Debate Emerges Over US Military Access to Indonesian Airspace

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The issue of the United States’ plan to access Indonesian airspace surfaced after a classified defense document was revealed. The document reportedly outlines a strategy to obtain blanket overflight access for military aircraft within Indonesian sovereign territory.

In response, Deputy Speaker of Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Sukamta, urged the public not to speculate excessively. He emphasized the importance of waiting for official government clarification before drawing conclusions on this strategic matter.

“Until now, the information remains speculative, and there has been no official statement from the Indonesian government. National interests and sovereignty must remain the top priority,” Sukamta said on Monday, April 13, 2026.

He stressed that the DPR will actively oversee all defense and foreign relations policies, noting that international cooperation must align with the Constitution and the interests of the Indonesian people.

Sukamta stated that Indonesia is open to defense cooperation, including with the United States. However, he underlined that all forms of cooperation must respect sovereignty and adhere to the principles of an independent and active foreign policy.

He added that every strategic agreement must undergo the House’s oversight mechanism in accordance with statutory regulations, referring to the International Treaty Law and the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the DPR’s authority.

According to him, airspace is an integral part of national sovereignty and must be strictly protected. All foreign military activities require official permits, including diplomatic and security clearances.

He emphasized that there is no legal basis for unrestricted access by foreign parties. Therefore, policies regarding foreign military access must be thoroughly reviewed, taking into account both legal and geopolitical considerations.

Sukamta also highlighted Indonesia’s strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region and its vulnerability to global dynamics. He believes that every policy must promote balance and stability across the region.

The government, he said, needs to clarify the situation to prevent misunderstandings in society. Comprehensive, fact-based explanations are crucial to maintaining public trust and strengthening confidence among international partners. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)