess a vertical takeoff and landing (STOVL) fighter jet such as the AV-8B Harrier or F-35B, the deck will be modified specifically to operate rotorcraft (AKS/transport helicopters) and tactical drones (high-powered drones). 

Air Navigation System Upgrades: Installation of helicopter landing visual aids and an aerial refueling system on the deck.

The retrofit (repair and modernization) cost of the ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi light aircraft carrier, donated by Italy to Indonesia, is estimated to range between IDR 7.2 trillion and IDR 16.8 trillion ($450 million US). The Indonesian Ministry of Defense initially set an initial estimate of IDR 7.2 trillion to IDR 7.5 trillion. However, in discussions with Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), this figure has the potential to increase to IDR 16.8 trillion depending on the final specifications, technological adjustments, and installation of weapons systems requested by the Indonesian Navy.

Sukhoi Su-30MK2 – The roar of the Indonesian Air Force's Flanker, a steadfast guardian of the nation's airspace.

The Sukhoi Su-30MK2 is a multi-role fighter aircraft actively operated by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU). Based at Air Squadron 11, Sultan Hasanuddin Air Force Base (Lanud), Makassar.

The Sukhoi Su-30MK2 is a long-range, twin-seat multi-role fighter (strike fighter) designed for air superiority as well as ground and maritime strike missions. This Russian-made aircraft is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and possesses a massive weapons payload capacity.

Key Technical Specifications:
Crew: 2 (Pilot and Weapon Systems Officer). 

Dimensions: Length 21.9 meters, wingspan 14.7 meters, height 6.36 meters. 

Engines: 2 × Saturn Lyulka AL-31F turbofans. 

Maximum Speed: Mach 2 (approx. 2,120 km/h) at altitude. 

Range: 3,000 km without aerial refueling. 

Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying a weapon load of up to 8,000 kg. 

Radar System: Uses the N001VEP radar, optimized for scanning aerial targets while simultaneously guiding anti-ship missiles. 

Weaponry Systems: 

The Su-30MK2 features 12 external weapon hardpoints for carrying combinations of missiles, rockets, and bombs: 

Internal Cannon: 1 × 30mm GSh-30-1 autocannon (carrying 150 rounds). 

Air-to-Air Missiles: 

R-73 (AA-11 Archer): Short-range infrared-homing missile for close-range combat (dogfighting). 

R-27 (AA-10 Alamo): Medium-range missile with semi-active radar or infrared guidance. 

RVV-AE / R-77 (AA-12 Adder): Long-range missile with active radar guidance (fire-and-forget). 

R-77 (AA-12 Adder)

Air-to-Surface Missiles (Ground Attack & Anti-Ship): 

Kh-31A: Supersonic missile designed to strike surface ships. 

Kh-31 Air to Surface Missile

Kh-31P: Anti-radiation missile for destroying enemy air defense radars. 

Kh-29T and Kh-59ME: TV/laser-guided missiles for precision strikes against ground targets. 

Kh-29T missile test firing

Bombs & Rockets: 

Various conventional bombs (FAB series), laser-guided smart bombs (KAB-500/1500), and launchers. unguided rockets (S-8, S-13, S-25).

KAB-1500 Bom

The following is a brief chronology of the procurement of the Sukhoi family of aircraft (including the Su-30MK2 variant) by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU): 

1. Initiation and Early Era (2003) 

Background: An initial plan to purchase 12 Su-30KI units during President Soeharto's era (1996) was cancelled due to the monetary crisis. Execution: During President Megawati Soekarnoputri's term, a new contract was agreed upon directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Indonesia purchased the first four units—comprising two Su-27SKs and two Su-30MKs—for USD 192 million. These aircraft arrived in mid-2003 without a weapons package.

2. Addition of Modern Variants (2007–2010) 

Under the administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), Indonesia expanded this fighter jet fleet. In 2007, a contract worth USD 300 million was signed to purchase six additional fighter jets: three Su-27SKMs and three of the maritime strike variant, the Su-30MK2. All these aircraft were delivered in stages, with the process completed in 2010.

