Antara News·Indonesia·Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 09:47 AM

Indonesian Air Force sends Rafale pilots to France for tactical course

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Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is sending a cohort of Rafale fighter pilots to France for advanced training in air combat tactics and complex weapon systems employment.

"We are sending several personnel to France to upgrade their skills in weapon employment—specifically a weapons course—as well as air combat tactics and other areas; we still have more to learn," Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff Air Marshal Tedi Rizalihadi stated at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in East Jakarta on Wednesday.

He emphasized that the specialized overseas course is essential for ensuring that Air Force aviators can maximize the aircraft's full combat capabilities during missions.

While advanced tactics courses are taking place in France, basic flight training for the French-made multirole fighter is already being conducted domestically at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base in Riau using advanced flight simulators and specialized instructors.

Tedi noted that establishing domestic simulator facilities will make the Air Force increasingly self-reliant in producing future generations of Rafale pilots.

The domestic human resource pipeline is already yielding results.

Air Squadron 12 Commander Lieutenant Colonel (Pilot) Binggi "Rayden" Nobel confirmed that eight pilots have been selected for the initial Rafale program following a rigorous screening process based on flight hours and prior tactical jet experience.

"Human resource preparation training is underway and will continue until all the aircraft arrive," Binggi said.

He added that four of the eight selected aviators are currently undergoing conversion training programs to join Air Squadron 12.

"The readiness of pilots, technicians and other support elements is crucial for the manning and operation of the Rafale MRCA squadron," the commander concluded.

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