The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) is reportedly favouring the Russian-built Su-35 Flanker multi-role fighter aircraft to replace its ageing F-5 Tiger fighter fleet.
Indonesian Air Force chief vice marshal Agus Supriatna was quoted by ANTARA News as saying that the Su-35 addresses the requirements of the air force’s weaponry system, and will easily be maintained by the technicians.
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Supriatna said: "We hope the government fulfils our wish to purchase Sukhoi SU-35s.
"All can place orders, but we, as the operators, want jets over generation four to be ordered."
The Indonesian Military commander general Moeldoko has listed the US F-16 Block 52+ Fighting Falcon, Eurofighter Typhoon, Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters, in addition to the Su-35 as the potential candidates for the F-5 replacement programme.
Russia has already signalled its readiness to supply Su-35 fighters, if they are selected by the Indonesian Government.
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By GlobalDataRussian Ambassador to Indonesia Mikhail Galuzin earlier told the news agency: "We hope the agreement to buy the Su-35 can be realised.
"Military cooperation between the two countries was established a long time ago and we want to maintain that."
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Government is still considering whether new fighter jets should be procured for replacement of the old Northrop Grumman-built F-5 E Tigers.
Around 11 F-5E/F fighters are currently flown by TNI-AU’s Air Squadron 14, headquartered at Iswahyudi Air Force Base, for a range of combat missions.
The Su-35 is an upgraded variant of the Su-27M Flanker. It is an advanced capability air superiority fighter and is designed to simultaneously engage multiple air targets using both guided and unguided missiles and weapon systems.
The aircraft is designed by Sukhoi and manufactured by Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Production Association. It is currently used by the Russian Air Force.
