Indonesian Aero News

[Ananda]

I'll be quite surprised if Jokowi sack Ryacudu as Minister of Defence because he was appointed due to his political influenced and the 'one' who's backing him up. However considering this is Jokowi last term and he can't get reelected..well who knows maybe he got more courage to sack him.

Prabowo's coming to Jokowi's second term seems secured after He and Megawati (as Jokowi's main political backing) made a deal that many speculate as preparation for 2024 elections. Thus as I put on my previous post before, position of Minister of Defense will be determined by the Political backers and not Jokowi's himself alone.

Jokowi not SBY that are more confidence on putting civilians as MinDef on his two terms. Putting civilians on his terms make more clear projects implementation on defense despite SBY's has less budget then Jokowi's.

Will MinDef under Prabowo's create more clear planning and Implementations ? For me so far just give on benefits of doubts. In one hand it's true he come from same cloth as Ryacudu. Both have more security and Army oriented background, and despite in paper Navy and Air Force got more budget for procurement then Army under Ryacudu, however in reality the implementation on projects are running more smoothly for Army procurement.

I put benefits of doubts, since Prabowo's did shown he manage to get some fast track procurement for Kopasus, when he's the commanding General.
Can he can clear those buraucatics hurdle on implementation during his time ? Will see..

I hope Jokowi's put another relative high Calibre Civilians like SBY's put in his administration..but seems Jokowi's do not have enough guts to put civilians as MinDef.

 

[tonnyc]

By the way, the likelihood that Indonesia will exit the KFX/IFX partnership is high now. Prabowo is like Ryamizard Ryacudu after all, and RR is the one who "forgot" to allocate money to pay for Indonesia's share in the project. The excuse is that there is no money, but the idea that Indonesia the country can't scrape enough money to pay for the 20% share of the R&D of KFX is ridiculous. It's more accurate to say that the defense ministry has conveniently forgotten to budget for it. Basically the army generals have no clue how air warfare works and thus has no faith in KFX at all. Prabowo is going to be the same.It does not help that the Russophilic faction in the air force has a hard on for Su-35.

 

[Ananda]

For KFX, I'm still in position that many in this Administration is not really Keen with the project, and look at it as burden that they have inherited from SBY administration.

So whoever that running ministry of defense not really matter in my opinion on the KFX matter. The thing is there are so many signs from beginning this administration they are not fully behind on the program.

I do agree it is not the matter of financial budget on the matter of KFX. Look at the media info on why they are missing the payment..from Ministry of Finance talking about MinDef forgot to budgeted installment, then talk about need to postpone any foreign exchange payment (while the still did payments on other Forex contracts), and the talk on the for negotiation for tech access, export access, etc... clearly they are try to negotiate on something and using the payment as bargaining chip.

This shown that the support of the program is just not strong on this administration. I think Korean also see it..now they are talking on finding another partner..(they are looking for additional partner especially for tech one and taking KAI portion is there from beginning).. however Korean now seems try to see whether another South East Asian countries will also attracted to come into the project. At least they are talking to Vietnam or Malaysia..
I'm doubtful any of them really want to come as development partner..as potential customer in the future perhaps.

In short if they can find a way to break the contract, I do believe some 'factions' in this administration will do it.
Not that they want to stop defense cooperation with ROK..it's just the matter if they really want to support this particular program.

Like Submarine, PAL cooperation with DSME will still going. If looking from some info that goes to media from DI, seems there are some interest from DI for FA/TA-50. I just speculate that perhaps DI think licensing FA-50 is safer than involved with KFX from development stages.

 

[Ahmad]

LOL @Ananda you seems to bash Jokowi regardless he do the right thing or bad thing. Now he has appointed the one that you choose during election and put him into a position where he has the best knowledge and you still keep criticizing Jokowi. LOL

Back to the topic. About KFX/IFX, I am rather optimistic about Prabowo appointment and I think he will support the program. But lets wait for another 1-2 weeks so it will be more clear about this new administration position on the program. Mahfud MD opinion will also affect the program and he will lead the renegotiation process after Wiranto is not a security minister any more. Another cabinet member who want to reduce our commitment to the project which is Lembong (BKPM) has also been replaced.

I hope we keep continuing the program. BTW, Journalist keep asking about the program to Prabowo and Mahfud MD, and it shows people enthusiast about the program. Jokowi should listen to it.