3. Completing a Full Squadron (2011–2013) 

To achieve the ideal fleet size, the Ministry of Defence signed a follow-up contract worth USD 470 million to acquire six additional Su-30MK2 variant units. These six aircraft arrived in stages throughout 2013. With the arrival of this final batch, the TNI AU officially possessed a total of 16 Sukhoi-family fighter jets (a mix of Su-27 and Su-30 models), forming a full squadron within Air Squadron 11 at Sultan Hasanuddin Air Force Base.

The SP-1 (Senapan Panjang 1/long rifle 1) - PT. Pindad Indonesia

 The SP-1 (Senapan Panjang 1/long rifle 1) is the first long-barreled assault rifle produced locally in Indonesia by PT Pindad (then still known as Pabrik Senjata dan Munition or PSM). This legendary weapon is a modified and licensed production of the Italian Beretta BM-59 Mk.1 assault rifle. This rifle served as the standard issue weapon for Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) infantry soldiers in the 1970s before being replaced by later-generation rifles.

SP-1 Technical Specifications

Caliber: 7.62 x 51 mm NATO ammunition.

Mechanism: Gas-operated with a rotating bolt.

Weight: Up to 4.4 kg (empty).

Total Length: Approximately 109 cm.

Sights: Conventional rear aperture and front post sights.

Material: Equipped with a wooden stock.

Brief History & Development

After Operations Trikora and Dwikora, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI)'s (then ABRI) weapons inventory was highly diversified and disparate, originating from both the Western bloc (M1 Garand, Lee-Enfield) and the Eastern bloc (AK-47, SKS). To standardize ammunition and weapons logistics, the Indonesian government licensed the Beretta BM-59 rifle from Italy. The Arms and Munitions Factory (PSM, the forerunner of PT Pindad) officially produced it locally under the name SP-1 starting in 1968. With a total production run of approximately 50,000, the SP-1 was allocated as the standard weapon for infantry soldiers in the Indonesian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The SP-1 was deployed in various domestic security operations in the early 1970s, including the initial phase of Operation Seroja in East Timor (now Timor Leste). This weapon was relied upon for its extremely lethal impact power from 7.62 x 51 mm NATO ammunition.

Operational Issues in the Field

When deployed to humid tropical jungle terrain, the SP-1's performance began to encounter serious challenges:

Jamming Vulnerability: The SP-1's internal firing mechanism is highly sensitive to the high humidity, mud, and dust typical of Indonesian forests. Soldiers often complained of the weapon jamming during firefights.

Weaknesses of the Wooden Stock: The fast-paced mass production line resulted in suboptimal quality of the wooden stock. The wood tends to absorb water, easily cracks, splinters, and is less ergonomic for long-distance patrols.

Heavy Weight & High Recoil: With an empty weight of 4.4 kg and the very strong recoil from large-caliber bullets, this rifle is tiring when used in dynamic jungle combat.

Modifications to the SP-2 and SP-3

To address complaints from Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldiers, Pindad made the following modifications:

SP-2: Designed to be able to launch rifle grenades.

SP-3: Equipped with a new handgrip for a comfortable grip and an additional bipod to absorb the recoil of the shot. However, these modifications did not completely resolve the fundamental issues with the mechanical system.

Retirement and Replacement (Late 1970s - 1980s)

Transition to the M16: Due to reliability issues in the field, the TNI gradually began shifting the use of the SP-1 to the rear guard (territorial/legal units) and replacing its front-line weapons with the US-made M16A1 rifle purchased through a military aid program.

History of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI)

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) was officially established on June 3, 1947, by President Sukarno as an effort to unite the regular army (TRI) with the people's struggle troops. However, the TNI's birthday is commemorated every October 5, which refers to the establishment of the People's Security Army (TKR) as Indonesia's first official armed force in 1945.

The TNI's long history has seen several name and organizational changes to adapt to the country's political situation and defense tactics.

Chronology of TNI Organizational Changes: 

People's Security Agency (Badan Keamanan Rakyat - BKR) — August 22, 1945. 

After the proclamation of independence, the government did not immediately form a national army to avoid armed confrontation with Allied and Japanese forces. The government established the BKR, which was initially tasked with maintaining public order under the auspices of the Central Indonesian National Committee (KNIP). Its members are dominated by young people who were former Defenders of the Homeland (PETA), Heiho, and the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL). 

People's Security Army (Tentara Keamanan Rakyat - TKR) — October 5, 1945 

Seeing the threat of the Dutch military who wanted to re-colonize Indonesia, President Soekarno inaugurated the TKR as the first official armed forces. 

