Sukhoi Deployment In Batam Reduces Air Space Violations

Batam, Riau Islands (Antara Bali) - The deployment of Sukhoi jet fighters in the Batam area under the Tangkis Sergap Operation has effectively decreased violation of Indonesia's air space.

"According to our monitoring efforts, the passage of several air planes bound for Singapore or Malaysia, which often route themselves through the Natuna territory, has decreased. They now follow a route outside Natuna," the Chief of the Ujung Pandang 11 Squadron, Lieutenant Colonel Vincentius Endy said here on Friday.

The operation, which has been in progress since September 16, has seen the Indonesian Air Force deploying two Sukhoi SU-30s and two SU-27s from the Squadron 11 in Makassar.

During the operation, several foreign aircraft were forbidden from entering the aerial border of Indonesia, particularly in the Natuna area.

"We discovered several violations even today. But, after we chased them, they exited the air space immediately," Vincentius said.

The Sukhoi operation in Batam is aimed at increasing awareness among foreign aircraft breaching the Indonesian air space.

"The jet fighters are very qualified. Thus, other unidentified air planes will hesitate to cross into Indonesia territory," Vincentius added.

He said the operation will continue indefinitely. Additionally, if there are still many foreign aircraft violating Indonesia's air territory, the government will file a protest with the concerned countries. (WDY)