 

[Ananda]

LOL @Ananda you seems to bash Jokowi regardless he do the right thing or bad thing. Now he has appointed the one that you choose during election and put him into a position where he has the best knowledge and you still keep criticizing Jokowi

Then prove he has not doing what my criticism put. He has saying that he support Indonesian continues in KFX program, but his administration are not showing good confidence. Korean media and forums already full of their doubt of Indonesian continuity with the Program, and they have reason for that. Like I say, so far all their move in KFX put doubt whether they are really keen on the projects, or want to find way out.

Again this is International forum where facts matter. Not some local forum that you used to be where Nationalistic bravado that matter and not the facts.
What my political choices is not the matter in here. I critisised this administration for their proven track record. They are proven most able to finish contract that coming from previous administration, however they have problem on implementation of their own projects. That's the fact.
I put credits when they are due, so far my credits to this admistration is for clossing some of the deals that coming from previous admin, but not on implementing their own projects.
What they are planning in several times different in implementations. This shown they have problem between Planning and Implementation. And that's what my 'bashing' all about if you like to put that.

@Ahmad for some time your presence in this forum in various thread shown that you are used only to nationalistics bravado that full in local forum. I suggest if you are not able to move past on that, stay in those local forum.

Talk based upon provem track record, speculate based on historical tendencies, and for asset talk that what already coming. This admistrations officials already proved they talk much in media, but different in realisations.

As Prabowo's, as any other new minister of Jokowi's second admistrations, I only put benefits of doubts. As my post to tonnyc, personally I prefer civilians as MinDef like what SBY put in his two term before.
However I'm not too optimistic even with Prabowo's as MinDef, unless he can sort out his Ministry practice in Planning and Implementation.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

It

By the way, the likelihood that Indonesia will exit the KFX/IFX partnership is high now. Prabowo is like Ryamizard Ryacudu after all, and RR is the one who "forgot" to allocate money to pay for Indonesia's share in the project. The excuse is that there is no money, but the idea that Indonesia the country can't scrape enough money to pay for the 20% share of the R&D of KFX is ridiculous. It's more accurate to say that the defense ministry has conveniently forgotten to budget for it. Basically the army generals have no clue how air warfare works and thus has no faith in KFX at all. Prabowo is going to be the same.It does not help that the Russophilic faction in the air force has a hard on for Su-35.

Its indeed the lack of political willingness and not the lack of money. I do not know the reason of this political unwillingness, is it because of the involvement of the Americans who dont want to share certain sensitive technologies, or are some politicians afraid that Indonesian Aerospace's capabilities will rise too much, or do they think that the Koreans are not able to lead the KFX-program?

Anyway, its not OR the Su-35, OR the KFX, we need them both. We can not protect the Natuna region with only one squadron of Su-27SKM and Su-30MK2, against an opponent which has the Su-35. We need the Su-35, quickly, at least one full squadron, if possible two. We can not wait until 2030 for the KFXs...

And like Ananda already said, an upgraded FA-50 under licence production can be a good alternative as a replacement for the BAe Hawks.

 

[Ananda]

Pesawat Tempur Canggih F-16 Viper Siap Lindungi Langit Sumatera dari Serangan Musuh

https://www.asiatimes.com/2019/05/article/to-pacify-trump-indonesia-seeks-american-arms/

This article seems confirm on I've been putting before, that asside on logistics issue, buying American also related to trade issue.. especially with Trump administration.

6 C-130J, and 32 F-16 V, seems support what the other local news being put before, that the J's is the AF priority for transport and any plan replacement for Hawk 100/200 seems showing the V as preference.

Today there are several articles from local media that quoting AF Chief talk that they will procured 2 sq of F-16V to enhance existing 2 sq of F-16 A/B/C/D (which already or in process being modified to Block 50 standard).
As I've mentioned before, I'm careful on quoting any Indonesian Defense Officials in defense projects and procurement in media (unless it's already contracted, or can be collaborated by more reputable International Media)..On this case I choose to put it, since it's development of Information being put since last May from International Media, that I have put before.

I'm still sceptical considering MinDef latest practices on Planning and Development. However, considering this is with US, and there's international trade situation behind this (which for Indonesia takes more priority), this potentially have more merit than any other plans procurement they are putting in media (especially for Air Force).

Hope this will not turn to another SU-35 drama.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

This morning, on its way to the costumer, Nepal which ordered the CN235-220 in 2017.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

A closer look at the KAI T-50 of Skuadron Udara 15.

