Jet fighter attractions mark Jokowi’s visit

BATAM. The Air Force’s 2016 Angkasa Yudha airborne training module, which capped off on Thursday, showcased the capacity of Indonesia’s air power, in which 50 jet fighters performed air attractions.

President Joko "Jokowi” Widodo witnessed demonstrations of the country’s air deterrent capabilities in the event, which was held in Natuna, Riau Islands.

Ranai Air Force Base commander Col. Nurtantio Affan said the 2016 Angkasa Yudha airborne training module was held to test the Air Force’s air combat capacity. The presence of President Jokowi in the training’s closing event had made it more special, he admitted.

“President Jokowi’s visit to Natuna was special not only for the Air Force but also for all Natuna residents. Moreover, the airborne training module coincided with the inauguration of the newly-expanded [Ranai] airport,” Affan told The Jakarta Post on Thursday.

He said Natuna was designated as the location of the Angkasa Yudha training module because the Air Force considered it as Indonesia’s outermost area; thus, it was rather ideal for a training location to showcase the country’s air power capacity.

“Our President has given close attention to Natuna-related matters. We, the Air Force, as one of the defense elements, must give support,” said Affan.

At the training, which took place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6, 50 fighter jets belonging to the Air Force, such as Sky Hawk 100 and 200, Shukoi, F16, Super Tucano, Hercules, Puma and Cassa, performed air attractions.

This was Jokowi’s second visit to Natuna in the last five months after he visited the area to inspect naval patrols on the border of the South China Sea on June 23. (Fadli)