Indonesian buying frenzy

Indonesia is reportedly finalising a deal with Russia for 11 Sukhoi Su-35 fighters to replace ageing F-5E Tiger IIs. Total cost would be $1.14 billion. It had previously been reported that the Air Force was in the market for 16 Su-35s.

Indonesia is also reportedly interested in ordering two large tankers that would be delivered by 2024. Among the types mentioned for the requirement are newproduction Boeing KC-46As, converted Boeing 767s and Airbus Military A330 MRTTs.

The Indonesian Navy took delivery in January of a CN235-220 maritime patrol aircraft. One of two ordered from the state aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) in 2014, it will be operated by 800 Squadron based at Juanda, Surabaya. Two AS565 MBe Panther helicopters were also delivered. The French-built helicopters were fitted with mission systems by PTDI. Intended for shipboard and anti-submarine warfare missions, these were the third and fourth to be delivered of the 11 ordered in 2014. The remaining helicopters are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2018. David C Isby