The formation of the TKR was led by Commander-in-Chief General Soedirman and managed by Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Oerip Soemohardjo. 

Republic of Indonesia Army (Tentara Repuplik Indonesia - TRI) — January 23, 1946 

To improve international military standardization and improve the organizational structure of state defense, the TKR was renamed TRI. Outside of TRI, at that time there were still many armed forces formed by community groups independently. 

Indonesian National Army (Tentara Nasional Indonesia - TNI) — June 3, 1947 

In order to avoid dualism of leadership and unite the Indonesian armed forces, President Soekarno merged TRI with all the people's struggle forces into a single entity called the Indonesian National Army (TNI). 

Armed Forces of the Republic of Indonesia (Angkatan Bersenjata Republik Indonesia - ABRI) — 1962 

During the Guided Democracy era, the government united the Armed Forces (AD, AL, AU) with the National Police (Polri) into a single defense and security institution called ABRI. This merger was intended for command efficiency and to minimize internal conflict. 

Returning to TNI — April 1, 1999 

Entering the reform era, the concept of the military's dual function was abolished. ABRI was officially separated again. The police institution changed to Polri which focused on domestic security/law enforcement, while the military institution returned to using the name TNI which focused fully on the national defense sector.

Bravo Unit 90 (Satbravo-90) - An Elite Special Operations unit of Indonesian Air Force

 Bravo Unit 90 (abbreviated Satbravo-90) is an elite special operations unit of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) under the Rapid Action Forces Command (Kopasgat). This unit specializes in countering air piracy terrorism, strategic intelligence, and disabling enemy installations and defense equipment.

Bravo Unit 90 Main Profile

The following is a detailed profile and role of Bravo Unit 90 based on the latest data:

Main Duties: Carrying out intelligence operations, special actions (such as anti-air piracy terrorism), and special technical support as ordered by the TNI Commander.

Detachment Structure: Satbravo-90 is divided into three units with specific roles:

Den 901: Specializing in intelligence and sabotage.

Den 902: Specializing in special actions and airborne counterterrorism.

Den 903: Specializing in technical support (including snipers, explosive ordnance disposal, and underwater sabotage).

Headquarters & Identity: Headquartered at Rumpin Air Force Base, Bogor, West Java. This troop is known for its distinctive orange Paskhas/Kopasgat beret and the motto "Catya Wihikan Awacyama Kapala," which means loyal, skilled, and successful.

Brief History: Formed on September 16, 1990, as Detachment Bravo 90 under the leadership of Air Marshal Maman Suparman. The name "Bravo" was chosen because it means "best."

Soldier Qualifications: Members are selected through a rigorous selection process from among the best graduates of the Kopasgat Command, including IQ, health, physical, and mental tests, followed by six months of special education to obtain the Bravo brevet.

Military Operations and Missions:

Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens in Ukraine (2022)

Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens in Afghanistan (2021)

Summit Security: Routinely involved in VVIP security, such as at the 2016 OIC Extraordinary Summit and summit security in Jakarta since 1992.

East Timor (1999): Tasked with controlling Comoros Airport under the ITFET task force and was the last force to leave the region.

Ambon & Aceh Conflict: Involved in security restoration operations in Ambon and Aceh

The Indonesian Navy's special forces - Denjaka, Kopaska and Yontaifib

The main differences between Denjaka, Kopaska, and Yontaifib in the Indonesian Navy's special forces lie in their operational focus, organizational structure, and recruitment methods. Although all three are elite units of the Indonesian Navy, each has a specific role in safeguarding Indonesia's maritime sovereignty.

Here are the details of the differences between the three:

1. Denjaka (Detachment Jalamangkara)

Denjaka is the highest-ranking anti-terror unit in the Indonesian Navy, a joint and secretive unit.

Primary Function: Countering terrorism, sabotage, and piracy at sea (maritime aspects), as well as clandestine operations.

Membership: An elite force within an elite force. Its personnel are recruited from the best, highly qualified soldiers of Kopaska and Yontaifib.

Parent Organization: Marine Corps (Dankormar)

Beret: Purple (same as the Marine Corps).

