Indonesia continues modernization of its air force

Indonesia will continue to beef up its air force by purchasing more modern warplanes to replace its ageing F-5 Tiger E/F multirole fighter jets that have been serving for more than 30 years.

Two planes remain in service from a total of 12 single and double-seat ones that Indonesia procured from the U.S. producer Northrop in early 1980s.

Indonesian Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro disclosed on Tuesday that the fighter jet considered to replace F-5 Tiger should be able to carry out tactical tasks, and launch long-range missiles.

"I have advised them to consider on airworthiness and technical capability aspects to pick the most suitable plane to replace the F-5 Tiger," the minister said on the sidelines of a meeting with senior military officers.

Indonesian air force planned to procure one squadron of brand new warplanes with delivery expected to take place in the second military's 5-year strategic plan (Renstra) period from 2015 to 2020.

During the first Renstra period from 2010 to 2014, Indonesia allocated a total of 12.4 billion U.S. dollars to finance modernization of its military, including the procurement of new fighter jets for the air force.

Indonesian air force now operates one squadron of Sukhoi 27/30 fleet whose delivery from Russia was completed late last year. Deliveries of other planes included Super Tucano from Brazil, KT-1 Wong Bee and T-50 Golden Eagle from South Korea and Grob G120 from Germany.

Indonesia is also expecting the delivery of 24 refurbished F-16 fighter jets granted by the United States.

Indonesian military commander General Moeldoko said on Monday that the military planned to strengthen the air force by purchasing more weaponry.

The commander said that Sukhoi SU-35 and F-16 were among the option.

Indonesia has struggled to boost its weaponry to the minimum essential force, which may put its strength at par with other ASEAN countries.

Indonesian air force has received 8 out of 16 T-50 Golden Eagle jet fighters ordered from South Korea, according to the military.

The country has decided to diversify the source of its weaponry as it has witnessed poor experience in purchasing weaponry from the United States in the past.

Terrorism, transnational crimes and insurgency are among the main threat being faced by Indonesian military.