Jakarta — The Indonesian government has firmly rejected growing speculation surrounding the Russian air force Indonesia proposal, which alleged that Russia requested access to an Indonesian airbase in Papua for military aircraft deployments.
The initial claim came from defense publication Janes, which reported that Moscow had sought clearance to base aircraft at Manuhua Air Force Base, shared with Frans Kaisiepo Airport in Biak Numfor. The report cited anonymous sources and internal documents, indicating discussions during a February meeting between Russian and Indonesian defense officials.
However, Jakarta was quick to issue denials. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Rolliansyah Soemirat clarified that Indonesia maintains a strict foreign policy prohibiting foreign military bases. “There are no agreements or permissions granted to any country, including Russia, regarding permanent military presence,” he said.
The Defense Ministry also echoed this position. Brig. Gen. Frega Wena Inkiriwang stated there is “no cooperation or deal that could be interpreted as allowing a Russian air force Indonesia presence.”
The news alarmed Australia, prompting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to seek clarification from Indonesia. Australian officials noted Papua’s proximity to Darwin, where US forces are stationed, and expressed concern over potential Russian influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Further confusion arose when President Prabowo Subianto met Russian Deputy PM Denis Manturov in Jakarta, though no mention of military cooperation was confirmed.
The Kremlin declined to comment directly, while Russian Ambassador Sergei Tolchenov issued a statement emphasizing that any military cooperation aims to strengthen bilateral defense — not threaten third parties.
He turned attention to Australia, criticizing its role in hosting US strategic bombers and the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal. He warned that these actions pose a larger threat to regional stability than any alleged Russian air force Indonesia plans.
Jakarta has reiterated its stance: military neutrality and no foreign bases — maintaining strategic balance in a region growing increasingly divided.