DENJAKA

2. Kopaska (Frogman Command)

Kopaska is a specialized naval warfare unit (similar to the US Navy SEALs) formed in 1962.

Main Functions: Demolition/underwater detonation, sabotage of enemy bases, coastal reconnaissance prior to amphibious landings, and VIP/Presidential escorts.

Membership: Indonesian Navy (minimum 2 years of service)

Parent Organization: Directly under the Fleet Command (Armada Koarmada I, II, and III).

Beret: Red with a frog holding a trident.

KOPASKA

3. Yontaifib (Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion)

Yontaifib is a special unit under the Marine Corps that focuses on combat intelligence and landing reconnaissance.

Main Functions: Amphibious reconnaissance, special reconnaissance (land, sea, and air), and infiltration of enemy territory before the parent force invades.

YONTAIFIB

Membership: Member of the Marine Corps (minimum 2 years of service), Possesses "Tri Media" capabilities (proficiency in water, air, and land) and serves as the primary source of recruitment for Denjaka personnel.

Parent Organization: Marine Corps (Pasmar)

Beret: The Marines' distinctive purple color, but distinguished by the use of the Tri Media Brevet.

Operational Plans for the Giuseppe Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier in Indonesia

The operational plans for the Giuseppe Garibaldi in Indonesia will focus on transforming the ship into a base for combat drones (UCAVs) and helicopters, given the current limited availability of compatible fixed-wing fighter jets. The following details the air weapons plan for this ship: Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) Fleet: The Indonesian Navy's primary focus is to transform the Giuseppe Garibaldi into a drone carrier to strengthen surveillance in strategic areas such as the North Natuna Sea.

Bayraktar TB3: Indonesia reportedly plans to deploy Turkish Bayraktar TB3 drones on this ship. This drone was chosen because it has folding wings and is specifically designed for takeoff and landing on ships with short runways.

Fleet Size: There are plans to procure approximately 60 TB3 drones, some of which will be locally produced in collaboration with Baykar. Mission: These drones will be used for surveillance and precision strike missions with a flight range of up to 24-50 hours.

Operational Helicopters: This ship will carry a combination of helicopters for various mission needs:

Anti-Submarine Helicopters (ASW): For example, the TNI-AL's AS565 MBe Panther, to detect underwater threats.

Transport & Utility Helicopters: Used for logistics mobilization and humanitarian assistance in Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP) missions.

Capacity: The ship's deck can accommodate up to 18 helicopters in full configuration.

Fighter Aircraft (Fixed Wing)

The use of fighter jets on the Giuseppe Garibaldi faces technical challenges because the ship requires STOVL (Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing) capabilities.

AV-8B Harrier II: Technically, this ship was designed for the Harrier aircraft. However, procurement of this aircraft is difficult due to its global obsolescence.

Rafale: Although Indonesia acquired the Dassault Rafale, this jet requires a much longer runway or a catapult system, which the Garibaldi lacks.

F-35B: Currently, there are no official plans to deploy stealth fighter jets like the F-35B on this ship. 🥲

Next Steps: The Indonesian government is finalizing the domestic retrofit process to adapt the ship's deck and control systems to optimally operate the TB3 drone before its arrival in late 2026.

source: Tempo.co Indo Pacific Strategic Intelligence #tnial #navy #carrier #kapalinduk #angkatanlaut

The first terrorist incident in Indonesian aviation history

 On March 28, 1981, the first terrorist incident in Indonesian aviation history occurred, involving Garuda Indonesia flight GA-206 from Jakarta to Medan. It transited in Palembang before being hijacked mid-air and ultimately landed in Bangkok, Thailand. The aircraft was a McDonnell Douglas DC-9 named "Woyla."

The hijacking was carried out by five armed men from an extremist group calling themselves "Komando Jihad" (or members of Jamaah Imran).

The perpetrators forced the plane to divert to Penang, Malaysia, and then to Bangkok, Thailand. They demanded the release of 80 political prisoners, a ransom of US$1.5 million, the expulsion of Israeli citizens from Indonesia, and the removal of Vice President Adam Malik.

The hijacking drama lasted for 65 hours before finally being quelled by a lightning raid by Kopassandha (now Kopassus) special forces at Don Muang Airport, Bangkok, on March 31, 1981.

The Kopasandha troops employed a highly planned lightning raid strategy to free the hostages (48 passengers and 5 cabin crew).

