Kendari, April 27 -- The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) plans to establish a fighter jet squadron in Southeast Sulawesi as part of efforts to strengthen air defense posture and modernize its equipment.

Speaking in Kendari on Monday, TNI AU Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshal M. Tonny Harjono said the squadron would be based at Haluoleo Air Base.

"We chose Southeast Sulawesi for its strategic geographic value to the Air Force, as the region serves as a gateway to eastern Indonesia," he told reporters after attending an aerospace event.

Harjono said the plan remains in the preparatory stage, with discussions ongoing on key aspects, including aircraft specifications.

In addition to deploying advanced fighter jets, he said TNI AU aims to stre...