NEW DELHI — Indonesian Air Force fighter jets formed a ceremonial escort for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft after it entered Indonesian airspace en route to Jakarta, a move described by officials as a “special gesture” of friendship.
The escort began as the Indian leader’s plane crossed the border on Friday, with two F‑16 fighter jets from the Indonesian Air Force flying ahead and alongside the aircraft before it landed at Soekarno‑Hatta International Airport. A video of the maneuver, posted by the Hindustan Times, shows the jets flying in close formation and then breaking off as the plane touched down.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the operation, stating that the escort was intended to “highlight the close bilateral ties and mutual respect between the two nations.” No official statement from the Indian government was immediately available.
The visit comes as India and Indonesia seek to deepen cooperation across defense, trade and maritime security. Both countries have been conducting joint naval exercises and have signed agreements on technology sharing and investment in recent months.
Analysis: The escort, while largely symbolic, underscores Jakarta’s desire to signal a strong partnership with New Delhi amid regional competition for influence in the Indo‑Pacific. By allocating fighter‑jet resources for a diplomatic visit, Indonesia signals that it values the relationship enough to provide a high‑visibility display. For Modi, the reception aligns with his broader outreach to Southeast Asian partners, reinforcing India’s “Act East” policy and counterbalancing China’s growing presence in the region. Observers note that such gestures, though ceremonial, can bolster public perception of bilateral ties and may pave the way for deeper security collaboration, including potential joint patrols and defense procurement.
Sources
– Hindustan Times, “Watch: PM Modi’s plane escorted by Indonesian fighter jets as he arrives in Jakarta,” https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/watch-pm-modis-plane-escorted-by-indonesian-fighter-jets-as-he-arrives-in-jakarta-101783336078430.html
Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
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