Great video, lovely jet trainer...

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

A great video about SkU 17. I was surprised to see a F-28 in a hangar, i thought all Fokkers were already retired.

 

[Ananda]

Those F-28 from what I heard and read still being used but on more limited capabilities. Mostly like close range business jet.

Anyway they (SQ 17) has no choice to still utilised that, since as VIP squadron, they hardly ever got brand new plane except the 737 BBJ that being used as Presidential plane for President and Vice President.

The rest of the fleet, those L-100, 737-400, and F-28 are hand-down ex State Owned Airlines (in fact couple of 737-400 also being donated by Lion Air).
I don't think they will got new plane soon, except another hand-down ex Airliners.

Rumours say that some 737 NG perhaps can add to their inventory to replace older aircraft like F-28 and make the Squadron rely most of fleet to 737 family.
However those being postpone with the condition on MAX, thus the Airliners have no choice to keep using NG and can't spares for hand-down practice as before.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

Thank you for your explanation.

Here an interesting video about the KC-130B A-1309, our only refueling tanker.

Its actually sad that an airforce of a country with the seize of Europe only posses one KC-130B delivered in the '60s for supporting its whole fleet.

 

[Ananda]

Its actually sad that an airforce of a country with the seize of Europe only posses one KC-130B delivered in the '60s for supporting its whole fleet.

In my opinion until the latest TNI-AU study on Tankers requirements, TNI-AU has not yet developed integrated concept or strategy for extensive used on Aeriel Tankers.
Those two KC-130B being part of the initial batch of 10 C-130B, practically given by Kennedy administration as part of cold war geopolitical strategies. With most Indonesian AF fighter that time coming from USSR and not equipped with aerial refueling capabilities, then those tankers are used only as transport.

They are only being used as Tankers in the 80's when ex Israel Skyhawks come to inventory. Even now KC-130B mostly used by Hawk 200 with occasionally used by Flankers.

Why I say that until recent study seems shown that AF are more serious on Tankers strategy, since their studies shown what they expect on how to use those tankers as more integrated part of Force deployment.
They study come down to two tankers as leading contenders (KC-46 in first place and A-330 MRTT in second) reflected to their need for tankers ability on refueling both method of Boom and Hose-Drougue.

This in line with their strategy to keep both US origin fighter and Non US. Also the need for Tankers to be used as heavy transport put KC-46 slightly ahead due to be consider by that study fitted to be operate from more AB than A330-MRTT.

However for me even TNI-AU does procure 2 or 4 tankers, the home work still need to be developed more. Most of AF transport and other planes still not have capabilities to be refuel in air for example.

So, let's see how those tankers priority will be. The AF wants AEW capabilities too, more advance electronic surveillance and EC warfare. Those will be determined with the priority of the budget, however at least it's been study and plan.

Let's see how the Implementations will be. This is the weaknesses in this administration. Implementating that consistently in line with their planning, and not changing in the middle.

 

[40 deg south]

Seems the 33 will get Older Hercules, eventough before some Air Force brass talking in media about 33 will get most of ex RAAF C-130H. So, I suspect 33 will get some ex RAAF C-130H and those B that allready being refurbished to H standard.

I just talk based on historical tendencies..at the 80's when the H comes, the B's being moved to 32 from 31. 32 if not mistaken was the home for AN-12 before.
So, if this repeated then the plan J's will go to 31.

Ananda
Has there been any indication on when TNI will receive the proposed C-130Js, assuming the purchase goes ahead?

I'm curious as to whether NZ or Indonesia will be first to receive a delivery. As far as the public knows, NZ is still trying to decide on whether to order 4 or 5 airframes - will probably depend on the cost per unit.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

Ananda
Has there been any indication on when TNI will receive the proposed C-130Js, assuming the purchase goes ahead?

I'm curious as to whether NZ or Indonesia will be first to receive a delivery. As far as the public knows, NZ is still trying to decide on whether to order 4 or 5 airframes - will probably depend on the cost per unit.

With this current administration, everything stays unclear until the first deliveries are started, just look at the Su-35 acquisition and A400M and NASAMS programs...

 

[Ananda]

Ananda
Has there been any indication on when TNI will receive the proposed C-130Js, assuming the purchase goes ahead?

C-130J is in the pipe line on AF procurement program 2020-2024 (or in Indonesia called MEF3).
But as Sandhi says..let's wait until the asset delivered.
Still I do have feeling the J's procurement will be smoother than say Su-35.

