Special VVIP Escort Honors President Prabowo Subianto and 80 Years of the Indonesian Air Force
During President Prabowo Subianto’s working visit to Magelang (04/09), something special took place: the presidential aircraft received a VVIP air escort from the Indonesian Air Force along the route from the Halim Perdanakusuma to Adisutjipto Air Force Bases.
The escort formation consisted of four F-16 Fighting Falcon and two KAI T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft, showcasing a high level of operational readiness and the strength of Indonesia’s air defense system.
This activity coincided with the 80th anniversary of the Indonesian Air Force, serving as a testament to the Indonesian Air Force’s long devotion to the nation.
Aboard the Presidential Aircraft, the President expressed his appreciation to the airmen for their service and professionalism.
“First and foremost, happy anniversary to the Indonesian Air Force, Swa Bhuwana Paksa. Happy 80th Anniversary. Stay strong in defending Indonesia’s sovereignty. The people are proud of you. Let us safeguard our country together. My respect to all of you,” said the President.
The President also underscored how proud he is of the soldiers’ dedication and unwavering motivation in carrying out their duties.
“I, Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, on behalf of the people of Indonesia, am proud of our air force, our eagles. Keep up the spirit, thank you,” he continued.
From the cockpit, one of the pilots expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the President for his strong support for the modernization of the national air defense.
“With utmost respect and pride, on the 80th anniversary of Indonesian Air Force, we, the young eagles, would like to thank you, Mr President. Since your tenure as Minister of Defense in 2019, and now as President of the Republic of Indonesia, you have continuously strengthened and modernized the Indonesian Air Force,” he said.
“We ask for your continued guidance so that we can carry on our service to the nation. These tireless efforts, we will build an even stronger Indonesian Air Force for Indonesia for the greatness of Indonesia. Happy Anniversary Indonesian Air Force, Swa Bhuwana Paksa,” he continued.
This special escort, carried out in conjunction with the Air Force’s 80th anniversary, reflected Indonesian Air Force’s professionalism, dedication, and readiness in safeguarding national sovereignty, particularly in protecting high-level state air mobility. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RD/EP)
