During a combat exercise over the Natuna Sea, Capt. Michael Hurley, a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot, drops a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb onto a simulated target on Aug. 9, 2023.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Dwane R. Young) Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs | August 06, 2023
NATUNA SEA – Indonesian and U.S. airmen soared over the Natuna Sea during a bilateral exercise August 6-11, honing combat and weapons employment skills through a series of complex training scenarios. Approximately 100 Indonesian airmen and 50 U.S. service members assigned to the 5th Air Force at Yokota Air Base, Japan, participated in the exercise, known as DELI IKTIFAR 23.
“DELI IKTIFAR 23 enhances our ability to fly, fight and win alongside the Indonesian Air Force,” said Lt. Col. Richard Reed, 5th Air Force chief of wing plans.
Indonesia and the United States have been working together for more than 70 years to collectively tackle security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The two countries share a commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“DELI IKTIFAR 23 is a testament to the strong partnership between Indonesia and the United States,” said Indonesian Air Force chief pilot Col. Adri Sulistiyo.
“This exercise provides an opportunity for us to learn from each other, share ideas, and strengthen our interoperability in response to any security challenges that may arise,” said Sulistiyo.
The exercise included aerial refueling, long-range navigation and complex air combat training scenarios between U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons and Indonesian F-16s, Sukhoi Su-27s and Su-30s and BAE Hawk 109s.
“Flying alongside the U.S. Air Force provides us valuable experience that we can use to protect Indonesian airspace,” said Indonesian Air Force Capt. Ryky Kartiko. .
Indonesian Aces Fly Combat, Weapons Training with U.S. Air Force