 

[Ananda]

Konsepsi Pembangunan dan Pengembangan Sistem Informasi TNI AU

From TNI-AU site, talking about result on their internal study on the challenge they are facing in developing Information Technology within TNI-AU which in turn this will determine their readines for adapting network centric environment.

They are seems quite honest in the study on talking about what are their shortcomings and need to developed from there. Just like previous study in Air Tankers that they already put public in their site, this practice for TNI (since I see similar studies on different subjects behind to come out from other TNI branches), at least shown they more serious in doing proper planning stages.

Much need to be further developed, but at least hopefully this will begin to address their short comings from sometime. The need doing more thorough study for better planning.
Still this must be turn to better Implementations of their own planning. There are still procurements that come from nowhere and not in line with their own previous study and planning.

Anyway, for non Indonesian, the sites in Bahasa Indonesia, however you can download and try to use Google translate if you want to read more.

 

[Ananda]

Add the English version:
Pertamina to buy Airbus A400 to be operated by subsidiary

This is really follow the patern of C-160 procurement in the 80's. Those C-160 (six of them) being used by Pelita for charter cargo by oil and mining company and also used for Government logistics, including TNI ones

Following development of A-400 program by Pertamina:
Melihat Lebih Dekat Pesawat Angkut AU Inggris A400M

According to local media, the dignitaries that will visit the RAF A400 will mostly come from State Owned Enterprise Ministry and Pertamina (Indonesian State Owned Oil company), eventoughdelegates from AF and Mindef will come.
This again put as predicted if the deal get go ahead, the A400M likely being operated by Pertamina subsidiary Pelita Air.

As I have mentioned before, this is not first time Pertamina subsidiary Pelita Air operated Military specs cargo plane. As in Soeharto era, they operate up to 6 C-160 Transall.
Rumours again circulated in local forums and Media, that as I also put it before, if the deal for A400 and implemented, it's also related with Airbus deal for DI/IAe.
Being speculate that by buying A400, the State Owned Enterprise Ministry will secured Airbus deal for DI as final assembly facility for C-295 and marketing rights in Asia-Pacific. This to make DI cargo plane portfolio added from 2 (CN-235 and NC-212) to 3 (C-295). This in the end with the production of DI owned N-219, will put DI on stronger possition for regional turboprop cargo market.

 

[Sandhi Yudha]

Following development of A-400 program by Pertamina:
Melihat Lebih Dekat Pesawat Angkut AU Inggris A400M

According to local media, the dignitaries that will visit the RAF A400 will mostly come from State Owned Enterprise Ministry and Pertamina (Indonesian State Owned Oil company), eventoughdelegates from AF and Mindef will come.
This again put as predicted if the deal get go ahead, the A400M likely being operated by Pertamina subsidiary Pelita Air.

As I have mentioned before, this is not first time Pertamina subsidiary Pelita Air operated Military specs cargo plane. As in Soeharto era, they operate up to 6 C-160 Transall.
Rumours again circulated in local forums and Media, that as I also put it before, if the deal for A400 and implemented, it's also related with Airbus deal for DI/IAe.
Being speculate that by buying A400, the State Owned Enterprise Ministry will secured Airbus deal for DI as final assembly facility for C-295 and marketing rights in Asia-Pacific. This to make DI cargo plane portfolio added from 2 (CN-235 and NC-212) to 3 (C-295). This in the end with the production of DI owned N-219, will put DI on stronger possition for regional turboprop cargo market.

Lets see how the A400M acquisition program will develop, after all the A400M performance is amazing with incredible load capacities (NAS-332 Super Puma, Anoa, Stormer) and also capable to convert to aerial tanker.

It will be indeed great if IPTN can offer the NC212, CN235, C295 and hopefully also in the future the N245.

 

[Ananda]

There's pictures of slides that MinDef shown in Parliament few days ago, on TNI plan acquisition 2020-24 (MEF3) circulating in social media. I don't want to post it here, as I don't like to post something that are still in plan by MinDef considering this administration track record on Implementations of procurement plan.

However in that plan TNI-AU still talking on C-130J, and no plan A400. This also related to the plan on A400 always come from Ministry of State Owned Enterprise (SOE), and not from Mindef.

So, I still see if this come to fruition, the condition will be similar to C-160 Transall procurement in the 80's..all using SOE money, will be used as commercial purpose with dual used on Military need if it arrises.