6th edition of India-Indonesia Air Force Staff talks strengthens ties, enhances strategic cooperation
Bali, October 13, 2025: The Indian and Indonesian Air Forces concluded their sixth round of staff talks on October 10, focusing on enhancing operational synergy through collaborative initiatives. The Indonesian Air Force announced that both nations agreed on multiple areas of cooperation, including the establishment of the Su-30 Forum for coordination and joint training. Furthermore, plans were made to develop an air-to-air refueling program that would incorporate India’s tanker aircraft alongside Indonesia’s fighter jets, reports 24brussels.
The talks, co-chaired by Air Vice Marshal Sundaramani Krishnan from the Indian Air Force and Air Vice Marshal Suliono of the Indonesian Air Force, emphasized a shared commitment to advancing military collaboration. The Indian Air Force’s Media Coordination Centre stated on X, “The 6th edition of Indian Air Force & Indonesian Air Force Air Staff Talks were held at Bali from October 7 to 10, reinforcing growing synergy between the two forces through enhanced collaboration in training and various other domains.”
The Indonesian Air Force subsequently detailed several strategic commitments made during the staff talks. These included the formation of the Su-30 Forum and the air-to-air refueling initiative, aimed at increasing interoperability and military readiness. In a post on X, the Indonesian Air Force expressed optimism that these measures would strengthen ties and enhance capabilities to meet future challenges.
The staff talks followed a recent visit by the Indian Navy’s INS Kadmatt to Makassar, Indonesia, from October 3 to 5, establishing professional interactions aimed at fostering naval partnerships. This productive visit occurred alongside discussions earlier this year between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding defense and security collaboration.
During their meetings, both leaders welcomed the ratification of the Agreement concerning Cooperation in the field of Defence (DCA) and expressed confidence that it would lead to a deepened defense relationship. President Subianto acknowledged the importance of domestic defense manufacturing and expressed interest in further solidifying cooperation in this area. The Indian government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Indonesia’s defense modernization efforts through the exchange of expertise and resources.
As maritime neighbors and strategic partners, India and Indonesia are poised to enhance and broaden their defense cooperation further, building a robust framework for future collaboration.
