Indonesia Seeks to Benefit from PAF’s Combat Experience and Training Expertise

Islamabad (Qudrat Roznama) – Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his official visit to Indonesia, where both sides emphasized enhancing bilateral defence cooperation. The Indonesian president expressed keen interest in benefiting from the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) modern training systems and aerospace development infrastructure to strengthen Indonesia’s defence capabilities.

According to ISPR, the meeting highlighted the longstanding brotherly ties, shared values, and growing defence collaboration between Pakistan and Indonesia. The Air Chief underscored the strong historical relations between the two nations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further expanding defence ties.

Earlier, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu held separate high-level meetings with Indonesian Defence Minister Lieutenant General (R) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, the Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces, and the Chief of the Indonesian Air Force. He was presented guard of honour at all venues.

During discussions with the Indonesian Air Force chief, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation between their air forces, including joint training from basic to advanced levels, professional exchanges, and collaboration in emerging aerospace domains. The Indonesian Air Force chief praised the PAF’s combat experience and training excellence, expressing a desire for assistance in operational and flying training.

In recognition of his significant contributions to strengthening bilateral air cooperation, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu was awarded Indonesia’s highest military honour, the “Medal of Honor,” by the Indonesian Air Force.

Additionally, a joint session with the Indonesian Defence Minister and Chief of Defence Forces covered a broad range of defence and security matters. Indonesian leadership also appreciated the PAF’s professionalism, modernization drive, and the advanced technological capabilities of Pakistan’s National Aerospace Science and Technology Park.

The visit is being viewed as an important step toward further strengthening defence cooperation, air force collaboration, and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Indonesia.