The troops approached the plane at 2:45 a.m. under cover of darkness to avoid detection by the hijackers.

The team divided into small groups to attack from three entry points simultaneously to break up the hijackers' concentration.

Emergency Door (center, above the wings): Using the emergency stairs for quick entry.

Rear Door: Attacking through the rear of the aircraft.

Front Door/Pilot: Ensuring immediate control of the cockpit area.

The troops used special tools to forcefully and quickly break through the aircraft doors to surprise the hijackers.

Immediately upon entry, the troops shouted instructions for all passengers to lie on the floor of the aircraft. This was done to separate the hostages from the hijackers, who remained standing or wielding weapons.

The entire operation to neutralize the hijackers was carried out in a very short time, approximately 2 minutes and 49 seconds. This decisiveness and speed prevented the hijackers from detonating grenades or killing more hostages.

This operation resulted in two fatalities from the assault team: Lieutenant (posthumously) Achmad Kirang and Captain Herman Rante.

There were no passenger fatalities during the rescue operation.

Indonesian Anti-Terror Special Forces - Kopassus Unit-81 (SAT-81)

 Kopassus Unit 81 / SAT-81 (formerly known as Sat-81/Gultor) is an elite anti-terror unit under the Indonesian Army's Special Forces Command (Kopassus). It consists of soldiers with qualifications exceeding those of other special forces.

Sat-81 is a strategic strike unit with highly specialized capabilities.

Primary Role: Counter-terrorism, special intelligence, and sabotage and direct attack operations to destroy vital enemy assets.

Characteristics: Known as the "stealth force" due to its covert and undetected movements. Its personnel and weaponry are highly classified.

Structure: Consists of several supporting battalions, such as Battalion 811 and Battalion 812.

How Does It Work and How Is It Selected?

Sat-81 operations are conducted with the principles of high secrecy and speed of execution.

Rigorous Selection: Its members are the best soldiers selected from within the Kopassus (Indonesian Special Forces) through rigorous physical and mental selection.

Special Training: Personnel are trained at the Special Forces Education and Training Center (Pusdiklatpassus) to master various close-quarters combat techniques, hostage rescue, and explosives handling.

Synergy: This unit frequently conducts joint training with other Indonesia elite units such as Denjaka (Indonesian Navy) and Satbravo 90 (Indonesian Air Force) for national anti-terror coordination.

History of Formation

This unit was formed in response to the increasing threat of global terrorism in the early 1980s.

Founding: Formed on June 30, 1982, by the duo of Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan (first Commander) and Prabowo Subianto (first Deputy Commander) on the instructions of General Benny Moerdani.

Background: Triggered by the successful operation to free the hostages of a Garuda Indonesia plane during Operation Woyla at Don Muang Airport, Thailand, in 1981. The "81" in its name refers to the year of this historic event.

Inspiration: Its educational and organizational model draws heavily from international special forces such as GSG 9 (Germany) and SAS (England).

The SPS-1 - Indonesia Anti-drone weapon..

 The SPS-1 (Silent Paralyzer Weapon) is the world's first portable anti-drone weapon that integrates soft kill and hard kill methods in one unit. This weapon was developed by PT Pindad in collaboration with PT Sinergi Teknologi Pertahanan and was officially introduced on August 17, 2024, in the Indonesian Capital City (IKN).

1. Hybrid Technology (Dual Capability)

The SPS-1 is unique because it combines two drone paralysis mechanisms:

Soft Kill: Uses a signal jammer to interrupt the drone's communication with the operator or satellite signal (GPS).

Hard Kill: Uses projectiles or physical methods to directly destroy the drone.

2. Features and Benefits

High Mobility: Designed to be carried and operated by a single person (man-portable).

Technological Independence: This product is 100% domestically developed with an optimal Domestic Component Level (TKDN).

Operational: It has been used to support security for state events in the National Capital Region (IKN) and the Red and White Cabinet at the Military Academy.

3. Anti-Drone Ecosystem

The SPS-1 is typically operated as part of a short-range air defense system alongside other supporting units, such as:

Maung MV3 Mobile Jammer: A tactical vehicle equipped with a signal jammer with a wider range (up to tens of kilometers).

Sectoral Jammer: A stationary device for protecting specific areas.