Indonesian Air Force Shortlists Jet Fighters

Jakarta (Antara) - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has yet to make a decision on the jet fighter that will reportedly replace the outdated F-5 Tiger jet fighter. "We studied several types of jet planes to find the right jet fighter to replace the F-5 Tiger. We have submitted the study results to Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro and the Indonesian Military Headquarters," Chief of Staff of TNI AU Marshall Ida Bagus Putu Dunia said here on Monday. Marshall¿s statement came after the TNI AU Officers Meeting and Task Commanders Assembly was opened in the TNI AU Headquarters in Cilangkap Sub-district, E Jakarta. The Chief said TNI AU has recommended several modern aircraft to the Ministry such as the Sukhoi Su-35 of Russia, the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-15 Strike Eagle of the USA and the Swedish SAAB JAS 39 Gripen. The Chief said the TNI AU has ranked the shortlisted jet planes. "The Sukhoi Su-35 is ranked first, followed by the SAAB JAS 39 Gripen and the F-15 Strike Eagle," stated Ida. He said the three planes were shortlisted for their proven deterrent power including weaponry, maintenance and maneuvrability. The TNI AU hopes that the government will purchase the fighter aircraft immediately for the 2015-2019 period to replace the F-5 Tiger. The Chief said the TNI AU needs at least a squadron or 16 units of the new jet fighters to guard Indonesian airspace. "However, the purchase depends on the state budget," Marshall added. (*)