Singapore and Indonesia Successfully Conclude 22th Edition of Exercise Elang Indopura

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Indonesian Air Force's (TNI AU) F-16 aircraft flying in formation and conducting air-to-air refuelling with RSAF's A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) during the 22nd edition of Exercise Elang Indopura.

Chief of Air Force Major-General (MG) Kelvin Khong and Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Fadjar Prasetyo co-officiated the closing ceremony of Exercise Elang Indopura at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base, Pekanbaru, Indonesia earlier today.

The exercise was conducted at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base from 18 to 30 November 2023. This is also the first time where both air forces conducted air-to-air refuelling using the RSAF's A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport. About 300 personnel from both air forces participated in the exercise, which included six of the RSAF's F-16C/D, one A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport and sixteen TNI AU's F-16C/D.

Reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between the RSAF and TNI AU, MG Khong said, "Over the years, Exercise Elang Indopura has grown in mission complexity. This year, for the first time, we included Air-to-Air refuelling in the exercise. This required teamwork from both sides and demonstrated the mutual trust between the TNI AU and the RSAF. I hope that it was a valuable experience for the aircrew from both air forces. I also look forward to more opportunities of having of such serials in future exercises to deepen our bilateral cooperation."

Agreeing with MG Khong, ACM Fadjar added that, "This joint exercise has been an embodiment of our shared strategic vision and mutual dedication in maintaining peace in the region." ACM Fadjar also said, "I extend my sincere gratitude to MG Kelvin Khong, along with airmen and women of the RSAF and the TNI AU, and all those involved in making this exercise a resounding success. TNI AU and RSAF have always demonstrated a strong partnership, jointly committed to enhancing stability and security in the region."

Exercise Elang Indopura serves as an important platform to enhance the professionalism, cooperation and mutual trust between the two air forces. This year marks the 22nd edition of the bilateral air exercise which underscores the close and long-standing bilateral defence relations between Singapore and Indonesia. Apart from Exercise Elang Indopura, the two air forces also regularly engage in a wide range of exercises and activities such as visits, professional exchanges and cross-attendance of courses.

The RSAF and TNI AU's F-16 aircraft flying in formation during Exercise Elang Indopura.

The RSAF's MRTT and TNI AU's F-16 aircraft conducting air-to-air refuelling during an air manoeuvre exercise.

Chief of Air Force Major-General (MG) Kelvin Khong (left) and Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Fadjar Prasetyo (right) co-officiated the closing ceremony of Exercise Elang Indopura at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base, Pekanbaru, Indonesia this afternoon.

MG Khong (left) and ACM Fadjar (right) at a bilateral call during Exercise Elang Indopura.

MG Khong and ACM Fadjar (both left) interacting with RSAF personnel.

RSAF personnel making pre-flight checks during the Exercise.