On April 15, 2025, the Australian government is actively seeking clarification regarding reports that Russia has requested to base long-range aircraft in Indonesia, a move that has raised significant concerns in Canberra. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly looking to station these aircraft at the Manuhua Air Force Base located in Papua, approximately 1,300 kilometers from Australia’s northern coast.
During a press conference, Albanese stated, "What we're seeking is proper clarification, that's the way you deal with international relations, making sure you're not flying from the hip." His comments came after the military news website Janes reported that Moscow had lodged an official request with Jakarta to allow Russian Aerospace Forces to operate from the Indonesian facility.
Defence Minister Richard Marles echoed the Prime Minister's sentiments, revealing that Australian officials have communicated with their Indonesian counterparts and are confident that the Russian proposal will not proceed. He confirmed, "Indonesia has not yet responded to this request," emphasizing the close relationship between Australia and Indonesia.
Marles further stated that he spoke directly with Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, who assured him that "reports of the prospect of Russian aircraft operating from Indonesia are simply not true." This assurance comes amid heightened scrutiny of Indonesia's growing military ties with Russia, particularly since President Prabowo Subianto assumed office last year.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has expressed alarm over the situation, labeling the Russian request as a "catastrophic failure of diplomatic relations" if the government was unaware of it prior to the public announcement. Dutton, who described Putin as a "murderous dictator," stated, "We don’t welcome his presence in our neighborhood at all. It is deeply destabilizing." He called for the government to clarify what had transpired and whether they had forewarning of the request.
The reports have stirred political tensions as Australia approaches a federal election, with national security taking center stage. Dutton emphasized the need for transparency, asking, "Did the prime minister know about this before it was publicly announced by the president of Indonesia?" He stressed the importance of Australia maintaining a strong diplomatic relationship with Indonesia to prevent such developments.
According to Janes, the request for Russian aircraft access follows a meeting between Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, and Indonesia's Defence Minister in February. This meeting has raised eyebrows, especially considering Indonesia's historical commitment to non-alignment and its strategic neutrality.
Despite the growing defense ties between Indonesia and Russia, analysts suggest that Indonesia is unlikely to grant the request due to its constitutional prohibitions against foreign military bases. Major General (ret.) TB Hasanuddin, a member of Indonesia’s parliament, stated, "The establishment of foreign military bases will only drag Indonesia into geopolitical games that are counterproductive to world peace."
Malcolm Davis from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute noted that the request might not materialize, stating, "This is not yet a done deal, and it may well fall through." He highlighted the pressure from Australia, the United States, and Japan on Indonesia to reject Russia's request, as the presence of Russian military assets in the region could significantly alter the strategic landscape.
In November 2024, Indonesia and Russia conducted their first joint naval exercises, a move that was met with criticism given the backdrop of Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The deepening ties between the two nations have raised concerns in Canberra, particularly regarding the implications for regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong also addressed the situation, affirming that the government is actively seeking more information from Jakarta. She remarked, "We, as a government, have reached out to confirm those reports and to understand whether or not those reports are accurate and what the status of those requests from Russia are." Wong reiterated that Australia stands firmly with Ukraine in opposition to Russia's actions.
As the situation develops, officials in Canberra remain on high alert, recognizing that the prospect of Russian military aircraft being stationed so close to Australia could set off alarm bells. The Manuhua Air Force Base, home to Indonesia's Aviation Squadron 27, is strategically located and could potentially pose a direct threat to Australian national security.
In response to the rising tensions, Prime Minister Albanese reiterated Australia's commitment to its relationship with Indonesia, stating, "We have a very close relationship with Indonesia and we have a growing defense relationship with Indonesia." He expressed confidence that this relationship would continue to flourish despite the current geopolitical challenges.
With both nations navigating complex international waters, the future of their defense collaboration remains uncertain. The Australian government is poised to respond appropriately, ensuring that its national interests are safeguarded while maintaining open lines of communication with its regional partners.
As the situation unfolds, the Australian public and government officials alike will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds regional stability and peace.
