Jakarta (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — Although the 78th Anniversary of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) does not directly coincide with the appointment of the new Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force (KSAU), it is considered the best gift for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU). The appointment of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono as KSAU is not merely a coincidence, but the result of a brilliant career journey and high dedication to the country.
Analysis conducted by Aulia Assidik, M.Si (Han), a Senior Defense Journalist and a Graduate of the Postgraduate Program of the Defense University in Peace and Conflict Resolution, provides a clearer picture of the significance of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono’s appointment as KSAU and the challenges ahead.
1. Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono: The Right Choice for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU)
The Indonesian Air Force has strong reasons to choose Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono as KSAU, given his expertise and achievements in various fields.
1.1 Combat Pilot Expertise
Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono has proven himself as an excellent combat pilot with the ability to master various types of aircraft, including the Hawk MK-53, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Sukhoi Su-27, and Sukhoi Su-30.
1.2 Achievements and Awards
Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono is the recipient of the Satyalancana Wira Nusa and Satyalancana Wira Siaga awards. In his military career, Air Marshal Tonny Harjono has held various strategic positions, including as the Aide-de-Camp to President Joko Widodo and Presidential Military Secretary. His impressive experience and achievements have solidified his position as a competent KSAU.
1.3 Proven Reputation
Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono has built a solid reputation within the Indonesian military. Known as a visionary and dedicated leader, Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono has successfully led various units and organizations within the Indonesian Air Force. His proven reputation as a competent professional makes him the right choice to assume the role of KSAU.
1.4 Contribution to Military Technology Development
As an experienced combat pilot, Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono has also been actively involved in the development and testing of new military technologies. His contributions in identifying needs and evaluating the performance of modern combat aircraft have helped the Indonesian Air Force enhance its combat capabilities. The ability to adapt to new technologies and develop innovative strategies makes Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono one of the sought-after leaders in the field of air defense.
2. Challenges for the New KSAU
The challenges faced by the new KSAU are not insignificant, especially with the mandate given by President Jokowi to strengthen the Indonesian Air Force in accordance with Law No. 34 of 2004 regarding the TNI.
2.1 Strengthening the Indonesian Air Force Defense Posture 2025-2044
One of the challenges is adjusting the state budget’s capabilities in the procurement of defense equipment from 2025-2044 to replace the 2024 Renstra, which will expire. This includes plans for the procurement of Rafale in 2025 and the latest radar systems to monitor Indonesian territory.
2.2 Aircraft Maintenance Evaluation
Furthermore, the new KSAU must ensure the evaluation of the maintenance of all Indonesian Air Force aircraft to prevent aircraft accidents from recurring.
2.3 Utilization of Strategic Opportunities
The takeover of the Flight Information Region (FIR) over the Riau Islands and Natuna from Singapore provides an opportunity for the Indonesian Air Force to optimize the surveillance of Indonesian airspace. However, the real challenge lies in the effective and safe implementation of FIR management by the Indonesian Air Force.
2.4 Securing the National Capital of Nusantara (IKN) in Kalimantan
Securing the National Capital of Nusantara (IKN) in Kalimantan is a strategic step in strengthening national defense. The relocation of the national capital to Kalimantan presents a unique challenge for the Indonesian Air Force in maintaining the security and sovereignty of the region. With the appointment of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono as KSAU, it is hoped that the Indonesian Air Force can implement effective strategies to secure IKN and ensure national stability in the region.
2.5 Surveillance of the South China Sea
Surveillance of the South China Sea is crucial for the Indonesian Air Force to maintain the sovereignty of Indonesian waters. As an archipelagic state, Indonesia has strategic interests in this area, particularly in securing natural resources and maritime trade routes. Conflicts often arise between neighboring countries in this region, demanding the Indonesian Air Force to increase air presence and surveillance to maintain stability and sovereignty.
Conclusion
The appointment of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono as KSAU on the occasion of the 78th Anniversary of the TNI is an important step in strengthening the Indonesian Air Force. With Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono’s expertise, achievements, and commitment, it is hoped that the Indonesian Air Force can face future challenges more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why is the appointment of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono as KSAU considered the best gift for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU)?
- The appointment of Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono is considered the best gift because it is the result of a brilliant career journey and high dedication to the TNI AU.
- What makes Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono the right choice to serve as KSAU?
- Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono’s expertise as a combat pilot, achievements in various strategic positions, and commitment to the country make him the right choice to serve as KSAU.
- What are the challenges faced by the new KSAU?
- Challenges faced by the new KSAU include strengthening the TNI AU as per President Jokowi’s mandate, Strengthening the Indonesian Air Force Defense Posture, Aircraft Maintenance Evaluation, utilizing strategic opportunity such as taking over FIR, securing IKN in Kalimantan, and surveillance of the South China Sea.
- How can the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) overcome these challenges?
- The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) can overcome these challenges by optimizing resources, international cooperation, and implementing mature strategies.
- What is expected from Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono’s role as KSAU in the future?
- It is hoped that Air Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono’s role as KSAU will strengthen the TNI AU in maintaining national sovereignty and security.
